Digitized by the Internet Archive
in 2008 with funding from
IVIicrosoft Corporation
http://www.archive.org/details/entomologist22londuoft
%6\. (^fj J-
THE
f#NTOMOLOGIST
^n Illustrated |aurnal
GENERAL ENTOMOLOaY,
EDITED BY JOHN T. CABEINGTON, F.L.S.
WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF
T. R. BILLUPS, F.E.S.
EDWARD A. FITCH, F.L.S., F.E.S.
RICHARD SOUTH, F.E.S.
J. J. WEIR, F.L.S., F.Z.S., F.E.S.
F. BUCHANAN WHITE, M.D.
F.L.S. F.E.S.
" By routual confidence and mutual aid
Great deeds are done and great discoveries made."
VOLUME THE TWENTY-SECOND.
LONDON:
SIMPKIN, MABSHALL, & CO., STATIONEES' HALL COUBT.
1889,
" The soul and Nature are attuned together. Nature breathes nothing unkind,
expands, or cahns, or softens us." — Channing.
♦* When I Nature's wise instruction seek,
With light of power my soul shall glow."
— Goethe.
" To the attentive eye, each moment of the year has its own beauty. The
tribes of birds and insects, like the plants, punctual to their time, follow each
other, and the year has room for all. — R. W. Emerson,
CONTENTS.
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS.
Adkin, Robert, F.E.S., 7
Adye, J. M., 75, 236, 258, 281
Allen, Rev. W. E. R., 185
Anderson, Joseph, 72
Andrews, S. P., 280
Arkle, J., 113, 186, 202, 211, 236, 236,
262, 291
ASHMEAD, W. H., 290
Atmore, E. a., F.E.S., 74
Balding, G., 114
Baxter, T., 47
Belben, Ed. Philip, 237
BiGNELL, G. C, F.E.S., 139, 306
Billups, T. R., F.E.S., 193, 214, 290
Bindley, R. C, 14, 280
Birkenhead, G. A., 74, 256, 259
Blabeb, W. H., 17, 261
Blagg, E. W. H., 162
Blair, J. C. 0., 14
Blathwatt, C. R., 238
Bliss, H. T., 258
Bloomfield, Rev. E. N., F.E.S., 77, 280
BoDEN, C. J., 256
BosTOCK, E., 307
BOULT, J. W., 211
Bridger, Marcus S., R.N., 280
Briggs, C. a., F.E.S., 16, 75, 139
Brunetti, E., 81, 230
BucKELL, Francis John, M.B., 234
BucKLAND, J., jun., 113
BUCKMASTER, W. NORTH, 211
BucKTON, G. B., F.R.S., F.L.S., 269
Butler, W. E., 15, 256, 2«3
Cambridge, Rev. 0. Pickabd-, F.E.S. ,
214
Capper, Samuel James, F.E.S., 14, 236
Cablier, E. W., 19
Carpenter, G. Herbert, 46
Carpenter, H. J., 256
Carr, D. W., 261
Carrick, Wilfred, 307
Carrington, John T., F.L.S., 50, 77,
117, 120, 138, 166, 168, 185, 189,
192, 241, 256, 312
Carthew, R. J., 73
Catto, W., 279
Chamberlain, A. N., 141
Chappell, J., 113
Clark, J. A., F.E.S., M.P.S., L.D.S.,
140, 145
Clarke, J., 47
Clifford, J. R. S., 212
Cockerell, T. D. a., 1, 13, 20, 26, 54,
74, 98, 113, 125, 141, 147, 176, 185,
188, 190, 198, 226, 243, 306
Conquest, H., 160, 163
Copley, Walter, 234
CoRDEAUx, John, 189
Craske, Mrs. M., 255
Cregoe, J. p., F.E.S., 141
Cross, Mrs., 260
Dale, C. W., F.E.S., 12, 214
Dale, Edward R., 17
Davis, W., 211
Daws, Thos., 160
DiGBY, Rev. C. R., 138
Distant, W. L., F.E.S., M.A.I., 144,
308
Dixon, H. J., 306
Druitt, a., 72
Dunning, J. W., F.L.S., F.Z.S., F.E.S.,
265
EssoN, L. G., 187, 235, 259
Farren, W., 78
Field, A. J., 72, 77
Fitch, Edward A., F.L.S., F.E.S., 237
Flemyng, Rev. W. W., M.A., 112
Fowler, J. H., 18, 282, 284
Freer, R., 77, 114
Frindell, G. C, 257
Frohawk, F. W., 290
Gardner, Philip T., 160
Gardner, Willoughby, 117
Goss, H., F.L.S., F.E.S., 48
GOSTLING, A., 112
Grapes, G. J., 110, 284, 308
Graves, Spotswood, 15
Griffiths, G. C, F.E.S., 48
Hale, Rev. J. R., 160
Hall, A. E., 15, 77, 161, 212, 213
Harrison, J., F.E.S., 139
Hart, G. W., 162
Headly, C. B., 114, 280
Henderson, T. J., 73
Hewett, G. M. a., 21, 76, 212
Hewett, W., 73, 76
IV
CONTENTS.
HiGGS, M. Stangeb, F.E.S., 211, 256, 260
Hill, H. A., 13, 21, 46, 260, 278, 283
Hodges, Albert J., 212, 307
HoDGKiNsoN, J. B., 114, 164, 212
HOLDSWOKTH, C. S., 281
HovENDEN, Sidney C, 257
Hudson, G. V., F.E.S., 19, 50, 53, 164,
165
Inchbald, Peter, F.L.S., F.E.S., 22, 87,
284
Jackson, Hugh, 77, 186
Jansox, Oliver E., F.E.S., 40, 100
Jefferys, T. B., 114, 164, 188, 233, 235
Jones, Frank M,, 279
KiRBY, W. F., F.E.S., 149
Leech, J. H., B.A., F.L.S.,F.E.S., &c.,
25, 62, 106
Lewcock, G. a.. 114, 237
Luff, W. A., 75
MacSwaine, J. B. S., 237
Mann, Harold, 160, 278
Marindin, L. F., 306
Mason, T. G., 234, 259
Meade, E. H., F.E.C.S., 87
Melvill, J. Cosmo, F.L.S., 235, 236
Merrifield, F., F.E.S., 14t»
Miller, Edward Ingleby, 169, 195
Milton, F., 113
Mitchell, Alfred T., 72, 73, 115
More, A. G., F.L.S., 117
MosLEY, S. L., F.E.S., 112
Mullens, F. A., 257
Murray, H., 16, 260, 261
Naylor, Miss Hilda G., 140
Newstead, E., 187, 279
NoRRis, Frank B., 182
Oldham, Charles,
Ormerod, Miss Eleanor A., F.E.S.,
F.E. Met. Soc, 190
Partridge, Major C. E., 43, 56, 116
Pearce", W. T., 21
Perry, J. F., 73
Place, H. G., 187, 212
Prideaux, E. M., 88, 186
Potter, E. G., 187
Eaine, W. T., 74
Eobinson, S., 113, 117
Eobinson, T., 237
EODGERS, J. T., 49
Sabine, E., 278
Sansom, T. E., 211
scowcroft, w. e., 47
Searancke,N.F., 212,261
Sellon, Leonard S., 259
Sheldon, W. G., 47, 49
SiMEs, James A., 210
Smallwood, Eev. G. A., F.E.S., 21
Smith, Eev. Bernard, M.A., 101
Smith, C. B., 282
Smith, W. W., 37
South, Eichard, F.E.S., 29, 102, 217,
271, 281
Stares, M. J., 260
Stevens, Samuel, 306
Stiff, A. T., 160
St. John, Eev. J. Seymour, B.A., 49,
50, 162, 165
Stokoe, Cecil G., 211
Stott, C. E., 262, 281
SwiNTON, A., 14, 139
Sykes, H. D., 188. 260
Tarbat, Eev. J. E., M.A., 256, 258
Tearoe, C. a., 160
Thompson, E. H., 15
Thorpe, John, 162
Tuck, W. H., 258. 263
TuNLEY, W. H., 259
Tutt, J. W., F.E.S., 9, 14, 15, 41, 68,
94, 104, 109, 121, 134, 140, 152,
160, 163, 179, 187, 188, 204, 229,
235, 236, 250, 272, 276, 285
Tyrer, J., 46
Wainwright, C. J., 166
Walker, Eev. F. A., D.D., F.L.S.,
F.E.S., 157, 189, 222, 246, 273, 299
Wall, W. W., 256
Walpole, Thomas, 22
Warburg, J. C, 257
Webb, H. J., 211, 279, 289
Webb, Sydney, 138
Weir, J. Jenner, F.L.S., F.E.S., 73, 288
Wellman, J. E., 278, 279, 282
White, H. J., 235
White, W., F E.S., 116
Whittle, F. G., 150
WiLLsoN, Thos., 259
Winkle Y, Mark H., 282
Winkworth, J. T., 257
Woods, A., 281
YouENS, Clement T., 257
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF SUBJECTS.
Aberrations in the genus Vanessa, notes
on some, 217
Acidalia humiliata, Hufn., on the
synonymy of, 312
Acronycta alni near York, 187, 235 ;
larva of, in Gloucestershire, 260 ;
leporina in Perthshire, 260
Aglia tau, 139, 186
Agrotis agathina at Beading, 15 ; on
the Shirley Hills, 49 ; cinerea at
Brighton, 187; corticea, melanic
var., 15, 48 ; lucernea in Kincar-
dineshire, 235
Amphidasys betularia, var., 49 ; buff
var., 113, l(i2; var. doubledayaria,
natural pairing of, 236
Anobium paniceum, destruction by, 140
Anthocharis cardamines, var., from
Thame, 72
Arctia caia, 259
CONTEi^TS.
Arctiidffi, description of a new species
from New Zealand, 53
Argynnis aglaia, var., 233
Argyrophinga antipodum, some notes
upon the variation of, 37
Atherix ibis, 193 ; note on parasites, 290
Bactra furfurana in Norfolk, 114
Bedfoedshire — Polyommatus phloeas
(diminutive) at Sandy, 46
Beetle, new Goliath, from Central
Africa, 40
Berkshire — Agrotis agathina at Read-
ing, 15 ; Colias edusa, 256 ; hyale
near Reading, 256 ; Epinephele
hyperanthes, var. arete, 257 ;
Sphinx convolvuli, 258
Bombus terrestris in London, 263
Bond, Frederick : in memoriam, 265, 306
Books reviewed : —
' Monograph of the Sphingidae, North
of Mexico,' by John B. Smith, 120
'An Introduction to Entomology,' by
Prof. J. H. Comstock, part i., 120
'Australian Butterflies,' by Sidney
Olliff, 168
'Notes and Descriptions of a few
Injurious Farm and Fruit Insects
of South Africa,' compiled by
Eleanor A. Ormerod, 192
A Contribution towards a Catalogue
of the Neuropterous Fauna of
Ireland,' by Jas. J. F. X. King, 192
The Butterflies of the Eastern
United States and Canada, with
special reference to New England,'
by Samuel Hubbard Scudder, 288
'A Monograph of Oriental Cicadidae,'
by W. L. Distant, 312
' Notes on an extraordinary race of
Arctia mendica, Linn.,' by George
T. Porritt, 312
British Orthoptera, 169, 195 ; Stratio-
myidse, 83, 130
Buckinghamshire— Deilephila galii at
Eton, 14 ; Lepidoptera, 165
Butalis laminella in Kent, 140
Butterflies, Spring, at Hy^res, 182
Butterfly, description of new, from
Trinidad, 149 ; parasites on, 237
Callicera wnea near Totnes, 77; near
Great Berkhampsted, 77 ; at Guest-
ling, 77
Calocampa solidaginis near Sheffield, 15
Calymnia pyralina, 35
Cambridge Fens, a fortnight in, 236
Cambridgeshire — Vanessa antiopa,
16ii; Colias edusa, 278
Cannock Chase, notes from, 114
Cantharis vesicatoria at Wimborne, 284
Caradrina ambigua in the Isle of Wight,
235 ; quadripunctata, 162 ; hyber-
nating, 187, 212
Catocala fraxini in Hants, 260; near
Winchelsea, 261; in Kent, 282;
sponsa near Winchelsea, 261
Catoptria expallidana in I. of Wight, 236
Cecidomyia lychnidis, 284
Celery-fly, 21
Cetoniidie, descriptions of two new spe-
cies of the Coleopterous family, 100
Cheshire — Deilephila galii, 211 ; on the
Wallasey sand-hills, 14; early ap-
pearance of Phigalia pedaria at
Chester, 113 ; Colias edusa, 279 _
China, North — New species of Deltoids
and Pyrales from, 62
Chcerocampa celerio near Taunton, 113 ;
at Hartlepool, 281
Cicadas, note on the classification of, 269
Cicindela germanica, Linn., in Dorset-
shire, 214 ; sylvatica in Hants, 237
Cidaria reticulata at Carnforth, 16 ;
long in pupa, 261
Cold summer of 1888, and double-
brooded moths, 164
Coleoptera near Birmingham, 166
Colorado — Smerinthus occidentalis in,
113 ; Vanessa milbertii in, 185 ;
Hymenoptera in, 190
Colias edusa in Cambridgeshire, 278;
in Essex, 256; in Kent, 278; in
Surrey, 256 ; in Isle of Wight, 256 ;
in Berkshire, 256 ; in Gloucester-
shire, 256 ; in Devonshire, 256 ; in
Wales, 185, 256 ; in Cheshire, 279 ;
in Durham, 256 ; in Aberdeenshire,
279 ; var., 13 ; vars., 72 ; in spring,
160 ; hyale near Beading, 256
CoREA — New species of Deltoids and
Pyrales from, 62 ; of Crambi, 106
Cornwall— Epinephele tithonus, var.,
at Perranporth, 306
Crambi, new species of, from Japan and
the Corea, 106
Crambus furcatellus in Sutherland-
shire, 236
Dasycampa rubiginea in Somerset, 49 ;
in Wales, 74
Deilephila galii in Kent, 112, 211; at
Eton, 14 ; in Derbyshire, 14 ; in
Cheshire, 14, 211 ; in Lancashire,
47 ; In Yorkshire, 234 ; at Glasgow,
73; remarks on forcing pupte of,
202 ; parasites on, 280, 306
Deltoides and Pyrales, new species of,
from Corea, North China, and
Japan, 62
Derbyshire — Deilephila galii, 14 ;
Sphinx convolvuli, 280
Development, abnormal, of Pieris napae,
21 ; retarded, 50
Devonshire — Vanessa urticae, var., at
Exmouth, 13 ; Venilia macularia,
var., at Lynmouth, 15 ; Callicera
aenea near Totnes, 77 ; Leuco-
phasia sinapis, 255 ; Colias edusa,
256 ; Sphinx convolvuli, 280
Dicranura vinula, 260, 281; retarded
emergence of, 21
Dolomedes fimbriatus in Ireland, 117
VI
CONTENTS.
Doritis apoUo at Dover, 278
DoRSETSHiKE — Notes from Wimborne,
18 ; a year's work in Portland, 43,
66 ; Lepidoptera in, 116 ; Cicindela
germanica, Linn., between Bridport
and Lyme Eegis, 214 ; Lepidoptera
of two chalk-hills in, 282 ; Cantharis
vesicatoria at Wimborne, 284
Dragonflies, migration of, 189
DuKHAM — Colias edusa near Durham,
256 ; Choerocampa celerio at Hartle-
pool, 281
Emergence, retarded, of Dicranura
vinula, 21 ; deferred, of Emmelesia
unifasciata, 282
Emmelesia unifasciata, 282
Ennomos autumnaria, 282
Entomological Societies — London, 22,
60, 79, 118, 141, 166, 190, 215, 238,
263, 285, 309 ; South London, 2:^,
61, 79, 119, 142, 167, 191, 216, 239,
264, 286, 310; Birmingham, 24,
143 ; Reference Society, 79 ; City
of London, 119 ; Aberdeen Working
Men's, 144
Entomology of Iceland, 1 67 ; notes
upon a visit in 1889, 222, 246, 273,
299
Ephippium thoracicum, 214
Epinephele hyperanthes, var. arete, 267 ;
ianira, var., 279 ; tithonus, var., 306
Epunda lichenea, food of, 139
Erebia sethiops near London, 160
Errata, 22, 50, 66, 117, 130, 198, 202,
263, 286, 308
Essex— Prionus coriarius in Epping
Forest, 77, 114; Euchloe carda-
mines, dwarf form in, 210 ; Colias
edusa, 256 ; Vanessa antiopa, 267
Euchloe cardamines, dwarf form, 210
Extraction of moth from pupa, 50, 76,
141, 188
Fungus parasitic on insects, 284, 308
Geometra papilionaria, life-history of,
110 ; vernaria, var., 212
Gloucestershire — Sesia ichneumoni-
formis, 211, near Dursley, 234;
Colias edusa, 266; Acronycta alni
(larva), 260 ; Forest of Dean, 261 ;
Stauropus fagi in, 212
Guernsey and Sark, Lepidoptera in, 75
Gonepteryx rhamni, late appearance of,
at Berkhampsted, 72
Hampshire — Some Lepidoptera abun-
dant in New Forest, 75 ; New
Forest notes, 115, 261 ; Varieties of
Rhopalocera, 160; Tortrix cratse-
gana in New Forest, 163, piceana
in New Forest, 236 ; Cicindela
sylvatica, 237 ; Limenitis sibylla,
var., in New Forest, 256 ; Sphinx
convolvuli, 258, 280; Catocala
fraxini at Porchester, 260; La-
phygma exigua at Christchurch,
281 ; Ennomos autumnaria at Hay-
ling Island and Portsmouth, 282;
Vanessa antiopa, 306
Heliophobus hispida, violet colour in,
281, 307
Hesperia actaeon, food-plant of, 138
Hessian fly, 190
Hertfordshire — Late appearance of
Gonepteryx rhamni at Berkhamp-
sted, 72 ; Callicera aenea near Great
Berkhampsted, 77
Homoptera, new views on the suborder,
308
Hufnagel's types, 109
Hybernation of Caradrina quadripunc-
tata, 187
Hyeres, spring butterflies at, 182
Hymenoptera in Colorado, 190
Hypsipetes ruberata in Aberdeenshire,
187
Iceland — Entomology of, 157; notes
upon a visit in, 222, 246, 273, 299
Index, general, to the 'Entomologist,'
78, 138
Information wanted. 284
Insects, "Mimicry" and "Protective
Eesemblance" in, 116; at high
altitudes, 141
Insect-life, influence of meteorological
conditions upon, 7; -fauna of St.
Kilda, 12
Insects, on the variation of, 1, 26, 64,
98, 125, 147, 176, 198, 226, 243
Insects at high altitudes, 141; spring,
in Middlesex, 189 ; fungus parasitic
on, 284, 308
Investigation of variation, 241, 272
Ireland — Plusia illustris, 46 ; Dolomedes
fimbriatus, 117 ; Panolis piniperda,
162 ; Sirex gigas, 237
Japan — Description of a new species of
Luehdorfia from, 25; new species
of Deltoids and Pyrales from, 62 ;
of Crambi from, 106
Java — Vanessa cardui, 211
Kent — Vanessa antiopa, 46, 160;
urticae, var., at Eamsgate, 14 ; ab-
sence of second brood of LycsBnideB
near Chatham, 46 ; Butalis lami-
nella at Cuxton, 140 ; Polyommatus
phloeas, var. schmidtii, on Plum-
stead Common, 211; on Dartford
Heath, 257 ; Rhopalocera, 211 ;
Deilephila galii, 211 ; Sesia andreni-
formis at Dover, 211 ; Sphingidae,
- 259 ; Doritis apollo at Dover, 278 ;
Colias edusa, 278
Lancashire— Cidaria reticulata at Cam-
forth, 16 ; Penthina postremana at
Carnforth, 16 ; Deilephila galii near
the sea-coast, 47 ; Trifurcula palli-
della at Dutton, 212 ; Sphinx con-
volvuli near Manchester, 259 ;
Stilbia anomala near Carnforth, 260
Laphygma exigua in Lancashire, 281 ^
Larvae, hybernating, 21; rearing in
CONTENTS.
Vll
glass cylinders, 141 ; lepidopterous,
destruction by summer frosts, 188
Leicestershibe — Sphinx convolvuli at
Leicester, 280
Lepidoptera in Sussex, 17 ; in Guernsey
and Sark, 75; late in 1888, 114;
near Leicester, 114 ; in Portland
116; at Wimbledon, 150, 212
South Buckinghamshire, 165 :
Australian, 166 ; migration of, 189
first appearance of sexes of, 213
hybrid, 237 ; parasites on, 262 ; of
two Dorset chalk-hills, 282 ; of New
Forest, 283, some, abundant in, 75
Leucophasia sinapis, 255
Limenitis sybilla, var,, 256
Liparis dispar, malformed, 259
Lithosia complana, 14 ; on the coast,
47 ; food of, 47 ; in Norfolk, 74
Luehdorfia, description of a new species
of, from Japan, 25
Luperina testacea, var. guen^ei, 235 ;
var. nickerlii, 271
Lycaenidii^, absence of second brood of,
near Chatham, 46
Lycaena corydon, female var., 160;
icarus, hermaphrodite, in York-
shire, 211
Meteorological conditions, influence of
upon insect-life, 7
Middlesex — Sirex juvencus in London,
17 ; larvit of Uropteryx sambucaria
hybernating at Stamford Hill, 113 ;
spring insects, 189 ; Sirex gigas at
Bowes Park, 237 ; Sphinx convol-
vuli, 258 ; Dicranura vinula near
Enfield, 260; Bombus terrestris in
London, 263
Migration of Lepidoptera, 189; of
dragonflies, 189
"Mimicry" and "Protective Eesem-
blance " in insects, 116
Monmouthshire — Bhopalocera in, 280
Moth, parasite on, 263, 307
Moths, double-brooded, and the cold
summer of 1888, 140, 164
Mould, 122
Nepticula minusculella, 164
Neptunides stanleyi, 40
New Zealand— Early season in, 19;
description of new species of
Arctiidoe from, 53 ; Psychoda con-
spicillata, 164; sugar versus blos-
soms, 165
Newspaper entomology, 117
Noctua sobrina in Glen Artney, Perth,235
Norfolk — Lithosia complana, 74 ;
Bactra furfurana, 114
Notes from the North-west Counties, 291
Notodontidae, notes on the, 101
Nyssia zonaria, food of, 113, 139, 187
Obituary — Thomas Eedle, 58; Dr.
Victor Signoret, 144
Ocneria dispar, 161, 162, 186
Odontopera bid mtata at Gt. Malvern, 73
Orthoptera, British, 169, 195
Oxfordshire — Theclaw-album, 47, near
Banbury, 73 ; Vanessa urticse from
Thame, 72 ; Sphinx convolvuli, 258
Oxyptilus teucrii, 75, 139
Panolis piniperda in Ireland, 102
Pararge megaera, 289
Parasites on butterfly, 237 ; on Lepi-
doptera, 262 ; on moth, 263, 3u7 ;
on Deilephila galii, 280, 306; on
Atherix ibis, 290
Penthina postremana at Carnforth, 16
Phigalia pedaria, early appearance at
Chester, 113
Phytomyza chserophylli, 22 ; notes
upon, 87
Pieris brassicas, var., 112 ; with veins of
wings green, 138 ; rapae, abnormal
development, 21, in February, 112
Plusia chrysitis near Birmingham, 74 ;
illustris in Ireland, 46 ; ni, the
British, 74
Polyommatus phlceas, diminutive, 46;
var.schmidtii, 211; nearDartford,257
Portland, a year's work in, 43, 56 ;
Lepidoptera, 116
Prionus coriarius in Epping Forest, 77,
114
"Protective resemblance" and "Mi-
micry " in Insects, 116
Pseudo-melanism, 188
Psychoda conspicillata in New Zealand,
164
Pterophori, contributions to history of
British, 29 ; notes upon, 102, 104
Pup* of insects, preserving, 77 ; forcing,
remarks on, 202
Pyrales and Deltoids, new species from
Corea, North China, and Japan, 62
Pyrameis cardui, aberration, 73
Bhopalocera at Wiesbaden, 89 ; in Kent,
211 ; in Hampshire, 160 ; spring, in
Surrey, 185 ; in Monmouthshire,
280 ; spring, at the Riviera, 257
Eiviera, spring Bhopalocera at, 257
Eochefort, in August, 19
Sark and Guernsey, Lepidoptera, 75
Scoparia, the genus, 16
Scotland — Insect fauna of St. Kilda,
12 ; Sesia musciformis, 47 ; Deile-
phila galii at Glasgow, 73 ; Stigmo-
nota ravulana in Eenfrewshire, 114 ;
Hypsipetes ruberata in Aberdeen-
shire, 187 ; Agrotis lucernea in Kin-
cardineshire, 235; Noctua sobrina
in Glen Artney, Perth, 235 ; Cram-
bus furcatellus in Sutherlandshire,
23(i ; Sphinx convolvuli, 259 ; Acro-
nycta leporina in Perthshire, 2(i0 ;
Colias edusa in Aberdeenshire, 279
Sehirus dubius. Scop., at Horsley,
Surrey, 214
Sericoris urticana, var, rufa, 163
Sesia andreniformis at Dover, 211 ;
ichneumoniformis in Gloucester-
Vlll
OOX TENTS.
shire, 211, 234; musciformis in
Scotland, 47
Setting, high-flat, 77
Sexes of Lepidoptera, first appearance,
213
Shropshire — Atherix ibis, 238
Sirex gigas in Middlesex, 237 ; in York-
shire, 76; in North Wales, 117,
140 ; in Ireland, 237 ; juvencus in
London, 17, 117 ; in Cheshire, 117
Smerinthus occidentalis in Colorado, 113
Somersetshire — Dasycampa rubiginea,
49 ; Chcerocampa celerio near
Taunton, 113
Sphingidae in Kent, 259
Sphinx oonvolvuli in Middlesex, 258 ;
Berkshire, 258; Hants, 258, 280;
Oxfordshire, 258 ; Devonshire, 280 ;
Glamorganshire, 259 ; Leicester-
shire, 280 ; Derbyshire, 280 ; Lan-
cashire, 259 ; Aberdeenshire, 259 ;
ligustri at Great Malvern, 73
Spring butterflies at Hy^res, 182; Kho-
palocera, 185 ; at the Riviera, 257
Staffordshire — Notes from Cannock
Chase, 114
Stauropus fagi in Forest of Dean, 212 ;
in Wilts, 259
StigmonotaravulanainRenfrewshire,114
Stilbia anomala in Lancashire, 26 J ; in
Wales, 281
Stratiomyidse, list of the British, with
analytical tables and notes, 81, 132
Sugar versus blossoms in New Zealand,
165 ; unproductive, 212, 262. 3U7
Summer, the cold of 1888, and double-
brooded moths, 140, 164
Surrey — Agrotis agathina on Shirley
Hills, 49 ; Lepidoptera at Wimble-
don, 150, 212 ; Erebia aethiops near
London (Brixton), 160; Sehirus
dubius. Scop., at Horsley, 214;
Colias edusa on Eiddlesdown, 256 ;
Vanessa antiopa at Croydon, 257
Sussex — Callicera aenea at Guestling,
77 ; Agrotis cinerea at Brighton,
187 ; Arctia urticsB in Brighton,
212 ; Vanessa antiopa, 257 ; Cato-
cala sponsa and C. fraxini at
Winchelsea, 261
Tephritis onopordinis, 21
Tephrosia crepuscularia, 48
Thecla w-album in Oxfordshire, 47, 73 ;
scarcity, 185
Thyatira batis, var. mexicana, 306
Tortrix cratsegana, 163 ; piceana in New
Forest, 236
Trichogramma, description of, 290
Trifurcula pallidella, 212
Trinidad — Description of new butterfly
from, 149
Triphsena comes, Hb., = or bona, Hb.,
notes on some varieties, 145 ;
orbona in Hants, 260
Turf-plates for cabinet drawers, 78
Uropteryx sambucaria, 21 ; larvae, hy-
bernating at Stamford Hill, 113
Urtication by hairs of insects, 77
Vanessa antiopa in Cambridgeshire, 160,
3 6 ; in Essex, 257 ; in Kent, 160 ;
in Sussex, 257; at Croydon, 257;
in Hants, 306 ; variation in, 279 ;
cardui in Java, 211 ; milbertii in
Colorado, 185 ; urticae, var., 13, 14,
in February, 73; notes on some
aberrations in genus, 217
Varieties : — Agrotis corticea, melanio,
15 ; Amphidasys betularia, 49, bufif,
113, 162 ; Rhopalocera in Hants,
160; Lycaena bellargus, pale, 160;
corydon, female, 160 ; sericoris ur-
ticana, 163
Varieties of Nocture occurring in the
British Islands, contributions to-
wards a list of, 9, 41, 58, 94, 134,
152, 179, 204, 229, 250, 276, 302
Variation of Argyrophinga antipodum,
some notes upon, 37 ; investigation
of, 241, 272 ; in Vanessa antiopa, 279
Variation of insects, 1, 26, 54, 98, 125,
147, 176, 198, 226, 243
Venilia macularia, var., atLynmouth, 15
Wales — Xylophasia monoglypha, var.,
at Tenby, 15; Dasycampa rubi-
ginea, 74 ; Sirex gigas at Bettws-y-
coed, 117, in Montgomeryshire, 140 ;
Colias edusa, 185, near Penarth,
250; Zygi»na pilosellae, 210; Ar-
gynnis aglaia, var., in Carmarthen-
shire, 233; Sphinx convolvuli in
Glamorganshire, 259 ; Stilbia ano-
mala at Barmouth, 281
Warwickshire — Entomological Society
for Birmingham, 24, 143, Coleoptera
near, 166
Wet season and ocelli, 20
Wiesbaden, Rhopalocera, 88 ; Aglia tau
at, 18fi
Wight, Isle of — Caradrina ambigua,
235; Catoptria expallidana, 236;
Colias edusa at Ventnor, 25(i
Wilts— Stauropus fagi near Salisbury,
259
Worcestershire — Vanessa c-album.
Sphinx ligustri, and Odontopera
bidentata at Great Malvern, 73
Xylophasia monoglypha, var., at Tenby,
15
Year's work in Portland, 43, 56
Yellow tinge of some newly-emerged
moths, 188
Yorkshire — Calocampa solidaginis near
Sheffield, 15 ; Sirex gigas, 76 ;
Acronycta alni near York, 187;
Lycasna icarus, hermaphrodite, 211 ;
Deilephila galii near Sowerby
Bridge, 234
Zeuzera pyrina, 234
Zygsena lonicerse, var., 73 ; pilosellae in
Wales, 210
ri^
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIL] JANUAEY, 1889. [No. 308.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
At all times, and more especially of late years, the various
deviations from the type-form presented by insects have excited
considerable interest in the minds of entomologists ; and, as a
result of this, scarcely a number of an entomological magazine
can be found which does not contain some reference to varietal
forms. Nevertheless, the attempts to classify these numerous
varieties have been very few, the most notable that I can recall
being that of Mr. Jenner Weir in the 'Entomologist' (Entom.
xii. 153), while little or nothing has been done towards
ascertaining the causes of variation, or even recording the
obvious accompanying circumstances.
The present paper is intended rather as an indication of the
manner in which varieties may be classified than any final
arrangement of them, and seeks to stimulate such interest in the
matter that its suggestions may be put to the proof, and confirmed
or discarded in favour of better ones. The varietal names used are,
as far as possible, in accordance with the " Code of varietal nomen-
clature," already proposed in the ' Entomologist,' but many forms
have had names applied to them by authors which are not the
most convenient. These, in obedience to the law of priority,
have been retained.
Class I. — Colour Varieties.
a. Intensification of Colour.
Examples. — Pieris rapce, var. novanglice, Scudd., and var.
mannl, Mayer. Vanessa hiiiitera, var., with the (typically white)
spot on the inner side of the black patch on the apex of the
primaries yellowish (Maynard). Bryophila perla-flavescens,
Entom. XX. 240 ; also " an orange variety," Proc. S. Lond. Ent.
ENTOM. — JAN. 1889. B
2 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Soc, 1886, 59 ; and " xanthic forms," toni. city 63. Arctia
villica angelica, B., vide Staudinger Catl. — In these examples
j^ellow takes the place of white. No evidence is forthcoming as
to the precise conditions under which this occurs, except that
the yellow varieties of Pieris rapes are said to be much more
frequent in America than in Europe, and therefore probably the
result of a different climate from that to which the species has
always been accustomed in Europe, its native country. Much
light, however, is thrown upon the probable nature of the change
by the observation of Mr. Coverdale, repeated by numerous
subsequent observers, that the white pigment of several species
of Lepidoptera may be changed to yellow by the application of a
caustic alkali.
Abraxas grossulariata lutea, Entom. xx. 278, is probably due
to an extension of the normal yellow markings.
Arctia villica fulminans, Stgr. ; locality, Syria. — This is the
only instance I have of the change of the yellow pigment into
red, and in this case there is always some indication of red
about the typical form. The opposite case, that of a red pigment
changing to yellow, is, as I have shown in a previous paper, by
no means uncommon; nor is it confined to insects, being also
witnessed in birds (Fringillidse), mollusca (Tellinidae), &c. Two
other cases of change of colour may be mentioned here, as
requiring further investigation, — Ino statices mannii, Ld., and
Noctua suhrosea suhccerulea, Stgr., the last, from Livonia and
Finland, being rather a geographical race. An extraordinary
variety of Arge galathea is also on record (Entom. xvi. 210), in
which reddish and greenish take the place of black and white.
The above varieties differ notably from suffused, melanic,
and other forms, in that they have their origin in a change in the
nature of a pigment equally prominent in the type form, and not
in the excessive development of an unaltered colour, as is the
case with the following.
Hepialus humuli suhrosea, ^, Ent. Mo. Mag., 1881, 111. —
Mr. Barrett, in describing this form, says the apical- third of the
silvery white fore wings was distinctly tinged with a delicate pink
(an extension of the pink of the apical cilia), which fades after
death. This pink colour is evidently what Dr. Hagen (Ent. Mo.
Mag., 1872, 78-83) described as hypodermal, the colours of this
class being mostly bright and light, and fading after death of the
insect. These hypodermal colours are supposed by Hagen to be
produced by a photographic process, while the darker or some-
times metallic epidermal colours are due to a process of oxidation,
and never fade after death.
It is strangely contradictory of this theory, however, that Mr.
P. K. Uhier found by experiment that in specimens of the
Heteropteron Murgantia histrionica, Hahn., those reared in the
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 3
dark showed a predominance of the pale red parts, while in those
reared in bright daylight the dark blue colour predominated.
(Kept, of U. S. Com. Agric, 1884, 309.*)
b. Metallic colours.
Anchocelis pistacina metallica ; near Caterham, Entom.
xi. 21. — This remarkable aberration was described as having
on each fore wing a large patch of metallic cast, tlius simulating
the condition that is normal with some species of Plasia.
Colias edusa purpui'ascens, Entom. xi. 51. — Mr. E. A. Fitch,
writing of this species, describes an aberration " beautifully shot
with purple or blue," a condition which is quite normal in other
species of Rhopalocera, notably some species of Chrysophanus.
c. The development of green pigment.
Venilia maculata virldimacidata, Entom. xi. 103. Lasio-
campa quercus olivaceofasciata, Entom. xi. 103. — The change
of the black markings to olive-green in the Venilia was accom-
panied by their partial coalescence. We know that the green
pigment in Geometra papilionayia is firsthrown, &.ndm Pseiidoterpna
cytisaria the final change to green frequently does not occur,
producing the well-known brownish form of the species. It
appears, therefore, probable that the above cases of Venilia and
Lasiocampa represent the excessive metabolism of pigments
which normally only attain the brown and black stages.
d. Bleached and albino forms.
Epinephele tithonus albidus, Entom. xi. 101. Chrysophanus
phloeas schmidtii, Gerh. Eusehia bipunctaria albida, Entom.
xvi. 170. Hepialus humidif <^ , type.— In these cases white
takes the place of another colour, and they are in no sense
analogous to the white spotless varieties of Abraxas, &c. I am
strongly inclined to suppose that the male type of H. humidi had
its origin in a variety similar in character to the other three
enumerated, and I accordingly class it with them.f
Epinephele ianira hispulla, Hlib., Entom. xi. 1 ; near
Dover, &c. E. tithonus pallescens, Entom. xi. 229 ; xvi.
234 ; xix. 230. Oporabia dilutata pallescens^ Newman, ' Brit.
Moths,' 108. Lyccena corydon albicans, H.-S. Melitcea aurmia
sibirica, Stgr. Danais chrysippus alcippus, Fab., " al. post.
* I am inclined to think that this experiment throws light on the reason that
the hind wings of Noctme, which are under the fore wings, are nearly always pale,
while those of Rhopalocera and Geometrae are generally concolorous with the
fore wings.
f In the Mollusca I have shown that albinism, from being excessively rare and
aberrational, may become common and even normal, though of course in herma-
phrodite species it cannot become peculiar to a sex. Vide " The Variation and
Abnormal Development of the Mollusca," in ' Science Gossip,' 1886.
b2
4 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
albidis." Nemeophila plantaginis hospita, Schiff., " al. post, albis,
nigro-maculatis." Agrotis ripcB weissenbornii, Frr. Triphmna
comes pallescens, hind wings creamy white, Entom. xx. 240.
Goccinella septempunctata pallida, pale yellow, Entora. xx.
237.— This appears to be rather a miscellaneous collection of
varieties, but the information obtainable concerning them is not
sufficient to class them more precisely at present. The pallid
forms of Epinephele seem to be due simply to the non-development
of brown pigment, whereas the pale Goccinella has almost certainly
a different origin in arrest of development of the usually red
pigment at its yellow stage, like the brown variety of Pseudoterpna.
The var. albicans of Lyccena corydon might almost be called an
albino. Mr. A. H. Swinton (Ent. Mo. Mag., 1885, 231) speaks
of white L. corydon occurring on limestone plains in Spain, which
is interesting as tending to confirm the theory that albinisms are
of unusual frequency on limestone soil. In this connection it
maybe mentioned that WoUaston found t\mt Bembidium atlanticum,
Woll., was dark in Madeira, but much paler in Porto Santo, which
is much more calcarious, and is strongly impregnated with muriate
of soda.
e. Dimorphism : light and dark forms.
Heliothis peltigera pallida, Entom. xi. 24. H. armigera, a.
fusca (Entom. xi. 24) ; b. ochracea (4th. Kept. U.S. Ent. Com.,
1885, pi. iii., fig. 7) ; c. umbrosa, Grote, sp. Tceniocampa
gracilis ru/escens, Proc. S. Lond. Ent. Soc, 1886, 34, 35. — These
are given as examples, but it is well known that many genera
of brownish Noctuse present light and dark varieties, which
are often more or less local in their distribution ; and a similar
phenomenon obtains in certain Coleoptera, such as Meligethes
riifipes rufescens (Ent. Mo. Mag., 1885, 217).
Limenitis disippus floridensis, Strecker, ground colour very
dark. L, arthemis rufescens, reddish brown above as well as
below (Maynard). — The first of these is a southern form in the
United States, and it is worthy of note that there also occurs
in the Southern States a distinct species, resembling the southern
variety of L. disippus in its normal colour, but differing some-
what in the markings.
Hydroecia nictitans ; a. typica ; b. erythrostigma, Haw.
Anomis texana, Riley; a. fuscostigma (4th Kept. U. S. Ent. Com.,
pi. ii., fig. 6) ; b. albostigma {loc. cit., fig. 6a).— The dimorphism
in the colour of the stigma in H. nictitans is familiar to every
British entomologist ; it is, therefore, interesting to find a closely
analogous case in a moth from Texas.
f. Dimorphism confined to one sex.
Colzas edusa helice, 2 , Hb. G, helice pallida, $ , Entora.
xi. 51. G. erate pallida, ? , Stgr. G. aurora chloe, ? , Ev.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 0
(7. eurytheme pallida, ? , Ckll. C. philodice alba, ? , auctt. sp.
Maynard. C, electra pallida, ? , Graliamstown, Proc. S. Lond.
Ent. Soc, 1886, 60. Papilio turnus glaucus, ? , L. Pamphila
zabulon pocahontas, 2 , Scudd. Callidryas sennce pallida, ? ',
dirty whitish yellow (French, 'Butt, of E. N. Amer.'). — These
are all dimorphic female forms, and I think, however looked
at, their interest cannot be exaggerated. The first question
that arises is, Are they atavisms ? Do they represent the
primitive condition of the species ? This at first sight appears
not very improbable, but I think we may answer it in the
negative. It is not altogether impossible that reversion to the
type should be confined to the female, yet it is, I imagine, some-
what unlikely ; but what seems to weigh most against the theory
of atavism is, that certain species of Papilio are trimorphic in the
female sex, and these, at any rate, obviously cannot be explained
by atavism.
Now we have seen above, under *' light and dark forms,"
that some measure of dimorphism may obtain apparently without
the slightest reference to sex, climate, or food, of which Hydroecia
and Anomis are good examples ; and we shall see below that
characters peculiar to the one sex, occasionally appear in the
other ; that is to say, one sex, in very rare instances, presents a
dimorphic form similar to that which is normal with the other.
Suppose, then, a " spontaneous" (that is to say, without reference
to general external circumstances) variation to occur, as it is I
think certain that they do occur, is it unreasonable to suppose that
it might become, either from sexual selection or from physio-
logical causes, more prevalent in the one sex than the other ?
Further, might it not gradually become peculiar to the sex, until
it was the normal condition ? This seems to me the explanation
of secondary sexual characters in the Lepidoptera, if not in all
other organisms; and I regard the pale females of Colias and
Callidryas sennce , and the dark female of Papilio turnus, as fore-
runners of what is in the future to be the typical female of each
respective species. In one case at least, this final process can be
traced. The male of Callidryas sennce is clear lemon-yellow,
while the female is either of the same colour as the male, or of a
dirty whitish yellow colour. In C. agarithe, the male is clear
light orange, while the orange form of the female having appa-
rently become extinct, the typical colour of that sex is dirty
whitish yellow, like the dimorphism of C, sennce.
Lyccena pseudargiolus {violacea) nigra, ^ , Edw. Lyccena
hellargus iiigra, ^ , Proc. S. Lond. Ent. Soc, 1886, 61. — These
are cases of dimorphism in the male, a rare condition. Maynard
states that black females of L. pseudargiolus are occasionally
found, so this condition would seem not to be strictly peculiar to
the one sex.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST,
g. A combination of tzvo forms in one insect.
Lycaena cegon duplex, " a specimen having the right-hand
wings plain brown, and those on the left-hand blue ; at lirst
sight it had the appearance of an hermaphrodite, but was, in
reality, a female combining the two forms of that sex." Exhib.
by Mr. Bond at Ent. Soc. (Ent. Mo. Mag., 1873, 200). Colias
edusa duplex, upper wings like helice, lower typical ; or left side
typical, and right helice (Entom. xi. 52, and August, 1876).
Meligethes rufipes duplex. Thorax and one elytron typical, the
other elytron reddish (Ent. Mo. Mag., 1885, 217). — It seems
excessively strange that two forms should ever be combined in
the same insect in this manner, yet the very ordinary phenomenon
of the upper wings differing from the lower is, in some degree,
analogous. And further, a character normally peculiar to one
set, may become also abnormally developed on the other* (see for
instance the variety of Leucania conigera, with the left lower wing
marked like the typical upper wings (Entom. xi. 169, and col.
fig). Now supposing this very rare aberration were in any
case to become frequent and at length typical, say by the
development on all four wings of the spots formally confined to
the upper, a specimen reverting to the ancestral type would be in
many respects similar to the specimens mentioned above, and
entirely so if there existed at the same time a spotless variety.
Looking at the question from this point of view, it even seems
remarkable that no permanent variety has been developed in
which the right side differed from the left, but doubtless the
laws of correlation have prevented this. Mr. S. Webb, however,
gave me some very interesting statistics concerning species of
LyccBua and Epinephele in his collection, tending to show that
a perfect similarity of the opposite wings was the exception
rather than the rule ; and my own observations on E. hyperanthes
lead me to believe that the ocelli are, on the average, better
developed on one side than the other; but until I have ex-
amined a larger amount of material I cannot say definitely. I
am sure all entomologists would be much indebted to those who
have long series of this insect, and of other spotted or ocellated
lorms, if they would work out this matter and publish their
results.
* Characters peculiar to one side may also be developed on the other; for
example, Ejpinephele ht/pemnthes, with ocelli developed on the upper side (Entom.
xix. 71).
(To be continued.)
[At the request of Mr. Cockerell, the trinomial system of
nomenclature is used in this article. — Ed.]
( 7 )
THE INFLUENCE OF METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS
UPON INSECT LIFE.
By Robert Adkin, F.E.S.
Mr. White suggests, in his notes on this subject (Entom.
vol. xxi. p. 217), that the influence of irregular or intermittent
temperature upon the emergence of insects has received less
attention than it deserves. No doubt this is so, and probably
one great reason for such being the case is the difficulty of
obtaining reliable data to work upon. Accurate meteorological
records, it is true, are accessible in a conveniently tabulated form
for reference, not only temperatures, but also the amount of sun-
shine, rainfall and other matters calculated to affect insect deve-
lopment being given in detail. But can we place equal reliance
upon our entomological observations ? Are there not manj^ other
conditions, besides those meteorological, that may escape our ob-
servation and yet have an important bearing upon the question ?
Notes of emergence in our breeding-cages, for instance,
appear to me likely to be particularly misleading. The con-
ditions under which insects are so kept, are to a greater or less
extent artificial. This is especiall}^ so in the case of sub-
terranean pupse. In nature these are surrounded by a consider-
able body of earth, which serves as a natural protection against
rapid changes of temperature, whereas under the artificial condi-
tions of the usual breeding- cage they have at best but a few square
inches of soil around them. Further, given, as is frequently the
case, that this soil is contained in a porous earthen pan, which
from any cause has become moistened, it is probable that a
refrigeratory action would be set up by evaporation, which would
create an abnormally low temperature in the interior of the
vessel containing the pupae, possibly resulting in late emergences
from purely artificial causes. As an example I will give the
following tabulated statement of the behaviour of three con-
secutive broods of Ptilophoi'a plumigera, a species that performs
the whole of its metamorphoses during what are usually the
warmer months of the year. They were reared under as nearly
as possible similar conditions ; the cages containing them being
kept in a well-lighted outhouse, fully exposed to the air, but
sheltered from rain : —
1886.
Ova hatched April 26.
Larv« full-fed May 28.
First imago emerged... Oct. 9.
Chief emergence ... Oct. 24,
Last emergence Nov. 21.
Assuming for the sake of argument that warm seasons induce
early emergences, we should expect to find the appearance of
1887.
1888.
April 21.
May 6.
June 9.
June 10.
Nov. 9.
Oct. 26.
Nov. 26.
Nov. 3.
Dec. 3.
Nov. 11.
8 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
imagines in the past admittedly cold season later than in the former
years, whereas it is considerably earlier than after the warm
summer of 1887, and in the average hut little later than in 1886.
On the whole such data appear to me calculated to mislead, and
should be accepted, if at all, with great caution.
Field notes are not open to the same objections. Carefully
recorded observations of the appearance of many species under
their natural conditions should be of considerable value in
elucidating the question, and not difficult to obtain from those
who are able to make frequent notes in a locality at stated
periods. Species that usually occur in considerable numbers
should be the best for observation, and comparison between the
times of appearance of the same species in different localities
must not be taken to indicate an earlier or later general emer-
gence. I may perhaps best illustrate my meaning in regard to
this suggestion with notes extracted from my diary, of the
appearance of the second brood of Lyccsna hellargus, for the
years 1887 and 1888. The first note I have in 1887 is that it
was taken at an inland locality on August 8th, by a friend with
whom I was in frequent communication. At this date I was
staying on the Sussex coast and daily expecting to meet with the
species, but it did not appear until the 28th of the month. This
year I was on the same coast-ground througliout the month of
August and until September 12th; a sharp look-out was kept
during the whole time, but up to the last date not a specimen
was to be seen. It cannot be supposed that the brood was this
year completely suppressed ; and although the record is in-
complete by reason of the species not being found, it appears
to be clear that in this one locality it was at least fifteen days
later than in 1887, but it would be manifestly unfair to draw a
comparison between the inland and coast localities. Insects that
have a rapid succession of broods are difficult to deal with, as
there is with them the possibility of the end of one brood so
overlapping the commencement of another as to render com-
parison untrustworthy.
Mr. Griffiths's note (Entom. vol. xxi. p. 283) affords me an
opportunity of illustrating the difficulty of dealing with suc-
cessively-brooded species. Is he right in assuming that the
capture of " three fresh specimens " of Tephrosia cr&puscularia
on July 5th is indicative of a comparatively late emergence ?
There is, I believe, no doubt as to the double -broodedness of this
species, the first brood appearing in March and April, the second
at the end of June and early in July. Is it not then quite as
likely that these specimens should be referred to the second as
the first brood ? and in that case their time of appearance would
be normal.
The difficulties in the way of working out so interesting a
VARIETIES OF NOCTURE IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 9
subject should not, however, be insurmountable ; and there ought
to be, with some little care in the selection of suitable observations,
a sufficiency of reliable data forthcoming to enable Mr. White to
prosecute his task to a successful conclusion.
Lewisham, December, 1888.
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTURE OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from vol. xxi., p. 313.)
AxyliOy Hb., j)utriSf L.
The type of this species is described by Linnaius as : —
*' Noctua spirilinguis cristata, alis deflexis obsoletis subpunctatis,
margine exteriore fusco adjecta macula subocelhiri." " Color
ligni putride, ut in exsoleta s. verbasci, sed brevis." (* Systema
Naturie,' p. 850, No. 152). Haworth describes the species as,
" Al£e pallidse sive llavicantes costa late fusca," &c. ('Lepidoptera
Britannica,' p. 172, No. 34); and Guenee, again, describes it as,
" Superior wings of a very clear, pale yellow, with the costa
broadly brown," &c. (' Noctuelles,' vol. v. p. 134). Hiibner
figures the species under the name of lignosa, and his figure
(245, by error 215) is not quite typical, the anterior wings being
" yellowish ochreous with black markings." Newman, in his
'British Moths,' p. 282, describes the species as "pale wainscot-
brown with dark umber-brown markings." These seem to be
the chief points of variation, viz., the ground colour varying from
whitish or pale yellowish to dark ochreous or wainscot-brown,
and the markings from brown to black. I have both forms in
my cabinet. Those with typical pale yellow wings and black
markings would appear to be the sicca of Guenee. Mr. Russ
has sent me a specimen from Sligo with a distinct dark shade,
reaching from the base of the reniform to the inner margin.
a. var. lignosa, Hb. — Ground colour yellowish-oclireous instead of pale
yellow or whitish ; the ordinary markings black instead of brown, much
irrorated with fuscous dots. A lull description of Hiibner 's lignosa would
be, *' Anterior wings with the ground colour of a yellow ochreous shade,
with a black basal streak, the orbicular and reniform outlined in black ; a
double transverse line of dots beyond the reniform ; the median uervure
continued through the wings as a dusky shade; abroad black costal streak
runs along from the base of the costa to the apex where it ends ; two short
dusky shades are placed in the upper part of the outer margin. Hind wings
grey, with the outer margin slightly ochreous." Newman's figure, * British
Moths,' p. 282, is much too dark for the type, and apparently belongs to
this variety.
i?)P. var. sicca, Gn. — Guenee describes a species under the name of sicca
us follows; — "A little smaller than putris, the superior wings of which
10 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
species those of sicca much resemble, if it were not that the costal streak is
more black than brown, above all between the two stigmata, where they
form a distinct black spot. Inferior wings entirely pure white. Head,
thorax and palpi pale yellow. I have only a single male of which I am
ignorant of its locality " (' Noctuelles,' vol. v. p. 135). The pure white hind
wings leave me in doubt as to the specimen being a variety of this species.
Xylophasia, St., sublustris, Esp.
This species has been much mixed up with lithoxylea, many
of our early authors treating them as the same species. Hiibner
figures (240) a red variety oi siihlustrisy which he calls lithoxylea;
and Haworth, in his *Lepidoptera Britannica,' p. 169, No. 25,
writes with reference to this figure, comparing it with lithoxylea^
" at magis ferruginea " ; but as he does not attempt to separate it
from lithoxylea, British sublustris may not have been known to
him. Guen6e, in his 'Noctuelles,' vol. v. p. 139, states that
" Treitschke has confounded the two species, and has cited their
synonymy very indistinctly." On p. 140 Guenee also writes, " Is
this a separate species, or only a variety of lithoxylea .^ .... It is
constant in markings and character." He then writes : — " Its
colour is always more red, and the discoidal spots much better
marked; the inferior wings have a very distinct brown discoidal
line between the lunule and the hind margin." These characters
are distinct, and I think the difference in the hind wings of
lithoxylea and sublustris well worthy of notice.
This interesting species is very variable on the coast of Kent,
and specimens exhibit much dili'erence both in the ground colour
and the depth of the markings. Most of the specimens have the
anterior wings of a pale ochreous-grey ground colour ; others are
decidedly yellowish ochreous, and these lead up to a very distinct
form with the ground colour decidedly tinged with red. With
respect to the markings, there is also a very great difference.
Some specimens have the characteristic markings in the central
part of the wing and on the outer margin very faint, and merging
into the ground colour; others have them distinctly marked in
dark greyish brown ; others have them marked in deep brown ;
while the form mentioned above, with the red ground colour, has
them in a clear reddish brown or rust-red, shaded off into the
paler ground colour. The specimens also vary with regard to the
transverse row of spots parallel to the hind margin ; some speci-
mens have these spots absent, some well developed, and some
have them joined by curved arches, making a wavy line exactly of
the same character and shape as the second transverse line in the
allied species polyodon, L. {monoglypha, Hufn.). But the most
remarkable specimen I have is one with the whitish ground
colour of lithoxylea, with all the markings of sublustris most
clearly developed, even to the wavy line mentioned above. There
is a great amount of difference also in the quantity of dark scales
VARIETIES OF NOCTU^ IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 11
with which the anterior wings are sprinkled. This makes some
specimens look quite nielanic compared with others. But dark
as some of our specimens are, we do not appear to obtain (after
making all due allowance for the artistic demerit) any specimens
so dark as Esper's type. Esper's fig. 1 ('Die Schmetterlinge,' &c.,
pi. cxxxiii.) is the type, and, although bad enough, is recognisable
at once as an exceedingly suffused form of this species. I have
made the following description of his figure : —
** Probably a female (Esper calls it a male). Anterior wings
dark ochreous, entirely suffused for two-thirds of the wing from
the base with dark fuscous, except along the inner margin, where
the ground colour is more noticeable ; the outer one-third of the
wing, from the apex to the inner margin, paler ; this paler area
with a double transverse row of dots parallel to the hind margin,
and also a pair of dots near the edge of the inner margin at about
one-third from the base;* the nervures with a slight purplish
tinge ; the hind margin dark fuscous. The hind wings dark grey,
the base a little paler, with a slight purplish tinge."
It will at once strike those who have a short series from our
south coast how unlike this description is to our usual forms ;
and yet when one looks at Esper's figure one recognises at once
that it is sublustris. I have only seen one Irish specimen, and
that is quite as dark as, perhaps a little darker than, the darkest
I have from Deal. Besides this very dark type, we in Britain
appear to get two very distinct forms, which are comparatively
rare, these extremes being joined by intermediate specimens,
which vary much, ijiter se, both in the depth of the ground colour
and markings, although of a general greyish ochreous hue. These
forms I shall call : —
a. var. pallida, milii. — Ground colour vvhitish-ochreous, incliniug to the
pale colour of lithoxylea, the dark shades very distinct and standing out
clear in the pale ground colour ; the transverse markings very distinct, a
transverse wavy line being formed by the union of the transverse row of
dots parallel to the hind margin, with lunular arches. Hind wings dark
grey, with a distinct lunule, a pale transverse line outside the lunule, tlien
a dark transverse shade followed by another pale marginal line. 1 have
only occasionally captured specimens of this variety at Deal.
/3. var. intermedia, raihi. — Intermediate between var. pallida and the
red var. lithoxylea of Hiibner. Ground colour yellowish-ochreous, with a
dark grey tinge, the typical shades variable in depth of colour, and the
transverse lines also variable in the extent of their development. This is
the ordinary British form.
y. var. lithoxylea, Hb. — This must not be confounded with the lithoxylea
of I'ab., which is a distinct species. HiJbner's fig. 240 may be described
as follows : — " Anterior wings bright ochreous with a reddish tinge, a bright
red shade between the stigmata, and another bright red shade along the
* These two dots are very unusual in subUistris, although common in lithoxylea.
I have one specimen of sublustris with both developed, many with one, but the
greater number of my long series have neither.
12 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
hind margin ; a series of black dots on the pale nervures beyond the
reniform area. Hind margin of the bind wings dark ochreous, with a dark
transverse shade and lunule." This is a very distinct form, with the
ground colour redder tlian the type, and the ordinary dark shades of the
type of a distinctly bright rust-red colour. I have looked over and captured
a large number of this species at Deal, but this form must be considered
rare there, as I have taken but few of them. I have seen odd specimens
amongst those taken by the Folkestone collectors, and I dare say a larger
number would occur there, as the species is very abundant.
Xylophasia, St., lithoxylea^ F.
So much uncertainty prevails with regard to the lithoxylea of
the * Vienna Catalogue,' which gives no description, that the
lithoxylea of Fabricius ('Mantissa,' p. 182) is generally accepted
as the type of the species. This description is as follows: —
" Noctua cristata alls deflexis dentatis, cinereis fusco maculatis ;
margine postico fusco." " Corpus cinereum. Thorax dorsali
brunnea. Alse anticse dentatse cinerese maculis punctisque
obsoletis fuscis. Margo posticus tenuissime fuscus. Subtus
cJnereie margine tenuiori nitido. Posticse cinereee margine
postico fusco, subtus immaculatse."
Hiibner figures the very red form of sublustris as lithoxylea.
It is a species which varies but little, so far as I know ; some
specimens appear to be a little more suffused with dark scales
than others, but generally the paler specimens show undoubted
traces of wear. The specimens which I have from Greenwich,
Strood, Deal, Sligo, and northern British localities, show no
variation worth mentioning. Haworth, in his * Lepidoptera
Britannica,' p. 169, gives a good description of this species; but
he accepts Hiibner's fig. 240 as this species, with the remark " at
magis ferruginea," although it is undoubtedly sublustris. Guenee
also states in his * Noctuelles,' vol. v. p. 139, that " some lepi-
dopterists have supposed lithoxylea a variety of polyodon."
This will give some idea of the closely -allied character of this
group when studied through their varieties.
(To be continued.)
THE INSECT FAUNA OF ST. KILDA.
By C. W. Dale, F.E.S.
At the September meeting of the Entomological Society,
Dr. Sharp recorded a list of nine species of Coleoptera from
St. Kilda. To that list I can add seven others.
The Coleoptera of the Isle now consist of: — Elaphms
lapponicuSy E, cupreus, E. uliginosus, Carabus cateiiulatus,
C7. granulatus, Nebria brevicollis, N. gyllenhalii, Calathus
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 13
cisteloides, C. fuscus, C. mollis, Pristonychus terricola, Pterostichus
mgrita, P.niger, Amara aulica, A. communis, Ocypus olens, Byrrhus
ceneus, and Geotrupes sylvatica.
The Lepidoptera are : — Coenonympha pamphilus (the only
butterfly), Anaitis plagiata, Crambus ciilmellus, Bactra lanceolana,
and Glyphipteryx cladiella.
The Trichoptera are: — Limnophilus auricula, Polycentropus
irroratus, and Bereea pygrrKsa,
The Diptera are: — Microphorus crassipes, Dolichopus atratus^
and D. nuhilis.
The Hemiptera are: — Lygus pratensis and Athysanus
ohscurellus.
The Orthoptera are represented by only Forficula auricularia.
I can fully endorse Dr. Sharp's remarks of the specimens
showing no signs of depauperation, and being scarcely distin-
guishable from ordinary English specimens.
My information comes from an account of the Isle of
St. Kilda, by John Macgillivray, 1840; and also from a visit
paid there by myself on July 28th, 1883. St. Kilda is the most
westerly of the Hebrides, and is situated far out in the bosom of
the broad Atlantic, eighty miles west of the Butt of the Lewis,
and belongs to Macleod of Macleod. The isle is very bare, being
closely fed down with sheep and cattle, and I did not find a single
bramble. The cliffs are of stupendous height ; one of them,
Conacha, is about 1300 feet high. There are about seventy or
eighty inhabitants. An innnense number of sea-birds make it
their head- quarters, such as solan geese, fulmar petrels, puffins,
&c. In 'The Zoologist' for 1886, p. 333, is an account of a
new species of wren. I saw it when there, but did not know it was
different from the common one. Amongst plants I observed the
corn-marigold, primrose, bog-pimpernel, and cotton-rush.
Glanvilles Wootton, Sherborn, Dorset, Nov. 5, 1888.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
CoLiAS EDUSA var. — Mr. J. Anderson, jun. (Entora. xxi. 27'2), speaks
of a " primrose-coloured " CoUas edusa var. helice in Sussex. It is true that
helice is not an albino, but it is not of the vivid yellow characteristic of a
well-coloured priun-ose. Will Mr. Anderson give a fuller description of this
insect ? for if it proves to be a yellow var. of C. edusa, comparable to the
var. erlphyle of the American C. eurythenie (see Entom. xxi. 189), I need
hardly say, that its interest and value from a biological point of view is very
great.— T. D. A. Cockehell ; West Cliff, Colorado, November 27, 1888.
Vanessa urticj2 var. — On the 16th of October last my mother caught
at Exmoutb, S. Devon, a specimen of Vanessa urtica which strongly resembles
the first variety figured in Newman's ' British Butterflies.' The insect is
14 ' THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
rather smaller than the type, and the two black spots in the centre of the
anterior wings are very indistinct, the upper one being very nearly invisible,
and the lower one much smaller than in the typical form : the black spot
on the inner margin of the fore wings is also smaller than in the type. I
have also a specimen of this insect in which the right hind wing is
darker than the other wings, and is without the usual marginal row of blue
spots. I am unfortunately unable to give the date or place of capture of
this latter insect. — Henry A. Hill ; 20, Fellows Road, Hampstead, N.W.,
November 16, 1888.
Vanessa urtic^ var. — I captured a Vanessa urticcB with the left fore
wing of a white colour and the rest of the butterfly presenting the usual
appearance, in the old chalk-pit known as " Thunor's Leap," on August 1st,
1888. Vanessa cardui was a common butterfly at Kamsgate during
the past season. In 1887 I did not notice it at all. — A. H. Swinton ;
Tudor Villa, Gery Street, Bedford.
Deilephila GALii IN CHESHIRE. — From September 4th last to the
19th, I sent two or three of my family to the sand-hills, Wallasey, to search
for larvsB of Deilephila yalii. They were there on eight occasions, and col-
lected thirty-five larvae. Between a friend and myself I kept twenty, dis-
tributing the remainder amongst my entomological friends. The twenty I
kept in a warm kitchen, and on October 29th the first imago emerged, a
splendid specimen. Others shortly followed, but early in November three
cripples appeared, one after another. This somewhat alarmed me, as I was
afraid I was drying them too much. I however sprinkled a very little warm
water over them, but only did this once. Since then all have emerged in
splendid condition, with the exception of three still in pupa. The last to
emerge was on December 9th. The result of the twenty larvse was
fourteen fine specimens, three cripples, and three still in pupa. — Samuel
James Capper; Huyton Park, Liverpool, December 16, 1888.
Deilephila galii at Eton. — At dusk on the evening of July '23rd,
1888, a student brought me a fine D. galii he had just captured in a corridor
on the first floor, into which I presume it had flown through the open
window. It appeared to be newly emerged, being quite perfect. Can any
reader inform me if it has been taken in this district before ? — J. C. O.
Blair ; Mr. Tarver's, Eton College, Windsor. [Among the many places of
recorded capture of this insect in 1888, Reading appears to be the nearest
locality to Eton. — Ed.].
Deilephila galii in Derbyshire. — On July 21st, 1888, my son,
aged eleven, caught a female D. galii hovering over flowers in our garden
here. He also took a male specimen, within ten minutes later. I have
been collecting for the last twelve years, but never before heard of the
species occurring in this county. I have a specimen of Sphinx convolvuli
measuring five inches, taken near here in 1884, which is the only one I have
heard of in this district. — R. C. Bindley; Mickleover Vicarage, Derby,
November 30, 1888.
LiTHOSJA complana. — With regard to Mr. Jeff'ery's query (Entom.
xxi. 322) as to Lithosia complana being captured on the sandhills of the
Carmarthenshire coast, and asking whether this was not an uncommon
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 15
situation, I should say, as far as my experience goes, that it is nearly its
only situation. The whole of my series of some ten specimens are all
labelled "Deal coast"; and although I have had a number of specimens
sent me from inland localities, I have never had any hesitation in rejecting
them as complana, and putting them in my series of lurideola (com-
planula). I have seen complana (female) drying its wings within twenty
yards of the sea, and probably one to two miles distant from any trees, and
certainly in this case complana did not feed on tree lichens, although it may
have done so on rock lichens. I feel pretty well satisfied that pygmceola is
not a lichen feeder, although I have hitherto failed to breed it. In the
' Entomologist,' x. 40, 47, is an interesting account of the life-history
of L. molybdeola, and there the Rev. P. H. Jennings gives lichens,
chickweed, lettuce, dandelion and sallow as food-plants for this species. I
think our LithosidcB are much more general feeders than they are usually
considered to be. — J. W. Tutt ; Rayleigh Villa, Westcombe Park, Black-
heath, S.E.
Melanic variety of Agrotis corticea. — In the * Entomologist' (xxi.
p. 285) is a statement that "Mr. Goss exhibited, for Mr. W. J. Cross, an
extraordinary melanic variety of Agrotis segetum, caught by the latter
gentleman near Ely, in July last." Mr. Cross, dissatisfied with the result
arrived at in the meeting, sent the specimen on to me. There is not the
slightest doubt that the specimen is Agrotis corticea, not A. segetum, and
although the variety is perhaps, in a small degree, *' extraordinary," I have
repeatedly captured specimens of the same form, with a large number of
other varieties of the same species, at Deal, during the month of July in
the years 1884-88.— J. W. Tutt.
Agrotis agathina. — On Sept. 3rd I took a fine specimen of Agrotis
agathina at sugar. As I have never taken it before, and as several of my
correspondents have never known it taken in that way, I should like to
know how it is usually taken. — W. E. Butler; 91, Chatham Street,
Beading. [By searching the flowers of heather-bloom with a light at
night. They prefer bloom sheltered by tress. — J. T. C]
Calocampa soLiDAGiNis. — We take this species in the same manner
as that mentioned by the Rev. C. Thornewill (Entom, xxi. 277), and it
also comes freely to sugar. I met with it in the latter way for the first
time this season on August 25th. In the locality where C. solidaginis is
most frequently met with, there are only three birch trees, the moths either
resting on bracken branches, heather stems, or on some palings there,
which are about a foot from the ground, and rarely on the trunks of the
birches. — A. E. Hall; Norbury, Sheffield, November, 1888.
Xylophasia monoglypha var. — While sugaring here on July 10th I
took a fine da.Yk variety of Xylophasia monoglypha; as far as I can see, the same
as the second figure in Newman's 'Natural History of British Moths.' I
have not known this variety to occur in this locality before, though I have
collected here for three years or more, and seen many hundreds of the
type. — Spotswood Graves ; 29, Victoria Street, Tenby, July 25, 1888.
Venilta macularia var. — During a short visit to Lynmouth, North
Devon, in July last, I took a specimen of Venilta macularia, of the variety
16 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
>MPSON'?"
described by the Rev. J. S. St. John (Entom. xx. 41). — R. H. Thompsoj
50, Parsonage Road, Withington, near Manchester, December 8, 1888.
Ctdaria reticulata. — I come to the conclusion, that the reason
Cidaria reticulata is so rare an insect is owing to the larvae feeding so late
in the autumn on a food-plant so tender as Impatiens noU-me-tangere. I
could never get the larvae to eat any other plant, and would not at all be
surprised if this species soon becomes extinct, owing to early frost and anew :
with us notably on 1st October, 1888. I have never been able to succeed in
rearing the larvae of C. reticulata, although I have tried hard, and have
gone almost daily for the food for them. I was successful in breeding
it this season, for knowing they made up amongst the loose rubbish about
the plants, I determined to try another plan. 1 went late in the season and
collected bags of rubbish from about where I knew the plants had been
growing, and was rewarded by rearing a very nice series. I am afraid it will
be no use trying the same this winter. I went on the 28th of September to
see if there were many plants, and found one corner had a nice bed of them
in it. I had a good look for larvae, and found three, but not nearly half-
grown. Being so small, I placed them on a marked plant, and left them.
A few days later the frost and snow came, so I w^ent up again at once,
knowing the plant was so easily killed, and found every plant cut to the
ground. After some looking, I came across two larvae wandering about.
Not knowing what to do with them, I came to the conclusion forthwith to send
them to the Rev. B. Smith, of Marlow, who had written to me that he could
not help thinking the larvae might be got to eat something else. I have had
a note from Mr. Smith since, lo say he had failed with those I sent. I can
see one chance for C. reticulata, which is that some may stay more than one
year in the pupa state; otherwise there is but little chance for it. —
H. Murray; Lowbank Villas, Carnforth, December 5, 1888.
PfiNTHiNA posTREMANA. — I was fortunato enough to breed a very nice
series of P. postremana from Impatiens noli-me-tangere. last season. — H.
Murray ; Lowbank Villas, Carnforth, December 12, 1888.
The gknus Scoparta. — Two more seasons have passed since my last
note on this subject (Entom. xxi. 17), and little or nothing has been done
towards further elucidating this genus, except that Mr. P. B. Mason and
Mr. G. C. Barrett have at length given in their adhesion to the opinion I
expressed (Entom. xviii. 130) that S. gracilis should be merged in S. alpina.
Will none of my brother entomologists in Scotland assist me in working
out the question of the specific identity of S. amhigualis and 8. atomalls ?
Convinced as I am of their identity, 1 cannot satisfactorily prove it from
lack of material. We know that S. amhigualis is abundant throughout
England and Scotland, up to the Highlands, where, as in the Hebrides,
the Orkneys, and the Shetlands it disappears, and its place is taken by
8. atomalis, which has never occurred in the south, with the exception of
a single specimen recorded from Wales by Mr. Gregson (' Intelligencer,' i.
p. 31); and this we are particularly told was much lighter in colour than
the Scotch specimens. On the west coast of Argyleshire and the small
islands in the Sound of Jura, Mr. Howard Vaughan and I have taken,
nearly on the sea-level, specimens of an intermediate character ; and if
entomologists working in Scotland, especially near the junction of the
Highlands and Lowlands, would but collect these species for comparison,
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 17
the matter would speedily be settled. I have worried all my friends and
correspondents, and also advertised, but all to no purpose. As regards the
rest of the genus, nothing has been done to show whether S. crat<Bgella is,
or not, anything more than a local chalk form of 8. mercurella; while the
links that appear to bind S. haslstrigalis to S. amhigualis seem to strengthen
every day. With a little united effort these questions might easily be
settled next year, and the genus put in a thoroughly satisfactory condition.
— C. A. Briggs; 55, Lincoln's Inn Fields, December 10, 1888.
SiREX JuvENcus IX LoNDON. — Might not the insect (Entom. xxi. 982),
have come out of a telegraph pole, or some other imported pine timber?
I found a very fine specimen in a plantation of mine here in 1881. —
Edward R. Dalk ; Glanville's VVootton, Dorset, November 3, 1888.
Lepidoptera in Sussex. — I did but little during last season, on account
of the very damp summer, which made collecting most unfavourable.
With the first bright days of April examples of hybernated Gonopteryx
rhamni and VanessidcB were observed in plenty. The sallows were well out
by the middle of the month, but the only moths I took at them were the
commoner Taeniocampidae. Euchlo'e cardamines was unusually abundant
towards the end of May, and about the same time I took Anarta myrtilli
on Ashdown Forest, and Argynnis euphrosyne was just beginning to emerge
in large numbers. On June 7th I captured a magnificent Vanessa cardui,
the first specimen I had seen at Groombridge since 1885 ; during the next
few weeks I saw several others. Larvae of Bombyx neustria were to be
found in great numbers this month, as well as those of Diloha ccBrideo-
cephala, the latter generally occurring on laurel in the garden. Larvae of
Dicranura vinula in various stages of growth were plentiful on sallow
bushes. Towards the end of June I met with numerous specimens of
Arctia vlllica, and Zygcena filipendulcB was to be seen flying in the
sunshine in most places where the long grass was growing. Tanagra
atrata {chcerophyllata) also appeared in two localities. At the commence-
ment of July, a long row of pinks in the garden proved very attractive;
five Sphinx ligustri, one Choirocampa elpenor, and several smaller moths
being taken in a very short time. About this time Smerinthus ocellatus,
S. popull, Bombyx rubi, Plusia chrysitls, and Angerona ptranaria occurred.
On the 9th Macroglossa fuciformis was taken flying over hedge wound-
wort [Stachys sylvatica), and Acronycta megacephala, also Aplecta nebulosa
were found at rest. The larvae of Cucullia verbascl were common on water-
betony and mullein. NemeophUa riissula occurred on Broadwater Common.
On the evening of the 23rd I tried sugaring in a small wood, and as
regards numbers had the most successful evening that I ever remember.
It was very sultry, pitch-dark, and a few drops of rain were falling. Moths
were in countless numbers on the trees, and I took Leucania conigera, L.
comma, L. pollens, Xylophasia lithoxylea, X. monoglypha, Dipterygia
scabriuscula {pinastri), Miana bicoloria {furuncula), Apamea gemina, A.
didyma, Agrotls exclamationis, A. nigricans^ Noctua trlangulum, N.f estiva,
and Mania typica. Argynnis selene was out in immense numbers on
Broadwater Common about the middle of the month, as was Bupaliis
jnniaria, among the pine trees. On August 3rd I noticed Thecla quercus
in the village flying under an oak tree, and found a larva of Saturnia
pavonia feeding on elderberry. Charceas graminis occurred at light ai the
ENTOM.—JAN. 1889. 0
18 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
end of August. I was surprised to find large numbers of the larvae of V.
urticce about the second week in September, in all stages of growth, on
nettles. Most of these turned to pupa about October Snd, and emerged
about the I5th of the same month. During this latter month, specimens
of D, cmruleocephala were frequently taken at light. — W. H. Blabeu ;
Sunnyside, Groombridge, Sussex, November 9, 1888.
Notes from Wimborne. — Last season I collected above fifty larvae of
Euchloe cardamines, also several of Pieris napi and P. rapce, all feeding
upon common watercress in a damp ditch ; nearly all have emerged, females
of the first-named being far more numerous than males. I have bred a fine
series of Gonepteryx rliamni from ova and larvae ; one specimen is curious,
in colour it is intermediate between the sexes. The larvae of Macroglossa
fuciformis have been plentiful this year during July and August. 1 took
above forty, in all stages. They were very easy to detect upon honeysuckle
leaves ; when young they perforate two or three holes near the midrib, and
rest underneath. About thirty have changed. I find all are alive and free
from parasites. On June 6tli I caught a female Colias edusa ; it is in
excellent condition and does not look as if it had hybernated ; the fringes
are good. Tlie following is a partial Ust of my captures here : — On a patch
of heath about two acres in extent, Hesperia malvm, Nisoniades tages, Paiu-
phila sylvanus and P. thaumas, dark forms. Ccenonympha jMmphilus, very
fine, a female with two perfect ocelli on the upper surface of both hind
wings. Polyommatus phloeas, some with scarcely any spots at all. Lycmna
(Bgon very plentiful, from deep purple to light blue; one male with dark
iridescent blotches upon the centre of the upper anterior wings. L. Icarus,
an isolated colony, about a dozen of which I netted, all the females, five
in number, are more or less confluent, two especially so, whilst the males
are of the ordinary type. Thecla ruhi, Saturiiia carpini, EiUhemonia
russida, several and two females, Anarta inyrtilla, Fidonia piniaria in
swarms, the firs being alive with them ; I find the pupae mostly in rotten
wood under the trees. Lithosia viesomella, Agrotis p)orphyrea and others ;
although I found Thecla ruhi and Hesperia vialvce common in the spring,
I failed to find any in the autumn ; the same with other double-brooded
species. Satyrus seniele common on fir-tree trunks, a position this insect
usually rests upon, where bare rock or ground is absent. By beating, search-
ing trees, &c., I collected the following : — Eurymene dolahraria, Ourapteryx
sanibucata, Geometra papilionaria, Orgyia pudibunda, Chelonia villica, Arctia
fuliginosa, Ellopia prosapiaria, Platypteryx hamula, P.falcataria, Macaria
alternata, Pseiidoterpna p)rainata, Calligenia miniata, Acidalia einarginata,
&c. At sugar Deinas coryli, Thyatira derasa, T. hatis, Acromjcta psi,
Xanthiafulvago, X.Jiavago, and a fine series of Acronycta ligiistri, from
pale grey to almost black, one suffused with green. One A. leporina, dark
grey, from a larva found upon willow. On September '^7th I found a brood
of Vanessa urticce, the last of which emerged to the imago on October
30th ; although well fed they are small and dark, some red between the
black spots instead of the usual yellow ; one has only one spot and a faint
dot in the middle of the forewings. Psyche villosella very plentiful upon
heath ; I took numbers of the larvae in their cases during the spring, but
quite six females emerged to one male. I put about a dozen cases (which
1 had cut open) containing female pupae in a separate box, and upon open-
ing it some time afterwards, there were hundreds of minute larvae, some
41
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 19
with cases made of paper, &c. Knowing the eggs were unfertilised I
destroyed the lot, supposing they would produce females only. I visited
Brockenhurst occasionally during the last fortnight in July, and found
eleven pupas of Vanessa polychloros, nine from a shed under some elms,
close by the station, and two in the station whilst waiting for the train, and
a gentleman gave me six from a batch he discovered feeding upon sallow ;
eleven have emerged, but the elm-fed specimens are larger than the others.
In the forest I netted one confluent male, an Argynnis paphia, four
valezina, several A. adippe, and Thecla quercus, the latter resting upon
ferns under young oak trees. In one of the ridings I saw a large dragon-
fly dart at a male paphia; both fell to the ground, the latter was soon
disabled. I have seen them attack flies, but never such big game before.
— J. H. Fowler; Leith Cottage, Grove Road, Wimborne, Dorset,
November 8, 1888.
Early Season in New Zealand. — After a cold and tempestuous
summer, we have here experienced a remarkably fine winter and early
spring. On Sept. 16th I was much surprised to come across several larvae
of F. gonerilla, who had passed their second moult and were feeding
vigorously. From this it would seem probable that the " new " specimens
are Hkely to appear as early as November 1st, which will be, according to
my experience, at least two months before the usual time. T have not
observed quite such a marked advancement in other insects, although the
season seems to be a very early one. — G. V. Hudson ; Wellington, New
Zealand, October 17, 1888.
RocHEFORT IN AuGUST. — Rochcfort is a small town in the Belgian
highlands, built in a picturesque valley at the level of 400 meters above the
sea. It is surrounded by woods of varied growth and affords every accom-
modation to tourists. There are two good hotels in the town, of which
the " Hotel Biron " is the largest, and at which attention is paid to the wants
of the entomologist. The geological formation of the neighbourhood is schist,
overlaying a hard limestone with some marble. The limestone rocks often
penetrate the schist, and form hills of a dark blue-black colour. Taking
the Hotel Biron as a central point, excursions may be made in various
directions. To the south stretches the Han road, which winds round the
side of a hill and leads to the famous grottoes of that name. The road is
overhung on one side by woods, which afford excellent hunting-ground. The
woods belong to the commune and are free to anyone. To the west is the
road to Dinan, which is very beautiful, and leads through the forest of
Rochefort, as does also the Cigny road, which branches off from the Dinan
road just beyond the town. This forest is also communal and therefore free.
The trees composing the forest are very various in size and character, but
most are small ; the underwood is composed of nut-bushes and wild plum,
with some broom. To the northward is the Jemelle road, from which a
path branches off, leading down a deep gully between limestone hills. This
gully teems with insects. Many Lepidoptera are common in all these
locahties ; of these I give a list, so as not to refer to them again : —
Argynnis paphia, Vanessa io, V. atalanta, V. cardui, Erehia rnedea, Pararge
egeria, P. megcera, Satyrus semele, Thecla betulce, Lycana corydon, Colias
hyaie. Plusia gamtna was so abundant as to become a nuisance on the
Han road. On a bright sunny afternoon, this is a good locality, espe-
20 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
cially where tufts of Valeriana officinalis grow. An occasional Vanessa
antiopa may be seen, majestically sailing down from the overhanging trees,
or springing up in front of the too ardent naturalist, just far enough away for
him to be unable to reach it. This species is said to be very common in
the neighbourhood, but owing to the bad season they have been very scarce
this year. Now and then a Callimorpha hera will fly across the road, the
bright red of its win^ making it a conspicuous object, or it may be
taken on the valerian-heads in company with numberless Vanessidae and
Theclse. A few F. urticce may also be seen with Erebia cBthiops. In the
more open spots Gonepteryx rliamni is common. The trees which border
the road yield Catocala nupta, Liparis disjjar, L. monaclia, &c. In the
woods above the Han road, which require to be worked in the afternoon, as
no sun reaches them in the morning, yield Vanessa c-alhum and E. cethiops.
In the evening many Geometrse may be found. On the summit of the hill
above the wood there is an open patch of grassy ground where Argynnis
aglaia may be caught, with A. dia, E. hyperanthes, Ccenonympha pam-
philus, C. arcania, L. icarus, L. minima, P. thaumas, and P. comma.
On the right side of the Dinan road, just beyond the town, there is a range
of bare hills leading to the convent of St. Kemy and the famous marble
quarries. Insects are scarce here, but the large H. circe may be caught in
fair numbers, with an occasional Papilio machaon. In the forest of Roche-
fort there are few roads which make it difficult to work, but it abounds in
flowers and insects. The Lepidoptera worthy of note are V. antiopa, A.
adippe, with var., chlorodippe, A. dia, E. cethiops, E. ianira, C. pamphilus.
C. arcania, P. plilmas, L. medon, L. argiolus, L. dorilis, L. astrarche,
Pieris napi, L. sinapis, G. rhamni, C. edusa, P. thaumas and P. comma.
Among the moths, Macroglossa stellatarum and 0. antiqua. In a gully on
the Jemelle road 1 caught H. circe, V. poiychlows, L. icarus and var. icarinus,
L. bellargus, L. astrarche, L. dory las, L. medea, C. edusa, G. rhamni, P.
napi, P. brassiccB, P. rapes, S. alcece, S. alveus, N. tages, E. tithonus and H.
comma. A few Acidalia ornata were also caught, with larvae oi Smerinthus
ocellatus, Cossus ligniperda and D. vinula. One night only I went out with
a lantern to this gully, and obtained numerous Pyrales and other interesting
moths, especially Tortrices and Tinese, which were very common. Before
closing, I must allude to the beautiful schist-coloured grasshopper, with
pale blue under wings, which form so conspicuous a feature among the insects.
Looking at the collection, one is struck with the very dark appearance of
the insects generally, and especially with the deep colours of the P.
megcera and P. eyeria, which are very much darker and smaller than those
which I captured a few years ago in the plains of Northern France, though
the French specimens are not faded. This dark coloration is no doubt due
to the altitude of the locality, and also perhaps somewhat to the dark
colour of the rocks. The specimens of E. medea are less hairy -looking
and brighter in colour than those which I obtained in Oban (Scotland). I
feel sure that a visit to this locality would amply repay anyone who could
spend a holiday there. August is a little too late, as many of my speci-
mens are the worse for wear. Orthopterists and coleopterists especially
will find Rochefort a rich collecting-ground. — E. W. Carlier; Physio-
logical Laboratory, Edinburgh University.
The Wet Season and Ocelli. — According to Mr. de Niceville
(Entomol. Soc, Feb. 8th, 1885), the ocellated spots on the under sides of
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 21
certain Indian Satyridse differ very markedly in the wet and dry seasons'
broods, and are fully developed in such cases in the dry season only. It
therefore becomes of especial interest to learn (Entom. 273) that Mr. J. E.
Wink worth has taken during the past wet season in England, five examples
of Epinephele hyperanthes in which the ocelli are almost suppressed, all
of them in the same county — Berkshire. E. hyperanthes var. arete,
and forms approaching thereto, are not of exceeding rarity in most years,
hut it will be of very great interest if we find, as Mr. Winkworth's note
seems to indicate, that they have been especially abundant during the past
season. It is therefore to be hoped that those who have knowledge of this
matter will publish the same. — T. D. A. Cockerell ; West Cliff, Colorado,
November 27, 1888.
Abnormal Development. — One of the most remarkable cases of ab-
normal development I have ever met with, recently came under my notice.
On November 16th I met with a larva of Pieris rapce which had spun up
previous to pupating. Wishing to renew my specimen of this species, I
took it with the intention of preserving it, and placed it in a small tin box,
which I always carry in my vest pocket. A few hours later I noticed it had
pupated ; replacing it in my pocket, I forgot it until Nov. 28th, then, upon
opening the box and noticing that the pupa appeared to be dried up, I
broke it in halves, and to my surprise found the perfectly developed imago
inside. That this species should be developed in twelve days is not, I think,
a very exceptional occurrence, but in this case the pupa was loose in a
box in a pocket, carried not less than eight miles each day, and subjected
to every motion of the body. It shows, I think, that a very slight eleva-
tion or depression of the temperature serves to advance or retard the
development of insects. — W. T. Pearce ; 111, High Street, Gosport,
December 11, 1888.
Hybernating Larvae. — Can any one tell me the best way of rearing
hybernating larvae ? I have Uropteryx sambucarla feeding on ivy, which I
am anxious to successfully rear. — Henry A. Hill; 20, Fellows Road,
Hampstead, N.W., November 7, 1888.
Ketarded Emergence. — I had a curious instance of this the other
day. A solitary pupa of Dicranura vinula, which remained over from
larvae taken in 1887, suddenly emerged on the 10th of November, and
developed itself to its own satisfaction and my considerable surprise. —
G. M. A. Hewett; The College, Winchester.
Celery-fly. — My plants of celery have often been much injured by
the larva of some insect burrowing in and destroying the leaves, in which
it makes patches or blotches rather than galleiies. The pest has been
unusually abundant this year in my own and neighbouring gardens, the
worst of its ravages being committed in September and October; so that
in the latter month many rows of celery about here presented a withered
and sickly appearance, with hardly a green leaf to be seen, the growth of the
plant being altogether checked. I should be glad to know the order and
name of the insect, and also whether any plan can be recommended for
getting rid ot it. J have picked up a number of the pupae, specimens of
which I should be happy to forward to anyone who is interested in its
natural history.— (Rev.) G. A. Smallwood ; Willington, Burton-on-Trent,
November 10, 1888. [The history and a figure of the Celery-fly {Tephritis
22 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
onopoi'dinis), with notes on prevention and remedy, is given in Miss E. A.
Ormerod's * Manual of Injurious Insects,' pp. 58-61. — E. A. F.]
Phytomyza chj:rophylli. — The autumn generation of this mining
dipteron has occurred with us abundantl}- in the leaves of ChcBrophyllurn
temulum, and C. sylvestre during September and October. The mine is
most abundant in C. temulum, though it occurs, but far more sparingly, in
C. anthriscus and C. sylvestre, as noticed first by Kaltenbach in 1872. The
larva first makes a somewhat serpentine tunnel in an upper segment of the
leaf-divisions, which it afterwards enlarges till the pulp is nearly all
consumed, and a conspicuously white patch is all that is left to tell of its
earlier life. The larva mostly pupates in the soil below, occasionally even
in the mine itself. The tiny pupa is black and glossy, and the fly will
doubtless put on wings in the spring of next year. — Peter Inchbald;
Hornsea, Holderness, December 19, 1888.
Mould. — Can any reader of the ' Entomologist ' suggest a remedy for
the prevention of mould? Several specimens in ray drawers are slightly
affected. One time my cabinet did not oecupy one of the driest situations.
I have cleaned the few specimens that were affected by means of a camel-
hair brush. Is mould contagious, and are the same specimens Hkely to be
subjected to it again ? A prevention was given some years ago by the Rev.
J. Tasker (Entom. xv. 233), but from the experience of Mr. H. Dobson,
jun. (Entom. xv. 234), it was injurious to the white insects, turning them a
dirty cream colour ; by so doing the remedy becomes equal to the disease.
— Thomas Walpole ; 9, Dudley Terrace, New Somerby, Grantham.
[Calvert's glacial carbolic acid should be placed on a small piece of cotton-
wool on the head of a pin, about the centre of the affected drawer. This
will destroy all hfe, either vegetable or animal, in the drawer, which should
be kept tightly closed for a few days. Mould is a fungoid growth which
spreads or returns wherever the spores find a suitable nidus to commence a
further colony — J. T. C]
Erratum. — Entom. xxi. p. 316, line 7, for Syrichthus malvcB {alveolus)
read Hesperia sylvanus.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — December 6thj 1888. — Dr. D.
Sharp, F.L.S., President, in the chair. Mr. B. A. Bower, of Eltham,
Kent, was elected a Fellow of the Society. Mr. W. F Kirby exhibited,
for the Rev. Dr. Walker, a variety of the female of Ornithoptera hrookiana;
he also exhibited, for Major Partridge, an undetermined species of the
genus Hadena, captured last summer in the Isle of Portland. Mr. R.
South exhibited a series of specimens of Tortrix piceana, L., from a pine
wood in Surrey; also melanic forms of Tortrix podana, S., from St. John's
Wood. Prof. Meldola exhibited, for Dr. Laver, a melanic specimen of
Catocala nupta, taken last September at Colchester. Mr. E. B. Poulton
exhibited preserved larvae of Sphinx convolvuli, showing the extreme dark
and light forms of the species. Mr. M-'Lachlan called attention to a plate,
representing species of the genus Agrotis, executed by photography,
illustrating a memoir by Dr. Max Standfuss, in the Correspondenz-Blatt,
Verein 'Iris,' in Dresden, 1888. He considered it was the best example
of photography as adapted for entomological purposes he had ever seen,
SOCIETIES. 23
especially as regarded its stereoscopic effect. The Rev. Canon Fowler
exhibited a specimen of Mycterus ciirculionoides, sent to him by Mr. OllifF,
and taken by Mr. Gunning near Oxford about 1882. Mr. W. Nicholson
exhibited several raelanic varieties of Argynnis niohe and A. pales,
collected by himself last summer in the Engadine. Mr. J. H. Leech
exhibited a small collection of Lepidoptera- formed last year by Mr. Pratt
at Kiukiang, Central China. It included several new species, also speci-
mens of a variety of Papilio sarpedon and other interesting forms.
Mens. A. Wailly exhibited a collection of Lepidoptera lately received from
Assam, containing upwards of thirty-five species of Papilio, Oniithoptera,
Charaxes, Diadema, Cyrestis, and other genera. Mr. Meyer-Darcis exhibited
specimens oi' Sternocera tricolor, Kerr, and S. variabilis, Kerr, from Lake Tan-
ganyika; also two new species oi Julodis from Syria. Mr. F. Menifield ex-
hibited, and made remarks on, a long series of Seleuia illustraria, S. illuuaria,
and E. alniaria, in illustration of his paper on " Pedigree Moth-breeding."
Lord Walsiugham exhibited and make remarks on, a series of species
representing the genera Snellenia, Wlsm., (Edematopoda, Z., and Eretmo-
cera, Z. The Rev. T. A. Marshall communicated a paper entitled
"A Monograph of British BraconidcB. Part III." The Rev. Dr. Walker
communicated a paper entitled '* Description of a variety of the female of
Ornithoptera Brookiana.'" Lord Walsingham read a paper entitled "A
Monograph of the genera connecting Tincsgeria, Wlk., with Eretmocera, Z."
A discussion ensued, in which Mr. Stainton, Dr. Sharp, and others took
part. Mr. Merrifield read a paper entitled "Incidental Observations in
Pedigree Moth-breeding." This paper contained a detailed account of
experiments with Selenia illustraria, S. illunaria, and E. alniaria, which,
so far as they had yet proceeded, indicated that retardation of development
in the growing stages of the larvae, as well as in the pupal stage, was the
the cause of the darkening of colour in the perfect insects; that a low
temperature had the effect of causing such retardation ; and that growing
the larvae at a forcing temperature tended to produce a warmer and
3'ellower tint in the colouring of the moths. Lord Walsingham, Mr.
Poulton, Prof. Meldola, Mr. White, and Mr. Merrifield took part in the
discussion which ensued. Mr. J. H. Leech read a paper *' On a small
collection of Lepidoptera from Kiukiang." Captain Elvves said he had
examined this collection with very great interest, and was struck with the
similarity of many of the species to those from Sikkim. — H. Goss and
W. W. Fowler, Hon. Secretaries.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
— November ^2nd, 1888. John T. Carrington, Vice-President, in the chair.
Messrs. W. G. Dawson, F. E. Brown, A. Marshall, and J. Katy were
elected members. Mr. J. Jiiger exhibited Agrotis prcecox from Glamorgan-
shire, obtained by shaking the sand-crests ; dark forms of Acidalia margine-
piuictatata from S. Wales, Cidaria reticulata from the Lake District, and
Lobophora viretata from Staffordshire. Mr. E. B. Nevinson, Leucania
jnUrescens, S. Wales ; Acontia luctuosa, Surrey ; two dark forms of Heliothis
peltigera, one taken on the 15th, and the larva of the other on the 18th,
August, which produced an imago on the 17th September. Mr. R. Adkin,
Pieris napi from West Ireland, approaching var. bryonice, Hb. ; Ellopia
prosapiaria from English and Irish localities ; Ematurga atoniaria, Larentia
didymata, Eupithecia nanatUf and Hypsipetes sordidata from English, Irish,
34 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
and Scotch localities. Mr. Tugwell, two specimens of Margarodes unionalis,
taken, 1877, at Kingsdovvn, Kent, off flowers of Eupatoriwn cannahinum ;
two examples of Mecyna polygonalls, both taken in 1877, — one at Deal and
the other at Kingsdovvn ; a series of Eupithecla extensaria from King's
Lynn ; and Acidalla ininiorata from Lewes, and made some observations
upon his exhibit. Mr. Henderson, examples of the second brood of
Tephrosia crepuscularia from Oxfordshire. Mr. Hawes, ova of Bomhyx
nemtria, clustered round the stalk of a plum. Mr. West (Streatham),
Polia chi from N. Wales.
December l^tli, 1888. T. R. Billups, President, in the chair. Messrs.
G. Tindall and M. Winkley were elected members. Mr. Frohawk exhibited
the specimen of Vanessa antiopa, taken by him at Chatham, together with
German and American examples of the species. Mr. R. Adkin, on behalf
of Mr. Austin, a pale fawn-coloured var. of Epinephele ianira, a strongly-
marked example of Ccenonympha pamphilus, blue forms of the male and
female of Lyccena hellargus, and the under side of the male with dark grey
ground colour and the usual spots absent ; also pale, xanthic, and grey forms
of Bryophlla perla, all taken at Folkestone. Mr. Carrington, a strongly-
marked var. of Vanessa c-album, taken near Droitwich. Mr. Adye, unusually
large and small forms of Selenia tetralunaria and Metrocampa margarltaria
Mr. J. T. Williams, Acidalla imniorata, Lewes ; Deiopeia pulchella from
Southbourne, 1876 ; and Cymatophora or from the Hebrides. Mr. Helps,
Ptllophora plumigera, bred. Mr. R. South, British and foreign examples
of DianthcecicB allied to D. nana, and contributed notes thereon ; a discussion
ensued, Messrs. South, Carrington, Gregson, Tugwell, and others taking
part. Mr. R. Adkin exhibited series of D. nana from Kent, Surrey,
Shetland, and the Hebrides ; and Mr. Hall, series of many species of
Dlanthoecia. Mr. South also exhibited a form of Gortyna ochracea from
Perthshire, and made some observations thereon. Mr. W. H. Tugwell,
forms of Hypsipetes sordidata, bred from larvae obtained from Huddersfield ;
Agrotis siniulans, Aberdeenshire; and Neineophila plaataginis, va.r. hospita,
from Forfarshire. Mr. Manger, Dynastes hercules, Fab., from Montserrat,
Chalcosoma atlas, Fab., Megalosoma thesus. Fab., and a species of golofa,
which was not identified, — all from Brazil. Mr. Billups, fifty species of
ChrysomelidcB, from various parts of the world; also some specimens of
Miaris micros, taken by Mr. West in Headley Lane, by sweeping, in the
year 1884. Mr. West said that when he took this species it was extremely
abundant, but he had not been able to find it since. Mr. Billups also
exhibited Hotiniis clavatus, Westw., taken by Mr. Elwes at Darjeeling,
1886.— H. W. Barkee, Hon. Sec.
An Entomological Society for Birmingham. — A preliminary meeting
of some of the Birmingham entomologists was held, on December 13th, to
discuss the formation of a local Entomological Society. The chairman,
Mr. W. G. Blatch, made some remarks indicating the lines upon which he
considered such a Society should work; and, after considerable discussion,
it was unanimously agreed that such a Society should be started, to be
called the Birmingham Entomological Society. Mr. W. G. Blatch was
elected President; and Mr. Colbran J. Wainwright, of Hall Road,
Handsworth, Birmingham, Hon. Secretary, from whom particulars may be
obtained. A second meeting will shortly be held to draft a constitution
aud rules, and settle all necessary preliminaries.
ETitomologist.Fe"b.l889.
Plate 1,
H Knight ad nat.
The Genus Luelidorfia.
West,Hewmei.7i(5tCo cliroTTn
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIL] FEBEUAEY, 1889. [No. 809.
DESCRIPTION OF A NEW LUEHDORFIA FKOM JAPAN.
By J. H. Leech, B.A., F.L.S., &o.
(Plate L, Fig. 1.)
LuEHDORFIA JAPONICA, nOV. Sp.
Expanse, 70 mm. Primaries pale yellow, black at base and externa
margin, with three transverse oblique black bands on the disc, and one
parallel with outer margin, with which the third oblique band is united
below the middle ; a black dash from the costa between first and second and
second and third oblique bands. Secondaries pale yellow, with a broad black
band along the inner margin, and another, oblique and interrupted, on the
disc beyond which is a black costal dash : the outer third black, enclosing
five blue spots, and edged externally with some orange patches; a
conspicuous crimson blotch above anal angle. Fringes chequered black and
white. Under surface as above, but the crimson colour assumes a band-like
form, traversing the wing parallel with outer margin from anal angle to
second subcostal nervule; the orange on outer margin also forms a
complete band.
This species was erroneously referred to as L. puzlloi by
Mr. Pryer in his catalogue of * Lepidoptera of Japan,' and subse-
quently by myself in my paper on the "Lepidoptera of Japan and
Corea," P. Z. S., 1887, when I did not possess specimens of the
species. I at first considered it to be merely a local form of
L, puziloif but the following characters are amply sufficient to
separate it from that species. In the first place the " pouch " of
female of L,japonica is without a keel, and is black instead of light
chestnut ; this, without reference to other points of difference, at
once distinguishes it ; but it is further much larger in size, the
ground colour is darker, and the anal blotch is broader and of a
bright crimson.
With regard to the pouch of L. puziloi, M. Oberthiir is of
opinion that this is probably not developed until pairing has
ENTOM. — FEB. 1889. D
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I
taken place. If this is so, it may account for some of the females,
both of puziloi and japonicay being without this appendage.
Recorded from Yesso and the Kurile Islands. There were
several specimens in Fryer's collection, which has lately come
into my possession. These were taken at Gifu in April, and
are probably the examples referred to (E. M. M. xxiv. 66). I
also have one example which was taken by my native collector
at Bungo, Isle of Kiushiu.
Luehdorjia puziloi has been recorded from Eastern Siberia,
Vladiwostok, and Isle of Askold.
Explanation of Plate I.
LueJidorfia japonica, Leech. — Fig. 1, ?. Fig. lo^, $, under surface
fig. 1 6, 2 , pouch, full view ; fig. 1 c, 2 , pouch, side view.
Luehdorfia puziloi, Erschoff. — Fig. 2, ? . Fig. 20-,$, under surface
fig. 2&, 5 , pouch, full view ; fig. 2 c, $ , pouch, side view.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 6.)
h. The so-called hermaphrodites,
Colias edusa, Entom. xi. 101. Lycwna icarus, Entom. xi. 101,
209; XX. 302. L. cegon, Entom. xi. 101. Clostera curtula,
Entom. xi. 103. Epione vespertaria^ Entom. xi. 104. Satyrus
semele, Newman, Brit. Butt. 89. Odonestis potatoria, Entom.
xvi. 188. Lasiocampa trifoliiy Ent. Mo. Mag. 1882, iii. Antho-
charis cardamines, Entom. xii. 181 (^). — In these examples part
of the insect has the superficial characters of the male, and part
of the female, in a similar manner to the forms quoted under
*'g." That they are not true hermaphrodites is clear enough, and
it is highly probable from analogy that the primary sexual organs
are aborted, though I am not at present aware of any positive
evidence that this is the case. Having in view the fact that in
cases of female dimorphism specimens combining the two forms
may occur, and further, that the secondary sexual characters of
female Lepidoptera have probably arisen in dimorphisms (see
under "f"), it seems possible that these examples are cases of
partial reversion, tokens that the female was once dimorphic.
i. One sex assuming the superficial characters of the other,
Biston hirtaria, 5^, with $ colouring, Entom. xi. 102. Epione
vespertaria, ^, with ? colouring, Entom. xi. 170, and coloured
fig. Colias edusa pseudomas, ? without yellow spots on black
marginal bands, Entom. xi. Epinephele ianira pseudomas,
Newman, Brit. Butt. 92. Aphycus ceroplastis pseudomas.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 37
Howard, in describing this Chalcid from New Mexico, mentions
that four females had a black shade in the middle of the
mesocutum, and black instead of yellow axillae, thus resembling
the normal ^ of the species. — Following the line of argument
under *' h," these will appear as examples of reversion to the
primitive type, which has been maintained typically in one sex,
but lost in the other. From the facts recorded by Mr. J. Bland
Sutton, concerning a female golden-pheasant which took the
plumage of the male, and his comments thereon, it would appear
probable that the immediate cause of this reversion to the
supposed primitive type is the abortion of the organs of
generation. In many species of vertebrata the young of one sex
resemble closely the adult of the other in superficial characters ;
it may be that some Lepidoptera pass through a primitive stage,
which characterises the adult of the opposite sex, in the pupa,
and the sexual organs being occasionally aborted at this critical
moment, the secondary sexual characters do not further develop,
resulting in a specimen such as those referred to above. It
would, therefore, be of the highest interest if any future captor
of such a specimen would dissect it while fresh, and examine the
condition of the reproductive organs.
k. Seasonal forms,
Papilio ajaXy spring form telamonides, Feld., and summer form
marcellus, Bd. Pieris protodice, spring form vernalis, Edw., is
smaller and darker than the summer form. P, oleracea, summer
form often larger, and wings thinner and purer white than spring
form. P. rapce, ''Farther south (in the United States) the winter
(spring) form tends to pure white on the upper surface " (G. H.
French). Colias eury theme, spring form keeivaydin, Edw., smaller
than summer form, duller yellow and with less roseate reflection,
both sides more sprinkled with black scales, the orange patch on
the fore wings not so marked, sometimes almost absent. Phyciodes
tharos, seasonal forms marcia, Edw., and morpheus, Fb. ; P. phaon
also has seasonal forms. Grapta interrogationis, hybernating form
fahricii, Edw., summer form umbrosa, Lintn. ; *' There are about
four broods in a season, and while those of the last or hybernating
brood are the pale forms, the others are more or less mixed, as
Mr. Edwards has shown" (G.H.French). G, comma, hyber-
nating form harrisii, Edw., summer form dryas, Edw. Lyccena
pseudargiolus vars. lucia, Kirby, and marginata, Edw., coming from
pupae which have hybernated, show coalescence of markings on
the under side of the hind wings. Selenia hilunaria juliaria,
Haw., and S. lunaria delunariay Hb. — In North America, owing
to the great difference between the summer and winter climates,
seasonal forms are often very marked. As a rule, the spring
form, emerging from pupae which have hybernated, is smaller
d2
88 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
and darker than the summer hrood, a condition which has heen
attributed to the effects of cold while in the pupa stage. But,
strangely enough, a moderate amount of cold appears to have an
opposite effect, for in our climate the spring Pieridse, which are
dark in America, are distinctly lighter than the summer forms,
and the imported P. rapcB would seem to have retained that
character somewhat in America. Also, as regards size, I believe
that it is found that the races of large silk-moths, which are bred
on the cooler slopes of the Himalayas, are invariably larger and
finer than those of the same species ifrom the heated plains of
India; and this has been attributed to their longer sojourn in
the pupal state, whereby they have more time for development.
The only theory I can advance to harmonise these various facts
may seem to many a somewhat unwarranted one, and I shall look
with interest for any comments on it. The darker and smaller
forms may be supposed always to be those whose development
has been quick, the metabolism great in proportion to the
growth, while the larger and lighter forms have developed more
slowly, with a longer period of growth, and less intense
metabolism ; in short, as Mr. P. Geddes would say, the first have
developed katabolically, the last anabolically. When eggs or
seeds are subjected to a low temperature, although life is not
necessarily extinguished, growth and metabolism cease. The
winter in North America is sufficiently cold to have a like effect
upon hybernating pupae, — they live, but do not grow. The
summer comes on with comparative suddenness, and the hot
rays of the sun throw them into the most intense metabolism,
so that the imago emerges with the wing- structures, so far from
having developed slowly and in the cold, presenting every
evidence of rapid change. In a climate like that of England,
however, the winter is not cold enough to entirely arrest wing-
growth, and hence the spring emergences present usually some
evidence of slow change accompanied by gradual growth. It will
probably be objected to the above theory, that summer in
America is at least as hot as spring, so why do not the summer
forms present at least as much evidence of quick change ? To
which I can only reply, that I am inclined to suppose that the
vital structures and organs of generation develop at a much
lower temperature than the wings, of which theory confirmation
will be seen in such examples as the normally wingless, but
otherwise perfect, Choreius ineptuSf which is said often to develop
wings in unusually hot seasons. I hold, therefore, that the North
American species hybernating in the pupal state attain a nearly
perfect development of their vital functions before the spring,
although wing-growth has been in abeyance ; but those pupating
and emerging in the summer cannot assume the perfect state
until the time necessary for the growth of the vital and repro-
CONTRIBUTIONS TO HISTORY OF THE BRITISH PTEROPHORI. 29
ductive organs has expired, so that the wings, developing all the
while, have no period of sudden quick change like those of the
spring brood. The seasons in Europe were probably at one time
much more marked, and possibly some of the Mediterranean
species arose as summer forms of northern species, or vice versa :
for instance, in the genus Gonopteryx, Colias eurytheme, of North
America, has in the summer brood an orange patch on the fore
wings similar to that of Gonopteryx cleopatra, but the spring
emergence has the patch much reduced, and sometimes almost
absent, thus resembling G. rhamni. Now, supposing the climate
were to become more uniformly cold in the north and warm in
the south, these seasonal forms would be transformed into
geographical races, and ultimately species. Such may have
been the origin of G, rhamni and cleopatra.
(To be continued.)
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE HISTORY OF THE
BRITISH PTEROPHORI.
By Richaed South, F.E.S.
(Concluded from vol. xviii., p. 282.)
As it appears inexpedient to wait until I have found or otherwise
obtained all the larvae of plume -moths I still require for figuring
and describing, I venture to complete the imago descriptions of
British Pterophoridse, and, at the same time, append descriptions of
such larvae and pupae as I have met with since my last contribution.
Some of these larval descriptions have already been published,
in ' British Pyralides,' by Mr. J. H. Leech. As it may interest
those who study the Pterophoridae, I may add that coloured
figures of all our species are given in the work referred to.
Before proceeding with the descriptions, I have a few
observations to make respecting some of the species noticed in
previous papers.
Platyptilia zetterstedti.
In a former note (Entom. xviii, 172) I remarked that the
insect we knew as zetterstedti was not Zeller's species of that
name, and I further questioned the occurrence of zetterstedti^
Zell., in this country. In this, however, I think I was partly
wrong. I have received other examples of so-called zetterstedti
from the Continent ; the latest additions are from Dr. Staudinger,
and all are most certainly referable to P. gonodactyla. Now,
therefore, it follows that unless Zeller's species is a scarce insect,
with which continental entomologists of repute are not well
acquainted, and the examples sent me from various sources were
all wrongly named, zetterstedti, Zell., sinks as a synonym of
30 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
gonodactyla, whilst our insect is without a name. I do not,
however, propose to invent a new one for it ; why, will
presently appear ; and for the present it will be convenient
to refer to it by the name it has borne so long in this country.
Among the zetterstedti which I took in North Devon is one
example, which at the time I thought, from its greater size and
more pronounced markings, must be a distinct species. It was
figured as probably P. nemoralis, Entom. xiv., PL I., fig, 19, but
I subsequently determined it to be an exaggerated form of
zetterstedti, believing, as I then did, that that insect was a distinct
species. Comparing this nemoralis -like specimen again with a
more varied series of P, nemoralis from the Continent, I cannot
now see that there is any material difference between them. The
N. Devon insect is perhaps somewhat smaller in size and a little
paler in colour than nemoralis, but it agrees quite as well with
that species as it does with zetterstedti, so that, unless it be
distinct from either (which I cannot suppose it is), it must be
considered an intermediate form, and as such it admirably serves
to connect our zetterstedti with continental nemoralis. The larva
of nemoralis is said to feed on Senecio memorensis ; so also, it is
stated, does that of zetterstedti ; therefore it may be that a form
of nemoralis occurs on the Continent similar to our zetterstedti.
and that it is this form which is the type of Zeller's species.
In the interests of synonymy and exact nomenclature, it will
of course be desirable to ascertain which of the insects we know
as zetterstedti and gonodactyla agrees best with Zeller's type of
zetterstedti^ This at the moment, however, I cannot do, but hope
to be able to satisfy myself on the point before long ; any way,
the result of such enquiry cannot affect the conclusion at
which I have arrived touching the identity of our zetterstedti and
P, nemoralis, Zell.
Amhlyptilia tceniadactyla.
As stated by Mr. Leech (' Brit. Pyralides,' p. 54), my tcenia-
dactyla is a variety of our zetterstedti, Afnong a score of the
last-named insect, sent me by Mr. Purdy, of Folkestone, were
the form I had described and other intermediate forms.
Platyptilia farfarella, Zell. Stett. Ent. Zeit., 1867, p. 334.
Imago. — Expanse, 9-10 lines. Fore wing dingy brown, more or
less suffused with ochreous ; costal triangle, whitish subraargiual line, and
fringes exactly as in gonodactyla, as also are the hind wings.
This insect is probably only a form of P. gonodactyla, but
not, as I have supposed, peculiar to the second brood of that
species. I have several continental specimens, and they are
certainly smaller and darker than the usual form of gonodactyla,
but, as a whole, they are not darker than some of my gonodactyla,
or smaller than other specimens of that species in my collection.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO HISTORY OF THE BRITISH PTEROPHORI. 31
In fact, one example, bred from a pupa obtained at Southend, is
smaller than either of the farfarella. In a most interesting
account of sundry excursions in Prussian Posen (Ent. Mo.
Mag. vi. 48), Prof. Zeller says : " I . . . . started from the edge of
the ditch a Platyptilia, which appears very like gonodactylus, but
is strikingly smaller, and therefore deserves a close examination,
especially since I have found specimens precisely similar in other
places. I immediately suspected that there must be Tussilago in
the neighbourhood, and truly found, on making a more accurate
investigation, that a short distance from the spot were a few
plants of Tussilago farfara, which had established itself here, and
which had previously escaped my notice." In a subsequent life-
history offarfarella by Zeller (Stett. Ent. Zeit., 1870, pp. 310-315),
the larva is said to feed in the root-crown and flower-stalks of
Senecio vernalis ; but it has also been stated to feed on the
under side of colt's-foot leaves.
Platyptilia isodactyla, Zell.
Imago. — Expanse, ] 0-lQ lines. Fore wing : ground colour pale
ochreous-brown, with a greyish discal suffusion, and some ill-defined dark
brown markings, one of which is a blotch, more or less triangular in shape,
situate on the costa ; the hind margin is broadly banded with dark grey-
brown, margined internally with a line of pale ochreous brown, a black spot
at the apex of costal triangle, near the digital juncture ; fringes pale grey;
tip of outer digit slightly pointed. Hind wing : grey-brown, fringes paler
at the base, and with some black scales about the inner margin of third
feather, but not forming a distinct tuft, as in P. gonodactyla {trigonodac-
tylus). Head and thorax colour of fore wings; abdominal junctions paler.
Mr. Barrett says there are two broods of this insect, — one is
on the wing in June, and the other in August and September. A
description of the larva and pupa, by the late Mr. Buckler, will
be found in Ent. Mo. Mag. viii. 154.
Amhlyptilia acanthodactyla, Hiibn.
cosmodactyla, Hiibn.
punctidactylus, Haw.
Imago. — Expanse, 8-11 Hnes. Fore wing dark grey-brown, with a
reddish suffusion, a small dark spot on the inner margin between the base
and middle of wing, a dark spot about the middle of costa, followed by a
blackish costal triangle, a broad blackish fascia traversing both digits,
bordered externally by a narrow whitish line, and internally on the outer
digit only by an ochreous cloud ; fringes whitish, with a tuft of black scales
on the middle of inner margin, and a smaller one between this and outer
angle; the internal fringes of outer digit are tinged with fuscous. Hind
wing dark grey-brown ; fringes grey-brown ; third feather with a tuft of
black scales on its inner margin. Head and thorax colour of fore wings ;
abdominal junction white. May, June, August, September.
Var. a. — Fore wing ochreous grey, with a rosy tinge ; markings as in
the type, but more clearly defined and with oblique striae, similar to the
same character in cosmodactyla, but not so conspicuous. September.
32 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Var. p. — Ground colour of fore wing pale olive-brown spotted with
grey, and with oblique grey-brown striae, in addition to the typical
markings. This is known as cosmodactyla. July, August, September.
Larva. — Length, 6-7 lines, when full grown. Ground colour dark
green, with the dorsal vessel showing darker. Head pale olive-green,
freckled with blackish along the crown and cheeks: mandibles reddish
brown. Along the dorsal area are four whitish warts on each seg-
ment, from each of which two bristles of unequal length are emitted;
subdorsal, two warts on each segment, the anterior of which has two
whitish hairs, and the posterior one short hair or bristle ; spiracular one
dark green wart on each segment, emitting two short whitish bristles.
The dorsal and subdorsal series of tubercles are placed on linear yellowish
patches ; minute blackish bristles are scattered over the entire dorsal and
lateral areas. Prologs blackish ; anal claspers semitransparent, with a
greenish tinge. August and September. Said to feed on various kinds of
plants, but I have only bred the insect from larvae found on Stachys and a
garden variety of geranium.
Pupa. — At first of a greenish colour, changing subsequently to an
obscure reddish brown ; the antenna cases are detached from the abdomen,
and there are two conspicuous thorn-like projections on the back. Head
truncate. Attached by the tail near a flower-whorl of its food-plant
(Stachys sylvatica). August and September.
The foregoing descriptions apply to the larva and pupa of
var. a, which is probably identical with stachydalis, Frey. (Stett.
Ent. Zeit., 1871, p. 125). I found larvae, as well as pupss and
imagines, in a shady corner of Pelham Woods, Ventnor, on the
1st of September, 1883. A specimen of A. acanthodactyla from
Ireland, which Mr, Percy Kuss, of Sligo, was good enough to send
me, has reddish brown fore wings, and is the only example I have
yet seen of this coloration. Mr. Porritt, who has described the
larva of cosmodactyla and also that of acanthodactyla (Ent. Mo.
Mag. xxiii. 138), says that the chief points of distinction between
them " are the deep purple ground colour in acanthodactylus as
compared with the 'purplish pink' of cosmodactyluSy' the white
subdorsal lines less conspicuous in acanthodactyla^ and the head
of the latter yellowish brown marked with black, instead of " very
dark sienna-brown," as in cosmodactyla. I think much value
cannot be attached to such very trivial points of difference. I
have taken typical acanthodactyla at the end of May, but whether
these were hybernated specimens or not I cannot positively say,
but should suppose that they were. I have only bred the species
in September.
Oxyptilus distans, Zell.
var. Icetusy Zell.
Imago. — Expanse, 8-9 lines. Fore wing pale brown, with a small
black linear spot and whitish longitudinal dash on the disc, a whitish
crescent at the digital junction, and a rather broad whitish band traversing
both digits, followed by a narrower whitish band clearly defined on the
outer digit ; fringes dark brown, variegated with white at the extremities of
CONTRIBUTIONS TO HISTORY OF THE BRITISH PTEROPHORI. 83
the bands. Hind wing golden brown ; fringes of third feather whitish at
base, and with a tuft of black scales just beyond the middle. June
and July.
On the Continent the larva of Icetus has been found on
Andryala sinuata, one of the Compositse, but not a British plant.
Dr. Jordan suggests that probably the larva might be found on
some species of Hieracium in this country. The Oxyptilus,
occurring at Folkestone and in North Devon, is identical with
IcetuSy and I have considered it to be distinct from distans
(Entom. XV. 35), but examination of an extensive series of
0. distans has convinced me that I was wrong in my conclusion.
The points of difference I relied on will not hold, and Icetus must
sink as a species.
Oxyptilus pilosellcBf Zell.
Imago. — Expanse, 8-10 lines. Fore wing ochreous-brown clouded
with darker, an ill-defined whitish fascia traverses the outer digit, but is
scarcely traceable on the inner digit, beyond this is a whitish line crossing
both digits, the enclosed area appearing darker than rest of wing ; costa
from line to apex with some white cilia ; fringes brown, variegated with
whitish along the inner margin, at external margin of inner digit, and
edges of digital junction. Hind wing dark brown; fringes slightly paler;
third feather with some black scales on each side of the shaft near the tip.
Oxyptilus hieracii, Zell.
Imago. — Expanse, 8-11 lines. Fore wing dark brown, a white fascia
traverses the outer digit, but is not distinctly traceable on inner digit,
beyond this is a whitish line crossing both digits ; fringes brown, variegated
with white or whitish along inner margin, at external margin of inner digit,
and edges of digital juncture; costa from line to apex with some pale
yellowish cilia. Hind wing dark brown ; fringes slightly paler, with a
prominent tuft of black scales near tip of third feather, occupying both
sides of the shaft.
The foregoing description of 0. hieracii and also that of
0. pilosellce are taken from continental specimens obtained from
Dr. Staudinger. I am quite unable to refer to any character by
which the one may be separated from the other. Hieracii is a
darker insect, and the markings are consequently better defined ;
in other respects it does not appear to materially differ from
pilosellce, and I cannot consider it to be specifically distinct
therefrom. I have no British example of either insect. Speci-
mens of 0. teucrii have sometimes been sent me as hieracii, and
large examples of 0. parvidactylus for pilosellce. Teucrii may be
readily known by the additional black spot at the tip of third
feather, separated from the usual tuft of black scales by some
white cilia. 0. parvidactylus has the patch of black scales
covering the tip of third feather, whilst in both hiei'acii and
teucrii the black scales are before the tip, and in distans nearer
the middle than tip of third feather.
34 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Oxyptilus teucrii.
Dr. Mason, who has lately acquired the type of Haworth's
hetrodactylus, finds that the specimen is identical with teucrii,
Greening. This name, therefore, must sink in favour of the
much earlier one of Haworth's (vide Ent. Mo. Mag. xxv. 162).
Oxyptilus parvidactyluSi Haw.
obscurus, Zell.
Imago. — Expanse, 6^-7|- lines. Fore wings dark brown, with some
white scales at digital juncture, and two whitish fasciae traversing both
digits, but not always well-defined on the inner digit ; fringes dark brown,
variegated with white, and two small tufts of black scales along inner
margin ; also with white on the costa at apex, and at the angle of inner
digit. Hind wing dark shining brown ; third feather with some whitish
scales along its inner margin, and a large patch of black scales covering the
tip. May and June.
" The larva feeds in April on the young leaves of Stachys
alpina ; in autumn in the heads of Marrubium"
" The ground colour of the larva is dirty pale green ; on each segment
are four black warts, bearing a star-shaped tuft of bristles ; head and dorsal
pale black, the latter divided by a pale line. Frey.'' — Leech, * British
Pyralides,' p. 58.
Mimaseoptilus bipunctidactylus, Haw.
var. plagiodactyluSy Stainton.
var. aridusy Doubleday Cat.
var. scabiodactyluSy Gregson.
A description of the imago and life-history of this species is
given by me (Entom. xviii. 273), under the name of M. plagio-
dactylus. I have a very extensive series of bred and captured
specimens of the species, obtained in various British localities.
The variation is considerable, and embraces not only the plagio-
dactylus form, but also the pale ochreous var. aridus, and the
strongly-marked variety first introduced by Mr. Gregson under
the name of scabiodactylus. These various forms are so closely
linked one with the other by intermediates that they must be
considered simply varieties of the same species. Some of the
forms, indeed, I cannot separate from continental Miynceseoptili
in my collection, sent me as Af. pelidnodactylus and M. coprodac-
tylus. I um inclined to think that there must be some mistake
about the larva of bipunctidactylus feeding on Galium, I have
often disturbed numbers of the imagines from hedges bordering
pasture-fields, but have not been able to obtain larvae from the
Galium growing in profusion in those hedges. Scabious there is
in the pastures, and no doubt the larvse of bipunctidactylus feed
thereon, the imagines resorting to the herbage of the hedges for
shelter.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO HISTORY OP THE BRITISH PTEROPHORI. 35
Mimceseoptilus zophodactylus^ Dup.
loewii, Zell.
Imago. — Expanse, 9-10 lines. Fore wing pale grey-brown, slightly
tinged with violet and dotted with black scales, a black dot on disc of wing,
and another at the lower edge of digital juncture; at the base of the grey-
brown fringes are four small black dots, two of which are placed at angle of
outer digit, and two near tip of inner digit ; costa towards apex whitish,
sometimes the entire costa is edged with whitish. Hind wing dark grey-
brown. August.
Larva. — Length, 5 lines, tapering towards anal extremity. Head
shining yellowish green, smaller than 2nd segment. Ground colour
yellowish green, with a broadish violet dorsal stripe from the 3rd to the 13th
segments inclusive; there are numerous short pale grey hairs arranged in
four lines along the dorsal and lateral areas, but no well-defined tubercles.
Spiracles dark brown. September, in the flowers of Erythrcea centaureum.
The foregoing description of the larva of M. zophodactylus
has been already published in Mr. Leech's * British Pyralides.'
Lafaury records larva of M. zophodactylus on Chlora perfoliata^
and suggests that probably it is a miner when young (Pet. Nouv.
vii. 632). This species is separable from M. hipunctidactylus by
its whitish apical edging.
Pterophorus hodgkinsonii, Gregson (E. M. M. iv. 178).
This insect is characterised by Mr. Gregson, as follows : —
" Alar expanse, 7-8 lines. Head, face, thorax, body, and legs light,
creamy, ashy-grey, hghtest towards the cleft, very slightly irrorated with
darker atoms; the discoidal and cleft-spots scarcely perceptible. Under
wings rather darker than the upper wings."
Although not so stated, I apprehend that the " ashy grey,
lightest towards the cleft," &c., refers to the primaries ; if this is
so, I have some specimens of M, hipunctidactylus from N. Devon,
which agree very well with the description of hodgkinsoni. The
time of year fits my insect also, and it differs from the type in
precisely the same manner that hodgkinsoni is said to differ from
M, hipunctidactylus. As I have not yet seen a specimen of
hodgkinsoni, I cannot of course say that it is a form of hipuncti-
dactylus, but I think it may turn out to be a form of that species,
rather than a var. oi zopliodactylus, Dup.
Leioptilus osteodactylus, Zell.
Imago. — Expanse, 9^-10^ lines. Fore wing sulphur-yellow, streaked
with brownish from the base to the middle of the wing, a broad ill-defined
brownish patch on the costa before the apex, and a black spot at digital
juncture; fringes pale brown. Hind wing pale, shining brown. July and
August.
Larva. — Ground colour whity-brown, with a greenish tinge, and
thickly sprinkled with minute black dots ; dorsal stripe and subdorsal line
3b THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
pale rosy pink ; tubercles inconspicuous, hardly raised above the surface
of the skin, two on each segment along dorsal area, from each of which a
single brownish hair of moderate length is emitted ; these hairs on the 3rd,
4th, and 5th segments curve forwards, those on posterior segments curve
backwards ; along the lateral area there is one wart with a moderately long
hair on each segment. Spiracles black. Prolegs pale brown. October.
In seed-heads of Solidago virgaurea. The larvae hybernated
among the dried heads of Solidago^ some making a snug cocoon-
like retreat of the seed-down, others remaining without any such
protection ; and these assumed a reddish tinge during the winter.
Description of larva previously published, ' British Pyralides,'
p. 65.
Pselnophorus brachydactyluSj Tr.
Imago. — Expanse, 10-11^ lines. Fore wing black, sprinkled with
ochreous-brovvn scales, especially on the disc, which seems in consequence
to be of a brownish black coloration, a small white dot on costa above
digital juncture, from which an ochreous line, sharply angulated at the
juncture, runs to the inner margin ; fringes black, ornamented with white
at the tip of outer and angle of inner digit ; there are also some white
scales edging the digital juncture, and a patch of white scales on the
fringes of inner margin at the termination of ochreous transverse line.
Hind wing blackish brown ; fringes of second feather grey from base to
middle, and white near the tip ; there are also some white scales at junction
of first and second feathers. Head and thorax colour of fore wings.
Abdomen brown, ornamented with lateral white spots. Legs brown ; tibisB
with one and tarsi with four white marks or rings.
I have not seen a British example of this species. The above
description is taken from a continental specimen. The genus
Pselnophorus was founded by Wallengren for the reception of
brachydactylus (Ent. Tidskr. ii. 96). The larva is said to feed on
the under sides of the leaves of Prenanthes purpurea, also on
Lactuca muralis, in May and June.
" The ground colour of the larva is pale dirty green ; dorsal stripe
darker, on each side of which is a row of tubercles bearing dark bristles,
followed by another row bearing one dark bristle and a few small hairs ; a
third row occurs lower down, crowned with white bristles. Frey." — Leech,
'British Pyralides,' p. 66.
Aciptilia paludunii Zell.
Imago. — Expanse, 7 lines. Fore wing deep grey-brown, outer digit
traversed by two white fasoia-like streaks, edged with some black scales on
the costa ; fringes grey-brown, with some black scales at the tip and inner
angle of outer digit, the latter bordered on each side with white cilia ; the
inner digit has some black scales at tip ; two patches of black scales on the
inner margin, the first preceded and the second followed by white cilia.
Hind wings grey-brown, darker at the extremity of each feather-shaft, but
there are no black scales in the fringes. June to August.
As a British insect, A. paludum was at one time supposed to
be peculiar to the Cambridgeshire fens, but it has recently been
ON THE VARIATION OF ARGYROPHINGA ANTIPODUM. 37
taken on heathy hogs in one or two localities in Dorset, teste
Kev. 0. P. Cambridge (Entom. xx. 336) ; it has also been
recorded from Woolmer Forest. The larva appears to be
unknown on the Continent, as well as in England; at least I
cannot find any published description.
SOME NOTES UPON THE VARIATION OF
ABGYROPHINGA ANTIPODUM, Doubleday.
By W. W. Smith.
In every country the law of variation operates with greater
effect among particular groups and on certain species of Lepi-
doptera than others ; how or why such should obtain has of late
years presented a grand subject for original research to entomolo-
gists. In New Zealand, variation is constant to a greater or less
degree among many species of both Macro- and Micro -Lepidop-
tera, and in some species is more marked than others. The
case of Argyrophinga antipodum exhibits a striking instance of
extreme variation among the few endemic species of New Zealand
Rhopalocera. '
For many years past while out collecting, I have been in the
habit of netting great numbers of this butterfly, selecting the
more marked forms, and liberating the remainder, on the grassy
uplands and plains, still clothed in their native tussock grass
(Poa australis). This butterfly in its season is generally numerous,
and owing to its slow and somewhat laboured flight is easily
captured. Among the specimens I have taken are some remark-
able varieties, exhibiting all the phases or stages of variation to
which a single species could be subject. Many individuals of
both sexes differ considerably from each other in their ground
colouring, the colours of the neuration, and in the number of
ocelli. The typical colour of the male is given by Mr. A. G.
Butler as " dark greyish brown, paler at base ;" in my specimens
every shade of brown is developed, while some are partially
melanic forms. Among the females there is also considerable
distinction, the general colouring varying from whitish j^ellow
to rich dark orange. In a typical specimen the hind wings are
crossed with three small ocelli, the centre one in the male being
slightly the largest ; among them are several having a broad
blackish band crossing the wing from the inner to the outer
margin, and enclosing four distinct ocelli. Others have the three
ocelli much enlarged and coalescent, while a number possess only
two or one ocelli, and in one specimen (a male) they are
obsolete on all the wings. I lately sent a group of these varied
forms to the Wellington Museum, where no doubt they can at
any time be inspected by entomologists.
38 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Mr. G. V. Hudson, the well-known Wellington entomologist,
whom I requested to examine the group, has favoured me with a
note regarding them ; he considers them " most interesting and
instructive," and states that he has specimens from the Nelson
province " differing altogether " from them. As Nelson is west
of the Alps in the South Island, the fact proves that the variation
of the species is nowhere local, but general over the whole extent
of the South Island. For many years I have collected in different
parts of Canterbury, south of the Eakaia river, from the sea-
shore to several thousand feet up the grassy slopes of the Alps ;
and for three seasons I collected in North Otago, a district
which has been under cultivation for over a quarter of a centur3\
After examining the specimens in the Dunedin Museum, cap-
tured in other localities in Otago, I think that no locality can
be given as producing more varied forms, but that the remark-
able variation of the species is unquestionably general over the
whole area of the South Island.
As the great question of variation is of vital importance in
fully elucidating the science of entomology, it seems to me
imperative that entomologists should record the slightest varia-
tion in any species when first observed, as in some instances it
has now assumed such complexity as to be almost impossible to
trace its origin. A thorough knowledge of climatology in all its
bearings on the variation of insects is also indispensable to every
entomologist. There can be no question that many species of
Lepidoptera are greatly influenced in all stages by changes of
temperature or by the seasons ; and from notes on the variation
of this butterfly in relation to the seasons, made during many
years, I am in a position to show that the species exhibits greater
variation in some years than others. The winter (or wet season
in New Zealand) of 1881 was exceptionally dry and mild during
the summer, which was even and hot ; the butterflies emerged in
prodigious numbers, but all the individuals I examined showed
less aberration in that year, including the early months of 1882,
than any season I can give, before or since. The following winter
was much colder, and was succeeded by a fine even summer ; but
the butterflies were nowhere so plentiful, and many of them,
especially the males, were more variably marked than those of the
preceding summer. Then followed the wettest winter, and
equally wet and coldest summer, on record in New Zealand ;
every day of bright sunshine produced the emergence of some,
and fresh individuals continued to appear until much later in the
season than usual. In the same year (the early months of 1884)
I collected the most variable forms of both sexes I had hitherto
obtained. The close of the year and the first six months of
1885 were the hottest on record ; and although the butterflies
were plentiful, the greater number I netted were not so variable
ON THE VARIATION OF AEGYROPHINGA ANTIPODUM. 39
or richly marked as in the preceding year. The two succeeding
summers produced specimens which were about equal to 1885, as
regards their numbers and markings. Last summer, which was
preceded by a very wet winter, there was again a greater number
of more richly marked and variable forms.
From the foregoing notes it will be seen that the variation of
the species is most predominant in seasons succeeding wet winters.
The same applies to Chrysophanus boldenarum. How the seasons
operate in producing this effect requires careful investigation, and
any satisfactory solution of this interesting and difficult problem
can only, I think, be obtained through such recorded obser-
vations. [Vide ante, p. 20. — Ed.]
One cause in New Zealand which affects the numbers and
economy of many species of insects is the annual burning of the
Tussock lands. They are fired to promote the growth of young
grass, for sheep and cattle depasturing on it. I have no doubt
that these terrible fires which occur in the early spring months,
sometimes lasting for days, and spreading over many miles of
open country, have long ago extirpated many species of insects and
rendered others rare. Indeed, it is surprising that A. antipodum
holds its own so well, seeing that it is in all stages almost
exclusively a Tussock-frequenting species.
In the early days of the colony the seasons were more equable
than now. The winter rains were more periodical, with less
frost ; and the summers more even, with fewer chills. The
devastating fires, together with cultivation of the land, would
soon assert their influence on the climate, and materially affect the
economy of Lepidoptera. An abundance, scarcity, or change of
food and environment, during the larval stage, is known to
produce great variations among certain species ; with A. anti-
podum, the finest marked and best-developed forms are evolved in
humid seasons, and such succeeding wet winters. The abundance
of food which obtains, and an unchecked and vigorous growth of
the larvae during such seasons, would account for this. I cannot
say whether natural selection, in the case of the female, *' plays
many parts in perpetuating the variation of the species," as I
have only twice observed them in copula ; but in both cases the
males were large and richly-marked individuals. Neither am I in
a position to say that the tendency to darkening in the colours of
the species is, in humid seasons, a case of atavism ; but I
incline to such an opinion, as the preceding geological period in
New Zealand was immensely more humid than the present, a
fact which I think favours such a view.
On some future occasion I hope to add a little more on the
subject, and to give the life-history of this peculiar butterfly.
East Belt, Ashburton, New Zealand, September 15th, 1888.
40 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
DESCRIPTION OF A NEW GOLIATH BEETLE FKOM
CENTRAL AFRICA.
By Oliver E. Janson, F.E.S.
In a small but interesting collection of Cetoniida recently
received from the neighbourhood of Stanley Falls on the Upper
Congo, I have obtained a male of a very fine species of Nejptunides,
and for the female I am indebted to Mons. R. Oberthiir, who has
more recently received, and forwarded to me for examination,
both sexes collected at Ouganda by Mons. Denoit. I propose
naming this fine species after the illustrious leader of the Emin
Pasha Relief Expedition and explorer of Central Africa.
Neptunides stanleyi, n. sp.
Elongate, convex, bright golden green, the femora tinged with fiery red,
margins of the cl^peus, including the horns and median carina, the knees,
inner side and apical spines of the tibiae and the claws, black. Head
deeply impressed on each side in front, the impressions divided by a strong,
sharp, central carina, which extends from the base of the median horn to
the vertex ; the median horn stout, recurved and dilated towards the apex,
the lateral horns divergent, flattened and rather obtuse. Thorax very
convex, subglobose, the sides a little emarginate and scarcely narrowed from
thejbase to the middle thence somewhat abruptly rounded and narrowed to
the apex, the surface almost impunctate. Scutellum broad, triangular.
Elytra scarcely broader than the thorax at the base, a little narrowed
towards the apex, the suture slightly elevated posteriorly, extremely finely
and sparsely punctured. Pygidium, underside and legs finely and remotely
punctured ; mesosternal process flat, broad, rounded at the apex ; anterior
femora broad, the underside fringed with dense, short, yellow pubescence,
and armed near the apex with a large, acute, curved tooth ; anterior tibiae
emarginate and obtusely bi-dentate at the base, slightly emarginate on the
outer side and grooved on the inner side towards the apex, the apex with
two acute teeth on the inside and one behind. Length 36 — 38 millim.
In the female the head is strongly punctured, impressed behind, and
has a longitudinal carina in the centre, the apex of the clypeus has a small
and nearly square projection in the middle, and the lateral angles are
slightly prominent, the thorax is much less convex than in the male, the
elytra have more or less distinct rows of fine punctures, the anterior
femora are unarmed, the anterior tibiae are dilated towards the apex and
acutely tri-dentate on the outside, and the intermediate and posterior tibiae
have an acute tooth below the middle. Length 30 millim.
Habitat, Upper Congo District.
The male is larger and proportionately narrower than N. poly-
chrous and differs in the uniform colouring of the body, the head
is broader, with the central horn stouter and gradually dilated
towards the apex, the lateral horns are less curved and more
obtuse, the median carina is more prominent and extends to the
vertex, and there is no distinct transverse ridge on the forehead
VARIETIES OF NOCTU^ IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 41
as in polychrous ; the thorax is also much more convex and less
rounded at the sides behind, the anterior femora are broader and
have a denser fringe and larger sub-apical tooth, the anterior
tibiae are more dilated near the base, channelled on the inside,
and without teeth except at the apex.
22, Perth Koad, Stroud Green, N., January 19, 1889.
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTU^ OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 12.)
Xylophasia, St., monoglypha, Hufn. {polyodon, L.).
This is another most variable species, ranging from speci-
mens of a pale whitish grey ground colour, through almost every
intermediate shade to deep unicolorous brown and black. The
melanism on our southern coasts tends more to the production
of dark, more or less unicolorous, brown forms; that in the North
of England, Scotland and the west coast of Ireland to the
production more especially of intensely black forms, although
occasionally more or less black forms are taken in the south, and
beautiful rich brown forms occur in North Britain and the west
coast of Ireland. I would also draw attention to the great variation
in the direction, shape and size of the orbicular stigma ;
sometimes this is quite linear, sometimes oval, and sometimes
round ; sometimes large and sometimes comparatively small.
This species seems to vary but little on the Continent, so far
as is at present known, and scarcely any continental authors appear
to have ifigured or described any varieties except Staudinger, who
has recently named one intensely black form csthiops. Hiibner
figures the type, with a pale patch along the inner margin and
near the anal angle, as radicea. The Linnsean description
(' Systema Naturae,' p. 853, No. 170), is as follows: — " Noctua
spirilinguis cristata, cinereo-nebulosa ; margine postico multi-
dentato." "Alse superioris margo posticus circiter 8 dentibus
terminatus." Guenee in his ' Noctuelles ' mentions nothing
about the species being variable, although he says, " common
everywhere." Haworth describes the pale variegated form, which
is generally looked upon as the type, as : *' Noctua cristata, alis
deflexis dentatis variegatis : striga postica dentatis albis, thoracis
crista elevata bifida." " Corpus pergrossum. Alse anticse ex
fusco parum fulvicantes, nebulis variis nigris pallidisque. Stigma
anticum oblongum, et valde obliquum sive subsupinum. Juxta
marginem posticum striga profundissime et acutissime dentata
alba nigro interne adnata. Posticse alee cinereo-fuscse, fimbria
ENTOM. — FEB. 1889. E
42 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
fusca, ciliis fulvicantibus." (* Lepidoptera Britannica,' pp. 186,
187). He also adds, ** Variat, alls minus variegatis." Thanks to
my friend Herr Hoffmann (Hanover), I have been able to get a
translation of Hufnogel's original description, which is asfi^Uows:
— *' With a bluish tinge, partly light and partly dark grey, with a
Latin VV ^^ the hind margin."
Treating therefore as the type the variegated form, which has
the whitish blotch on the inner margin, near the anal angle, we
have four striking varieties, joined of course by intermediate
forms. These are : —
1. A suffused brown or greyish brown form, with the
markings distinctly traceable, though obscured, var. ohscura,
2. A deep, intensely brown form, with the markings scarcely
traceable, var. brunnea,
3. A black form with moderately distinct msirkmgs,\. infuscata,
4. An intensely black form with the markings almost entirely
obliterated, var. (jethiops.
a, var. ohscura, mihi. — A suffused brown or greyish brown form with
all the pale markings of the type brownish or dull greyish instead of
whitish. The whole of the markings of the anterior wings clearly
'raceable, although obscured. The brownish transverse lines (pale in the
type) margined with darker brown. My specimens have come from
Strood, Greenwich, Deal/- Sligo, Barnsley and many North of England
and Scotch localities.
p. var. hrunneay mihi. — The anterior wings a deep, rich brown, with
the discoidal spots and transverse lines traceable. This is almost the same
form as infuscata, with the ground colour deep brown instead of black. My
specimens have come from Mr. Percy Russ, of Sligo, Mr. Henderson, of
Glasgow, and Mr. Harrison, of Barnsley. I have also received it from a
few other localities, but all northern. Some of my Deal varieties of
var. o6sci(m approach this form closely. Mr. J. Jenner Weir (Entom. xiv.
220), writing of the Hebridean j)olyodon remarks :— " The parallel variety
to combusta [rurea] is of the richest dark chestnut-colour, very glossy, and,
as in the case of X. rurea, the intermediate varieties are numerous."
y, var. infuscata, White. This variety was named by Dr. F. Buchanan
White (* Fauna Perthensis,' Part. I). It was given to those very dark,
black specimens, abundant in Scotland, the North of England, and the
West of Ireland, but which are so rare in the South of England. The
distinctness of the typical pale markings varies exceedingly, but generally
they are distinctly marked in greyish. Mr. G. T. Porritt, in his * List of
Yorkshire Lepidoptera,' p. 74, says : — •* The black form, var. infuscata,
White, is of frequent occurrence, both in the east and west of the county."
1 have captured it myself at Deal, and have received it from Barnsley,
Fleetwood, Hartlepool, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Sligo, and many other localities,
chiefly northern. A record of the occurrence of this variety at Tenby is
made in the ' Entomologist,' xxii. 15. The variety also occurs freely in
* During the summer of 1888 scarcely a pale poZr/o^ow occurred on the Deal sand-
hills ; almost all were ohscura. I even captured one specimen of var. infuscata. I
have no doubt this was due to the excessively wet season.
1
A year's work in PORTLAND. 43
the Orkneys, Shetlands and Hebrides. Mr. C. G. Barrett (Ent. Mo.
Mag. vol. xxii. p. 125), reports it as " occurring near Dublin."
^. var. (BthiopSj Stdgr. — This is an extreme development of the var.
infuscata, White, the whole of the anterior wings intensely black, with no
paler markings, and scarcely the slightest trace of any markings whatever;
some specimens are perfectly unicolorous. The most perfectly unicolorous
specimens I have, are from Mr. Percy Russ, of Sligo, although specimens
from the Lancashire coast, Glasgow and Aberdeen, are but little behind
them in intensity.
(To be continued.)
A YEAR'S WORK IN PORTLAND.
By Major Charles E. Partridge.
When a rumour reached us in the autumn of 1887 that the
regiment to which I have the honour to belong was to move to
Portland in the following spring, our spirits generally fell to zero,
for the island bears a bad name. Personally I was delighted, for
I looked forward to working great havoc in the insect world.
February arrived and my hopes were realised. These, however,
were rudely shattered when I first saw the place, for to all
appearance it was one huge quarry. A fuller inspection later was
hardly more satisfactory, for there was not a sign of the wealth of
flowers, herbage, &c., which was soon to appear. The evil reports
circulated about the island are by no means exaggerated. The
weather is simply atrocious. If it doesn't rain it blows, and when
tired of both it fogs ; and such fogs too ! Worse still, one cannot
foretell for an hour how many of these pleasant surprises are in
store, the changes come so quickly. Many a time have I left
home certain of success, and before reaching the ground all was
changed, and I returned home disgusted. I can also speak feel-
ingly of the hardness of the Portland boulders, with which the
whole place is strewed. Many an ugly fall have I had, and often
have I risen a sorer and sadder man. Owing to these many draw-
backs and the really dangerous nature of the ground, Portland
can never become a popular hunting ground ; and I am confident
only those living on the spot can ever hope to work it successfully.
Sad to relate, a railway is now in course of construction, further
circumscribing an already very limited extent of ground, and
before many months are over smoke and an influx of " trippers "
will ruin the place, and good local insects will be things of the past.
Owing to bad weather, which on more than one occasion
lasted for several weeks, also to the fact that the ivy was so back-
ward that I have not worked it, and last, but not least, to the fact
of my being utterly ignorant of the habits, &c., of the Tinese, the
following list is far smaller than it would have been in better
hands ; nevertheless the total number reached 339 species.
44 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Twenty only of the sixty-five species of Rhopalocera came
under my notice. Pieris hrassiccs and P, rapce common, but P.
napi, on the contrary, extremely scarce. Euchloe cardamines and
Gonopteryx rhamni were represented each by a single specimen,
as also Polyommatus phloeas. Pararge megaera and Satyrus semele
were fairly numerous, Epinephele ianira also. Vanessa cardiii,
V. atalanta and V. urticce were out in great numbers ; but V. io
I only found in the larval state, and then even very scarce. Colias
edusa produced but six specimens. Lyccena icarus and L. csgon
swarmed everywhere ; and L. minima, though local, was by
no means scarce. L. corydon was occasionally met, though
Portland can boast of no chalk. Nisoniades tages and Syiichthus
malvce occurred but sparingly.
Of the Sphinges I took but three. Choerocampa porcellus, two
at light. Macroglossa stellatarum was rarely met with, and but
one larva of Sphinx ligustri, though privet abounds everywhere.
The cocoons of Zygcena filipendulce occurred in every direction,
each blade of glass having its burden ; but of Z. trifolii I saw hut
a single specimen. Lithosia lurideola came freely to light, and
Euchelia jacohcece was common. Arctia caia I never saw in the per-
fect state, and the larvae but rarely. Of Spilosoma mendica I obtained
a few larvae, and >S'. luhricipeda and S, menthastri were equally
common, both in the larval and perfect states. Hepialus hectus and
H. lupulinus were extremely plentiful, but H, sylvinus was repre-
sented by one specimen only. Porthesia chrysorrhoea and P.
similis now and then turned up at light. Bomhyx neustria, but a
few larvse. B, ruhi was very plentiful in the larva state, each
bramble bush having its contingent. Cilix glaucata occurred
sparingly, but of the second brood I saw but one specimen. Of
Dicranura vinula I took one pupa and three larvae on the only
poplar, or rather apology for a poplar, in the island. I took two
speci/Qiens of D.furcida at light near the only clump of sallows
in the island. Phalera hucephala a few larvae only.
I saw but one Thyatira derasa, and Bryophila perla was
fairly common. Acronycta psi produced but two imagos. Leucania
impura, L. lithargyria, L. pallens, and L. conigera swarmed both
at sugar and light ; but L. comma seldom turned up. I got a nice
series of Axylia putris at sugar. Xylophasia lithoxylea, X. rureay
and X. sublustris were all scarce ; but X. monoglypha was a perfect
pest. Of Neuria reticulata I took about a dozen specimens at
sugar, but they were out so much earlier than the date given by
Newman that I almost missed them. The same remark applies to
Heliophohus hispidus, which was exceedingly plentiful (I took
sixty-four in two evenings). Neuronia popularis and Charceas
graminis produced but one specimen each, both at light. Cerigo
matura came freely to sugar, and Luperina testacea was easily
obtained by searching the grass-stems with a lamp. Mamestra
A year's work in PORTLAND. 45
sordida was not scarce at sugar, and by the same means I took
two M. ahjecta ; of M. albicolon I obtained but three specimens,
and M. hrassiccs was not so common as I expected. Apamea
basilinea was only too plentiful, but the same could not be said of
A.gemina ; oi A. didyma I took a long series, with some excellent
varieties. Miana strigilis was most partial to sugar, and by the
same means I got a good series of M. literosa ; M. bicoloria
was very abundant. Grammesia trigrammica was well represented,
tliough I got but few specimens of the var. hilinea. Caradrina
alsines, C. taraxaci, and O. quadripunctata occurred commonly.
The Agrotidse were well represented: — Agrotis puta, A.segetum,
A. exclamationis, and A. corticea caught at sugar ; at the same bait
I got A. vestigialis and A. tritici sparingly; A. lunigera was not
scarce ; A. simidans and yl. lucernea were attracted by the blossom
of the wild sage ; I took one specimen of A. cinerea at sugar ; and
by the same means A. nigricans, A. saucia, and A, suffusa, though
not very commonly.
Noctua plecta, a few, both at light and sugar ; N. c-nigrum and
N. trianguliim were both very scarce; N.festiva and N, xantho-
grapha both very common ; but N. haia I seldom came across.
Triphcena iafithina, T. fimbria, T. comes, T. interjecta, and
T. pronuba were all equally plentiful. Of Ampliipyra tragopogonis
I secured but two. Pachnobia rubricosa was plentiful at black-
tliorn bloom. TcBiiiocampa stabilis was very scarce, and hardly
less so T. gothica. Anchocelis lunosa was scarce, Cerastis
vaccina and C. spadicea, common. Scopelosoma satellitia and
Xanthia circellaris, also Calymnia trapezina, four specimens; and
C. affinis but one. I obtained one specimen of Eremobia ochro-
leuca at teazle bloom, and one also of Folia flavicincta at sugar.
Epunda lichenea I took sparingly, though had I continued to
search later I should have had greater success. Miselia oxyacanthce
came freely to sugar, and I obtained some good varieties. Phlogo-
pliora meticulosa was the plague it always is. Aplecta nebulosa was
very scarce. Hadena adusta produced some good varieties ;
H. dentina, a few ; H. trifolii, not scarce, and H. oleracea, very
common ; H, thalassina, but one specimen ; and one specimen of
Xylocampa aureola. Calocampa vetusta and C. exoleta, but rarely
met with. Of Cucullia uiiibratica I took but two specimens, but
found the larvae of C. absynthii very plentiful, but very late (many
of mine had not gone down at the end of October). Gonoptera
libatrix, not common. Pliisia gamma swarmed everywhere;
P, ni I was lucky enough to obtain once, which was duly
submitted to and identified by Mr. Charles Barrett. Habrostola
tripartita occurred once. HeliotJiis peltigera I took twice, and,
oddly enough, both specimens were taken on the same teazle,
at an interval of three weeks Rivula sericealis and Hypenodes
costcestrigalis were fairly numerous.
(To be continued.)
46 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
PLUSTA ILLUSTEIS IN IRELAND.
By G. Herbert Carpenter.
Among a number of moths taken by Miss Alice Hull, near
Castle Kevin, in County Wicklow, in August, 1887, and lately
given by her to me for identification, I was greatly surprised to
find a specimen of Plusia illustris.
The moth is figured in Curtis's * British Entomology ' (vol.
xvi., p. 731), published in 1839, and is there recorded as having
been taken on Salisbury Plain and in South Wales. Mr. H. T.
Stainton has most courteously informed me that these captures
took place before 1810, and that the insect has never since been
seen in Britain. Both he and Mr. de V. Kane agree that it is
quite new to Ireland.
The insect is admitted by Humphreys and Westwood into
their ' British Moths ' (1843). It is to be found among the reputed
British species in the Doubleday List, but in Mr. R. South's
List it is refused a place even among these. Its re-appearance in
our islands, after so many years, is therefore a noteworthy fact.
It seems very strange that, if Miss Hull's specimen is a migrant
from the Continent, no individuals have been taken in Great
Britain. On the other hand, it is equally strange if the insect
has been breeding among us unnoticed for over seventy years.
The ordinary food-plants of the caterpillar, Thalictrum aqailegi-
folium and Aconitum lycoctonum, are both confined to the
Continent. 2\ minus, however, occurs sparingly on the Wicklow
coast, and species of both genera may very possibly be cultivated
in the locality.
Science and Art Museum, Dublin, January 14, 1889.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Vanessa antiopa in Kent. — About the middle of September, 1888,
a worn specimen of Vanessa antiopa was captured by a gentleman with his
hat, while it was at rest on a gooseberry bush in his garden near this place.
— John Tyrer ; 27, Jeffry Street, New Brompton, Kent.
Diminutive Polyommatus. — On September 13th I took at Sandy, in
Bedfordshire, a very small specimen of Polyommatus phlosas. The insect
does not measure more than ten and a half lines across the wings. — Henry
A. Hill ; 20, Fellows Eoad, Hampstead, N.W., November 4, 1888.
Absence of LYCENiDiE. — In Mr. Adkin's article upon the influence of
meteorological conditions upon insect life (Entom. 7) reference is made
to the absence of a second brood, in 1888, of Lyccena bellargus. During
the past fifty summers in which I have collected, on and off, in the neigh-
bourhood of Chatham, I have never, until last autumn (1888), missed
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 47
seeing the second brood of this butterfl3\ Although I carefully searched,
for over two months, all our local downs, warrens and chalk-pits, I failed to
find a single specimen of the autumn brood of either L. bellargus, L.
astrarche, or L. minima. L. corydon was plentiful in August. It would
be interesting to know whether this absence has been general, or only
local ; also whether the pupas, which should have produced the second
brood, are lying over to form the first brood for next year. — John Tyker ;
U7, Jeffry Street, New Brompton, Kent.
Thecla w-album in Oxfordshire. — In 1868 I discovered a locality
in South Oxfordshire for Thecla w-album. So abundant was it then
I could have taken very large quantities. The spot specially selected by
them was a considerable clearing in a beech wood, where plenty of brambles
grew. I remember well the great numbers attracted by its bloom. Some of
the examples I then took I have still. I have never visited (owing to long
absence) the spot since for T. w-alhum, till last July, when Mr. Wilham
Holland and myself went to my old collecting-ground, hoping to
re-discover its haunts. Instead of the spacious clearing which once
existed, a remnant alone remained, some twenty yards square ; the rest was
ploughed land, but on and within a few yards of the small part left we
netted nearly fifty specimens. Considering the old habitat had been
nearly destroyed, we thought ourselves exceptionally fortunate in securing
so many. These are, I believe, the only recorded captures of T. w-alhum
in Oxfordshire, and if so, adds another butterfly to the county list. I may
add that wych-elm grows sparingly among the beech at one end of the wood.
— J. Clarke ; Reading, January 9, 1889.
Deilephila galii in Lancashire. — On July 27th I caught a speci-
men of D. galii here, flying over some white campion at dusk. Next day
my son caught another, some two miles farther north, flying over some rest-
harrow, at 11 a.m., in bright sunshine. One of the boys caught another
at dusk, on some honeysuckle. During the latter end of September, I was
lucky enough to find seven larvae at Lytham, and on Sept. '27 th Mr. Irving,
the head master of this school, found one in the grass in front of the school
here. These localities range over a stretch of about four miles along
the Lancashire coast. — T. Baxter ; Collegiate School, St. Anne's-ou-the-
Sea, via Preston.
Sesia musgiformis in Scotland. — I took about a dozen pupas of the
thrift clearwing, on the Scotch coast, in June last. — W. R. Scowcroft ;
Feru Lea, Gardner Road, Prestwich.
LiTHOSL^ complana ON THE CoAST. — In reply to Mr. Jefl'ery's note
(Entom. xxi. 322). I may say that as several years ago I bred L. complana
from the larva, it evidently frequents the coast, and feeds on stone-lichens.
I have had two larvae since, but was not fortunate enough to bring them
through. — W. R. Scowcroft ; Fern Lea, Gardner Road, Prestwich,
Manchester.
Food of Lithosia complana. — With respect to Mr. Jeffrey's query
(Entom. xxi. 332), I find the following note in * Entomologist's Weekly
Intelligencer,' vii. 188 ; — " L. complana. Bred from four larvae found feeding
on lichens on decayed ash. They did not answer to the description given in
48 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
the ' Manual,' but precisely resembled those of complanula. Except that
the broad orange-coloured lateral stripe was interrupted by the ground
colour, giving it the appearance of a row of large orange spots." This
passage was written in 1860, and as the writer, Dr. AUchin, then a well-
known lepidopterist, on the same page states that he also bred three
lurideola [complanula), it is probable that he was correct in his species. L.
complana is, certainly, both a coast and inland species. The first specimeu
I ever took was from the New Forest ; it flew up at my feet from amongst
heath, quite half a mile from any trees. For the past few years I have
found it fairly abundant on the heaths in this neighbourhood, in most cases
quite away from any trees that had any lichen upon them. Now tlie
heaths about here are very thickly carpeted with lichens, which in places
almost smothers the growth of Calluna, Erica, &c., and this peculiarity
appears also to those in the New Forest. I have not the slightest doubt
but, that in the above localities, the usual food-plant is one or more of these
ground-lichens. During August, 1887, I found this species commonly on
the sand-hills near Shoeburyness, in Essex (Entom. xx. 221). At the
time I did not look for a probable food-plant, but on a subsequent visit
during September this year (whilst on a successful hunt for larvae of
Deilephila galii) I found the ground on which I had captured the speci-
mens of complana thickly carpeted with moss. This I should consider to
be, in this locality, its probable food-plant. I have never worked the Deal
sand-hills at the time when the species would be flying, but possibly the
spot resembles that of Shoeburyness in this particular. I quite agree;
with Mr. Tutt that species of this family, in some instances, are able to
exist upon other food than lichens. I have seen females of L. jjygmeola iq
abundance in spots where no lichen, moss, or in fact anything other than
marram grass and sand occurred. — W. G. Sheldon ; Rose Cottage, Oval
Road, Addiscombe, January 7th, 1889.
[1 have found Lithosia caniola feeding upon Lotus corniciUatus, a
Howth, in Ireland. — John T. Carrington].
Tephrosta crepuscularia : Correction. — Mr. Adkin's note on tlu
" Influence of Meteorological conditions upon Insect Life " (Entom. 7) has
called my attention to an error which has crept into the few remarks which
I recently made upon the subject (Entom. xxi. 283). The date there given
for my capture of Tephrosia crepuscularia should have been May 5th, not
July 5th. — Geo. C. Griffiths ; 1, Hale Bank, St. Matthew's Road,
Cotham, Bristol, January 7, 1889.
Agrotis oorticea, Melanic variety of. — With reference to Mr.
Tutt's remarks at p 15, ante, 1 beg to call attention to p. xxxii. of the
• Proceedings ' of the meeting of the Entomological Society of London, on
October 3rd, 1888, which Mr. Tutt appears to have overlooked. It is
there stated that " Mr. H. Goss exhibited, for Mr. \Y. J. Cross, an
extraordinary melanic variety of a species of Agrotis — belicA^ed to be either
segetum or corticea — caught by the latter near Ely, in July last." Mr.
Tutt may probably be right in his determination of the species to which
the variety in question belongs ; but his opinion differs from that expressed
by Mr. Jenner Weir and Mr. W. Warren. I believe it was correct to apply
the term " extraordinary " to the variety in question, a^vhich is not a
constant variety of general distribution nor a local form ; but it is probable
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. ^
that the use of the term " extraordinary " was, to some extent, prompted
by a desire on my part to please Mr. Cross, by leading him to suppose that
his capture was of more than ordinary interest.— H. Goss; Berrylands,
Surbiton Hill.
Agrotis agathina, &c. — With respect to the question of Mr. Butler
(Entom. 15), as to the usual way to capture this species, it is, as
Mr. Carrington says, by searching the flowers of Calluna vulgaris with a
lamp at night ; but after some experience, I am decidedly of opinion that
there is even a better way, if indeed one could but master the initial
diflBculty. I first commenced to search for A. agathina on the Shirley
Hills in 1885; in that season I could not find it; in 1886 I got three
specimens; in 1887, eighteen ; and last year, one only. It is probably well
known to most readers of the * Entomologist,' that it was the custom of the
London collectors of the last two generations to come to Shirley, especially
for this species, and I have been repeatedly told that fifteen or twenty
years ago the larvae could be swept from heather in the spring in hundreds,
together with those of Noctua castanea, Scodiona helgiaria, Aspilates strigil-
lariay &c. It is very different now, and the curious circumstance is, that
whilst A. agathina and the two Geometers are very rare, castanea appears
to be quite as common as in the old days. As above stated, I searched un-
successfully for the species during 1885, and for several evenings in 1886,
until one night I turned my lamp upon a fine bush of bloom and saw
a sight that electrified me : there were two agathina and one red castanea
upon it ; the agathina were apparently quiet, and merely noting that they
were male and female, I proceeded to box my castanea, which was just on
the point of leaving. Having effected my object, I turned back to where
the agathina should have been and found them gone, but within six feet of
the spot I got three other specimens, all males. In the following year,
after several nights unsuccessful work, I took a freshly-emerged female.
Mindful of my former experience, I searched well the heath round her, and
found within a small space, five males. A few nights after this, I took
four specimens close together, males again, and have no doubt there was a
female in the neighbourhood. I feel certain that if a virgin female was
bred and placed in a muslin-covered box, amongst the heather, in a locality
where the species occurred, she would attract to her, freely, the males; but
there is the rub ! the successful breeding of agathina has been solved by but
few, and it is no easy thing to obtain one. I believe the species has been
bred somewhat freely, of late years, by some of our Scotch collectors
residing at Perth, and possibly they may have tried assembling for it.
Perhaps they will give us their experience in capturing the species. —
W. G. Sheldon ; Rose Cottage, Addiscombe.
Dasycampa rubiginea in Somerset. — On November ISth last, I took
a fine and fresh specimen of this moth at ivy. A careful search on several
succeeding evenings failed to discover another. This is the second I have
taken in this county. — (Rev.) J. Seymour St. John; Baltonsborough,
Glastonbury, November 20, 1888.
Amphidasys betularia, var. — Mr. J. Arkle says (Entom. xxi. 316),
that while collecting in the Delamere Forest, he came across a matter which
lias been considered of some importance, viz., a type female and a black
male of Amphidasys betularia in copula. I may say that similar unions
ENTOM, — FEB. 1889. F
50 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
have been commonly observed in this neighbourhood, where the black vanety
is taken as freely as the ordinary type. Some years ago, when I was a
member of the Middleton (Lancashire) Entomological Society, two of the
members found a black male and a buff female united. These were two
extreme varieties, and from this copulation many pure buff varieties, as
well as jet-black ones, were produced. For several years, offspring of these
insects were brought to the monthly meetings, showing variation in
every form, from the ordinary type to a pure buff, as well as black. It was
most interesting to see these insects, some of which were exhibited alive.
I had myself a few larvae from these parents given to me, from which I
raised two buff varieties, one of which I gave to a friend. — J. T. Rodgers ;
45, Radcliffe Stieet, Busk, Oldham, Manchester, December 19, 1888.
Extraction of Moth from Pupa. — I have just read, with much
interest, Mr. J. Anderson's note on the extraction of a moth from its pupa
(Entom. xxi. 286), having made several experiments of the same nature
myself with, however, quite opposite results. In 1880 I carefully extracted
a fully developed specimen of Ampliidasys betularia from the pupa, and
although the markint];s were all clearly discernible, the wings never
expanded to a larger size than they were while the insect was in its pupa.
In October, 1887, I had about ten pupse of Charag'ia vlrescens amongst
damp moss. These insects always have considerable difficulty in emerging
when in captivity, as in their natural condition they are in the habit of only
projecting tlie anterior portion of their body from the burrow in the tree,
the spines on the abdomen of the pupa retaining the old case firmly, while
the enclosed insect draws itself out. I am therefore always very anxious
about these pupae, especially as they are very hard to obtain, and have con-
sequently been led to extract several which had been endeavouring to
emerge for some days previously; in all these cases, however, the wings
never expanded, the insects so treated being completely useless. That the
moths weie quite mature there could be no doubt, as I always waited until
the thoracic plates were ruptured before I attempted to assist the moth.
As I have made at least eight experiments, including one this month on C.
virescens, I cannot but think that Mr. Anderson's results must be exceptional.
— G. V. Hudson; Wellington, New Zealand, October 17, 1888.
Rktaijded Development. — Early in June I received some young
larvge of Boinbyx castrensls from a friend. Two larvae are still feeding,
though the otliers have long since pupated. Last month I took over eighty
larvae of Anarta myrtilli on the Quantock Hills, and a few are yet left
feeding. In my garden I have a number of larvae of Pierls hrassic(B in
various stages, while but four days ago, an imago of Pliisia gamma
emerged from a pupa in my cage. In 1886 I had some larvae of Loplw-
pteryx cuculla, which duly fed up and turned into pupae. All but two
emerged in June of last year. Of these two, one emerged the following
:hd of September, and the other on May 14th last. — (Rev.) J. Seymour
St. John ; Bultonsborough, Glastonbury, November 20, 1888.
CroARiA uktigulata: Ehratum. — Mr. Murray desires it to be under-
stood tliat he has had poor success in rearing C. reticulata ^ whereas (Entom.
16, line 8) he was made to say that he had never reared that species.
-[Ed.j.
rf
51
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Socikty of London. — The Fifty-sixth Anniversary
Meeting, Jan. IG, 1889.— Dr. D. Sharp F.L.S., President, in the chair. An
Abstract of the Treasurer's Accounts, showing a balance in the Society's
favour, was read by Mr. Osbert Salvin, F.R.S., one of the Auditors;
and Mr. H. Goss read the Report of the Council. It was announced
that the following gentlemen had been elected as Officers and Council
for ISm :— President, the Rt. Hon. Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S.;
Treasurer, Mr. Edward Saunders, F LS. ; Secretaries, Mr. H. Goss, F.L.S.,
and the Rev. Canon Fowler, M.A., F.L.S.; Librarian, Mr. Ferdinand
Grut, F.L.S. ; and as other Members of Council, Mr. Henry W.
Bates, . F. U.S.; Capt. H. J. Elwes, F.L.S. ; Mr. William H. B.
Fletcher, M.A.; Mr. F. DuCane Godraan, M.A., F.R.S.; Prof. Raphael
Meldola, F.R.S. ; Dr. Philip B. Mason, F.L.S.; Mr. Osbert Salvin,
M.A., F.R.S.; and Dr. D. Sharp, F.L.S. Dr. Sharp, the outgoing
President, then delivered an Address, for which a vote of thanks to him
was moved by Capt. Elwes, seconded by Mr. Salvin, and carried.
A vote of thanks to the Treasurer, Secretaries, and Librarian was moved
by Mr. J. W. Dunning, seconded by Lord Walsingham, and carried.
Mr. Saunders, Mr. Goss, and Mr. Grut severally replied. — H. Goss, Hon.
Secretary.
This South London ENroMOLOGicAL and Natural History Society.
— December '21th, 1888. T. R. Billups, President, in the chair. Messrs.
F. E. Fenton, F. P. Perks, J. Scudder, and W. Reed were elected
members. Mr. F. E. Strong exhibited full-fed larvae of Bombyx qnercust
L., from Abergele, N. Wales, and made some remarks thereon. Mr. R.
Adkin, a long series of Pygcera anachoreta, and remarked that Mr.
Gregson, in a recent article on this species, suggested that the continental
specimens were readily distinguishable from British by their ashy grey
shade. The series now exhibited were all bred from one stock, and varied
from a brown tinge to the most ashy grey tints; the exhibitor therefore
thought that too much reliance should not be placed on the shade of colour.
Mr. Billups read a paper, *' A partial list of Parasitic Ichneumonidae, with
the hosts from which bred, reared during the last three years by a few
members of the Society." The list comprised about 100 species, num-
bering some thousands of specimens, many of the species being evidently
new. Mr. Billups expressed a wish that members would assist him in
identifying parasites of Lepidoptera, by saving all that they might breed
during the coming season.
January IQth. — The President in the chair. Mr. Adkin exhibited
Noctua glareosa from Kent, Barnsley, York, Perth, Forres and Shetland ;
the Shetland specimens and one of those from Perth were melanic, the
others being of the pale grey or slightly rosy type. Mr. J. A, Clark, dark
varieties of Cidaria suffumata : black and a suffused form of Melanthia
hicolorata; and a fine banded variety of Oporahia dilutata, Mr. Tugwell,
a series of Boletobia fuliginaria, with an empty pupa-case and sketches
of larvffi at rest and feeding; and contributed notes in which he
stated that in his opinion the insect was a true Geometer rather thau a
Noctua. Mr. White exhibited a coloured drawing of a variety of Catocala
nupta, having the inferior wings blue, taken by Dr. Laver, at Colcheater,
Mr. E. Joy, bred specimens of Pygcera pigra, from Wicken Fen, Mr.
52 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
1
shford««
Chiltenden, very black forms of Acidalia inornata, taken near Ashfori
Kent. Mr. Jenner Weir exhibited, with other species, a female specimen
of Anosia plexippust which he had received from Mr. Cockerell, Custer Co.,
Colorado, and stated that although in this specimen the inner edge of the
wing was quite as black as those received by him from Canada and
Hudson's Bay, it yet differed in the colour of the spots on the fore wing
being all white, whereas in the northern specimens the four large central
spots were of a fulvous brown, little inferior in richness to that of the disc
of the wing. At the same time he showed a water-colour drawing, of the
specimen taken at Lindfield, 1876, from which it appeared that the
example then captured resembled the more northern form of the species.
Male and female specimens of Pierls oleracea were also exhibited by Mr.
Weir, who said he had always contended this species was not identical with
P. napi; and he had received a communication from Mr. Scudder, who
wrote that he had now been able to make the comparison wished, and could
report that the two species were distinguishable from each other in the
caterpillar and chrysalis stages, as surely and readily as P. napi and P. rapce
could be distinguished in the same stages. Mr. T. R. Billups exhibited
types of eighty species of Hymenoptera, parasitic on Lepidoptera, with
cocoons from which some had emerged, and larvae from which several
parasites had been reared.
OBITUARY.
I
Thomas Eedle was born at Pinner, Middlesex, June 13th, 18*29, and
died on the last day of 1888. From his earliest youth he showed an innate
fondness for Nature, and especially for her subjects in their homes. A few
years ago, one of our popular writers belauded the works of a Scotch
naturalist, who at best was but a dilettante. Mr. Smiles need not have
gone so far north for a subject, for none would have suited him better than
Thomas Eedle. Such he was, — painstaking, observant, and most generous
in helping young students; for though he made his study his business,
he never withheld a locality, nor a bit of useful knowledge, "for trade
purposes"; although first a lepidopterist, betook an all-round interest in
Natural History, nothing coming amiss to him. In 1869 and 1870 Mr.
Eedle made two very successful excui'sions to Rannoch, in Scotland, where
he took a specimen of the then very rare Pachnobia hyperhorea, the second
specimen which had been found in Britain. In 1871, Lord Walsingham
took the subject of this notice with him on his visit to the Western
States of America, when Eedle acted as collector and assistant during his
Lordship's explorations until 1872. On his return, Eedle collected for
Lord Walsingham in Horning Fen and elsewhere. While in the fen he
captured a long series of Vanessa antiopa, probably the largest take of that
species in this country in modern times. In 1874 he made a third
summer's stay in Scotland, after which he settled steadily to his business
of taxidermist and dealer in Natural History subjects. Among his larger
work is some in.the museums of the Marquess of Ripon, Lord Walsingham,
and others. Much that is known of several of the rarer Lepidoptera of
the Home Counties is due to Eedle, especidly of such species as Erastria
venustula, Chrosis bifasciana, Hypercallia citrinalis, Aleusis pictariuy &c.
He was a founder of the Haggerston Entomological Society, and was gene-
rally respected for his unassuming manner and great experience.— J. T. C.
J
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIL] MAECH, 1889. [No. 310.
DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SPECIES OF ARCTIWM
FROM NEW ZEALAND.
By G. V. Hudson.
Metacbias steategica.
The following species of Arctiidce was taken, February 10th,
1881, by Mr. W. W. Smith, near the summit of the Eichardson
range, in South Canterbury, and not far from the town of Albury.
It was beaten out of some plants of CarmichcBlia, at an elevation
of about 3000 feet, but further particulars relating to its habits
are at present unknown ; the only specimen as yet in collections
being the one from which the accompanying description and
drawing was taken.
I am indebted to Mr. Meyrick for informing me that the
species is new, and also referring it to the correct genus
Metacrias. He has likewise been kind enough to point me out
the differences between this insect and the two others of the
same genus, which I give briefly at the end of the description.
Arctia {Metacrias) strategical n. s.
^ . Expanse of wings 17 lines. Antennae dull yellow, with articula-
tions marked in black. Head black, with a small tuft of ochreous scales in
front. Legs ochreous, striped longitudinally with black. Thorax black,
the margin of the prothorax indicated by a yellowish collar ; mesothorax
with a very broad yellow stripe on each side. Forewings, with costa, nearly
ENTOM. — MARCH, 1889. G
54 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I
straight, black, with six longitudinal ochreous lines; the first almost
imperceptible, extending interruptedly only about one-sixth from hind-
margin towards base ; the second traversing the whole of the wing unin-
terrupted throughout, and broadest on disc, slightly curved downwards
towards hind margin ; the third much broken, and terminating at about
one quarter from hind margin ; also the fourth and fifth, which are, how-
ever, a little longer; the sixth very broad, extending from hind margin to
base of the wing. Costa and inner margin edged with ochreous. Hind
wings with a broad sub-marginal band of black, terminating shortly
before anal angle, a large black dot being situated in the anal angle,
yellowish ochre, tinged with red in the vicinity of the black band. Hind
margin brilliant crimson, except at anterior angle, where black band
extends to the edge of the wing ; cilia of both wings ochreous. Abdomen
black, with long ochreous hairs. Beneath, all the wings are yellowish ochre,
with their margins broadly edged with black, and tinged with red near the
edges. A conspicuous reddish stripe in the disc of each wing, and also a
minute discal dot, which is quite invisible on the upper surface. Female
unknown, but probably apterous.
This species chiefly differs from the two others belonging to
the genus Metacrias in possessing the yellow collar, the absence
of any large discal spot on both fore wings and hind wings, and
the red colouring of the posterior margins of hind wings. The
two other species (Metacrias erichrysa, Meyr., M. huttonii, Butler),
are described by Mr. Meyrick, in the ' Proceedings of the Linnean
Society of New South Wales,' 1886.
Wellington, New Zealand, November 8, 1888.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 29.)
1. Suffusion and Melanism,
Limenitis sihylla nigra, Entom. 1878, 101, quite black. (See
also Newman, p. 67 ; and Ent. Mo. Mag., 1877, 89). Melanargia
galatea turcica, B., Entom. 1878, 101, black, or nearly black.
M. galatea procida, Hbst., " var. obscurior" (Staudinger). Eupi-
thecia albipunctata angelicata, Prest, Barrett, Entom. xi. 170,
with fig. Vanessa cardui semisuffusa, hind wings smoky. Entom.
xi. 24. V. cardui elymi, Ebr., " maculis confluentibus." Argynnis
euphrosyne fingal, Hbst., " minor, obscurior " (Boreal Europe).
A. selene hela, Stgr., "minor, supra obscurior" (Lapland,
Siberia). Pieris napi hryonice, Ochs., " ab. ? obscurior" (Euro-
pean Alps, Alaska). Nemeophila plantaginis matronalis, Frr., hind
wings almost entirely black. Callimorpha dominula persona, Hb.,
hind wings dark. Spilosoma fuliginosa borealis, Stgr,, smaller and
darker. Hepialus velleda gallicus, Ld., " ^ unicolor fuscus."
I
ON THE VARIATION OP INSECTS. 55
Coenonympha davus, dark form in Shetland Isles, Newman Brit.
Butt. 97. Colias edusa suffusa, Ent. xi., Newman Brit. Butt.
144. C. philodice suffusa, Massachusetts, Maynard, Butt, of
New Eng., pi. vii., fig. 57c. Pieris hrassicce nigrescens, Newman
Brit. Butt. 165, Cirrhoedia xerampelina ohscura, Entom. xvi.
236. Euholia plumbaria nigrescenSy 'Entom. ^vi. 138. Melanthia
alhicillata suffusa, Carrington. Hybernia defoliaria suffusa, Ckll.
Chelonia caia ohscura, Newman, Brit. Moths, 33; Entom. xi. 103.
Abraxas grossulariata obscura, Newman, Brit. Moths, 100. See
also Entom. 1887, 216, for a grey variety. Melanippe hastata
nigrescens, torn. cit. p. 157. Acronycta rumicis obscura, id. p.
255 ; and A. menyanthidis salicis. Curt. Xylophasia monoglypha
nigrescens, id. p. 285. Satyrus alope maritima, Edw., a small
and dark maritime form (Long I. &c., United States). Larentia
olivata semisuffusa, Proc. S. Lond. Ent. Soc. 1886, 53, pi. 1, fig.
1. Amphidasys betidaria doicbledayaria, Mill. Diurnea fagella,
melanic varieties now prevalent at Huddersfield, Ent. Mo. Mag.
1887, 140. Anoplodera sexguttata niger, Entom. x. 214. Ptero'
stichus cupreus niger, Entom. xii. 110 (T. H. Hart). Lema
melanopa nigra, and L. cyanella nigrescens, loc. cit. Sphecodes
gibbus niger, ^ , and S. ephippium niger, 3" , near Hastings,
Entom. xi. 17. — Melanism is a subject that comes up periodically
and causes considerable discussion, but is nevertheless very far
from being settled. I have expressed the opinion in a former
paper that dampness in the atmosphere — clouds, mists, and so
on — has a great deal to do with its production, yet I confess that
it is probable that other factors are also at work. I have given a
good long list above, but it really represents only a very small
fraction of the known forms of this kind, and I have tried to
make it as representative as possible. In connection with
this list the following facts will be noticed : —
1. The small number of American examples: it appears
certain that melanism as usually seen in Europe is rare in North
America, a circumstance that is strongly against the theory of its
being caused by cold. " A straw will show which way the wind
blows," so it is interesting that, according to Mr. R. H. Meade, one
of the chief points of difference between American and European
species of Sarcophaga, is that in the former the anal segments are
generally red or yellow, while in the latter they are black or grey.
The species of this genus I have taken in Colorado have the anal
segments red or reddish, confirming this statement.
2. The alpine forms : dark mountain varieties are well known
throughout Europe. Mr. A. H. Swinton (Ent. Mo. Mag. 1885,
231) remarks on the melanic tendency exhibited by Asturian
mountain insects, particularly the Orthoptera. Here in Colorado
the species of Colias found high upon the mountains (10,000 ft.
upwards) is of so much darker a yellow than the species occurring
56 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
lower down (8000 ft.), that I did not recognise it as belonging to
the genus when on the wing.
3. Maritime melanism : Wollaston says that ChrysophaniLS
phloeas is darker and more suffused in Madeira (where it cannot
escape from the neighbourhood of the sea) than in England.
Aphodius plagiatus usually has red dashes on the elytra on the
Continent, but all those from Deal were perfectly dark, which
indeed is the prevalent tendency with British specimens of this
species (* The Variation of Species,' p. 61).
4. Melanism apparently confined to one sex : a further
example of this is Parnassius apollo heseholus, Nordm., which
Staudinger describes as " v. major, S" albidior, $ obscurior.
5. The darkening is sometimes confined to the hind wings ;
examples are given in Vanessa, Nemeophila, and CaUimorpha.
6. The recent development of a melanic race of Amphidasys
in the manufacturing districts is well known, and from Mr.
Porritt's remarks on Diurnea at Huddersfield, this seems to offer
a similar case.
7. Northern melanic forms : it is an error, however, to suppose
that all northern forms have a tendency towards melanism. Dr.
F. Buchanan White, in an extremely interesting article (Ent. Mo.
Mag. 1876, 145), gives a number of species which are generally or
always '* melanochroic" in Scotland, but also at the same time
enumerates many examples of Scotch " leucochroism," showing
that in a few species all the specimens are paler than in the south,
while in others there is a general tendency that way. In America,
Terias lisa is said to be paler in the north than in Florida.
Erratum. — Page 4, line 2 from bottom, for " helice pallida " read
" hyale pallida.''
(To be oontinned.)
A YEAR'S WORK IN PORTLAND.
By Major Charles E. Partridge.
(Concluded from p. 45.)
Uropteryx samhucaria flitted about over the blackberry bloom
at night in great numbers. Venilia macularia, Selenia bilunariat
Rumia luteolata, Boarmia repandata, B. gemmariay Abraxas
grossulariata, Larentia didymata, Melanthia ocellata, M. galiata,
and M. fluctuata occurred everywhere. Odontopera hidentata,
Hibernia rupicapraria, Acidalia ochrearia, Asthena candidata,
Acidalia rusticata, Ligdia adustata, occurred very sparingly.
Acidalia degeneraria came freely to light, as also did A.remutaria,
A. aversata, and A. marginepunctata, Gnophos obscuraria swarmed
at the blossom of wild sage, and Larentia olivata and Anticlea
rubidata, though local, were easily obtained. Of Melanippe
A year's work in PORTLAND. 57
rivata, M. montanata, Acidalia suhsericeata, Coremia ferrugata,
C. designata and (7. unidentaria, Anticlea badiata, Larentia mul-
tistrigaria, Hypsipetes sordidata, I obtained but very few speci-
mens, but Acidalia bisetata and A. trigeminata were very common.
Eupithecia pumilata and E. rectangulata occurred very com-
monly at blackthorn bloom. E. coronata on apple trees, and E,
absynthiata and E. vulgata at light. E. pimpinellata, E. castigata,
and E, oblongata were not uncommon. E. isogrammaria was
scarce. E. constrictata when once found was fairly plentiful.
E, subnotata common. Of Triphosa dukitata and Cidaria
prunata I took but two specimens. C. truncata, Cfulvata, and
C. dotata were equally scarce. Camptogramma bilineata^ Eubolia
limitata, and E, bipunctaria, were of frequent occurrence. Anaitis
plagiata occurred but once.
Cledeobia angustalis, Pyrausta purpurallSy Herbula cespitalis,
Scopida olivalis, and S. prunalis, occasionally occurred. Ennychia
cingulata was both local and scarce.
Nomophila noctuella, Scopula ferrugalis, Spilodes verticalis,
Stenia punctalis, Pionea forjicalis, were generally distributed and
common. Eurrhypara urticata occurred but sparingly. Platytes
cerusselluSf Cramhus pratellus, C, culmellus, and C hortuellus were
a positive pest. Of C. inquinatellus I took but two specimens.
0. geniculeus was fairly numerous. Aphomia sociellaf Oncocera
ahenella, Ilithyia semirubella, Ephestia elutellay came to light, as
also did Rodophcea marmorea.
Homoeosoma nebulella produced but one specimen. H. sinuella
and H. bincevella were common, but H. nimbella not so much so.
Phycis ornatella was not scarce. Of Euzophera cinerosella I took
but one. Scoparia cembrce and S, ambigualis, occurred freely, but
this year S. mercurella and S. phceoleuca and S. angustea were
hard to procure.
Botys asinalis was not to be found in its usual haunts.
Tortrix podana, T, ribeana, T. heparana, T, forsterana were all
very common. Peronea variega7ia, P. aspersana, were not very
abundant. Teras contaminana plentiful. Dictyopteryx holmiana
D. bergmanniana, D. forskaleana, A.conwayana, Spilonota trima
culanay Pardia tripunctana, Aspis udmanniana, Sericoris cespi
tana, S. urticana, S. lacunana, Cnephasia muscula7ia, Sciaphila sub
jectana, S, virgaureana, and Sphaleroptera ictericana, the same. S
conspersana more rarely met with. Grapholitha trimaculana, G
ncevana, Pcedisca consequana, Ephippiphora cirsiana, scarce. E
brunnichiana, very plentiful wherever coltsfoot occurred. Semasia
woeberiana not common, but Catoptria idicetana and (7. cana, very
plentiful; as also was Symcethis oxyacanthella.
One specimen only of Euposcilia maculosana occurred.
Catoptria pupillana, Conchylisfrancillajia, and Xanthosetla hamanaf
were almust as scarce.
68 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Chrosis alcella occurred everywhere. Tinea ferruginella, T,
rusticella, T, tapetzella, T. lapella, all occurred freely. Fumea
intermediella was exceedingly common. Lampronia quadripunc-
tella, Swammerdammia combinella, and Psychoides verhuellellay
occurred sparingly. Hyponomeuta padellus, H. cagnagellus, Plu-
tella cruciferarum, Bryotropha terrella, B. desertella^ B. umhrosella^
and B. domestica, were very common. Depressaria yeatiana, D.
nanatella, D. suhpi'opinquella, D. heracleana, and D. applana, were
all more or less plentiful. I got a good series of D. alstrcemeriana
in my house, but found them nowhere else. Of Lita marmorea I
obtained a few at light. L, artemisiella was scarce, as also were
L. atriplicella, Ptochenusa subocellea, Parasia carlinellaf Endrosis
fenestrella, (Ecogenia quadripunctata, and Acrolepia granitella,
Monochroa tenebrella, Argestria nitidella, Glyphipteryx thrasonella,
Laverna epilobiella, (Ecophora pseudospretella, Glyphipteryx fisch-
eriella. Argyresthia mendica occurred rather more commonly.
Elachista argentella occurred everywhere, and Argyritis pictella,
local but plentiful. Hypsilophus schmidiellus was to be found by
diligent searching. Lita leucomelanella occurred here and there.
Coleophora discordella, C, cdBspititiella, C. salinella, G. albitarselkif
all very common in the larva state ; (7. troglodytellaf C gryphi-
pennella, and C. argentulay rather less so. C. tripoliella very
scarce, owing to food- plant being so. Of the Pterophori I took
eleven. Platyptilia gonodactyla^ Amblypt'dia acanthodactyla, Oxy'
ptilus parvidactyluSf Mimceseoptilus pterodactylus, fairly common.
Oxyptilus teucrii this year was scarce. A few specimens each of
Mimceseoptilus bipunctidactylus, M. plagiodactylus, Pterophorus
monodactyluSf Aciptilia baliodactyla, A, pentadactylay and Alucita
hexadactyla.
The Castle, Portland, November 10, 1888.
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTU^ OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 43.)
Xylophasiay St., rurea, F.
Fabricius' description of the type is as follows : — *' Noctua
cristata, alls deflexis, griseo fuscoque variis, posticis fuscis ;
margine crassiori albo." " Caput fulvum, oculis atris. Palpi
fusci apice albicantes. Thorax et abdomen cinerea. AIsb anticse
griseae basi ad marginem crassiorem macula magna fusca, in qua
maculae ordinariae. Pone hanc puncta tria parva alba marginis
crassioris et aliquot fusca sparsa in disco, Margo denique et
VARIETIES OP NOCTU-SJ IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 59
macula ad angulum ani fuscse. Posticse supra fuscse margine
exteriori et postico albidis. Subtus pallidse puncto arcuque
fuscis" (* Entomologia Systematica,' p. 618).
This is an exceedingly variable species, and the gradation and
various phases of development as shown in its variation are very
interesting. The variation strikes off in two distinct directions,
both resulting in the production of distinct, almost unicolorous
forms. The first group has the prevailing colours yellowish-
ochreous and bright red, the second group has the prevailing
colour brown. The first group appears to run from the type,
with whitish-grey ground colour, to the var. ochrea, an ochreous-
yellow form, with distinct red markings, through the var.
intermedia, with red ground colour and distinct darker red
markings, to flavo-rufa, an unicolorous form of a yellowish-
red ground colour. The second group commences with the var.
putris, of Hubner, of a dark ochreous ground colour, with deep red-
brown markings, leading up to the combusta of Haw., a fuscous
brown form, much clouded with darker, through the alopecurus of
Esper, a deep reddish-brown form, with black costal streaks, and
only the reniform marked, culminating in var. nigro-rubida, a deep
reddish-black form, with no markings.
The type (grey form) is, perhaps, the rarest of all the different
forms occurring in Britain. I have only specimens in my cabinet
from Mr. Percy Russ, of Sligo, and from Bannoch, although Mr.
Tug well has informed me that it occurs in the Isle of Man.
There is no doubt that this is the most beautiful of all the rurea
varieties, some of the grey specimens having a peculiar glaucous
tinge. This form is the hepatica of Haworth, and possibly the
hepatica of Linnaeus, although the latter is doubtful. Mr. T.
Salvage writes : — " I took two very beautiful silvery varieties of
this species (rurea) in Rannoch ten years ago, but have never
seen the like before or since" {in litL, '88). We thus have the
following groups : —
I. ] . rurea — the greyish-white type.
2. ochrea — yellowish ground colour, with typical markings.
3. intermedia — reddish ground colour, with typical markings.
4. flavo-rufa — unicolorous, yellowish-red specimens.
II. 1. putris, Hb. — pale brownish-grey ground colour, with a dark brown
central band.
2. combusta, Haw. — dark fuscous brown, with reniform outlined in
white.
3. alopecurus, Esper — dark reddish-brown, with black costal streaks,
and the reniform with black circumscription.
4. nigro-rubida — a deep, reddish-black, unicolorous form.
Of the varieties of this species from the Hebrides, Mr. J.
Jenner Weir writes, *' A very fine series was taken, showing
a number of intermediate varieties between the type and the
00. THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
variety comhusta. It would be impossible to describe the rich
chestnut colour of some of these most beautiful specimens, and
in many instances the ground colour is in strong contrast to the
dark markings" (Entom. xiv. 220).
a. var. ochrea, mihi. — The ground colour of the anterior wings of a
clear yellowish-ochreous, the darker markings found in the type are all pre-
sent, but much paler, and of a more distinctly red colour ; a white dash on
the inner margin near the anal angle, another on the inner margin just
under the dark dash at the base of the wing. Thorax the same colour as
the darker markings on the wings. Posterior wings pale grey, with dusky
nervures ; the lunule and base of the pale transverse line faintly discernible.
This variety would include most of the pale forms captured in Britain and
probably on the Continent. I have captured it in many localities in Kent,
and have received it from almost all parts of Britain, including the Orkneys,
Hebrides, and the West Coast of Ireland.
p. var. intermedia, mihi. — The ground colour of a clear reddish-ochreous,
the dark markings of the type being clearly developed in a darker shade
than the ground colour. The stigmata rather indistinct, owing to the
deeper ground colour. The pale transverse line on the posterior wings is
more distinct than in the type. This is a form distinctly intermediate
between var. ochrea, and var. flavorufa. It has all the distinct markings
of ochrea, but the reddish ground colour of fiavo-rufa. This form occui'S
with the type, but appears to be rare. I have seen but few specimens,
and am indebted for those I have to Messrs. Rose and Harrison, of
Barnsley, and Mr. Boult, of Hull. It is recorded from Derby by Mr.
Hill, in the 'Entomologist's Monthly Magazine,' vol. xxiii. p. 6. This
is the var. ^ of Guenee's * Noctuelles,' vol. v. p. 138, but it is uncertain
whether it is the La Bigarree, of Engramelle. Guenee says of his
var. /?:— "All the markings reappear, even the ordinary lines which
are obliterated in the type. The ground colour is reddish-brown, mixed
with yellow-ochreous and whitish." In Humphrey and Westwood's
* British Moths,' vol. i. p. 159, we find, " Varieties occur, with the ground
colour of the fore wings bright ochre- red, with the stigmata distinct."
y. var. flavorufa, mihi. — The ground colour of a dull yellowish-red
tint, and so far resembling var. intermedia, but the typical markings almost
entirely obsolete and lost in the ground colour. Both stigmata very
distinct and outlined in yellow ; some short yellow dashes along the costa
(the remaining parts of the obsolete line) ; a yellow patch at the costal
base, and a few yellow scales on the outer part of the otherwise dusky ner-
vures, are the only markings on the anterior wings of this otherwise
unicolorous variety. My specimens have come from Rannoch, Barnsley,
Glasgow and Ripon.
^. var. putris, Hb. — The j)utris of Hb., fig. '241, is without doubt a var.
of rurea. It may be described as, " Anterior wings of a pale brownish
grey, base paler, with a much waved, transverse, basal line ; a longitudinal
pale orbicular, and a reniform outlined in pale ; a distinct transverse
black wavy line beyond the reniform. Between this and the basal line the
colour is dark brown, a black line passing through this darker part between
stigmata, from costa to inner margin. A row of dots parallel to the hind
margin ; extreme hind margin dotted ; hind wings dark grey, base paler,
dark transverse line and dark lunule." This description of Hiibner's
VARIETIES OF NOCTU^ IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 61
figure satisfies precisely the description of some of the beautiful forms
brought by Mr. Salvage from the Isle of Lewis in 1887. From a figure
kindly lent me by Mr. Mosley, of Huddersfield, this would appear to be the
var. borealis mentioned by Mr. Porritt in his * List of Yorkshire Lepidop-
tera,' p. 73, where he says, " Mr. S. L. Mosley says the varieties alopecurus,
Esp., and borealis, also occasionally occur at Huddersfield." With refer-
ence to this var. borealis, Mr. Mosley, in September, '88, wrote : — " I only
know the variety borealis, by Mr. Bond having pointed out one in his cabinet
with the remark, 'That is var. borealis!' I took one like his specimen
here, of which I send you a drawing." This drawing represented without
doubt Hubner's putris. In Humphrey and Westwood's * British Moths,'
vol. i. p, 159, there is a remark about borealis as follows: — " As Mr. Curtis
gives the putris of Hiibner as probably identical with his Xylina borealis,
and as Boisduval gives j!;Mfr/s as a variety of rurea, Mr. Curtis 's insect is,
probably, a variety of this species." Of this, I think there is now no
doubt. I have only seen British specimens of this var. from Lewis, but
Mr. Mosley's figure proves it to occur at Huddersfield.
s. var. combusta. Haw. — Haworth's description of this variety is as
follows : — *• Alis fusco-brunneis obsolete nebulosis, figura 3 vel 5 medio
notatis." "In medio anticarum alarum stigmata ordinaria obsoleta, albido
marginata, anticum ovale antrorsum valde incHnante; exterius auriforme
margine albo interrupto et inde representat figuram 3 vel 5. Posticse alae
fuscae ciliis subflavicantibus." This variety is generally considered as
synonymous with alopecurus, Esper, by Continental authors; but Newman,
in his * British Moths,' p. '283, points out the following phrase in Haworth's
description, " fusco-brunneis et stigmata ordinaria albido marginata," which
he says is not applicable to var. alopecurus. I quite agree with this
and hence have separated them. I have no dark specimen with the
stigmata outlined in white, but I do not doubt^but that specimens occur in
some cabinets.
f. var. combusta of Hiibner (fig. 366) is difi'erent to the above. It has
the anterior wings, with an almost typical, reddish-brown costa, with pale
costal streaks and distinct stigmata, outlined in paler, but with the lower
half of the wings unicolorous, dark, reddish-brown. Hiibner's combusta
seems a combined form of var. intermedia (costal half of wings), and var.
alopecurus (inner marginal half of the wing). This appears to be the
nearest approach to the dark forms generally obtained in Britain. Guenee
refers combusta, Hb., to alopecurus, Esp., an evident error. His descrip-
tion, too, of alopecurus, Esp., ' Noctuelles,' vol. v. p. 138, is more like
Hiibner's combusta than Esper's alopecurus. Guenee writes, " The ground
colour of the anterior wings entirely of a deep, red-brown colour, with some
bright marks on the costa, and the outside of the reniform surrounded by
yellow. Fringe of the four wings equally brown, with some yellow streaks on
the superiors, and a reddish line in the inferiors. Females still darker."
>}. var. alopecurus, Esp. — From the alopecurus, Esper, Plate cxlvii., fig.
3, I made the following description : — " The anterior wings of a dark
reddish-brown, with five strong, black, costal streaks, no orbicular, large
reniform of the ground colour, with black centre and black circumscription,
three white dots on costa near apex, three parallel to hind margin near
apex, three tiny white dots at anal angle, nervures black. Hind wings
dark grey, with blackish nervures and lunule. Very few British specimens,
I believe, will answer to this description of alopecurus. Guenee says of
ENTOM. — MARCH, 1889. H
62 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
alopecurus, Esp., *' the exterior outline of the reniform yellowish." This
is evidently incorrect of Esper's figure. Newman says, ** uniform red-
brown, the reniform spot being indicated by a pale line, and a few other
darker and paler dots scattered over the wing" (' British Moths,' p. 283).
Dr. Staudinger, in his * Catalogue ' says of this variety, " al. ant. unicolor,
brunneis."
6. var. nigro-ruUda, mihi. — The most extreme melanic form of the
species, of a most intensely blackish-red or blackish-brown colour ; no pale
streaks on the costa, and perfectly unicolorous, with the exception of a
faint trace of the outline of the orbicular and the outer edge of the
reniform. Hind wings dark grey, nervures more dusky. Thorax of the
same dark colour as the anterior wings. The type of this variety was cap-
tured in Lewis in 1887. I have only seen specimens of this variety from
the Hebrides.
(To be continued.)
NEW SPECIES OF DELTOIDS AND PYRALES FROM
COREA, NORTH CHINA, AND JAPAN.
By J. H. Leech, B.A., F.L.S., «fec.
(Plates XL, III., & IV.)
The identification of species of these obscure groups is a
matter of difficulty. The existing descriptions and figures are
not always easy to make out, and it is almost a necessity to
compare the specimens with the original types, which latter are
often in a very inferior condition. In one season's collecting
I took over four hundred species of the above groups, which I
have carefully compared with the types in Dr. Staudinger' s, Mr.
Moore's, and the national collections.
Hypena corealis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 1.
Cinnamon-brown. Primaries with a slender basal patch of darker brown,
reniform represented by a square grey blotch, and the orbicular by a black
dot ; a broad angulated dark band, bordered internally by a blackish line and
externally by a greyish white line, traverses the disc of the wing, a faint
wavy submarginal line preceded by a greyish patch on the costa, a dark
apical streak. Secondaries traversed by a dark basal and a pale central line ;
three black dots on inner margin towards anal angle. Under surface
fuscous-grey, with the markings of the upper side reproduced. Expanse,
29 mm.
One of each sex taken by myself at Gensan in July, 1886.
Hypena satsumalis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 13.
Primaries dark brown, sprinkled with grey on the basal and outer
marginal areas, a narrow oblique white line beyond the middle of the wing,
and a submarginal wavy whitish line commencing as a broad streak at apex.
Secondaries fuscous-brown. Under surface fuscous ; secondaries and apex
of primaries sprinkled with darker scales. Expanse, 23 — 27 mm.
Nearest allied to Hypena indicatalis, but the transverse line of
Entomolo gist. April. 1889.
Plate 2.
wiv
''P*
/VV
f
^^^'d
75
F.W.Frdhawkdel.etlitlnL. West,Ne^Aanarv&.Co imp.
New species of Deltoids ^SiPyrales.
EntoTnologist.A-p-ril.1889.
Plate 4'.
1 7 ,
7't
75
i^^
<^^^
^1^I^<1«
w
r.W,Prolaa.wk del.etlith
West , Newma-n <5:.Co .Tmp.
New species of Deltoids &,Pvr>al
NEW SPECIES OF DELTOIDS AND PYRALES. 63
primaries is not angulated as in that species, and it has no white
discal spot.
Five examples taken by myself in Satsuma, May, 1886.
Hypena rusticalis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 12.
S' . Primaries brown, thickly sprinkled with fuscous scales, and tinged
with pink ; slightly oblique central and submarginal lines blackish ; fringes
brown interlined with blackish. Secondaries dark fuscous -brown. Under
surface of primaries fuscous-brown ; secondaries paler, discal spot black,
dark central line on each wing. Expanse, 28 mm.
• One male example taken by myself at Hakodate in August.
Hypoepa bambusalis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 2.
(^ . Primaries purplish brown, with a discal and marginal golden brown
suffusion; a transverse bidentate white line divides the wing into equal
parts, the basal half being darker ; before the outer margin is a transverse
dark shade. Secondaries fuscous. Under surface fuscous, primaries with
some greyish scales towards apex, and an indistinct dark central line ; discal
area of secondaries greyish. Expanse, 32 mm.
One male example taken by myself at Foochau in April, 1886.
Capnodes gensanalis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 9.
Violet-grey. Primaries with a small brown spot at base of costa, followed
by a broad brown band edged externally by a narrow white line, two
indistinct parallel wavy lines cross the disc of the wing, and beyond these
is a white elbowed line edged internally with blackish and externally with
brown ; reniform faintly outlined, except on its external edge, which is
bordered with blackish, and precedes a brownish patch, orbicular black and
dot-like; marginal area suffused with brown, a series of black spots on
the margin itself. Secondaries with a black discal spot, white central line
and black marginal spots as on primaries. Under surface yellowish grey ;
primaries suffused on disc and outer margin with reddish ; central line,
discal and marginal spots on all the wings black. Palpi, head, and thorax
reddish brown. Expanse, 38 mm.
A single specimen taken by myself at Gensan, Corea, in July.
Zanclognatha linealis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 4.
Primaries pinkish buff, with a minute discal spot, and a straight narrow
brown submarginal band faintly bordered externally with whitish. Secondaries
pale brown. Under surface pale fuscous-brown, secondaries rather paler.
Expanse, 35 mm.
One male example in Satsuma, and a female specimen at Naga-
saki, taken by myself in May, 1886.
Zanclognatha obliqualis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 5.
^ . Greyish brown tinged with violet ; basal line nearly straight, central
line angulated just below costa both blackish, in the enclosed area is a
brownish fascia terminating before the costa ; a brown submarginal band,
edged externally with white, runs from apex in an oblique direction to the
inner_ margin. Secondaries with an indistinct blackish central line ; sub-
marginal band sharply angulated before reaching the inner margin, and
attenuated towards costa. Under surface fuscous-brown, discal areas of all
h2
64 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
the wings rather paler, primaries traversed by one and secondaries by two
blackish lines. Expanse, 22 mm.
One male example taken by myself at Foochau in April.
Herminia fascialis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 3.
<^ . Pale brown, with a faint pinkish tinge. Primaries with an indistinct
dark basal band ; all the wings traversed by a narrow white submarginal
band, broadly bordered internally with olivaceous-brown, which colom:^ is
continued to apex of primaries. Under surface greyish brown, with whitish
submarginal lines and faint discal spots. Expanse, 28 mm.
One male taken by my native collector at Hakodate, July, 1887.
Herminia ningpoalis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 7.
Fuscous-brown. Primaries with the small orbicular and large reniform
stigmata yellow, outlined with dark brown ; transverse basal and discal lines
wavy dark brown, pale submarginal line edged internally with dark brown.
Secondaries with two parallel dark brown lines traversing the disc of the
wing. Under surface rather darker than above, a small discal spot, a narrow
dark discal band, and a pale submarginal line. Expanse, 33 mm.
Five examples taken by my native collector in the Snowy
Yalley, near Ningpo, in July, 1886.
Harmatelia bifidalis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 11.
Basal two-thirds chocolate-brown, outer third brownish buff, clouded
along hind margin and towards apex with darker brown; the dividing line
is blackish edged with whitish, and sharply toothed below its middle, a dark
transverse wavy line towards base, and a discal series of black dots forming
an indistinct ^ . Secondaries fascous, paler towards costa. Under surface
fuscous, secondaries with a darker central line. Expanse, 23 mm.
An example of each sex taken by myself at Hakodate in August.
Calobochyla bilinealis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 14.
^ . Primaries greyish brown, with a few dark apical spots, and traversed
by two reddish brown lines, the basal internally and the discal externally
bordered with orange ; between these lines are two small reddish brown
spots. Secondaries pale brown , broadly bordered on outer margin with fuscous.
Under surface of all the wings yellowish brown, primaries with discal spots,
broad band along outer margin, and fringes blackish. Palpi, head, and collar
reddish orange. Expanse, 36 mm.
One male example taken by my native collector in the Snowy
Valley, July, 1886.
Platyja nubiferalis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 8.
Golden brown, with a purplish discal suffusion. Primaries traversed by
three dark . serrated lines, each commencing in a brown quadrate spot on
costa. Secondaries paler towards costa, traversed by two dark central lines ;
submarginal line darker brown, with an external purplish edging. Under
surface yellow clouded with fuscous, except at costa and apex. Expanse,
^ 45 mm., $ 47 mm.
I took an example of each sex in Satsuma, May, 1886, and a
female specimen at Nagasaki in June of the same year.
NEW SPECIES OF DELTOIDS AND PYRALES. 65
Mestleta albicostalis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 10.
Violet-grey. Primaries with a broad whitish stripe clouded with greyish
occupying the whole of the basal and a large portion of the costal areas, but
not extending to the apex ; the apical third is chocolate-brown clouded with
darker, a faint basal line, whitish elbowed and bidentate submarginal line ;
fringes dark grey, narrowly chequered with whitish, and with one brown
patch about the middle. Secondaries with whitish basal patch, brown linear
discal spot, angulated and indented blackish central line, a large blackish
spot with some blackish scales on each side at anal angle, and a marginal
series of small black spots ; fringes grey. Head brownish grey, thorax
white, as also is the abdomen, except dorsal portions of segments 8, 9 and 10.
Under surface of primaries fuscous -grey, the outer margin paler, with a
series of black dots ; secondaries whitish-grey, fuscous towards costa and
outer margin, with central line and marginal spots as above. Expanse,
^ 22 mm., 2 25 mm.
Four specimens taken by my native collector at Ningpo in June
and July, 1886, and one ? example by myself at Foochau in April.
Mestleta lutefascialis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 15.
Greyish brown. Primaries with a blackish discal line, marginal line and
faint discal spot. Secondaries suffused with reddish brown about the disc,
and with a pale yellow central band formed of irregularly placed confluent
spots ; discal spot and marginal line black. Under surface : primaries dirty
grey, with faint transverse band ; secondaries paler, with dark central band
and discal spot. Expanse, ^ 19 mm.
A male example taken by myself in Satsuma in May, 1886.
Meranda tristalis, n. sp., Plate II., fig. 6.
Greyish brown. Primaries traversed by a central line starting from tho
costa, elbowed towards the apex, and then descending to inner margin ; a
pale yellow apical mark and a few white streaks on the costa. Under surface
fuscous-brown, discal area of secondaries rather paler. Expanse, 19 mm.
One male specimen taken by myself in Satsuma, May, 1886.
CopTOBASis SEGNALis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 4.
Brownish black, with a pale yellow discal spot and wavy central band on
each wing. Under surface as above, but markings not so distinct. Pectus,
abdomen beneath, and legs whitish. Expanse, 22 mm.
I took this species at Nagasaki in June, and Gensan in July.
I have also received it from Ningpo and Yokohama (Manley).
Heliothela nigralbata (Warren MS.), n. sp., Plate IV., ^g, 7.
Fore wings brown-black ; hind wings velvety black : the former with a
whitish spot on the costa before the apex ; the latter with a bright white
spot in the centre : both these spots show through on the under side. Head,
thorax, abdomen, under side of wings, and fringes, brown-black. Expanse,
13 mm. Hab. Chekiang ; one specimen.
An example in Mr. H. Pryer's collection without locality, but
probably from Yokohama.
Endotricha bicoloralis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 17.
? . Primaries reddish buff, costa spotted with darker ; outer third
purpHsh, the pale yellowish line of division is nearly straight, and projects
6'6 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
slightly into the darker portion about the middle, black discal spot.
Secondaries purplish, irrorated with black, and the disc traversed by two
parallel pale lines. Fringes of all the wings grey-brown, preceded by a black
marginal line. Under surface as above. Expanse, 15 mm.
I took a female example at Gensan in July, 1886.
MiCBoscA ExusTA var. ERECTA, Plate IV., fig. 3.
2 . Yellowish ochreous, reticulated with purplish brown. Primaries
have a purplish brown stripe from the apex along the costa nearly to the
middle, from whence it traverses the wing directly to the inner margin ;
from the costal portion of this stripe a line of the same colour is projected to
the outer margin. Secondaries with curved central, and indented submarginal
purplish brown lines. Expanse, 22 mm.
A female example taken by myself at Gensan, July, 1886.
The narrower straight-edged central fascia would appear to
afford a good character by which this insect might be specifically
separated from C. exusta and ardens, but I have long series of
each of these last, and am of opinion that they themselves are
nothing but forms of one species. I am therefore not inclined to
claim specific rank for the solitary specimen I have from Gensan,
which, although it exhibits some points of difference when com-
pared with typical examples of C. exusta^ Butl., taken at the
same time and place, is yet connected with that species by other
forms taken in Japan, which are not exactly identical with typical
(7. exusta or var. ardens,
MiCROscA MARGiNEPUNCTALis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 10.
Primaries fuscous-grey, discal area tinged with pink, costa spotted with
brown, three black spots below the tip, and some pale cuneiform spots on
outer margin ; several dusky lines from inner margin to the median nerve,
discal spot black. Secondaries pinkish grey, with some small whitish discal
spots separated from each other by blackish scales, two interrupted transverse
abbreviated whitish bands from abdominal margin. Under surface pale
brown, faintly tinged with pink ; primaries thickly spotted with black along
costal area, some short blackish linear marks on the disc, and some silvery
white cuneiform streaks at apex and outer margin ; secondaries with the
discal area densely sprinkled with black scales, and divided into three
portions by transverse bands of the ground colour. Expanse, ^ 22 — 28 mm.,
? 31—33 mm.
I took four specimens (one male, three females) in Satsuma,
May, 1886.
MiCRoscA suBROSEALis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 14.
Primaries ochreous, strongly suffused with pink, and traversed by several
faint narrow brownish wavy lines, one of which beyond the blackish discal spot
is sharply elbowed ; costa rather paler, spotted with linear patches of brown.
Secondaries pinkish red tinged with ochreous, and sprinkled with numerous
faint dots arranged in transverse lines. Fringes pale brown, chequered with
dark brown. Under surface pale ochreous, tinged with pink and dotted and
lined with brown. Expanse, 20 mm.
An example of each sex taken by my native collector at Ningpo,
in June, 1886.
NEW SPECIES OF DELTOIDS AND PYRALES. 67
DiASEMiA DisTiNCTALis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 5.
(? . Blackish brown. Primaries with a wedge-shaped white mark about
the centre of the wing, beyond which is a white spot near the costa, a white
basal line, and deeply indented central line, with a white interrupted sub-
marginal band. Secondaries with a broad white central band bordered with
black, which again is outlined by a whitish line ; submarginal line, white,
interrupted ; fringes chequered. Under surface as above, but paler. Expanse,
19 mm.
This species was taken by my native collector in the Snowy
Valley, near Ningpo, in July, 1886.
BoTYS LUGUBRALis, n. sp., Plate III., fig. 6.
Brown, with a slight cupreous tint. Primaries with a dark basal line ;
stigmata darkly outlined, beyond them is a sharply serrated dark line,
which curves abruptly towards the centre of wing, then descends to the
inner margin. Secondaries with a dark central line and discal spot. Under
surface the same as upper ; disc of primaries darker. Expanse, 27 mm.
This species is allied to Botys tristrialis, Brem., but is smaller,
and the central line of secondaries is not angulated. I took this
insect in August, 1886, at Hakodate, Nemoro, and at Shikotan,
Kurile Islands.
BoTYs MAOULALis, n. sp., Plate III., fig. 11.
Primaries blackish, with a pearly gloss ; there are six pale yellow mark-
ings on the disc, the two nearest the base are oblong, placed one over the
other, and separated by the median nerve, the lower is followed by a smaller
triangular-shaped mark, one beyond and nearer the costa is a large irregular
shaped patch, and two small spots placed colon-like under the costal
nerve. Secondaries pale yellowish, traversed by central, sub-marginal, and
marginal blackish bands ; a projection from the internal edge of the
submarginal extends almost to the central band, and the opposing edges of
the marginal and submarginal bands are in contact at the anal angle, and
again about the middle. Under surface: primaries paler than above, the
three spots nearest the base confluent. Secondaries pale yellowish grey, with
an indented and angulated transverse brown line. Expanse, 34 mm.
Of this distinct species I took one not very good male
example at Tsuruga in July.
BoTYs GLADiALis, n. sp., Plate III., figs. 5 ^,15 $ .
<^. Greyish brown. Primaries tinged with ochreous, a small blackish
discal spot, and a dark curved and indented central line. Secondaries paler
towards abdominal margin, a dark curved central line terminates just above
anal angle ; fringes of all the wings fuscous. Under surface pale shining
brown, tinged with fuscous, but without markings of any kind. Palpi, head,
and thorax colour of primaries, body darker brown above, whitish beneath.
Expanse, 27 mm.
? . Ochreous brown, with a small blackish discal spot, and indications
of a dark curved and indented central line on the primaries, there are also
indications of a central line on secondaries ; fringes of all the wings fuscous-
brown. Under surface pale ochreous-brown, without markings of any kind.
Expanse, 26 mm.
One example of each sex taken by myself at Foochau in
April, 1886.
68 THE ENTOMOLOGIST,
BoTYS FuscoMARGiNALis, n. sp., Plate III., fig. 4.
Pale straw colour, clouded with fuscous-brown, especially on the outer
margins of all the wings. Primaries : basal line, which is curved and slightly
angulated near the costa brown, as also are two discal spots, and the
elbowed and sharply angulated central line. Secondaries with two brown
lines, the basal slightly curved and interrupted, the central twice angulated,
and terminating before the inner margin. Under surface similar to above
but lines less distinct. Expanse, 29 mm.
One example taken by myself at Hakone in August, 1886.
BoTYS MANDARiNALis, u. sp., Plate III., fig. 14.
Golden yellow. Primaries broadly bordered on the costa and outer
margin with brownish purple, stigmata represented by a dark dot, followed
by a <1-shaped mark, a dark basal band, a short wavy line running from
the middle of inner margin to the centre of wing, and a short line descending
from the costa, near the apex. Secondaries paler about the disc, with a short
dark central band, and broad brownish purple outer marginal band, which
latter does not reach the anal angle. Under surface paler, legs and pectus
white, palpi brown, fringes golden yellow. Expanse, S' 29 mm., $ 28 mm.
I took this species at Nagahama and Tsuruga in July, 1886,
and also received it from my native collector. Ningpo, July.
BoTYS iNORNATALis, n. sp., Plate III., fig. 13.
Pale straw colour, with a shght tinge of grey, very silky, entirely with-
out markings, fringes silky white. Under surface more dusky, especially
about the disc of primaries, and with a faint central band. Expanse, ^ 30 mm.,
$ 31 mm.
I took a male in Satsuma in May, and a female at Sakata in
August.
BoTYS cuRVALis, n. sp., Plate III., fig. 3.
^ . Pale ochreous brown ; primaries with a slightly oblique basal line, a
discal spot, and a submarginal line, the latter starting from the costa runs
first in the direction of the outer margin, then curving inwards descends
below the centre of the wing, where it again changes its course, and falls
vertically, terminating on the middle of the inner margin. Secondaries with
an undulated dark central line. Fringes rather darker. Under surface :
primaries fuscous-grey, secondaries paler ; discal spot and lines as above.
Expanse, 30 mm.
Allied to B. damoalisy but can be separated at once from that
species by the different character of the submarginal line of pri-
maries, and central line of secondaries.
One male taken by native collector at Ningpo in June.
BoTYS NiNGPOALis, u. sp., Plate III., fig. 1.
c^. Primaries fuscous-brown; a pale yellow quadrate spot about the
middle of wing towards costa, followed by a large irregular-shaped blotch of
the same colour, beyond which are two colon-hke dots ; central portion
of costa orange. Secondaries fuscous-brown, rather paler along inner
margin. Under surface a paler reproduction of upper. Anterior tibise
yellow. Expanse, 32 mm.
A single male example taken in the Snowy Valley, near
NEW SPECIES OF DELTOIDS AND PYRALES. 69
Ningpo, by my native collector in July, 1886. Dr. Staudinger
possesses an unnamed specimen of this species from Amurland.
BoTYS LACRYMALis, n. sp., Plate III., fig. 12.
Primaries brown with violet reflections ; dark angulated and slightly
obUque discal and elbowed central lines, the latter bordered externally by an
indistinct pale band ; discal spot black. Secondaries pale shining brown,
with a darker curved central line, outer margin broadly bordered with
violaceous brown. Fringes grey-brown. Under surface pale shining brown,
discal spot black, costal area and outer margin of primaries broadly viola-
ceous brown, a narrow streak of the same colour along the costal portion of
the outer margin of secondaries. Expanse, S' 28 mm., ? 32 mm.
I took specimens in Satsuma in May, and at Nagasaki
in June.
BoTYs PACALis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 15.
? . Primaries dark reddish brown, with a black basal line and discal
spot ; a pale dentate submarginal line internally bordered with black, termi-
nates before reaching the inner angle. Secondaries fuscous-brown, with an
indistinct central band ; under surface fuscous-brown, with darker central
line, discal spots paler outlined with blackish. Expanse, 23 mm.
I took one female example in the Snowy Valley, near Ningpo,
in April, 1886.
BoTYS GENiALis, n. sp., Plate III., ^g, 10.
^, Primaries dull orange, with a darker discal spot and curved central
band ; fringes dusky. Under surface the same as upper but duller ; legs,
pectus, and palpi, white.
$ . The same as male, but secondaries suffused with fuscous and under
surface decidedly darker. Expanse, ^ 22 mm., ? 21 mm.
I took this species at Nagasaki and in Satsuma in May and
June, and also received it from Ningpo (Nat. Coll., June).
BoTYODES AUREALis, n. sp., Plate III., fig. 7.
Golden yellow without any trace of markings ; secondaries subhyaline.
Legs and pectus white. Expanse 32 mm.
I took a specimen of each sex at Nagasaki in May, 1886.
BoTYODES PRINCIPALIS, n. sp., Plate III., fig. 9.
Crocus-yellow. Primaries with two series of blackish spots, indicating
interrupted basal and central lines, stigmata blackish ; two brown confluent
patches, one situated at inner angle, and the other about the centre of outer
margin. Secondaries with a black interrupted central band,''and discal spot;
a wavy brown submarginal band, and a brown patch at outer angle. Under-
surface paler yellow, the only markings being the brown marginal patches.
Legs white, except the anterior femora. An intensely black silky tuft at
base of abdomen. Expanse, 43 mm.
A single specimen taken in Satsuma by myself, May, 1886,
. and several examples collected for me at Ichang, Central China,
by Mr. Pratt, in August, 1888.
: 70 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Glyphodes bipunctalis, n. sp., Plate III., fig. 2.
Primaries brown, with a slight purple reflection ; on the disc of the wing
are two round white spots, bordered by a darker shade of the ground colour,
the smaller of the two being nearest the base of wing. Secondaries light
brown, subhyaline, with a dark central line ; outer marginal area of the wing
darker than the rest. Under surface a paler reproduction of upper. Legs
whitish, except anterior femora, which are brown. Expanse, <^ 30 mm., J
24 mm.
I took a fine series of this species in May, 1886, at Nagasaki
and in Satsuma. I have also received it from Gensan, Corea.
Cataprosopus pauperalis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 11.
<^. Light brown, sprinkled with darker scales, and having a purplish
reflection. Primaries darker brown along the basal portion of the costa, wing
traversed by curved basal and wavy central Unes ; fringes chocolate brown.
Under surface ; colour much the same as above, with a dark discal spot and
faint reddish central line ; head and palpi chocolate brown. Expanse, 26 mm.
This species was sent me by Mr. Manley, who took it in the
neighbourhood of Yokohama.
Samia fumidalis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 8.
^ . Primaries yellow, much clouded about the costa and outer margin
.with fascous-brown ; basal and deeply elbowed central lines blackish. Second-
aries yellow, clouded with fuscous-brown towards the outer margin, and with
a blackish, deeply elbowed central line. Under surface pale whity-brown,
clouded about the disc of primaries with fuscous-brown, discal spots and
central line darker. Expanse, 21 mm.
I took this species at Nagasaki in May, 1886.
POLYTHLIPTA LIQUID ALIS, n. Sp., Plate III., fig. 8.
Hyaline with pearly reflections. Primaries with the base blackish, a
broad streak of pale chestnut along the inner margin, turns upwards
abruptly, and terminates in a black curve before the inner angle, a wedge-
shaped band bordered with black runs from costa and joins the inner
marginal streak before the base ; occupying the apical area is a large patch of
dark brown clouded with blackish, and enclosing a white subcostal spot ;
stigma pale chestnut. Secondaries with a blackish discal spot, and row of
, four spots along the outer margin, the 1st and 4th being much the largest ; at
outer angle is a pale brownish blotch, internally bordered with black, and
preceded by a blackish streak. Abdomen pale chestnut, legs white. Expanse,
44 mm.
I took one 3" example of this remarkable species at Gensan,
Corea, July, 1886.
Cataclysta prodigalis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 16.
$ . Primaries chocolate brown, a large white patch on the inner margin,
a white basal line followed by a white central line curving abruptly to the
centre of the wing, then sharply to the inner margin, submarginal band
white, margin orange bordered by narrow black lines. Secondaries white
with broad blackish brown basal and submarginal bands traversed by yellow
lines, margins orange bordered by narrow black lines ; under surface similar
but paler. Female rather darker than male. Expanse, <3^ 11mm., ? 12 mm.
I took a nice series of this species at Gensan in July, also a
specimen at Tsuruga in the same month.
NEW SPECIES OF DELTOIDS AND PYRALES. 7l
Hydbocampa interruptalis, Pryer, v. separatalisy Plate IV.,
figs. 2 & 13.
a. Colour and markings similar to the type, but on the secondaries the black
lines, which in the type form the external border of the white discal spots,
and traverse the wing from costa to abdominal margin, are in this form absent
in the area between the spots. Under surface darker, markings as above (fig. 2).
/3. Markings as in var. a, but the ground colour is chocolate brown.
Expanse, 19—21 mm. (fig. 13).
I took a specimen at Ningpo in April, and several, including
both sexes and the brown form at Gensan, in June, 1886.
Leparodes floralis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 1.
(^. Whity-brown; angulated basal, central, and submarginal lines of
primaries whitish edged with brownish ; a white line parallel with outer
margin broken up into spots, each of which is edged externally with black.
Secondaries pinkish towards outer margin, with two central, transverse,
brownish edged, white lines, and a marginal series of white spots, edged
externally with black. Under surface, fuscous-brown markings similar to
upper side but less distinct. Expanse, 17 mm.
I took a a" example at Tsuruga, and one at Fushiki in July.
Desmia sodalis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 6.
Fuliginous black. Primaries with a quadrate white spot on disc, followed
by a wavy whitish yellow submarginal line, commencing at the costa in a
wedge-shaped mark, a yellow spot on the outer margin close to inner angle.
Secondaries with a white central band, which widens out into a blotch about
the centre of the wing. Under surface the same ; pectus yellowish, antennae
tipped with yellow, body with three white bars at base, and a broader
yellow bar near the extremity. Expanse, 20 mm. The sexes do not differ.
I took this species in Satsuma, May ; Nagasaki, June ; and
received it from Mr Manley, Yokohama ; and Ningpo (Native Coll.).
There is an unnamed example of this species in the National
Collection from Chekiang.
Zebronia ornatalis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 12.
<y . White ; primaries with three black spots, one of which is on the
costa near the base ; another on the disc, with one just below it near the
inner margin ; a black central line commencing as a spot on the costa, sub-
marginal and marginal lines also black. Under surface white sprinkled with
darker towards costa, markings as above but very indistinct. Expanse, 17 mm.
Three examples taken by my native collector at Ningpo in
June, and one specimen by myself at Foochau in April.
Oryba regalis, n. sp., Plate IV., fig. 9.
^ . Flame red. Primaries more crimson about the costal and basal
areas; a large lemon-yellow spot bordered with black, and with an indenta-
tion on its outer margin, is situated just bayond centre of costa, from the
extremity of this spot a red line descends to inner margin. Secondaries with
a slight trace of a red central band. Under surface more dusky than upper
surface. Expanse, 31 lines.
I took a single male at Gensan, Corea, in July, 1886.
12, Prince's Street, Hanover Square, W.
7-2 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Late appearance of Gonopteryx rhamni. — Referring to the late
appearance of insects last year the following note may be of interest : — '* Ou
Sunday, October 28th, on the common near here, a male specimen of the
above insect was taken in good condition having apparently only recently
emerged. The day was bright and warm. — A. Druitt ; Chapel Street,
Berkhampsted. [This species has been noted flying on warm days in the
South of England at a later period than that above given. — Ed.]
Anthocharis cardamines and Vanessa URxiCiE (vars.). — I have
received from Thame (Oxfordshire) a female A. cardamines, with an orange
splash on the left fore wing. A similar marking also occurs on the right
upper wing, but only on the under side. The V. urtica was bred witii a
large number of others. It is similar to the fourth figure in Newman's.
The specimens were taken and bred respectively by a lady, who was struck
by their abnormal appearance. — Alfred T. Mitchell ; 5, Clayton Ter-
race, Gunuersbury, W., January 12, 1889.
Varieties of Colias edusa. — In reply to Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell's
note (Entom. 13) with reference to my notice of the capture of a "primrose
coloured" Colias edusa, var. helice (Entora. xxi, 272), I would say that by
this description I did not at all mean to suggest that the specimen is as
yellow as our own Colias hyale, or the North American Colias philodice ;
but I think I may safely describe it as being in tint mid-way between these
species, and the European Colias phicomone. It is often exceedingly
difficult to give an accurate name to shades of colour, perhaps the defini-
tion of this as " hght straw " would be preferable. Besides there are
primroses and primroses, and when I wrote I had not in my eye the
" yellow primrose " of the poet '* by the river's brim," newly expanded, but
one full-blown and somewhat bleached by exposure to sun and weather. In
the season of 1877, when Colias edusa was so extraordinarily abundant in
this country, it was my fortune to set more than fifty of the variety helice,
of Haworth, taken here. For the sake of convenience in speaking of them
to my friends, I roughly divided them into "white," or "primrose
coloured ;" but in fact they present a variety of tints, from the typical
greenish white, through Hght straw, to dark cream colour. I have, more-
over, a so-called " intermediate " variety of the female, between edusa and
helice, of a peculiar buff, with the marginal spots whiter than in the usual
form. There is a male specimen of edusa in my drawer, which always
attracts attention from the glowing rosy violet of the hind wings — quite as
shining as Apatura iris, but altogether of a different colour, this being very
rosy. A male edusa, with a tinge of this lovely tint in the hind wings, was
taken by Mr. F. Purchase here in September last. It is, however, not
nearly so beautiful as my own. — Joseph Anderson, jun., Chichester.
Vanessa c-album in February. — On February 3rd this year I
caught a damaged specimen of this rare insect on the borders of some
woods near the Tichborue estate. While ou wing it appeared to be nothing
more than a mutilated F. urticce, and my only reason for attempting
its capture was on account of curiosity at such Icarian behaviour. Although
the morning was bright enough, the weather was not such that we might
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 78^
expect hybernated lepidopterous insects to be tempted from their winter
retreat. — A. J. Field ; 43, Medina Road, Finsbury Park, N.
Vanessa URTiCiE in February.— On Feb. 18th and Feb. 19th I saw a
Vanessa urticce on the wing at this unusual time for butterflies. — R. J.
Carthew ; Woodbridge Abbey, Suffolk.
Aberration of Pyrameis cardui. — I have received from Mr. A.
Sidney Olliff, of Sidney, New South Wales, a copy of a paper he read
before the Linnean Society of New South Wales, *' On two instances
of Colour variation in Butterflies." In this communication he draws
attention to a remarkable aberration of Pyrameis cardui, which had been
taken at Bombala, New South Wales, by Mr. G. Masters. Mr. Olliff
gives to this specimen the varietal name of P. sujfusa, and states that
it " bears a remarkable resemblance in the markings of the upper side to a
variety bred by Mr. J. A. Clark, from a larva found on the banks of the
river Lea, near London, which was figured in the ' Entomologist ' for
April, 1880. 1 have myself an aberration of P. cardui^ taken at Graham's
Town, South Africa, exactly like that figured in the ' Entomologist,' which
I exhibited at the meeting of the South London Entomological and
Natural History Society, on October 7th, 1886 (Vide ' Abstract of Pro-
ceedings for the Year 1886,' p. 60). It would therefore appear that this
extraordinary aberration of P. cardui, of that bizarre character which
I should have deemed not likely to have occurred more than once, has now
been found in Europe, Africa, and Australia. — J. Jenner Wjsir; Beckenham,
February 4, 1889.
Thecla w-album in Oxfordshire. — Relating to Mr. Clarke's notice
of the capture of Thecla xv-alhum in Oxfordshire (Entom. 47), I may
notice that this species was taken in the neighbourhood of Banbury on
August 7th, 1882, when I netted a worn specimen in the road leading from
Bloxham to Bloxham Grove. I mentioned this to Mr. Beesley of Banbury,
"who said he remembered another being caught in the same neighbourhood. —
J. F. Perry ; Oscott Cottage, Birmingham, February 9, 1889.
Deilephila galii in Scotland. — Amongst the numerous reports of
the occurrence of P. galii last season, I have not observed any from this
district. A specimen was taken inside one of the buildings connected with
the Glasgow Exhibition, having doubtless flown in at the open door
attracted by the electric light. It is now in the possession of Mr. E. C.
Eggleton, of the Kelviugrove Museum. — T. J. Henderson ; 24, Florence
Place, Glasgow.
Sphinx ligustri on Laurestinus. — I paid a short visit to Great
Malvern late in October. Very few insects were observed upon the wing,
but among them were several specimens of Vanessa c-album, which appeared
quite fresh. The larvaB of Sphinx ligustri had been very plentiful upon
laurestinus, a shrub upon which I have never taken it before. At this late
date they were still found commonly, and one specimen did not pupate till
the first week of November. The larvae of Odontopera bidentata were
found in abundance chiefly upon the same food-plant. — Alfred T.
Mitchell; 5, Clayton Terrace, Gunnersbury, W., January 12, 1889.
Zyg^na lonicer^, var. — Amongst several very interesting varieties
of Z. lonicerce which I bred last season, I obtained one with the top and
74 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
bottom wings of the left hand side alike, the bottom wing of the right hand
side being of the usual red with a black border. — W. Hewett, 3, Milton
Terrace, Fulford Road, York, January, 1889.
LiTHOsiA coMPLANA. — As regards the situation in which Lithosia
complana is taken, Mr. Tutt's experience (Entora. 14) differs much from my
own. The whole of my own series of some dozen specimens and a few
others which have been distributed among various entomologists, were taken
on heaths near King's Lynn. Further : I find that this species has been
recorded in several other localities in Norfolk, and these localities are
mostly situated quite inland, one or two of them nearly in Mid-Norfolk.
Indeed, L. complana seems to be widely distributed in this county, seeing
that it occurs not only on the coast (which by the way is the exception), but
also in the fens, on the breck-sands, and heaths. The latter is not only the
kind of situation in which this insect occurs most freely in Norfolk, but it
is, I believe, in such a situation it is most generally taken in this
country. On heaths the larva would most probably feed in part, if not
entirely, upon the lichens which here, and I suspect not unfrequently else-
where, cover the stony and drier ground. I may add that we take L. com-
plana and the commoner L complanula together, but with us the last-
named species is far more abundant in woods and lanes. — E. A. Atmore ;
3, Haylett Terrace, Exton's Road, King's Lynn, Norfolk, Jan. 15, 1889.
Dasycampa kubiginea in Wales. — At a meeting of the Penarth
Entomological Society, held on December 11th, among other specimens
exhibited was a Dasycampa ruhiginea, in good condition, captured at sugar
by Mr. T. L. Howe. — G. A. Birkenhead; Hon. Sec. of Penarth Ento-
mological Society, Penarth, January 3, 1889.
The British Plusia ni. — The recent records of Plusia ni in the
south of England, and also of an American moth, Hadena albifusa, at the
Isle of Portland, suggest an enquiry as to what is exactly meant by our
Plusia ni. P. ni, a south European species, is represented in America by
a form called P. hrassicm, Riley, which is abundant and injurious to
cabbages in the United States. Now as it is not unusual in Plusia, we
have in brassica a species so near to ni as to be very frequently confounded
with it, and constant enough in its characters to be regarded as distinct. For
this reason, a specimen now believed to be brassiccB, found in England
years ago, was recorded as ni, and is still supposed to be such by many
British entomologists. The question therefore naturally arises, are these
recent captures really 7ii, Hb., or brassier., Riley ? If they are brassicce, the
natural inference is that they are somehow imported from America, in the
same way as H. albifusa must certainly have been. I need not go any
further into this matter, but hope that a re-examination will be made of the
English examples of **m," to see what they really are. — T. D. A. Cockerell;
January 24, 1889.
Plusia chrysitis. — Whilst collecting in a favourite lane about two miles
from here in 1887, the moth Plusia chrysitis appeared in great abundance
among nettles which grew along a hedge side for about fifty yards. I first
noticed them on the 7th of July, when I took five, and on the 8th I took two
more, and on the Uth, which was the best night, they were a sight which I
shall never forget. They could be taken in numbers up to seven with one
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 75
stroke of the net. On the 11th they were very plentiful, and on the 19th."
there were very many, but by the 18th they were all gone. The moths
appeared twice each evening, soon after sunset, and again about 10 o'clock,
p.m. Mr. Newman speaks of this moth in his work on * British Moths,'
as having two broods, one in June, and another in August. I have looked
in vain for it in both months here, but have never seen or taken them
excepting in July ; the earliest capture being on the 7th of that month. I
have never taken them after the ^JTth of July. Plusia pulchrina, P. iota,
Hahrostola triplasia, Odonestes potatoria, Noctua /estiva, were also very
plentiful in the same place in 1887 ; while this year I have worked the
locality much more frequently than last, but have only succeeded in taking
six P. chrysitis, the first of them being taken on the 18th July, and five
P. iota, two being very small. 1 only got one each of N. /estiva, H.
triplasia, and P. j)ulchrina, but no 0. potatoria. 1 send this note thinking
it might be of some interest respecting the remarks of Mr, W. White, on
the effect of meteorological conditions upon insect life (Entom xxi. 217). —
W. T. Eains; 383, Ladypool Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham.
OxYPTiLus TEUCRii. — In his note on this species [ante p. 34), Mr.
South seems to have overlooked the fact that heterodactyla was De Villers'
name, not Haworth's. Careful as Haworth always was, we cannot surely
accept a solitary specimen so labelled by him as sufficient proof of our
teucrii being De Villers' heterodactyla of 1789, to justify the rejection of its
present well-known name. — C. A. Briggs ; 55, Lincoln's Inn Fields,
February 5, 1889.
Abundance of some Lepidoptera. — Notwithstanding the backward-
ness of the season of 1888, several species, although a little late, were of
extremely common occurrence in the New Forest. Macroylossa /uci/ormis _
appeared throughout June last in utter profusion in a favourite locality,
which I visited at least three times during the first and second week of the
month with Mr. McRae, of Bournemouth. I beheve others can give similar
experience concerning the abundance of this species. Catocala promissa
and G. sponsa, which emerged early in August, were also exceedingly plen-
tiful again in a great many parts of the Forest, though C. promissa was
much the commoner of the two, and the specimens exceptionally large,
which was the reverse in 1887. I had very httle difficulty in taking in one
evening alone sixty picked specimens, leaving many others on the trees,
sometimes noticing six to eight on a patch of sugar. On June 20th Mr.
Druitt and I had a day together in the Forest, and found the little black'
Gnophria rubricollis in good condition and in very fair numbers, at rest on
bracken ferns, sometimes in the very thick of the wood. One fact notice-
able was their curious manner of jerking themselves upon the ground and
feigning death when we were approaching them. Should one happen to be
unacquainted with this peculiarity, the insects might thus easily escape
detection. — J. M. Adye ; Somerford Grange, Christchurch.
Lepidoptera in Guernsey and Sark. — I think Mr. W. H. Blaber's
description of Sark as "a bleak and barren island" (Entom. xxi. 324) is
likely to mislead, and may prevent some collectors from visiting it. AH
who have hitherto written about Sark consider it remarkably fertile and the
following extract from ' Inglis' Channel Islands' is an exact description:—
'* Although Sark is usually called a table land, it is intersected by deep,
76 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
wooded, romantic valleys, watered by little tumbling brooks. I descended
into all these valleys, dells, and hollows, and found some of them surpass-
ingly beautiful, — singularly contrasting, in my recollection, with the barren
and rocky coast, that so little prepares one for scenes of soft and wooded
fertility. In some spots it is indeed difficult to believe that one is on a
small islet, two or three leagues in circumference. One valley, the valley
of Dixcart, is every way a charming spot ; it is a winding valley about a
quarter of a mile broad, flanked by hills that appear lofty, owing to its great
depth. Wood in infinite variety fills the lower part of the valley, while the
green sides of the hills, dotted with cattle, entirely shut out the view of the
sea." As far as my experience goes, butterflies are more numerous
in Sark than in Guernsey. I have taken twenty-six species there, viz. : —
Pieris brassicce, P. rapes, P. napi, Colias hyale, C. edusa, Gonopteryx
rhamni, Argynnis latona, A. aylaia, Melit(£a cinxia, Vanessa poly chloros, V.
urtic(B, V. io, V. atalanta, V. cardui, Pararge egeria, P. megcera, Satyrus
semele, Epinephele ianira, E. titJionus, Ccenonympha pamphilus, Thecla ruhi,
Polyommatus phlceas, Lycana astrarche, L, icarus, L. argiolus, L. cEgon.
Of these, A. aglaia and C. pamphilus have never been taken in Guernsey,
and A. latona, V. io, C. hyale and G. rhamni are much commoner in
Sark than Guernsey. Amongst the less common moths the following
have been taken in Sark : — Acherontia atropos, Sphinx convolvuU, Gnophria
rubricollis, Callimorpha hera, Bomhyx tiifolii, Saturnia carpini, Bryophila
glandifera, Agrotis lunigera, Dianthcecia nana, Trigonophora flanunea,
Heliothis armigera, and Catocala nupta, C. hera is very abundant in some
seasons, and on one occasion I took as many as eighteen in one afternoon,
many being of the yellow variety, lutescens. Is Mr. Blaber quite sure that
the butterflies he noticed in Guernsey were Argynnis paphia? I have
collected and observed our Guernsey butterflies for the last twenty years,
and have never met with a single specimen. — W. A. Luff ; 12, Mansell
Street, Guernsey, December, 1888.
ExTEACTioN OF MoTHs FROM Pop^. — As a boy I always used to help
my insects to emerge (Entom. 50 et ante), on the same principle that
I pulled up cuttings to see if they were striking. The victims were
generally Arctia caia, Bomhyx quercus, and Odonestis potatoria. The
latter sometimes developed, the two former never. The wonder was that
any did, as they were extracted from the cocoons about a week after
spinning up, and then gently pinched every morning like peaches, till
eventually some happy morning the thoracic plates cracked. Sometimes
they were peeled at once ; sometimes a fragment was taken off at intervals
during the day. I was led to repeat the boyish experiment in wiser years
in the case of Papilio machaon, one of which died when fully developed,
without making an effort to emerge. This led me to crack the next one,
when the markings showed fully through the wing-cases, and to take the
insect out. It did not seem happy ; and I discovered that the wings,
besides the outer case, were also enclosed in a very delicate sheath. The
upper side of this had been left in the case, but under the wings some frag-
ments were left adhering which seemed to prevent growth. These I
removed and then the insect developed. But one or two subsequent
operations have failed.— G. M. A. Hewett ; The College, Winchester.
SiREx GiGAS IN YORKSHIRE. — This inscct was last July and August
fairly common near York, several fine specimens coming into my possession.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 77
— W. Hewett. [I have seen occasioDal specimens of Sirex gigas among
the fir woods at Sandburn, near York, where it doubtless breeds regularly. —
John T. Carrington.]
Prionus coriarius in Epping Forest. — While taking a ramble in
Epping Forest last October, I found a dead specimen of that rare beetle,
Prionus coriarius, near Dulsmead Hollow. I have never heard of it being
taken so near London but perhaps it may not be so rare near this great
metropolis as we suppose. — A. J. Field ; 43, Medina Road, Finsbury Park.
Callicera ^nea. — One of the rarest and most beautiful of the larger
Syrphidae, were taken last summer in three very widely scattered
locaUties, but only in single specimens. The first was taken by the Rev.
T. A. Marshall, at Cornworthy, near Totnes, July 26th ; the second, by
Mr. Albert Piffard, near Great Berkhampsted, Hertfordshire, August 6th ;
the third, by me at Guestling, near Hastings, August 22nd. All three
specimens were taken on the flowers of Umbelliferse. I believe this scarce
Dipteron has but once before been recorded as occurring in Britain ;
its threefold occurrence last summer is therefore of considerable interest. —
E. N. Bloomfield ; Guestling, Sussex, February, 1889.
Preserving Pupjj of Insects. — Could any one please tell me the way
to preserve pupae of insects ? I wish to preserve some. I unsuccessfully tried
plunging. — Hugh Jackson ; 7, North Brink, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire.
Urtication by Hairs of Insects. — If some of your readers who
have been •* stung " by the larvae or cocoon hairs of Lepidopterous larvae,
would kindly answer the following questions either by postcard or letter, I
should be much obliged, as I am endeavouring to obtain a little light on the
subject of urtication : — 1. By what insects " stung ?" [a) By the larvae.
[h) By the cocoon hairs. 2. The part of the body affected? [a) The palm
of the hand, {p) Any other part. 3. The character and appearance of the
part, if any? 4. If perspiring when "stung?" 5. If the skin be thin and
sensitive to the attacks of insects? 6. Any other remarks? — K. Freer;
St. Mary s Hospital, Paddington, W., February 7, 1889.
High Flat-Setting. — Might I point out one more advantage ia
setting insects a tolerable height on the pin, viz., the prevention of grease
infecting tlie paper or other specimens ? When insects are set in the usual
English fashion, their bodies, or at least part of them, generally touch the
paper. If the insect greases it affects the paper, and even the cork, and
spreads rapidly throughout that portion of the drawer. Now with insects
set higher on the pin this is an utter impossibility, as no part of the insect
touches the drawer, or another insect, if one is careful not to let it do so.
The insect affected can thus grease as much as possible, without the fear
of it spoiling anything save itself. One need not go to extremes with
regard to the height of the insect on the pin ; surely there is some
medium between our low English setting and the very high Continental
method. Those who object to the high setting appear to think it must
mean an insect stuck on the top of a long Vienna pin, whereas one two-
thirds high on our ordinary English pin, is all that is required for all
practical purposes, and serves all the advantages we hold for high flat-
setting. — A. E. Hall; Norbury, Sheffield, December, 1888.
ENTOM. — march, 1889. I
78 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Turf plates for Cabinet Drawers. — I am arranging my collection
in a new cabinet of seventy drawers, which I have lined with the German
turf plates instead of cork. Perhaps it would be interesting to entomolo-
gists to know the result of my experience of this comparatively new sub-
stitute for cork. I did the lining myself. First, I reduced the plates to
about half-an-inch thick. 1 found the best way to do this was to put the
plates in a wooden tray just large enough to hold them, which I had made
for the purpose, with a rim half-an-inch high all round. Any part of the
plate which stood above the rim could thus be pared off with a sharp knife,
and then smoothed down with a piece of No. 1^ glass paper. Next I
trimmed each edge with a thin knife, the edges are liable to crumble if the
knife is too thick. I found an old dinner knife the best. Then I cut the
plates to fit the drawer, and used glue not too thin, as the turf souks it up
rapidly. I applied the glue to the bottom of the drawers, not to each plate,
as the less one wets the plate the better. When glued in they must be
weighted down until dry. When dry I rubbed over the plates again lightly
with fine glass-paper, fastened to a flat piece of wood. Any holes, or
cracks, can be filled up with some of the fine dust of the turf, mixed to a
paste with strong parchment size. Next I gave them a coating of strong
size whitening, and before it got cold, rubbed it over well with a piece of
flat smooth wood, or better still, stone, so as to get the whitening well into
the pores of the turf. When this is dry, smooth it down with No. 1 glass-
paper. The drawer is then ready for papering, and has a smoother surface
than ever obtained with cork. When it comes to putting in the insects, I
have found no hard places, such as there are in cork, so the pins go
in easily anywhere. Turf being thicker than cork and quite soft all through,
one can push down as far as one can wish any insect set high on the pin,
and bring it on a level with one that has the pin only just through it. This
I find a very great advantage, as in exchanging one gets so many different
styles of setting, some high on the pins some low. I was afraid at first that
turf was not elastic enough to hold a pin firmly, but I find that the coat-
ing of whitening, together with the paper, makes just as good a hold for the
pin as cork. On the whole, I consider turf plates a great improvement on
cork ; and should always recommend them for cabinets. — William Farren ;
14, King's Parade, Cambridge. [We should like to have the opinion of
those who have used turf for some time, especially in connection with
ordinary brass pins. — J. T. C]
General Index to the 'Entomologist/
A desire has been expressed for a General Index to the Volumes of the
* Entomologist ' for the last Twenty-five years, and including Vol. I.
(1840-2). Such an index, framed according to the rules of the Index
Society, based on the examination, by an Entomologist, of every page,
and not merely a compilation from the existing indexes, would be of great
value to workers, as saving much time. It would, however, be of value to
the few rather than to the many, and so would not be likely to command a
large sale. It is for those who desire such an index to give practical
evidence of their desire by expressing willingness to subscribe for copies,
and to this end attention is called to the accompanying circular.
79
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — February Qt7i,lSS9. — The Rt.
Hon. Lord Walsinghara, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair. The
President announced that he had nominated Capt. H. J. Elwes, Mr. F. Du
Cane Godman, F.R.S., and Dr. D. Sharp, Vice-Presidents for the session
1889-90. The Rev. F. D. Morrice, M.A., of Rugby: Mr. A. Robinson,
B.A., of Brettanby Manor, near Darlington ; and Mr. H. Burns, of
Fulham, S.W., were elected Fellows ; and Mr. B. A. Bovver, and Mr. H. S.
Fremlin, were admitted into the Society. Lord Walsingham exhibited a
larva of Lophostethus dumolmi, Guer., sent to him by Mr. Gilbert Carter,
from Bathurst, West Coast of Africa. Mr. G. T. Porritt exhibited several
melanic specimens of Boarmia repandata from Huddersfield, and, for
comparison, two specimens from the Hebrides. Mr. M'Lachlan remarked
that melanism appeared to be morft prevalent in Yorkshire and the north
midlands than in the more northern latitudes of the United Kingdom.
Capt. Elwes read a paper *' On the genus Erebia, and its geographical dis-
tribution." The author, after referring to the number of species and named
varieties, many of which appeared to be inconstant as local forms, made
some remarks on the nomenclature of the genus, and suggested that a
better system of classification might be arrived at by anatomical investiga-
tion. It was stated that little was known of the early stages and life-
history of species of this genus, the geographical distribution of which was
Alpine rather than Arctic. The author remarked that it was curious that
there was no species peculiar to the Caucasus, and that no species occurred
in the Himalayas, where the genus- is replaced by C alter ebia ; that none
were found in the Himalo-Chinese Subre«ion, and none in the Eastern
United States of America. He also called attention to the similarity of
the species in Colorado and North-West America to the European species.
Lord Walsingham, Mr. Waterhouse, Mr. 0. Janson, Mr. M'Lachlan, Dr.
Sharp, and Mr. Jenner Weir took part in the discussion which ensued.
Mr. W. Warren read a paper *• On the Pyralidina collected in 1874
and 1875 by Dr. J. W. H. Trail in the Basin of the Amazons." Mr. C.
J. Gahan read a paper entitled " Descriptions of new or little-known
species of Glenea in the Collection of the British Museum." Dr. J. S.
Baly communicated a paper entitled " Notes on Aulacophora and allied
genera." — H. Goss, Hon. Secretary.
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
January 'HUh, 1889. T. R. Billups, President, in the Chair. Rev. Joseph
Greene, M.A., was elected a member. Mr. W. H. Tugwell exhibited
a fine bred series of Deilephila galii. Mr. J. A. Clark, Acidalia immorata.
Mr. Adye, forms of Argynnis paphia, var. valezina. Mr. Tutt, on behalf
of the Rev. C. A. Sladen, a black and almost spotless variety of Strenia
clathrata, a melanic specimen of Agrotis simidans, Hufn., taken in the
Hebrides. The Annual Meeting was then held. The Treasurer then read
an abstract of his accounts for 1888, showing a substantial balance
in favour of the Society. The Council's Report was read by the Secretary,
and the following gentlemen were elected as officers for 1889. Mr. T. R.
Billups, President. Mr. J. T. Carrington, and Mr. W. H. Tugwell, Vice-
Presidents. Mr. E. Step, Treasurer. Mr. W. West (Greenwich), Curator.
Mr. D. J. Rice, Librarian. Mr. H. W. Barker, Secretary. Mr. H. J.
Turner, Assistant Secretary. Messrs. R. Adkin, C. A. Briggs, T. W. Hall,
J. Henderson, W. Manger, J. R. Wellman, and J. J. Jenner Weir, Council.
80 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
February lUh. — The President in the chair. Mr. A. C. Vine was
elected a member. Mr. Adkin exhibited examples of Arctia caia from
Morayshire and Kent, and Hydrcecia nictitans, from Morayshire. Mr.
Tugwell, a marked variety of Chcerocampa porcellus, the usual deep rose
colour of the wings being replaced by a pale olive-green, shaded with grey
markings ; also a variety of Deilephila galii, bred from larva taken at
Deal, the usual characteristic markings of dark olive-green, being replaced
by dull grey, the pale streak that runs from the inner margin to the tip of
the wing being obscured and dull in colour ; inferior wings of a dull pale
grey, lacking the rich rose shade at the anal angle. He remarked that he
had bred two of this variety, and up to the present time seventy of the type.
Mr. Turner, light forms of Zygcena filipendula, from Reigate. Mr. C. A.
Briggs, TriphcBna comes and T. pronuha, from various localities. Mr. Weir
exhibited three male and three female specimens of a butterfly he had
received from the Falkland Islands, They were of the same genus as our
well known Brenthis (Aryynnis) selene and B. euphrosyne, and were
apparently closely allied to the Chilian B. anna, Blanch. Mr. Weir stated
that he had not yet been able to make the necessary references, but he was
at present disposed to regard them as a species new to science ; and if upon
future examination he found his view correct, he proposed for them the
name of Brenthis falklandica. He thought the specimens were sexes of
the same species although the shape of the upper wings differed materially,
and the difference in the colouration of the underside of the under wings
was considerable ; but on the other hand he could detect no difference in
the distribution of the colour on the upper side of either of the upper or
lower wings. It was interesting that palaearctic and nearctic genera of
Lepidoptera reappeared at the southern part of S. America, which were
quite unknown over a vast extent of the intermediate latitudes. But it
should be borne in mind, that there was in the American continents
an almost continuous chain of mountains from the Arctic Ocean to the
Straits of Magellan, which might have formed a connected temperate region
by which the migration of species from the north to the south was effected
at a time when the temperature of the earth was different to that which
now obtains. Mr. Tugwell, two very dark specimens of Boarmia repan-
data, received from Mr. Porritt. Mr. Weir read a letter from Dr.
Percy Eendall, who is now resident at Bathurst, Gambia. Observations
were made upon a reported case of stridulation by a species of Vanessa, and
a discussion ensued. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
Reference Entomological Society. — The report of the Committee
of the South London Entomological and Natural History Society read
recently at the Annual Meeting, contained allusion to the scheme for a
Reference Society, as discussed last year (Entom. xxi. 10, 68, 121). It will
be remembered that it was found impracticable with a small subscription to
institute an independent Society upon the lines indicated ; so the South
London Society stepped in and enlarged their facilities for country member-
ship. The result has been eminently successful, and many entomologists,
representing students of various orders, have not only joined, but availed
themselves of the use of the library and naming of specimens sent up for
the purpose. It seems desirable that these facilities should be widely
known, for they cannot fail to be most useful to entomologists residing in
isolated localities. — [J. T. C.J.
I
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXII.]
APEIL, 1889.
[No. 311.
LIST OF THE BRITISH STRATIOMYID^, WITH
ANALYTICAL TABLES AND NOTES.
By E. Brunetti.
Since the publication of Walker's work on British Diptera
in the ' Insecta Britannica,' many important changes have been
made in the classification and nomenclature of this order, and his
work requires a large number of corrections and additions.
A new work on the whole of the British Diptera is much to be
desired, and Mr. Verrall's recently published list, which comes
almost as a revelation, will form a splendid basis for operations.
A comparison between Walker's list of Stratiomyidse and the
species recognised in this paper as truly British, will show at a
glance in what an unsatisfactory state are most of the hitherto
published works on our indigenous species of this order.
Bkitish StRAT10MYID/E.
1804.
Pachygaster, Mg,
ater, Panz., 1798
leachii, Curt., 1824
tarsalis, Zett., 1842
Ephippium, Lat., 1809.
thoracicum, Lat., 1809
Nemotelus, Geof
uliginosus, L., 1767
pantherinus, L., 1761
nigrinus, Fall., 1814
notatus, Staeg., 1842
OXYCERA, Mg., 1803.
trilineata, ¥., 1781
analis, Mg., 1822
longicornis, Dale, 1842
terminata, Mg., 1822
pardalina, Mg., 1822
formosa, Mg., 1822
pygmcea, Fall., 1817
ENTOM. — APKIL,
nigripes, Verr., 1887
pulchella, Mg., 1822
morrisiiy Curt., 1824
Stratiomyia, Geof., 1784
longicornis, Scop., 1763
riparia, Mg., 1822
furcata, F., 1792
1796. chamceleon, DeG., 1752
potamida, Mg., 1822
Odontomyia, Mg
microleon, L., 1761
argentata, F., 1794
ornata, Mg., 1804
tigrina, F., 1781
angulata, Panz., 1798
hydropota, Mg., 1822
viridula, F., 1775
Sargus, F., 1798.
cuprarius, L., 1761
1889.
infuscatus, Mg,, 1822
flavipes, Mg., 1822
Chrysonotus, Loew.,1855.
bipunctatus, Scop., 1763
Chloromyia, Dune, 1837.
formosa, Scop., 1763
MiCROCHRYSA, Loew.,1855.
polita. L., 1761
1804. fiavicornis, Mg., 1822
Beris, Lat., 1802.
clavipes, L., 1767
vallata, Forst., 1771
chalyheata, Forst., 1771
fuscipes, Mg.
1820
morrisii. Dale, 1842
AcTiNA, Mg., 1820.
tibialis, Mg., 1820
K
83 - THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Table of Genera.
A. Abdomen of only 5 or 6 segments, Scutellum unspined, or with only
2 spines.
B. Discoidal cell, emitting 3 veins. .... Pachygaster.
BB. Discoidal cell, or this and the posterior basal cell, together emitting 4
veins.
C. ScTitellmn spined,
D. Thorax with a strong spine on each side. - - - Ephippium.
DD. Thorax unspined.
E. First antennal joint 3 or 4 times as long as the 2nd. Stratiomyia.
EE. First antennal joint at most twice the length of 2nd.
F. Antennal style, short. - - - ' - - - Odontomyia.
FF. Antennal style, long. Oxycera.
CO. Scutellum unspined.
G. Last antennal joint blunt, about ^ length of antenna. Nemotelus.
GG. Last antennal joint forming a thin style, at least as long as the antenna.
H. Style seated before the apex.
I. Ocelli equidistant. Chrysonotus,
II. Front ocellus removed somewhat from the others. Sargus.
HH. Style seated at the apex.
J. Eyes pubescent. Chloromyia.
JJ. Eyes bare. Microchrysa.
AA. Abdomen of at least 7 segments. Scutellum 2, 4, or 6 spined.
K. Discoidal cell emitting 3 veins Beris.
KK. Discoidal cell emitting 4 veins. Actina,
1. Pachygaster, Mg. (1804), Sys. Bcs. iii. 146.
= Vappo, Latr. ; Nemotelus, Panz. ; Sargus, Fall.
(Germar, in 1817, gave the name Pachygaster to a genus of Curculionidae).
Basal half of wing blackish. . - , - ater.
Wing entirely clear.
Legs pale yellow teachii.
Legs black ; anterior tibiae and all tarsi yellow - tarsalis.
M. Perris, a French Entomologist, considers the larva of
Pachygaster closely allied to that of Sargus.
1. P. ater, Panz. (1798), F. Germ. liv. 5. = pachygaster, Fall.
— Macquart gives some interesting notes on the larva in his
*Dipteres du Nord de France,' and Schilling figures it in Ent.
Beit i. pi. viii. 8. Bather common.
2. P. leachii, Curt. (1824). Br. Ent. 42 = pallidipennis, Mcq.
— Walker mistakes femora for tibiae in speaking of the brown
spot on the hind pair. Not common.
3. P. tarsalis, Zett. (1842), Dip. Scan. i. 152. — Very rare.
Mr. Verrall found one in the late Mr. Wilson Saunders' collection,
and introduced it to the British fauna in the Ent, Mo. Mag.,
1886, p. 179.
2. Ephippium, Lat. (1809), Gen. Crust. Ins. vi. 276.
= Stratiomys, Pz. ; Clitellaria, Walk.
1. E. thoracicum, Lat. (1809),1. c. 276. = ephippium, Walk.,;
larva (figures), Westw. Class. Ins. ii. fig. 127, 128. — Very rare.
It has been taken in Coombe and Darenth Woods. In the British
LIST OF THE BRITISH STRATIOMYID^ . 83
Museum and Mr. Dale's collection. Von Heydon has taken the
larva in a nest of Formica fuliginosa,
3. Nemotelus, Geof. (1796), Hist. d'Ins. ii. 542.
= Stratiomys, F. ; Musca, L.
A. Abdomen in male basal half white, apical half black ; in female all
black, with a dorsal row of yellowish white spots.
1. S"' Basal half of abdomen unspotted, belly white, humeral spots
blackish.
2 . Sides of thorax unstriped. pantherinus.
2. ^. Basal half of abdomen unspotted, belly black, humeral spots
whitish.
2 . Sides of thorax with a white stripe, no white spot above the
antennae. uliginosus.
3. <y . Basal half of abdomen with a central black spot.
2 . Sides of thorax striped, a white spot above the antennae, notatus.
AA. Abdomen in male and female all black. - - - nigrinus.
1. N. uliginosuSy L. (1767), Sys. Nat. ii. 983. = muticus,F. ;
hifasciatuSy Mg. — I have a specimen from the late Mr. Walker's
collection, in which the abdomen is brown instead of yellowish
white. Common. Very variable.
2. N, pantherinus, L. (1761), F. Suec. (1783). = marginatus,
F. ; uliginosuSf Pz. ; marginellus, Fall. ; muticus, Schr. — This
species is said never to be taken in company with N» uliginosus.
Common. Very variable.
3. N. nigrinus, Fall. (1814), Strat. 6 ; Curt. 729. = nigritus,
Pz. — Curtis says this species has a greenish cupreous tinge, which
I have not noticed, but perhaps this is the case during life. Not
common.
4. N. notatus, Staeg. (1842), in Zett. Dip. Scan, i., 148.
= ventralis, Mg. — Introduced as British by Mr. Verrall, in the
Ent. Mo. Mag. for Jan., 1886. Rather rare.
Walker and Curtis both say N. hrevirostris, Mg., has been
taken near London, the former adding, " in the Entomological
Club;" but as I can trace no specimen, and it is a very rare
species on the Continent it seems advisable to exclude it until
further capture takes place. Nearly all the species of Nemotelus
are very variable, and it is difficult to determine them with
certainty unless a series of specimens is available for examination.
4. OxYCERA, Mg. (1803), Illiger's Mag. ii. 265.
= Sargus, Odontomyia, Lat. ; Stratiomys, F. ; Musca, L.
A. Abdomen green (or greenish yeUow in one var.), with black markings
never extending to the edge. trilineata,
AA. Abdomen black, with yellow spots or bands always extending to the
edge.
B. Wings with dark brown suffusion below the stigma. - - analis,
BB. Wings without suffusion.
C. Abdominal spots only at the extreme edge and tip often united, or
abdomen all black.
D. Abdomen all black.
k2
84 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
1
E. Antennae long ; legs black ; in female yellow with black tarsi tips.
longicornis.
EE. Antennae moderate ; legs tawny yellow ; in female with black ring on
posterior femora terminata.
DD. Abdomen with yellow side spots.
F. A broad yellow band round the sides of the thorax, interrupted at
base ot wing. Apical abdominal spot usually united to the others.
G. Antennae tawny. pardalina.
GG. Antennae black formosa.
FF. A very thin band round the sides of the thorax. Apical abdominal
spot seldom united to the others. - . - - jpygmcea.
CO. Abdominal spots large and wide, extending nearly across the disc, and
with one large apical spot.
H. Thorax striped in female. pulchella,
HH. Thorax not striped in female. morrisU.
1. 0. trilineata, F. (1781), Sp. ins. ii. 418. = hypoleon, L. —
A not uncommon variety, known as collarls, is yellow instead
of green. Not rare. Occurring near London.
2. 0. analis, Mg. (1892), Sys. Bes. iii. 130. — An uncommon
species, easily recognised by the suffused stigma. Dorsetshire is
the only locality I know of. This county seems to produce
nearly all the known British species of this genus, they are
certainly all much more abundant in the extreme south-western
counties of England than elsewhere.
3. 0. longicorniSy Dale (1842), Ann. Nat. His. viii. (431).
= ? terminata, Wlk. : ? tenuicomis, Mcq. — A rare species, recog-
nised by the much lengthened antennae. One var. with a very
narrow abdominal border from the middle to the apex seems to be
the terminata of Walker, whose description applies only to the
female, as he says " legs tawny," whereas in the male they are all
entirely black. It appears to be closely allied, if not identical
with, Macquart's tenuicomis; in the latter event tenuicomis
has priority. Without seeing Macquart's type it is impossible to
speak with certainty. The female may be separated from the^
female terminata by having a pair of whitish yellow spots on the
vertex of the head which are absent in terminata,
4. 0. terminata, Mg. (1822), Sys. Bes. iii. 180.— Very rare.
It was a long time before I was satisfied that this was really
a British species, but I have recently seen some specimens from
Mr. Dale's collection taken in Dorsetshire, which are undoubtedly
of this species. Walker says there are four yellow spots behind
the eyes, but this is not the case, his description evidently being
of a variety of longicornis. Curtis gives Pinny (June and July)
as a locality, taken by Mr. Morris, in company with 0. pardalina,
but without seeing the actual specimens it would be rash to
conclude they were correctly named, owing to the great increase
in the number of known species of this genus and their close
affinities.
6. 0. pardalina, Mg. (1822), Sys. Bes. iii. 128.— Walker says
** not rare," but I have not seen any British specimen of it yet.
LIST OP THE BRITISH STRATIOMYIDJE . 85
Mr. Verrall includes it in his list, and Mr. Dale records it from
Dorsetshire. It is certainly a rare species.
6. O.formosa, Mg. (1822), Sys. Bes. iii. 127. = nigricornis,
Enc. meth. ; muscaria, Mg. — Rather uncommon. From the
South Coast and Dorsetshire.
7. 0. pygmcea, Fall. (1817), Strat. ii. = affinis, Curt. ; mus-
caria, Wlk. — In one male and one female in Dr. Mason's
collection the whole underside of the abdomen is black, with two
or three yellow bands extending across it. Schiner says the
scutellum is black, but I find the posterior border more or less
yellow, in one specimen in the British Museum it is entirely
yellow. Curtis gives this as a synonym of muscaria, Fab., but
both are distinct; the latter, moreover, does not appear to be
British. Not uncommon. Mr. Verrall found it abundant once
at Tuddenham.
8. 0. nigripes, Verrall. — I have not seen a specimen of this
species, which is new to science, recorded by Mr. Verrall from
Scotland, but it seems to fall in this division of the genus. As I
do not know the characteristics of this species, it was impossible
for me to insert it in m}^ analytical table.
9. 0. pulchella, Mg. (1822), Sys. Bes. iii. 125. = vara, Walk. ;
hypoleon, L. — In one specimen in Dr. Meade's collection the
whole of the basal half of the abdomen is tawny. In Dr. Mason's
collection I found what appears to be an interesting variety, with
two triangular yellow spots on the vertex of the head, a yellow
edge to the abdomen, and entirely tawny legs, with the exception
of black tarsal tips. Rather common.
10. 0. morrisii, Curt. (1824), Br. Ent. 441.— The female is
easily distinguished from the last species by the thorax being
unstriped. The male is still unknown. Rather rare but widely
distributed, as I have a list of eight well separated localities in
England and Ireland. It is much smaller than its congener
pulchella.
It is difficult to determine exactly how many species of
Oxycera are really British, as several have been introduced at a
time when the genus was less well understood, and in consequence
have to be erased from our list. Curtis introduces 0. leonina, Pz.,
recording one female from Pinny, taken by Mr. Morris, but
I cannot trace the specimen. This species is allied to the
longicornis group. The abdomen is all black with a single yellow
apical spot. Walker introduces muscaria, F., saying it is " not
rare in England and Ireland," but I can find no proof of its
having been taken here. He also introduces /ai^e^i, Staeg., and
dives, Lw., as British, the first on the authority of Haliday from
Ireland, the latter as being in the Entomological Club collection
from England, but I can trace no specimens of either species,
both of which are rare on the Continent. There is certainly a
86 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
large species of Oxycera allied to pulchella in the Entomological
Club collection, but it is not dives, and as it has no history
attached, it would be unsafe to infer the specimen is British.
5. Stratiomyia, Geof. (1784), Ins. ed. Fery.
=: Thyreodontha, Kond. ; Odontomyia, Lat. ;
HiRTEA, Scop. ; MUSCA, L.
A. Abdomen without spots or bands. Thorax with fermginous hair
longicorms.
AA. Abdomen with yellow spots or bands. Thorax with grey hair.
B. Abdomen with 3 distinct pairs of spots ; no bands.
C. Belly black.
D. Four yellow stripes on belly. Abdominal spots yellow. - furcata,
DD. Three yellow stripes on beUy. Abdominal spots whitish. - riparia.
CO. Belly yellow, with 3 irregular black bands. - - - chamceleon.
BB. Abdomen with 1 pair of spots and 2 bands, the first interrupted in male.
potamida.
The larva of Stratiomyia seems to frequent unusual localities,
as one has been found in a hot spring in Colorado, and another in
sea water. It appears also very tenacious of life, as a correspon-
dent of the ' Entomologist,' vol. xiii., records one having lived for
three months in sand without any moisture to sustain life, and on
being placed in water soon recovered its ordinary activity.
1. S. longicorniSj Scop. (17 63), Ent. Carn. 999. = strigata,
thoracica, F. ; villosa, nuheculosa, Mg. — A somewhat variable and
uncommon species. The ferruginous colour of the pubescence on
the thorax is much more pronounced in the male. I have seen it
from Acton, Lewes, Colchester and Hastings. In the species of
this genus, except potamida, males are smaller than the females.
3. S. riparia, Mg. (1822), Sys. Bes. iii. 138. = strigata, Mg.—
A much rarer species than the latter, and allied to both that
species and furcata. Seaford. The female of this and the next
species has bare eyes, and were it not for this, Rondani's genus,
Thyreodontha, would stand good for those species of Stratiomyia
with pubescent eyes.
3. S. furcata, F. (1792), Ent. Sys. iv. 264. = chamceleon, L. ;
panthaleon, Fall.; singularis, Harris. — Rather common, generally
distributed. Closely allied to the preceding species.
4. S. chamceleon, De G. (1752), Ins. vi. 64. = aquatica,
Frisch. ; sellata, Sulzer ; nigrodentata, Mg. ; larva. Walk., Ins.
Brit. Dip. i. 14. — Walker illustrates and describes potamida as
chamceleon, and erroneously gives the former as a synonym.
Swammerdam first described the larva. In the British Museum
collection is a variety with the first two antennal joints tawny.
Rather common, but less so ihsLii furcata. Generally distributed.
5. S. potamida, Mg. (1822), Sys. Bes. iii. 130. = chamceleon,
Walk. — Commoner than the preceding. Widely distributed. All
the species of this genus, except riparia, occur around London.
(To be concluded.)
87
NOTES UPON PHYTOMYZA CBMROPHYLLI, Kalt.
By Peter Inchbald, F.L.S., and K. H. Meade.
At the close of December, 1888, I recently gave some
account (Entom. xxii.) of the habits of this mining Dipteron, in
the pupa-condition of life, giving the food-plant, and its singular
tunnel in the leaflet- segments of the Chcsrophyllum temulum and
other allied species. I looked for it to put on wings in the
spring, but I did not expect to see it until April or even May.-
Several, however, have emerged from their pupa-cases in
Februar3\ I have reared nearly a dozen, both males and females,
and narrowly watched their development. Two broods thus
occur in the year, in spring and autumn.
Kaltenbach was, I believe, the first to rear the tiny Miner, and
after him our fellow-countryman Hardy, who characterised it by
the generic name of Chromatomyia, from its peculiarly-shaped
pupa-case. I sent living imagines to Dr. Meade, who has
furnished me, most kindly, with an admirable diagnosis of the
fly, which will be appreciated by all who study the minuter forms
of Dipterous life.
Peter Inchbald.
Grosvenor Terrace, Hornsea, Holderness, February 16, 1889.
Phytomyza {Chromatomyia, Hardy*) chcerophylli, Kalt.
Nigro-cinerea obscura ; ventro palHdo nigrofasciato ; proboscide hal-
teribusque albidis; pedibus cinereis, genubus prioribus flavidis ; alis sub-
cinereo-hyahnis, venis long. 4 tis pone apicem excurrentibus. Long. $ et
2 1 — IJ mm. (circiter f lin). Dull grey ; eyes red (in life); head, face,
palpi, and antennae, black ; proboscis pale yellow ; thorax, with scutellum,
dark grey, without lustre, with a few long whitish hairs upon the sides ; and
two rows of fine dorso-central bristles rather wide apart, seated upon very
minute black spots. Abdomen dull blackish grey upon the dorsum, and
yellowish white beneath. The posterior edges of the segments are marked
upon the back with very fine pale transverse lines, which coalesce on the
sides with the white ventral surface. The latter is furnished down the
centre with a series of quadrate black spots. The anal segment in the
male is small, round, prominent and shining black. Halteres large and
milk-white. Legs wholly black-grey, with the exception of the knees and
roots of the tibiae of the front pair, which are pale yellow ; the extremities
of the knees of the posterior pairs show a yellow point in some specimens.
Wings hyaline, with a slightly dusky hue; the costa and three first longi-
tudinal veins are robust and black ; the fourth and fifth longitudinal
are paler, but quite distinct ; and the anal vein is well developed, and
extends about two-thirds of the way to the margin of the wing. The
transverse vein is single and very short ; the third longitudinal reaches the
* Hardy separated the species of Phytomyza of Fallen into two genera, on
account of the ditlerent forms of the puiose, which in some are barrel-shaped, in
others slipper-formed. The former he termed Chromatomyice, the latter Phytomyza
(Annals of Nat. Hist., W. 385).
ftft THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
margin of the wing some way before the apex ; and the fourth a short
distance behind it.
The female closely resembles the male in every respect, only it has the
abdomen furnished with a short pointed shining black oviduct.
This small species is closely allied to Phytomyza nigra, Mgn.,
and to P. ohscurella, Fin. The description of the former is so
short that its identity cannot be determined with certainty ; but
the knees of all the legs are described as being pale. P. obscu-
rella is said to differ from Chcsrophylli, by having knees likewise
pale, the abdomen shining black, and the ends of the fourth
longitudinal veins of the wings close to the apex.
These little flies shrivel up and alter so much when dry, that
comparisons between old preserved specimens are of little use ;
descriptions taken from recently killed examples must be con-
sulted for the purpose of identification.
E. H. Meade.
RHOPALOCERA AT WIESBADEN.
By R. M. Prideaux.
WiESBAjDEN is situated on the right bank of the Rhine, about
^5 miles from the river. The tract of country lying between the
town and the Rhine consists entirely of cultivated ground, bare
hedgeless tracts of which are studded with apple, pear, walnut-
trees, &c., and divided up by cart-tracks and paths, North-west
of the town, however, lie the Taunus Hills, being a wooded
district intersected by broad well- watered valleys, and it is here
that collecting can be most profitably pursued. The woods on
the hills consist for the most part of beech and oak ; occasional
patches of fir and larch being planted here and there. The
valleys that lie between the hills are very fertile, and watered by
one or more small clear streams. There is no undergrowth
allowed to grow in the woods, and there are very few hedges, the
absence of which, both as " cover " for the imagines and food for
their larvae, doubtless accounts for the scarcity of some kinds of
Lepidoptera, which is especially noticeable among the Geometraa.
A great variety of flowers and coarse plants, especially Umbel-
lifer£e, grow in the green valleys, which are always mown down
for hay during July. The late spring of 1888, and the excep-
tionally wet and cold summer that followed it, render the
experiences of that one season hardly representative of what one
might expect to meet with under more ordinary conditions, both
as to times of occurrence and numbers of specimens. In the
former, especially, I found that my own observations seldom
coincided with those set forth in a work — * The Lepidoptera of
the District of Wiesbaden,' by Dr. Adolph Rossler, which was
RHOPALOCERA AT WIESBADEN. 89
published some eight or ten years ago. I shall mention the
Rhopalocera in their usual classified order, not in the order
of their occurrence, to avoid repetition in case of double-brooded
insects.
Papilio machaon is double-brooded. The first brood appeared from the
18th of May, and continued throughout June, being fully a month late;
the second brood throughout August. They are generally distributed
about the wood-valleys and cultivated fields, but nowhere very abundant.
P. podalirius is single-brooded, and a good deal scarcer than the last-
named, and appeared about a week later. Its increasing rarity is attributed,
and, no doubt rightly, to the destruction of hedges containing sloe, the food-
plant of the larva. The imagines I noticed once or twice at the blossoms
of the lilac in the gardens skirting the town.
Aporia cratmgl was abundant in the valleys by about June 12th, and
was but a short time on the wing. The larvsB were common during April
and May wherever sloe grew, and I took one web of them on hawthorn.
They also feed on the cultivated plum trees, so the butterflies are not con-
fined to the woods but are common in the fields, where I noticed them
pitched on the corn-stalks in dull weather.
Plerls brassiccB, rapes and napi, were all abundant and double-brooded.
The under sides of the second brood of P. rapes are of a much brighter
yellow tint than those of the spring brood.
Anthocharis cardamines was fairly common throughout May. I was
unable to remark the difference between these and my Clifton specimens of
cardamines, mentioned by Mr. J. J. Weir (Entom. xxi. 143), the orange
patch not occupying more space on the hinder angle than in English
examples.
Leucophasia sinapis was abundant but rather local, preferring the
damper places in the wood-meadows. The first brood began to appear on
May 13th, and the second on July 20th.
Oonopteryx rhamni was abundant about the woods, being seen from
July 25th on, the hybernated ones being common in the spring.
Colias hyale is double-brooded at Wiesbaden, and last year was abun-
dant in both broods. The first began to appear at the end of May, and
continued throughout June. Insects of the second brood continued
common both on the clover-fields and in the meadows and woods throughout
August and September. I could detect no radical difference, either in size
or markings, between the two broods, but in both, the butterflies varied very
considerably in size, breadth of the black margin, and chiefly in the
intensity of colour ; there being every intermediate shade between a lively
yellow, and white, scarcely perceptibly tinged with yellow. Of CoUas edusa
I did not see a specimen ; they are said to be as capricious in their appear-
ance as with us.
Argynnis paphia was very abundant. I noticed the first specimen on
June 29th, and they remained on the wing throughout July and the first
half of August. As with us they preferred the bramble blossoms on the
outskirts of woods. I did not see the variety valesina. A. adippe appeared
on the wing later than any of the other Argynnidae, the first specimen
I met with being on July 20th. It was on the wing for about a month, and
was not very abundant. They flew along with aglaia and niobe in the
flowery valleys lying between the woods. On July 2l8t I had the good
90 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
fortune to capture a fine specimen of the variety cleodoxa, having the usual
silvery spots replaced by fulvous. A. niohe was, by June 20th, already
very abundant in the valleys, it being the first of the larger fritillaries to
appear. The variety eris, in which the silver spots are replaced by fulvous,
was quite as common as the type ; males being apparently more subject to
this variation than females. Intermediate varieties between eris and the
type, having the silver spots only partially replaced by fulvous, were rare.
Niohe continued on the wing throughout the remainder of June and July.
A. aglaia occurred a little later than niohej and was not quite so abundant,
but was found in the same situations. A. latona did not occur with the
others of the genus in the damp, fertile valleys, but preferred dry, stony
ground not near woods, and especially in stubble-fields. In such places
it was fairly common during the last half of August and through September.
There are said to be two broods previous to this one, but I did not
observe the insect before August Ir^ith. A. euphrosyne first appeared on
May 16th, and was on the wing about three weeks. Very common in the
damp valleys. No sign whatever of a second brood. A. selene was abun-
dant, but more local than euphrosyne, preferring damper spots as a rule. It
emerged eight or ten days later than the last insect. There was a partial
second brood early in August, specimens of which were smaller than those
of the spring brood. A. dia was the first of the genus to appear, being
already abundant in the damp valleys by May 16th. They seemed some-
what local, but were nowhere scarce. The second brood» which produces
specimens as abundantly as the first, began to appear on July 20th. These
did not differ in the shghtest in size or appearance from the spring brood.
MelitcBci aurinia was abundant in the low-lying valleys from May 24th
till the middle of June. Neither this species nor the rest of the Melitma
genus were nearly as local as they are with us, but most of them, except
M. didyma, distributed pretty generally about the marshy meadows inter-
secting the woods. Of M. cinxia I netted a few specimens during the last
week of May. It was not so abundant as the rest of the genus. It is
single-brooded. M. didyma is double-brooded. I only met with one speci-
men of the first brood, and it was larger than any I subsequently took in
July. Although a few specimens may occasionally be found in the wood-
valleys, I found the head-quarters of this insect to be on a steep hill-side,
covered with short grass, not mown for hay, and some distance from the
woods. Here in occasional spots it swarmed during the last ten days of
July. M. athaiia was common from May 27th to the end of June, and
could scarcely be called local. I met with a few solitary specimens in the
beginning of August which seem to give evidence of a partial second brood.
I took a good specimen of a variety much resembling the fourth figure of
M. athaiia, given in Newman's ' British Butterflies.' M. aurelia was far
the most abundant of the genus, it swarming in all the meadows in woods
during the last half of June and through July. I took a variety of the same
sort as that of ill. athaiia, hiving the fulvous tint greatly predominating.
M. dictynna was very scarce. 1 took two or three specimens at the end of
June, flying with M. aurelia, which they greatly resembled in flight.
Vanessa c-alhum is double-brooded at Wiesbaden. The first brood
appeared at the end of June, and the second about the middle of August.
They were somewhat local, preferring stony ground, but nowhere scarce.
Specimens of the first brood were lighter and larger than those of the
second. V. c-album was the first, along with V. polychloros, to appear
RHOPALOCERA AT WIESBADEN. 91
after hybernation in the spring. V. polychloros is single-brooded, and was
abundant both before and after hybernation. I took the larva from wych
elm, and saw the first freshly-emerged imago on June 28th. They seemed
all to have retired to their winter quarters before the beginning of August.
V. urticcB did not appear nearly so commonly as the last insect. The
larvae were fairly abundant in August. V. io was common at the begin-
ning of August, and the larvae at the end of June. Of V. atalanta I
saw one or two specimens during the last half of September in 1887, but
did not observe any up to the end of August, 1888. V. antiopa was seen
abundantly in the spring after hybernation, and continued to fly till the
middle of June. The borders of all these were, without exception, white,
like the so-called British antiopa. I saw a few at sallow bloom, and also
at the pear blossoms. The first freshly-emerged butterfly I took was on
August 2nd, and they continued on the wing for about three weeks, and
then disappeared, retiring presumably to their winter quarters. They were
now by no means as commonly seen as in the spring. I never observed
a specimen settle on a flower, they seeming to prefer puddles in the
roads or putrid matter to feed on. The borders of all the fresh specimens
was a rich buff colour. I noticed that the size of the blue marginal spots
varied considerably on different specimens. At Wiesbaden the larvae feed
usually on sallow. Mine eat birch or willow indiscriminately in confine-
ment. In the pupae I met with, the metallic spots usual to the genus
were scarcely perceptible. F. cardui was common on the tracks about the
cultivated ground during June, and was abundant in the same situations
through August.
Limenitis sihylla was generally distributed, but not very common in the
woods during July and first half of August. I netted a few specimens at
bramble blossom.
Apatura iris I saw settling in the muddy puddles on roads in the woods
on July 9th, also some flying high over the oak trees. Owing to the rest
of the month being for the most part very cold and wet, I only once
observed iris again, and then far out of reach. I beat a few young larvae
of this and the next species from sallow late in October, and hope to rear
them successfully when the spring comes. Early in November these larvae
spin a carpet of silk on a twig of sallow, and attach themselves firmly to it,
after which it is impossible to dislodge them by beating. A. ilia was more
abundant than the last. The males of this beautiful species were to be
seen sunning themselves on the muddy roads early in July.
Melanargia galatea swarmed from the end of June till the beginning
of August in all the meadows.
Satyrus semele was rare. I saw one or two specimens by an unworked
limestone quarry.
Pararge egeria was also scarce. I noticed a few specimens about the
middle of May and two more in July. P. megcera I did not see anything
of till the end of July, when it began to appear abundantly on all the stony
tracks about the corn fields.
Erehia medusa appeared very locally on marshy spots in the wood-
meadows on May 30th, and continued a short time on the wing. E.
(Bthiops was abundant, but also local during the first three weeks of August.
It seemed to prefer drier situations than E. medusa. The colours and
markings of the underside of E. athiops presented a great deal of variety.
Epinephele ianira swarmed everywhere in June, July and August.
92 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
E. titJionus was scarce. I saw a few specimens at bramble blossom early
in August. E. hyperanthes was distributed about the woods, and was
partial as usual to bramble blossom. I took a specimen of the variety
arete, with each eye-spot barely indicated on the underside by a white speck.
Ccenonympha arcanius, occurred from June 20th till the end of July,
and was common on all grassy places, and in the more elevated meadows.
C. pamphilus was abundant everywhere.
Thecla hetulce I saw rarely in the perfect state, flitting on the outskirts
of woods. The larvae were abundant on sloe in May and June, from
which I bred several imagines. T. ilicis was fairly common but local
from June 25th on the blackberry blossoms, from which they were easily
taken. I subsequently saw two or three at the wild thyme. T. quercus
was scarce. I netted two or three during July. T. ruhi, though supposed
to be double-brooded here, did not put in an appearance a second time, but
was very abundant in May and first half of June.
Polyommatus vlrgaurecB was scarce. They prefer the more highly
situated meadows in the woods. I netted about eight females during the
first half of August, and only two males. P. chryseis was also not common
and decidedly local, preferring the marshy spots in the meadows, where one
might meet with one or two specimens by some hours' hunting. I took
more males than females of this species, possibly owing to their being so
much more conspicuous. Chryseis is single-brooded, and occurred during
the latter half of June. P. dorllis was the most abundant of the " Coppers,"
it being apparently double-brooded, and occurred most commonly during the
last half of May and first half of June, and then in greater profusion in
August. The great difference between the males and females of this
species, both as to markings and outline of the wings is somewhat puzzling
at first. The tawny patch in the centre of the forewing of the male,
varies very much in extent and brilliancy. P.phlceas occurred at the same
times as P. dorllis, but was not nearly so abundant.
Lycmna argiades occurred but very sparingly jn May, in the small form.
I netted only two, a male and female of this first brood, and saw one other.
The large form, the second brood, was far more abundant, preferring any
piece of open rough ground to the meadows in woods, where I did not
once observe it. Some disused quarries of limestone produced it most abun-
dantly, but one met with it occasionally all over the tracks intersecting
the cultivated ground. L. cBgon was double-brooded and abundant. Large
specimens of the second brood seemed to correspond to insects I saw named
as L. argus in European collections, but I was unable satisfactorily to
distinguish the two, so am not sure whether I met with the true L. argus
or not. L. corydon is not supposed to inhabit the Taunus Hills, neverthe-
less I met with two odd specimens in different places not on chalk ; one on
July 22nd, and the other on August 14th. It is said to be abundant at
Mayence, eight miles from Wiesbaden. L. baton, Bgstr. [hylas), occurred
in May and July, and was generally distributed in the meadows in woods.
They appeared far more abundant during July than in May. L. astrarche
was scarce. I met with one or two on some broken ground during July
and August. They were like our southern specimens, but rather larger
than usual. L. icarus was very abundant everywhere and triple-brooded ;
specimens of the third brood were very diminutive in size. L. bellargus
is not supposed to occur at Wiesbaden, but is abundant on the other side
of the Rhine opposite. In September of 1887, however, I took several
KHOPALOCEEA AT WIESBADEN. 93
specimens on a piece of chalky ground that was soon after built over,
so bellargus was exterminated. These were all I met with, with the
exception of a single specimen on July 22nd, in one of the more elevated
of the wood-meadows, but nowhere near chalk. L. argiolus was very
scarce ; I only saw one specimen of the May brood, and netted three or
four during July of the second brood. The larva is said to live on
heather ; it is certain that neither holly nor ivy can be its food-plants,
as the former is unknown wild, and the latter plant very rare near
Wiesbaden. L. cyllarus, Rott., was abundant but somewhat local, from
the middle of May till the second week in June. It is single-brooded.
L. areas, Rott., and euphemus, Hb., were abundant, but exceptionally
local, preferring marshy low-lying meadows, where Sanguisorba officinalis
grew. The former insect was somewhat earlier than the latter, being
on the wing from about July 20th till the middle of August, while
euphenius swarmed during the last week in July and first in August. I
met with some interesting varieties of L. areas, both as to the number
and size of the black spots on the fore wing, which are arranged much like
those on L. arion. In one specimen all the spots except the discoidal one
are obsolete. L. arion was abundant, and distributed wherever wild thyme
grew. They were on the wing from July 18th till about the middle
of August. They varied a good deal in size, my smallest specimen being
1 in. 2 lines in extent of wing, and the largest 1 in. 8 lines. The black
spots on the wing varied even more than in L. areas in number and magni-
tude, in some they are barely indicated, and in others cover the greater
part of the wing. The breadth of the black margin also varies considerably.
L. aeis was rare. I only met with four, two males and two females.
I took them on a sloping dry meadow on the outskirts of a wood.
They appeared in June, and are single-brooded. L. alsus was not common.
I noticed one or two specimens of both broods (occurring in June and
August) on the grassy hillside of a dry meadow.
Nemeobiiis lucina was scarce, and continued but a short time on the
wing. I netted about half-a-dozen specimens in the middle of May. The
larva must feed at Wiesbaden entirely on cowslip. Primula veris, as the
primrose is not found wild.
Syriehthus malvcB was abundant throughout May. Of S. alveus I took
one specimen in a chalk pit near the Rhine.
Nisoniades tages was abundant in May, and I noticed a few specimens
in July of an imperfect second brood.
Spilothyrus alcecB, Esp., was common on dry grassy places during June.
Hesperia sylvanus and comma were both fairly common in July, in open
spaces in woods. H. thaumas abounded everywhere in July.
This makes a total of 75 species, which number might doubt-
less be enlarged by harder work in a more favourable season.
Butterflies got so charmingly but distractingly abundant by the
beginning of June, that it became no easy matter to follow down
some suspicious-looking Lyccena or Argynnis among the crowds
of various insects that swarmed in the flowery valleys. I was
disappointed in failing to meet with Pieris daplidice, but I saw no
sign of it, although I netted many white butterflies on suspicion.
9, Vyvyan Terrace, Clifton, Bristol.
94 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
CONTKTBUTEONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTU^ OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 62.)
Xylophasia, St., liepatica, L.
The type of this species is described b}^ Linnaeus, * Systema
Naturse,' p. 853, No. 169, as ** Noctua spirilinguis cristata, alis
glaucescentibus ; fascia ferruginea abbreviata terminalique plicata."
*' Dorsum pluribus exasperatum. Alarum color hepaticus :
fascia ferruginea vix latus interius appropinquante." Guenee, in
his ' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 144, says : " Linnaeus has badly
described it as ' wings glaucous;' and Clerck has figured it with
bluish wings, which made Hiibner believe that it was tincta.'*
Hlibner figures tincta under the name hepatica. I am inclined to
think that Guenee, who was undoubtedly not well up in the
varieties of this group, did Linnaeus an injustice. My own
impression is, that the Linnaean type was a glaucous one, and that
our forms are different to the Linnaean type. There is a constant
glaucous variety of rurea (closely allied to the type). I have a
glaucous variety of scolopacina. Why should there not be a
glaucous form of hepatica ? The British specimens appear to be
of two distinct forms, one clear dull brown, with typical
markings, as in Newman's ' British Moths,' p. 285, but with no
transverse markings, var. epomidion, Haw., the other of a redder
colour, and much marbled with transverse ochreous markings.
This latter marbled form is the character ea of Hiibner.
«. var. characterea, Hb. — Hiibner's fig. 133 may be described as having
the anterior wings brown, with a reddish tinge, with the ordinary dark
markings, but a number of transverse lines, ochreous outlined with black,
gives the variety a very mottled appearance. The darker ground colour
shows up very distinctly between the pale line near the hind margin, and
the pale line just beyond the reniform. I believe this variety occurs
in most British localities. I have taken it in various locahties in Kent,
and have received it from the neighbourhood of Barnsley (Yorkshire), the
New Forest, &c.
(3. var. epomidion. Haw. — This is the ordinary form which we get,
" brown, without the ochreous transverse markings which occur in
characterea'' Haworth, in his ' Lepidoptera Britannica,' p. 170, thus
describes it : "Alis griseo fuscoque variis strigis tribus pallidioribus obso-
letis dentatis." " Lineola basi anticarum alarum ssepe geminata; striga
antica undulata (subinde omnino obliterata), altera pone medium denticulata
extus arcuata et subinde quasi geminata; tertiaque juxta marginem
posticum alte et irregulariter dentata, et nebulis fuscis adnata. Margo ipse
posticus fusco punctatus. Alae posticse ut in praecedentibus [rurea)^
It must be noticed that in the * Lepidoptera Britannica,' p.
169, Haworth copies the Linnaean description of hepatica, which
VAKIEIIES OF NOCTU^ IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 95
he applies afterwards apparently to rurea. It must be confessed
there is considerable doubt about the types of this species and
rurea,
Xylophasia, St., scolopacina, Esp.
The type is represented by Esper's fig. 1, plate 130. The
figure is bad, but certainly recognisable as this species. The
following is the description I made of it : — " Anterior wings
dark ochreous, with a decided brown tinge, a dark dash at the
base of the inner margin. A dark red basal streak, paler
(ochreous) orbicular, and reniform dark-centred ; a dark line
from costa to inner margin ; between stigmata a reddish lunule
on the inner edge of the reniform ; a number of dark long
streaks outside the reniform, and a pale wavy line parallel to the
hind margin. Hind wings brownish, with a reddish tinge, upper
margin dark reddish." Hiibner figures (460) scolopacina, a small
male, with ground colour pale ochreous, the middle of the wing
(between the stigmata) and the outer margin reddish, orbicular
indistinct, reniform white, with a small white spot beyond the
reniform. Guenee says of scolopacina: — "It varies much in
size and intensity of colour, but the lines are always more
distinct than in any other Xylophasia " (' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p.
145). Of Freyer's, Plate Ixiv., fig. 1 — scolopacina, I made the
following notes : — " Yellow ochreous with a reddish tint, a dark
red lineola at base of inner margin, orbicular outlined in blackish,
reniform red outlined in whitish ; four dark costal streaks above
stigmata, a double basal line, a waved line outside reniform,
forming almost linear dots on nervures, dark reddish line parallel
to hind margin." It will be thus seen that Esper's type and
Htibner's figure are much darker than the generality of specimens
taken in Britain, while Freyer's is very much like them. I have
a specimen captured by Mr. Harrison, near Barnsley, slightly
glaucous, but otherwise dark like the type. All my others are
much paler. The dark type is also described in Humphrey and
Westwood's 'British Moths,' vol. i., p. 160, but the pale form is
figured in the same work, Plate xxxii., fig. 8. The paler form is
described by Haworth as follows : —
a var. abbreviata, Haw. — " Alse ex hepatico lutescentes, vel subinde
saturatiores varie iiebulosae; basi ad latus interius hneola nigra, fascia sub-
fusca ill medio costse valde abbreviata; pone stigmata ordinaria obsoleta,
striga tenuis nigra, regulariter et concinne dentata : tunc striga altera
crassior fusco-brunnea juxta marginem posticuin, parum undulata ; niar-
gine ipso ustulato, punctis circiter quiuque paUidis ; cihis itidem ustulatis "
(' Lepidoptera Britannica,' p. 170). As these pale specimens vary a little
inter se, I think Haworth 's name should include all our paler ochreous
forms.
p. var. nuXf Frey. ? — Guenee, in his ' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 145, gives
this as a probable variety of scolopacina. He says of it : — " 1 have uot
96 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
seen it, and I do not know whether it constitutes a distinct species, which
is very possible. After the figure of Freyer, it is of a larger size, the crest
and the thorax are of a deeper brown, and other less important characters."
My own note on this is : — " Freyer, Plate cccIxk. fig. 3. Like scolopacina,
but as large as rurea.""
Xylophasia, St., zollihoferi, Frey.
I have been reminded by Mr. Dobree that I ought scarcely to
pass this rare species which has been twice captured in Britain ;
one in the beginning of October, 1867, by Mr. Harding of Deal,
the other by Mr. Tait, at Inverurie, a few miles from Aberdeen,
in September, 1871. The former specimen is in the Doubleday
collection at the Bethnal Green Museum, the other is, I believe,
still in the possession of Mr. Tait. The notice of the first
capture as recorded in the * Entomologist,' vol. v. pp. 29, 30, is by
Mr. Doubleday, and is as follows : — " The beginning of October,
1867, Mr. Harding took a large Noctua at Deal, which was
unknown to me, but which I thought might be X. zollikoferi, from
M. Guenee's remark that some authors had placed this insect in
the genus Nonagria, and Mr. Harding's moth certainly resembles
a female N. typhce in colour and markings. A short time since I
sent it to Dr. Staudinger, and he says it is X. zollikoferi var.
This species is principally found in Hungary and Russia, but is
not common anywhere." The notice of the second capture may
be found in the * Scottish Naturalist,' vol. i. pp. 267, 268, with a
very full description by Dr. F. Buchanan White. The type of
this species is represented by Freyer in his ' Neuere Beitrage,
&c., pi. 184, figs. 1 & 2. Fig. 1 is a male, the " anterior wings of
a dull smoky brown colour, with the basal part of the inner
margin paler, the nervures of the same dark colour as the other
part of the wing ; a short, black, longitudinal, basal line just
under the median nervure ; the claviform distinctly outlined in
black, but only the slightest traces of the other stigmata ; a row
(8) of longitudinal black dots on the nervures just beyond the
reniform area ; a faint greyish line parallel to hind margin just
outside the dots. Hind wings pale grey, with darker outer
margin, dusky nervures, and dusky lunule." Fig. 2 is a female.
It is like fig. 1, but the basal and median areas pale greyish
brown, extending from the inner margin to costa, followed by the
dull, dark, smoky brown colour of the male on the outer area
(beyond the reniform) ; basal streak, row of black dots and grey
line as in male, but no stigmata. Hind wings much darker than
in male, dark smoky brown as in anterior wings, base a little
paler." Herrich-Schaffer s two figures, ' Schmet. von Europa,' &c.,
figs. 103 and 104, also represent dark specimens; fig. 103
approaching most nearly to the British specimens. Strange to
say both the British specimens are strikingly pale, the Inverurie
specimen being paler than the specimen captured at Deal. Of
VARIETIES OF NOCTU^ IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 97
this varintio)! Dr. ^Yhite, quoting Mr. H. Doubledaj^ writes : —
*' ' This (the Inverurie specimen) is a very pale variety. My
specimen (the Deal one) is thickly irrorated with black along the
nervures, and very closely resembles in appearance a female
N. typhce. I sent my specimen to Dr. Staudinger, and he said it
at^reed exactly with a specimen in his cabinet which was captured
in Hungary. He added that it was one of the rarest of the
European NoctncB^ and he only knew of the existence of a few
specimens, two of which were taken near Berlin, and the others in
Hungary and Russia ' " (* Scottish Naturalist,' vol. i. p. 267). As
our two British specimens are so much paler than the type I
propose to call them var. pallida.
Var. pallida, mihi. — The following is Dr. White's description of the
Aberdeenshire specimen : — ** F'ront wings shining greyish ochreous, more
grey bevond the subterminal line, and the nervures faintly marked out in
grey. The only markings are the orbicular stigma, the edges of which are
pale ochreous but very indistinct ; the claviforra stigma also edged with
ochreous but almost imperceptible ; the reniform stigmata which are more
apparent, outlined with ochreous, and the lower end filled in with pale
grey ; the elbowed line, which consists of a row ^in some places double) of
small blackish spots on the nervures, and a faint ochreous line near the
inner margin; and the subterminal line which is pale ochreous and
serrated, especially in the middle where it is like a W, the serrations looking
towards the base are tipped with grey. The hind margin is undulated,
and between the tips of the nervures is a grey line ; the fringes are
ochreous, intersected by a darker line ; the inner margin is narrowly
greyish black. The hind wings are ochreous white with the nervures and
the hind margin irregularly ochreous grey. The expansion of the wing is
about 2^ inches." Dr. White then adds: — *' Herrich-Schaffer * Schmet.
von Europa,' &c., gives two figures of this species. Fig. 103 is most like
the Inverurie specimen but differs in being much darker in colour, in
having no trace of the claviform and orbicular stigmata, the elbowed line
distinctly formed of two rows of dots and no ochreous line on the inner
margin, the subterminal line more distinctly marked with grey. The hind
wings are much darker, and the expanse of the wings barely 2 inches. Fig.
104 is very different and looks almost like a different species " (' Scottish
Naturalist,' vol. i. pp. 267, 268). The Doubleday specimen is so much
paler than the type, that I think it may be very well included under this
varietal name.
Dipterygia^ St., scabriuscula, L.
The type of this species is the scahriuscula of the * Systems
Naturae,' 10th edition, p. 516, No. 108, where it is described as
follows : — " Noctua spirilinguis cristata, alis deflexis fuscis :
margine dorsali posticoque pallidis." " Cristse in dorso ipsius
abdominis 4 pone thoracem gibbum." The same author in the
12th edition of the same work appears to describe the same
species under the name of pinastriy but in the description of
pinastri he uses the word ** nigris " instead of "fuscis," otherwise
ENTOM. — APRIL, 1889. li
98 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
1
the descriptions are identical. There is a difference in the^
ground colour, some being much better described by the term
" fuscous " than " black." It is described b}^ Haworth under the
same name pinastri, as: — "Alis nigris, macula striata cinerea
aquilse alam simulante ad angulum ani.*' " Cristata, niger vel
ater antennis subferrugineis, thoracis dorso abdomineque cinereis.
Alse superiores postice undulatim et striatim plus minus cinereaj.
Margo tenuior etiam cinerascit. Posticse alse fuscse, ciliis cinereis."
Hiibner also figures (246) pinastri, with normal anterior but
bluish posterior wings. This latter is without doubt due to over-
colouring. Newman in his ' British Moths,' p. 287 says : — " This
is one of those moths which are constant in the arrangement and
tint of their colours. I am unable to select from among the
numerous specimens which have reached my hands, a single
individual to which I can possibly allude as a variety." I have
seen no good varieties ; but some specimens have the dark
portions of the anterior wings much more intense than others.
Possibly the greatest amount of variation exists in the quantity of
pale longitudinal markings near the hind margin, some having a
large number of short longitudinal streaks especially near the
apex, others being almost without them ; while some have the
pale marking (from which it gets its English name " the bird's
wing ") near the anal angle, and its continuation along the inner
margin of a much clearer grey than others ; in fact, I have some
where this marking is almost absent, and others where it is quite
whitish grey with scarcely any darker shading. I have one
specimen much below the average size. Guenee in his ' Noctuelles,'
vol. V. p. 146 writes : — " Superior wings brown-black, with the
inner margin and a large bilobed spot at the anal angle, of a
testaceous grey marked with brown streaks."
var. pinastri, L. — The Liunaean description * Systema Naturae,' 12th
edition, p. 851, No. 160, is as follows: — " Noctua spirilinguis cristata, alis
deflexis nigris: margine dorsali posticoque pallidis." "Cristas in dorso
ipsius abdominis 4 pone thoracem gibbum ; characteres in alis atri."
(Black instead of fuscous.)
(To be continued.)
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 56.)
m. Suppression of light markings.
Papilio asterias asteroideSy Eeak. Limenitis artliemis; dimor-
phic forms, lamina, Fab., andi proserpina, Edw. Apatura iris iole^
Schiff., Newman, Brit. Butt. 72. Mamestra persicarice unicolor,
Stgr. — These must, I suppose, be regarded as cases of partial
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 09
melanism; but Mr. H. Goss (Entom. xi. 73), in describing a
dark variety of Chelonia villica from Brighton, mentions that
several dozen larvae from the same place produced the type, and
suggests further that the aberration was due to a diseased condi-
tion in the larva. Now this variety exhibited coalescence of the
dark markings and suppression of the light ones, which further,
was more complete on the right than on the left side, so it seems
certain that it had nothing in relation with such cases of
melanism as Pieris napi bryonies. I am therefore inclined to
separate all dark forms into two groups: 1. True melanisms.
2. Cases of coalescence of markings due to disease. What the
precise nature of the disease may be, and which forms precisely
are to be classed in either group, is for future investigations to
decide.
n. Coalescence of dark markings,
Argynnis bellona fasciata. The zigzag band fused with the
outward of the inner markings, forming a wide band (Maynard).
Chrysophanus hypophloeas fasciatus, Strecker. C. phloeas fasclatuSy
Entom. xi. 25, with fig. (W. P. Weston). Acronycta tridens
fasciata, with marginal band, Entom. xi. 24. — In these cases
the dark markings have coalesced to form bands, such as are
normal with other species, and it is hard to consider them
entirely as cases of disease. Whatever may be their nature,
I think there can be no doubt that they point to the way in which
bands were originally acquired in banded species, and very
possibly by careful breeding from banded aberrations such as
these, a two banded race might be formed.
Argynnis lathonia valdensis, Esp. A. idalia. Maynard figures
a variety in which the silver spots on underside are partly
coalesced. — These two examples of coalescence of the silvery
markings in Argynnis may be considered here. They probably
do not essentially differ from the other cases of coalescence
cited above. Silvery markings have, however, probably originated
in a metamorphosis of some white pigment, in which case
Anthocharis belia ausonia, Hb., will be an instance of reversion.
o. Suppression of dark markings.
Nathalis iole irene, Fitch. Lyc(ena astrarche deleta, ground
colour of underside pearly white, with the red marginal spots
very bright, but nearly all the normal black spots absent. Entom.
xii. 185, with tig. L icarus icarinus, and L. bellargus cinnus, are
also cases of suppression of markings. L. icarus ^ nigromaculata
(Entom. 1887, 21G) is an opposite condition. Melitcea cinxid
paucimaculata, Newman, Brit. Butt. p. 48. Pieris rapes immacU'
lata, tom. cit. p. 161. Lomaspilis marginata subdeleta, Newman,
Brit. Moths, p. 101. Abraxas grossulariata deleta, tom. cit. 99;
L 2
100 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
also Proc. S. Lend. Ent. See. PI. i. fig. 2. Melanippe flactuata
deleta, Proc. S. Lond. Ent. Soc. 1886, 44. Calomela sexmaculata
suhdeleta, Ent. Mo. Mag. 1885, 224. — The case of Abraxas, in
which a many-spotted moth occasionally appears almost or quite
spotless, is exactly reversed in the American Hyphantria cunea^
Drury. Near Washington the type of this insect is spotless
white, but further south a variety {punctatissima. Smith), is found,
in which the wings are profusely spotted with black, while every
gradation between these two extremes occurs. (For figures showing
variation, see U. S. Dept. Agric, Entom. Div. Bulletin, 10, 1887).
p. Unusual development of light markings.
Papilio asterias calverleyi, Grote, " probably caused by the
action of cold on the pupa soon after pupating " (G. H. French).
Graptaj -album aureomarginata. The yellow border to the wings
without marks, and bright golden yellow (Mrtynard). Vanessa,
antiopa hygicea, Hdrch. ( ^= lintneril. Fitch). According to May-
nard, this variety is said to occur in America in the proportion of
about 1 to 500, typical = ; he thinks it is perhaps due to reversion.
Dr. Lang states that this variety has been taken in Britain.
Zygcena filipendulce cytisi, Hb. Vanessa carduiy var. from Grahams-
town, Proc. S. Lond. Ent. Soc. 1886, 60 (J. J. Weir).— These, of
course, are similar in nature to the last, but their cause is very
obscure, and probably not the same in every case. I cannot agree
with Prof. French that P. asterias calverleyi was caused by cold,
especially as he says '* soon after pupating," at which period the
wing-pigments would not have begun to be formed. Besides,
this aberration has been taken in Florida, where severe cold does
not occur.
(To be continued.)
DESCRIPTIONS OF TWO NEW SPECIES OF THE
COLEOPTEROUS FAMILY CETONIID.E.
By Oliver E. Janson, F.E.S.
Clinteria mjipennis, n. sp.
Head coppery green, shining, coarsely punctured, the punctures con-
fluent at the sides and apex, a fine smooth median line, apex of the clypeus
rounded, a little reflexed, and with a small central noich. Thorax dull
coppery olive, a broad angular band on each side, and a small round spot
on the basal lobe pale ochreous yellow, the disk finely and very sparsely
punctured. Elytra dull red with five pale ochreous yellow spots on each ;
the first in the centre about one-fourth from tlie base; the second nearer
the suture, about midway between the base and apex; the third close to
the outer margin just beyond the middle ; the fourth near the outer apical
^ngle ; the fifth between the apical callosity and the suture ; tlie third spot
is transverse and sinuous, the others are sub-orbicular ; the disk with some
NOTES ON THE NOTODONTIDiE. 101
rows of coarse shallow punctures and feebly bicostate. Pygidium dull
olive-brown, a large triangular pale ochreous spot on each side, the apex
with sparse yellow hairs. Beneath bronzy black, with large ochreous spots
at the sides, mesothoracic epiraera ochreous above; raesosternal process
narrow, the apex compressed; abdomen sliglitly impressed in the centre.
Legs red-brown, posterior femora with an ochreous stripe at the sides,
anterior tibiae with two lateral teeth. Length 14 millim.
Habitat, Colombo, Ceylon.
This species is allied to C. hilaris, Burm., but may be at
once distinguished by its different coloration and narrow meso-
sternal process. The specimen described is a male, and was
given to me by Mr. Geo. Lewis.
CUnteria caliginosa, n. sp.
Deep black, thorax and elytra dull, the other parts shining. Head
closely punctured, a slight longitudinal elevation between the eyes ; clypeus
impressed on each side, the apex rounded, narrowly reflexed and very
slightly emarginaie. Thorax with a narrow interrupted white lateral
border, very coarsely punctured, the sides rounded. Elytra with four white
spots on each ; the first in the centre of the disk ; the second and third close
to the lateral margin between the middle and apex ; the fourth between the
apical callosity and the suture ; the disk feebly bicostate, and with rows of
coarse shallow punctures. Pygidium coarsely and transversely strigose, a
very small white spot on each side. Beneath very coarsely strigose, and
with sparse black hairs at the sides ; sides of the abdomen and the legs very
coarsely punctured ; mesosternal process short and narrow, its apex obtuse
and a little divergent ; anterior tibiae with two lateral teeth, intermediate
and posterior tibiae with a large sub-median tooth. Length J '^-18 miUim.
Habitat, Kodeicanel Mountains, Madras.
The white markings in this species are evidently liable to
considerable variation, in one example the lateral border on the
thorax is only represented by a small spot at the anterior angle,
the discal spot on the elytra is divided into two, and. the other
spots are very small. In form and sculpture it approaches
C. sexpustulatay G. P., but the mesosternal process is much
shorter, the clypeus is less deeply emarginate, the thorax is more
rounded at the sides, and the colour and position of the spots on
the elytra is different.
NOTES ON THE NOTODONTID^.
By the Rev. Bernard Smith.
No. 5.—L0PH0PTERYX GAEMELITA and NOTODONTA DICTjEOIDES.
Less cannot be said, than that Lophopteryx carmelita is one
of the most beautiful of our Prominents. My paper on Notodonta
chaonia (Entom. xxi. 36), elicited the fact that the species was
not so exclusively southern as I had considered. It brought me
the larva from Scotland. But carmelita is known to be a northe»'r
102 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
insect as well as a southern. Yet I have heard of no captures of
late years except in Sussex. It is nowhere common.
The egg is white and conspicuous, yet I never heard of its
being found. It is less than that of Notodonta trepida.
The larvae as well as those of N, chaonia, and other Promi-
nents, are occasionally cannibal, and in many localities it is not
easily reared. Here on a chalky soil I have found no difficulty.
The larva might be mistaken for that of Notodonta trimacula^ but
is stouter in the middle, and tapers towards the ends.
The moth pairs readily, and may be found paired generally
till the morning. Probably, therefore, a search for the moth
on palings or the branches of birch trees would be most success-
ful early in the mornings of May.
I have never noticed a variety of this insect, but northern
specimens are much smaller than southern.
Notodonta dictceoides is another interesting Prominent, and its
range is from the Highlands to the New Forest. The egg is
white, and resembles that of L. carmelita, turning almost black
however before hatching. The larva is cannibal in its habits
from early youth, and it is necessary to isolate them as far as
possible. When large the yellow lateral stripe makes this
larva easily seen by birds, and I have lost many by the birds
drawing them through the muslin sleeves, when fed on the
growing trees. The remedy is a double sleeve. This larva likes
the shade.
Notodonta dictcBOides^ as with N, dictcea, is in some seasons
double-brooded, at least partially. Perhaps one reason why this
moth is still a rarity, is the tenacity with which the larvae cling
to the birch twigs. Hence many are wounded by the beating-
stick, and still more escape capture. It is probable the larva
should be searched for, and though the process is wearisome, it is
worth the trouble. This larva seems less attacked by ichneumons
than most others of this family.
It is supposed to feed exclusively on the birch, but I have
heard that near Doncaster it is found on aspens. This, however,
must be considered as the exception which only confirms and
proves the rule.
Marlow, December 22, 1888.
NOTES UPON THE BRITISH PTEROPHORI.
By Richard South, F.E.S.
Oxyptilus heterodactylus.
Every one interested in Pterophori will be obliged to
Mr. C. A. Briggs for correcting the error first made by
Dr. Mason, and subsequently perpetuated by me, in assigning
heterodactylus to Haworth instead of De Villers. Without proof
NOTES UPON THE BRITISH PTEROPHORI. 103
that this particular insect of Haworth's is distinct from that to
which De Villers gave the name of heterodactyla, there is, however,
nothing in the rectification which can in any way aifect Dr. Mason's
conchision as to the identity of teiicrii and heterodactylus.
Stephens evidently considered the heterodactyla of De Villers
identical with Haworth's insect of the same name, for in his Syst.
Cat. Brit. Ins. ii. p. 231, No. 7628, we find it entered thus: —
25 ; heterodactylus (Sam. i. 35). Ph. Al. heterodactyla, Villers,
E. ii. 535. Al. heterodactyla ; the spotted black Plume (Haw. Pr.
39), Haw. 479. In Steph. Brit. Entom. Haust. iv. p. 377 (1834),
however, Haworth's name is omitted, and the reference is only to
De Villers and Steph. Cat.
Platyptilia zetterstedti.
By the courtesy of Lord Walsingham I have lately had the
privilege of examining Zeller's type of P. zetterstedti. I cannot
see that the specimen ditfers in any way from some examples of
undoubted gonodactyla, and it certainly is not identical with the
insect we know as zetterstedti.
In the March number of the * Young Naturalist,' Mr. Briggs
has been good enough to criticise my remarks on this species
(ante, p. 29), and among other things he says that my now defunct
taniadactylus narrowly escaped from being called identical with
farfarella. We are not told how he arrived at this conclusion,
but it is quite clear that no ordinary process of putting two and
two together would lead to such an egregious mistake. If I am
correct in considering Zeller's zetterstedti and farfarella to be
forms of gonodactyla, my tceniadactyla is not implicated in the
* bouleversement ;' as it is not a variety of Zeller's zetterstedti,
but of nemoralis, Zell., of which species I believe our pseudo
zetterstedti to be a form. I am sure this was already the view
taken by the majority of those who may have read my previous
remarks on this species. I must, therefore, apologise to them for
explaining that which, of course, they will think required no
explanation.
Oxyptilus Icetus, Zell.
It will, perhaps, be remembered that I recorded the capture
of 0. Icetiis, Zell., in N. Devon (Entom. xv. p. 35), and also that
Mr. Barrett refers to the capture of undoubted examples of the
insect at Folkestone (Ent. Mo. Mag. xviii. p. 178) ; but Mr.
Briggs says in the * Young Naturalist,' "Of heriacii and Icetiis no
authentic records of captures in England exist." The author of
this statement could not have carefully searched through the
entomological journals, or he certainly would not have made any
such assertion with regard to latus,
12, Abbey Gardens, N.W., March 17th, 1889.
104 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
NOTES UPON CERTAIN PTEROPHORT.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
I SHOULD like to call Mr. South's attention to the following
point in his * Contributions to the History of the British Ptero-
phoridse' (Entora. ante, p. 35), where he states : — " Mimceseoptilus
zophodactylus, Dnp. = loewii, ZeU. Imago: — August. Larva: —
September, in the flowers of Erythrcea centaureum." I think
that there can be no doubt that Mr. South wishes to teach the
readers of the * Entomologist ' that the larvae appear in the same
year, but after the imago.
May I kindly ask whether Mr. South has ever bred imagos
from the larvae of loewii collected in September from the flowers
of Erythrcea centaureum f * or has any one ever seen the larv^ or
pupse the same year in the months following the emergence of the
imagos ? When I was at Folkestone in the middle of August,
1886, 1887 and 1888, Mr. Austin, of that town, was breeding
loewii from Erythrcea flowers, bat the flowers were collected in
the latter part of June and early July. This is the ordinary time
that the larvae are to be collected ; they pupate throughout July
and August, stay in the pupal stage about three weeks, and then
emerge. These are, at any rate, the data I have noted. The fol-
lowing year, from June to August, the larvae can be again obtained ;
but so far as I know, and so far as I can tind out, from the time
of emergence of loewii in August and September to the appearance
of the larvae again in June, we have an almost perfect blank,
filled in only by the statement in Stainton's ' Manual,' of " Larva
in September," and the same statement in Merrin's ' Calendar '
(transcribed probably from the * Manual '), to the effect that the
imago occurs in July and the larva in September. I suppose we
* Mr. Tutt is correct in supposing that the description he refers to was taken
from the larva I had in 1881. In 1887 I obtained two other larvde on September
2nd ; these agreed well with my earlier description, and appeared to be full grown.
As soon as the opportunity of doing so occurred, I intended to take down a descrip-
tion of the pupiH, but just at the time I went away from home and forgot to take the
zophodactylus larva with me. When I returned on October 5th, two imagines of the
•'plume " were out, one of which was dead and stiU. Hoping to renew acquaint-
ance with this larva, and obtain at least another chapter in its life-hisLory, I
purposely refrained in my note on the species {ante, p. 35) from making public my
failure in 1887. However, as Mr. Tutt appears to desire additional information on
the point, I am in a position to assure him that larvae did occur in September, both
in 1881 and 1887. The omission of September, ? October, as dates for the perfect
insect, was an unfortunate error on my part, which I especially regret, as it seems
to have involved others than myself. I had been told that larvie of zophodac-
tylus were to be found in June or July, and my informant was good enough to
promise me a supply, but they never came to hand. Mr. Porritt bred imagines from
August 23rd to September 1st, from larvae he received in the middle of August. Mr.
Gregson and myself have had larvae as late as September ; therefore with the dates
given on Mr. Tutt's authority, the lepidopterist would seem to have a good chance
of finding larv* of zophodactylui whenever Erythrcea centaureum is in llower, and
this is from June to September. I may add that I have taken imagines in the last
week of August at Ventnor. — E. S.
NOTES UPON CERTAIN PTEROPHORr. 105
inay safely presume that Mr. South's reference to Mr. Leech's
* Pyralides ' {ante, p. 35) refers to the description which he (Mr.
South) published l' Entomologist,' vol. xviii. p. 99), and where he
writes : — " Larva in August and September, in flowers of common
centaury." This I should have supposed was based on other
authors. But Mr. South goes on, " I have a description of the
larva, taken from a solitary example in 1881," &c. But surely
this is the larva described more in detail (Entom. ante, p. 35),
and to which Mr. South adds " September, in the flowers of
Erythrcea centaureutn." Here then is the missing link. If Mr.
South has got the life-history of this September larva, when it
pupated, and in short, its history until it emerged in the August
(his own date) following, we shall have learned something we do
not at present know. The * Manual,' in making the larva follow
the imago the same year, is in error ; the 'Calendar' is in error ;
but Mr. South has obtained a September larva, and might have
cleared up the error, but he perpetuates it by saying, *' Imago,
August ; larva, September." Mr. Gregson (Entom. vol. iv. p. 350),
who gives the true life-history of loeivii, mentioned that the
larva in that particular season occurred as late as September, but
the moths emerged the same year. Mr. Porritt also described
the larva in the March number of the Ent. Mo. Mag. for 1884.
As far as I know the life-history of loeiv'd, it amounts to this: —
Larvae : — May, June, July, and early August, in flowers of
Erythrcea centaur eum. Pupae: — July, August, and early Sep-
tember (hung up by abdominal segment among food-plant).
Imagines : — Middle of August to middle of September. The
remainder of its life-history is, I believe, unknown. Whether the
imago hybernates and lays its eggs in spring, or whether they are
laid in the autumn, are both points I have heard good lepidop-
terists give diflerent opinions about. Nothing appears to be
known as to the time that the larva hatches, but small larvae may
be found in June.
Like all the other plume larvae that I know, those of loeivii
are very variable. I made the following note some time ago : —
" Loewii larvae vary very much ; some have a red stripe, some
pinkish, others with scarcely any trace of dorsal or other longitu-
dinal markings. Tiie pupae vary almost to the same extent ;
some are green, others quite red, with intermediate forms."
Platyptilia gonodactyla = farfarella. — Mr. Charles Briggs, in
the current number of the ' Young Naturalist,' has handled some
of Mr. South's conclusions pretty correctly ; but I should like
to ask ALr. South whether P. far/arella was not separated from
gonodactyla, rather because of the diflerence in time of emergence
than trom any dift'erence in the imago.* If this is so, I think the
* Certainly not. Prof. Zeller took a specimen on May 29th (Ent. Mo. Mag. vi.
p. 48).— R. S.
106 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
matter of identity was settled when I bred the second brood (vide
Ent. Mo. Mag., vol. xxv. pp. 104—106).
Amblyptilia acanthodactyla and A. cosmodactyla. — Will Mr.
South kindly say what are his reasons for placing these two
species as one ?* Mr. Porritt says, " I separated the larvae quite
easily before the moths were bred, at any rate the two forms of
larvse produce the two forms of the moth, and vide Knt.Mo. Mag. of
November, 1 886, and of December, 1 88e'5 " {in litt.). Supposing it is
a dimorphic species, does not the onus prohandi rest on Mr. South's
shoulders ? Until Mr. South has reared the two species from the
same female, I should prefer to look upon them as distinct.
Kayleigh Villa, Westcombe Park, S.E.
NEW SPECIES OF CRAMBI FROM JAPAN AND COREA.
By J. H. Leech, B.A., F.L.S., &c.
(Plate V.)
As with the species described in last month's * Entomologist,
the following new species have been compared with the National
Collection, South Kensington, Mr. Moore's and Dr. Staudinger's
collections ; M. Ragonot, of Paris, our greatest authority on
these groups, has also been kind enough to compare my types
with his fine collection.
Crambus ornatellus, n. sp., Plate V., fig. 2.
^ . Primaries blackish brown ; a longitudinal white streak, slender at
the base, gradually increasing in width to the middle of the wing, where it is
intersected by a line of the ground colour, its continuation beyond being
represented by an ill-defined white patch, extending to the white submar-
ginal line, which latter starts from the costa in an oblique direction towards
outer margin, then forming a sharp angle turns in the opposite direction, and
terminates on the inner margin. On the costa just beyond the middle are
two short white oblique lines ; between these and the submargiual is a short
white streak also on the costa. Fringes dark brown, with some white scales
below apex. Secondaries pale grey-brown, outer margin and costa broadly
fuscous. Palpi white, with some blackish scales. Head, thorax, and
abdominal junction white. Expanse, 20 mm.
One example taken by myself at Nagahama in July, 1886.
Closely allied to C. alpinellus, Hiibn., but the hind margin of
primaries is nearly straight and the apex is not produced.
* I cannot see any good and sufficient reason for separating them. The colour
difference, either in the larval or perfect state, is not, in my opinion, of specific value,
seeing that in all other respects the two forms appear to be alike in all the stages of
which we have any knowledge. With regard to breeding one form from ova
deposited by a female of the other form, I may say that I should not expect to rear
the cosmodactyla form from a typical female, except such female was obtained in a
locality where both foims occurred together ; neither should I hope to see specimens
of the type form among the progeny of a female cosmodactyla taken in a place where
the type did not occur. — K. S.
Entomologist.May.1889.
P]a,te 5.
4
5
9
6
8
F. W.FrQha.wk del .et lith . West,lTemrsLn <5c Co, imp.
New speoies of Cra.mbi.
NEW SPECIES OF CllAMBt FROM JAPAN AND COREA. 107
Although agreeing superficially in colour and markings the latter
are of a different character.
Crambus argentistriellus, n. sp., Plate V., fig. 11.
<^ . Primaries golden yellow, silvery wliite along the inner margin and
basal half of costa, several longitudinal silvery dashes margined with black
on the disk, and a similar but longer dash runs parallel with inner margin ;
double silvery grey submarginal line elbowed below costa, and edged
internally with brownish ; black marginal line represented beyond the
middle by three black dots. Fringes dark grey, thickly speckled with
silvery scales. Secondaries whitish, suffused with fuscous over the discal
area ; fringes white tipped with grey, and preceded by a black line. Palpi
white above, brownish along the sides and partly beneath. Expanse, 23 mm.
Two male examples taken by myself at Gensan in June, 1886,
near to (7. hortaellus and C. striatellas, but easily separated from
either.
Crambus striatellus, n. sp., Plate V., fig. 3.
Primaries yellowish brown, with several interrupted longitudinal black
streaks, and some brownish oblique costal dashes ; submarginal line whitish
edged internally with brownish. The dark grey fringes are speckled with
silvery, and have a black line at their base which is broken up into dots near
the inner angle. Secondaries dark grey, with a slight violet tinge ; fringes
glossy whitish. Under surface fuscous-grey, pale yellowish along costa and
outer margin of primaries. Palpi whitish, tipped and ringed with black.
Expanse, 19 — 22 mm.
Four specimens received from Mr. Manley of Yokohama.
Near to C. hortuellus, but separated at once from that species by
the more decided character of marking.
Crambus distinctellus, n. sp., Plate V., fig. 1.
Primaries silvery white, with a few black spots forming an abbreviated
basal line, and a series of black spots on the disk representing two angulated
parallel lines ; submarginal line brownish, curved near the costa and
angulated towards inner margin. Fringes white, sprinkled with grey near
inner angle. Under surface white, dusted with ochreous brown ; inner half
of secondaries and fringes of all the wings white. Palpi white above,
brownish beneath and along the sides. Expanse, 21 — 28 mm.
I took five examples of this species at Hakodate in August,
1886. It is quite unlike any species with which I am acquainted.
Crambus nigripunctellus, n. sp., Plate V., fig. 10.
Primaries white, with some ochreous brown markings at apex ; an ill-
defined brown line crosses the middle of the wing from costa to inner
margin, and another brown tranverse line runs parallel with the outer margin,
except towards costa where it curves inwards ; a conspicuous elongated
black spot on the disk has its outer extremity directed towards apex. Fringes
ochreous, ornamented with silvery scales, preceded by a dark brown marginal
line, on which there are two black dots near inner angle. Secondaries white,
tinged with fuscous ; fringes white, with a dark brown line at their base.
Under surface of primaries whity brown, the whole of tlie disk clouded with
fuscous ; secondaries as above. Expanse, ^ 16 mm., 2 '^4 mm.
An example of each sex taken by my native collector at
Ningpo, July, 1886, and a male specimen by myself at Gensan,
in July of the same year.
108 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Crambus purellus, n. sp., Plate V., fig. 7.
Primaries glossy white; a brown inconspicuous discal spot ; fringes white
flecked with grey. Secondaries white, with a conspicuous black line
narrowly edged internally with fuscous on outer margin. Palpi whitish.
Under surface of primaries shining fuscous. Secondaries white edged along
costa with fuscous. Expanse, S' ^4 mm., $ 30 mm.
Four specimens taken by myself at Hakodate in August,
1886, near to C, immaturellus, Christoph.
Chilo gensanellus, n. sp., Plate Y., fig. 9.
^ . Primaries dark cinnamon-brown, with a transverse series of three
black dots on the disk, and seven along the outer margin; on the external edge
of these last are some silvery scales, which project into the dark grey brown
fringes. Secondaries pale brown. Palpi blackish above, whitish beneath.
Under surface of primaries fuscous, secondaries shining whitish grey.
Expanse 23 mm.
One example taken by myself at Gensan in July, 1886 ; two
specimens by native collector at Hakodate, June, 1887.
Nephopteryx bicolorella, n. sp., Plate V., fig. 5.
V . Primaries, basal half pale reddish brown, darker towards inner
margin ; outer portion dark greyish brown ; a dark brown line edged
internally with whitish traverses the disk of the wing from costa, where it
makes a slight bend, nearly to the inner margin ; submarginal line wavy,
pale brown. Fringes dark grey, intersected by a line of paler grey.
Secondaries fuscous-brown. Expanse, 27 mm.
One specimen coll. Pryer, labelled Tokio.
This species is nearly allied to N. insignella, Mn.
Elamopalpus bipartitellus, n. sp., Plate V., fig. 4.
Basal half of primaries chocolate, darker externally, and its limit bounded
by a whitish band ; the outer portion of the wing is pale chestnut, shading
into fuscous-brown towards outer margin; submarginal line faint. Secondaries
grey-brown, darker along the costa and outer margin. Fringes of all the
wings dark grey-brown. Expanse, 20 mm.
One example coll. Pryer.
Melitene bifidella, n. sp., Plate V., fig. 8.
5 . Primaries reddish brown, suffused with fuscous ; basal third blackish,
•its external edge is bordered by a stripe of violet-grey, followed by a
blackish band ; central fascia blackish, broad, and much expanded towards
costa, where it encloses a patch of violet-grey scales ; marginal band blackish,
separated from the central by an undulated line of the ground colour, and
edged externally with violet-grey. Fringes dark grey-brown. Secondaries
and under surface fuscous. Expanse, 23 mm.
One example coll. Pryer.
Propachys flavifrontalis, n. sp., Plate Y., fig. 6.
^. Fuliginous grey-brown, appearing darker between the veins. Se-
condaries slightly browner than the primaries. Head yellow, collar blackish,
edged with yellow. Under surface fuscous-grey. Legs blackish, tarsi pale
brown. Expanse, 3G mm.
HUFNAGEL S TYPES. 109
I took two male specimens at Tsuruga in Jiil3% 188G, and my
native collector a female example at Ningpo, in the same month
of that year.
HU FN A GEL'S TYPES.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
Probably of the objections which were raised to the
'Entomologist' list of Lepidoptera, none was more serious than
the fact that some of the names used were not able to be traced
by even the most scientific lepidopterists in this country. To
those who had previously used Staudinger's Catalogue, these
names, the synonymy of which was so objectionable, and which
had apparently been transcribed direct from his Catalogue, did
not come as such a striking innovation, as to those whose know-
ledge of nomenclature did not extend beyond the limits of one of
our ordinary " Exchange Lists." Only last year a really good
lepidopterist, who knew more of synonymy than I did, asked me
why I used Hufnagel's names, and whether I had ever seen the
*' Magazine" that was supposed to contain them. I was obliged
to confess that neither the " British Museum Library " nor our
*' Entomological Societies' Libraries" gave me any help, and
that, so far as I knew, a copy did not exist in Britain. However,
as it was absolutely necessary in getting out my "Variety"
papers for the ' Entomologist ' to know what the types were like,
I wrote to Dr. Staudinger for help ; but the attempt was, as many
of my friends prophesied, a failure. However, I obtained the
assistance of my kind correspondent Herr Holimann, of Hanover ;
and he, with the aid of a Berlin naturalist, was able to get me
copies of the description from the library there. The descriptions
are — like all those of the same age — poor, but equally good (or
bad) with others, the acceptance of which is not questioned. The
following are the first three: —
(1) 6'-i. P. 308. " Phalc£namonoglypha. DerTreiber." Description: —
" Theils blaulich, theils hell theils dunkel grau, rait eiuem lateiuischen W
an dera hiiitern Kande." Locality: — "in den Fugen der Zauiie u.
Baurne." Time of appearance : — " Junius und Julius." Size of moth : —
** Von der zwoten grosse." Common or rare : — *' Setten."
('2) 96. P. 414. **P. malum. Die Glanzmotte." Description: —
•* Braungrau mit weissen u. blassgelben Zeichuuiigen, die meisteus braun
gerandet sind. Die Unterdiigel blassgelb mit einen breiten brauneii
liande." Locahty : — "Auf deu Blattern der Eicheu." Time of appear-
ance:— "Julius." Size of moth : — ** Von der zwoteu grosse." Common
or rare: — " Sehr setten."
(3) 97. P. 416. "P. cursoria. Der Rothbart." Description: —
" Gelblichgrau mit 2 braunen ausgeschweiften u. ausgezackten u. 2 grauen
geschlaiigetten Kuerstreifen." Locality : — " In den Fugen der Zaune."
110 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Time of appearance: — "Junius." Size of moth: — "Von der dritten
grosse." Common or rare : — '* Etwas setten."
A running translation of these would be : —
1. P. rnonoglypha. " Partly bluish, partly light, partly dark, grey, with
a Tiatin W on the hind margin." "In the rifts of fences and trees."
" June and July." " Of the second size." " Rare."
2. P. matura. " Brownish grey, with white and light yellow markings,
which are generally surrounded with brown. Hind wings light yellow, with
a broad brown margin." " At the leaves of the oaks." " July." " Of the
second size." " Very rare."
8. P. cursoria. " Yellowish grey, with two brown curved and toothed,
and two grey wavy transverse lines." " In the rifts of the fences."
" June." " Of the third size." " Rather rare."
The "partly bluish" of rnonoglypha refers, I should imagine,
to the slight iridescence we find on some specimens.
Matura " at the leaves of oaks." This is strange, but
probably the few specimens ("very rare") that Hufnagel had
seen were attracted thither by " honey-dew."
Cursoria. "June." A very early date. I doubt whether it
ever occurs in Britain so early, although I have captured its
congener, triticiy as early as June ^Qth and as late as September
12th, at Deal.
My only idea of publishing^ these descriptions is to convince
some of my friends that Hufnagel's descriptions really exist, and
there is little doubt in my mind that Staudinger was right in
making use of them.
Westcombe Park, March 7, 1889.
LIFE-HISTORY OF GEOMETRA PAPILIONARIA.
By George J. Grapes.
In expanse of wing and beauty this Geometer is undoubtedly
pre-eminent among our emerald moths, and well worth the
trouble of rearing, not only on this account, but on that of its
belonging to a somewhat numerous species of Lepidoptera that
pass the winter in a larval state.
I have several times succeeded in rearing this insect through
all its phases of existence, but not till lately have I taken any
real interest in noting its life-history.
The ova are laid chiefly on birch early in July. At first they
are of a pale straw-colour, changing in about ten days to orange-
red, and to a bluish black on the emergence of the caterpillar,
which occurs between the middle and end of the month.
The larva is black when first hatched, and about an eighth of
an inch in length. Before hybernation the young caterpillars
feed up on the cuticle of the foliage, the denuded parts having a
i
LIFE-HISTORY OF GEOMETRA PAPILIONARIA. Ill
very pretty reticulated appearance. After hybernation they devour
both cuticle and veins. The larva of the female is about a quarter
of an inch in length, of a dull orange colour, with its anal and
middle segments reddish brown ; that of the male is paler, with
less orange, and frequently wholly of a dingy greyish hue. In
autumn, when the trees begin to assume those well-known sombre
tints so characteristic of an English landscape, they, contrary to
some authors, cease to feed, and settle for their long winter sleep
on the branches of various trees ; and in colour, shape, and
general appearance strongly resemble when hybernating on birch,
and probably on other trees, rudimental branchlets, for which, at
first sight, they may be easily mistaken. This resemblance is,
however, only fully acquired when the shelter of the foliage is
gone, and evidently forms their chief protection against the
ravages of insectivorous birds. During hybernation they become
much reduced in size, and then present a very shrivelled appear-
ance, particularly when seen by the aid of a lens, which also
discloses a reddish tinge, not otherwise observable. The cater-
pillars may be obtained in September by beating birch (Betulci
alba), hazel {Corylus avellana), and, I am informed, alder (Alnus
glutinosa), &c. ; but the moth seems to prefer depositing her ova
on dwarf and stunted birches, especially those lopped or broken,
situated in sheltered positions. Such trees are less atfected by
tempest, and the parent, in selecting them as nurseries for her
offspring, would appear to be impelled by exceptional instinctive
powers, in support of which I may state that I have rarely ever
beaten the larva from tall birches, and then only from the lower
branches. The larva of this insect, in common with other
hybernating species, such as Lasiocanipa quercifolia, Metrocampa
rnargaiitaria, Boarmia reimndata, B. rhomboidaria, B. roboraria^
Hylophila bicolorana, with which I have had experience, exhibit
the same restlessness on warm days in early spring, and in the
absence of leaves feed on buds and tender twigs.
About the middle of April a perceptible change takes place in
the hybernating hues, which gradually by a series of moults,
during which the autumnal tints more vividly reappear, inter-
mingled with yellowish green, give place to that lovely and
delicate shade of green acquired by the adult larva, — a change
singularly coincident with that which the foliage undergoes from
the bursting of the bud to the full-expanded leaf; and here at
this, the third and most interesting period of its larval state,
resemblance in colour, no doubt enables it frequently to elude
the vigilance of its enemies.
The common form of the larva is emerald-green, with a broad
and not very regular reddish brown dorsal stripe, and with the
segments humped, as follows : — Second and fourth segments
minutely humped ; third and twelfth uni-humped ; third hood-
113
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
1
shaped ; sixth, eighth, and ninth bi-humped ; seventli bifid-
humped, and most conspicuous of all the humps. There is a very
beautiful variety of the male larvn, of which I was not previously
aware, the ground colour being of a pale yellowish green, with a
broad dorsal reddish brown stripe, and two lateral rows of lozenge-
shaped blotches, two on each segment, of same colour as stripe.
This variety, contrary to the common form, retains its colouring
all through the larval state, and exactly simulates the reddish
brown catkins of the birch, so much so that three or four catkins,
attached to the upper surface of a leaf, so deceived me that I
imagined I had more larvse of the variety than was really the case.
I observed that the ground colour of the pupa of the variety is of a
creamy white, slightly sufi'used with the palest green, and that the
wing-cases and segments of the body of imprisoned imago are
sharply defined by dark green; also that moths bred from such
pup« are of an intenser green than those of the common form.
. It is noticeable that the larva of the common form, pupa, and
perfect insect are all green ; and the moth is probably a unique
instance of a lepidopterous insect preserving the same colour
throughout all its metamorphoses.
The perfect insect often attains a maximum size of about two
and a quarter inches, and in localities where it abounds it may be
easily netted at dusk about the end of July, though it is some-
what a swift flyer.
Berkeley Villa, Charlwood Road, Putney, S.W.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
1
PiKRis UAPAf. IN February. — On February 28th, when visiting in my
parish, 1 saw a white butterfly fluttering to the ground in one of the streets
of Portlaw. The insect was soon captured, and I was much astonished to
And a perfectly fresh specimen of the above species. The sun was very
hot, though last night was the coldest this winter, the thermometer regis-
tering 12 degrees of frost. — (Rev.) William W. Flemyng ; Clonegam
Rectory, Portlaw, Co. Waterford, February 28, 1889.
Variety of Pieris brassice. — I have recently seen in a very old
collection a curious variety of this species. The ground colour is sulphur-
yellow as in the var. aurea of Pieris rapcB. it is the best variety of this
species that has come under my notice, the next best being in the collection
of the late Nicholas Cook, the wings in the latter being suffused with
smoky. In Mr. Gregson s collection was one with the veins partly bright
green. All these specimens are males. Mr. Hardiugs, of Shrewsbury,
sent me several specimens, fed up on canary creeper, with the fringes
bright yellow. — S. L. Mosley ; Beaumont Park Museum, Huddersfield.
Deilepjhila GALii IN Kknt. — Au uurccorded capture of Deilephila
gain was made here in August last, flying about sweet williams in early
twilight.— Archibald Gostlikg ; Woodfield, Gravesend, March 19,1889.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 11^
ChcErocampa celerto NEiAR Taunton. — A specimen of Chcemcampa
celerio was caught in the neighbourhood of this town last year. I don't
remember hearing that a specimen has been caught in this district before. — -
J. BucKLANi), Jun. ; 13, East Street, Taunton, March 11, 1889.
Smerinthos occidkxtalts tn Colorado. — With reference to my
paper (Eiitom. xxi. 298, et seq), I should mention that the SmerintJms
ibund at Cottonwood Springs is confirmed as S. occidentalis Mr. H\
W. Nash writes that it is very common at Pueblo, the larvse feeding
on Cottonwood. On page 3ijH, the var. of Qaerciis undalata should be
cinerior. '' Ilybius picipes, Kiib. ?" on page 304, now proves to be Agahus
trlstia, Aube. Two other species of Agabiis have been collected in Custer
Co., but these are in the western part of the county, viz., A. parallelus,
Lee, and A. hitersectus, Lee. — T. D. A. Cockehell ; West Cliff, Colorado,
December '^1, 1888.
Hybernating LARVJi.— I have some larvae of Uropteryx samhucaria
(Entom. ante 'Zl) feeding on ivy in a botde of water in a room with no fire.
They have been feeding and slowly growing for four months. I think this
larva is usually easily reared. — S. Robinson; Clapfield Terrace, Winch-
more Hill, N., January 14, 1889.
Early Appearance of Phigalia pedarfa. — \ took b. vadXe P . pedaria
off a Chester gas-lamp on the evening of January 19th. I was not sur-
prised, as our almost uninterrupted warm winter brought primroses, violets,
and even fruit trees into bloom at Christmas. — J. Arkle ; 2, George Street,
Chester.
Food of Nyssta zonarta. — Last spring Mr. Arkle of Chester sent me
some larvaj of Nyssla zonaria, with instructions to feed them on any of the
willow tribe. I tried them with several species, including sallow, for a week
but with unsatisfactory results. Then 1 referred to Stainton's 'Manual of
Butterflies and Moths,' and there found yarrow was given as their food-
plant, which I gave them and saw they ate it very readily. I have since
acquainted Mr. Arkle with my experience, thinking he might like to
mention yarrow in addition to the willows another time. In reply he sug-
gested that I might send a note to the ' Entomologist,' as zonaria had never
fed on yarrow with him nor with any of his acquaintances. It was a fine
healthy plant and growing in the sun I fed them from, which may make
some difference. — F. Milton ; 164, Stamford Hill, N., January 19, 1889.
Amphidasys betularia, buff var. — A communication from Mr. J,
Kodgers of Oldham (Entom. 49) refers to a black variety of Amphidasys
betularia having been taken in copula with a buff variety of the same
species. 1 was glad to see this note, for although the black variety is
common in this district, to capture a buff in copula with a black one is
remarkable. It is now a good many years since the Middleton entomolo-
gists were breeding this buff variety, and I often ihink it was a great pity
that no record of this singular variety should have been made. I believe
8ome are stdl in the hands of Councillor J. Thorpe of Middleton. It would
be interesting to know something of this remarkable strain, and whether it
has been totally lost. — Joseph Chappell; 29, Welbeck Street, Chorlton-
upon-Medlock, Manchester, February 19, 1889.
ENTOM. — APRIL, 1889. M
114 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I
Stigmonota ravulana IX Eexfrewshirk. — In June, 1888, I was in
<^orapany with my friend, Mr. Wntson, collecting Coccyx cosmophorana in
Renfrewshire, when one of us took Stigmonota ravalana. — J. B.
HoDGKiNSON ; Ellerslie, Ashtou-on-Ribble, Lancashire, February 2:3, 1889.
Latk Lepidopteiia in 1888. — In 1888 Euchlo'e cardamines was out so
late as June 25th in South Wales. The cold and wet summer appeared to
have affected the second emergence of Lyccena icarus on the Cotswold Hills
in Gloucestershire. They were only generally coming out so late as
September 12th, and this also was the case with L. astrarche, the former
were in the greatest profusion in the second week in August, 1887. On
December 5th, a specimen of Plusia gamma came to light, and throughout
November many catne to ivy bloom in this district. With regard to larvae,
on October 1st I found a specimen of Acronycta leporina, feeding on
sallow ; this fed well until late in November, when it died in going through
its moulting. The long silky hairs in this example were of canary yellow,
and the body dark in colour. One specimen taken in July, feeding on birch,
was pale green with white hairs. On November 15th a larva of Sjihlnx
ligustrl was still feeding ; as also were on November 23rd many larvae
of Pieris brassica. — T. B. Jefferys ; Clevedon.
Bactra furfurana in Norfolk. — Perhaps the fact may be worth
recording, that about a dozen specimens of B. furfurana were taken last
August by my brother and myself while collecting on a piece of marshy
land in West Norfolk. The insect occurred fairly commonly, and I have
no doubt many more might have been secured if we had wanted them. —
George Balding ; Ruby Street, Wisbech.
Prionus coriartus, L. — Respecting the occurrence of P.coriarius near
London (Entom. 77), I do not consider the beetle at all rare in the
Epping Forest district, as some dozen or more examples have in recent
years been submitted to me for identification ; indeed, two specimens came
under my notice last year. Four were exhibited by me in November, 1887,
at the Exhibition held by the South London Entomological and Natural
History Society ; all of these were from Loughton. Seven specimens were
also shown at the exhibition of the City of liondon Society, on March 21st,
1889, many being of comparatively recent capture. The best time to search
for it is during the first and second weeks in August, on the trunks of oak-
trees. — G. A. Lkwcock ; 73, Oxford Road, Islington, N., March, 23, 1889.
Lepidoptera near Leicester. — I have taken the following Lepidop-
tera which are not common in this district : — Sesia asUiformis (cynipiformis),
caught on ragwort at Bradgate Park, August 7th, 1888 ; Phigalia palarla,
female, hatched from pupae, January 20th, 1889, found January 13th,
1889, at root of an oak ; Amphidasys strataria, caught March 14th, 1888,
in Leicester; Cidaria silaceata, caught June 13th, 1888, at Bradgate;
Pericallia syringaria, caught August 6th, 18^8, in a private garden near
Leicester. — 0. B. Herdly; Stoneygate Road, Leicester, January 23.
NoTKs from Cannock Chase. — In warm seasons Eupithecia Unariata
is, 1 believe, said to be double- brooded. This can hardly be the case with
E. pulchellata ? I took a lot of larvae of the latter at the end of July last,
and from them emerged two imagines on the 27th and 29th of August.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 115
This is the more extraordinary as last year was anything but a warm
season. I have examined the rest of the pupae, which were liept out of
doors, and found them all healthy ; so I am inclined to look on the occur-
rence as a freak of nature. I took a specimen of Porthesia similis on
October 2nd, and Xylophasla wonoglypha was common about that time.
I beat a larva of Dicranura bijida from birch on September 13th last ; both
the food-plant and the time of year being extraordinary. Poplar abounds
in the neighbourhood, but I have never taken the insect on the Chase before.
I would suggest that the birch-feeding larva of Ochsenheimer and Freyer,
mentioned by Mr. Kirby (Entora. xxi. 275), is that of this insect. At any
rate their description is more applicable to D. hijida than to Z). hicuspis. 1
took larvae of Acroiiycta leporina from birch, alder, and poplar, the latter
tree produced the yellow var. of the larva only. The best of the imagines
taken last vear were Argymiis aglaia, abundantly, Hepialus sylvanus, also
common. Porthesia chrysorrhcea, a rare insect in that district. Acronycta
leporina, A. rumicis, Neuronia popnlaris, Hydrcecia nictitans, H. micacea,
Gortyna ochracea, Caradrina alunes, C. tarajcaci, C. morpheus, and C. quad-
ripunctata. Miana literosa, Orthosia suspecta, Polia chi, Noctua glareosa,
N. augur, Amphipyra tragopogonis, Hadena protea, H. glauca, 11. dentina,
and H. contigua, while Plusia gamma was the insect of tlie year, as
it swarmed everywhere. Amblyptilia acanthodactyla was to be taken
flying over the heather blossoms. I must not leave out Calocampa solida-
ginis, concerning which I can endorse Mr. Thornewill's remarks ; and I feel
sure any one searching the dried twigs, sticks, &c., on the ground in
the localities where this insect is found, will be amply rewarded ; as not
only will he get them in good condition, but he will be astonished at their
abundance. I beat from birch, l>esides those larvae enumerated above,
some of Lophopteryx camelina, Notodonta dictaoides, N. dromedarius,
Drepana lacertinaria, and D. falcataria, and a lot of others. Poplar
yielded Notodonta dictcEa in plenty, with Smerinthus populi, Dicranura
vinula and Acronycta megacephala. From Scotch fir 1 got Panolis pini-
perda, Eupithecia indlgata, &c., and T saw a larva of Acronycta aUii beaten
from a birch tree on the Chase. I am now investigating that dreaded
enemy of the entomologist commonly called *' grease," and would be much
obliged if any reader of this would send me abdomens only of moths that
have greased, those of large-bodied moths {e.g. D. vinula) preferred. I will
gladly pay postage.— R. Freer ; St. Mary's Hospital, Paddington, W.
New Forest Notes. — During the latter half of July, 1888, part of which
time I was accompanied by my friend Mr. H. T. Dobson, several species of
Lepidoptera were found in profusion in the neighbourhood of Brockenhurst,
notably Limenitis sibylla, which occurred more or less commonly in all the
enclosures. At Hurst Hill, so many as twenty specimens were counted
upon one bramble bush. We also observed that they were much more
easily captured than on any of our previous visits to this district. Later
on Argynnis paphia was as abundant as usual, but the variety valesina was
seldom met with. Thecla quercus was plentiful but local. By far the
greater proportion of those observed were crippled, helplessly fluttering on
the bracken. Vanessa polychloros had not yet emerged, but the larvae must
have been plentiful enough, judging from the traces left on the sallows.
Both Argynnis aglaia and A. adippe were scarce. One fine pale Apatura
iris was taken at rest on the fern; this specimen had evidently only
116 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
recently emerged, and was the only one seen. Sugar attracted a large
number of common things, Carudrina alsines absolutely swarmed. Among
other species were Noctua brunnea,N. triangulum, Aplecta prasina, A.nebu-
losa, Leucania turca, L. conigera, L. comma, TrijphcBiia Jhnhria, Epaiida
viminalis, Nola confusalis, Calligema minlala, and Macaria alteniata (one
example). Neither Catocala promissa nor C. sponsa had put in an appear-
ance before our departure. Although many larvae were abundant in the
Forest in June, it was not tlie case from the n)iddle to the end of July, as
larva-beating turned out very unprofitable. The only species worth men-
tioning which fell by our united exertions were Aniphidasyn stralaria,
Knnomos erosaria, PsUura monaclia (very commonly), Notodonta trepida
(one specimen), iV. trimo.cida (three examples only), Asphulia Jiavicornls,
A. ridens (nearly all ichneumoned), and Hoporiiia croceago. By digging
pupae, Xylina rhizolitha and Petasla sphinx were obtained. Neineophild
russula (both males and females) were freely taken on the heath. The
dearth of Geometers on the wing at dusk was particularly noticeable. I
have omitted to mention the capture of a very large dark form of Boarmia
ahietaria, a specimen of Epinephele ianira, with partially bleached hind
wings, and a dark variety of Argynnis adippe. — Alfred T. Mitchell ; 5,
Clayton Terrace, Gunnersbury, VV., January 12, 1889.
Lepidoptera of Portland — Corrections. — Kindly make the follow-
ing corrections in " A Year's Work in Portland" (Entom 56) : — Instead of
Phycis ornatella, read P. adornateUa. Instead of Acidalla ochrearla, read
Aspilates ochrearea. For A. trigeminata, read A dimidata. For S.
phaoleuca, read mercurella, var. portlandica. Erase O. parvidactylus, add
Crambus salinellus and L. microdactyly. — C. E. Partridge; The Castle,
Portland, March 15, 1889.
•'Mimicry "and "Protective Resemblance" in Insects. — The
various guises which insects develop in relation to their surroundings is one
of the most interesting of their characteristics which can occupy the atten-
tion of observers in the field. Mr. Scudder's article in ' The Atlantic
Monthly Magazine ' for February, 1889, entitled ' Butterflies in Disguise,,'
bears testimony to the increasing popularity of the treatment of such sub-
jects. Without being too technical for the general reader, Mr. Scudder has,
as might be expected, presented a thoroughly reliable account of some of
the more remarkable devices, by means of which butterflies secure greater
immunity from their foes. It is, however, rather to be regretted that he
omits to distinguish between the two different kinds of protectimi to which
they have resort. Although it may be true that the means by which the
■end is attained is primarily the same in each case, there is so marked a dis-
tinct difference practically, and also in idea, between the active conditions
which, in the case of mimetic species, permit certain species to assume tlie
appearance in outer garb of species of quite different genera, and the
passive conditions under which, with the operation of natural selection,
many other species acquire so close a resemblance to their usual lodgment,
that a distinction should always be made, by the employment of different
terms of expression. The distinction has always been maintained by such
writers as Wallace and Bates, — the first discoverers of these forms of
protection, — Meldola and Poulton, but it is still quite usual, us I have
Irequently noticed, for writers on the subject to confuse the ideas, to the
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 117
detriment of the points they have dealt with. I have, therefore, thought it
would be well to call attention to the distinction. There is objection, lio
doubt, to the introduction or change of terms already in use, but I never-
theless think it would be an improvement to definitely separate the two
classes (active and passive) under the more precise terms — mlmicty and
simulation. The latter term has the advantage of bein^j a single word, and
is besides more expressive of the dififrirence required to be implied. —
William Whjte ; 4, Mecklenburgh Square, W.C.
SiREX IN NoKTH Wales AND CHESHIRE. — I saw a fine Specimen of
Sirex gigas at Bettws-y-coed, N. Wales, on September 17th, 1888, which
was flying about the railway station, and finally settled upon a man's arm,
causing no little sensation among the bystanders, who took it to be a very
large hornet, or something worse. I should imagine that the specimen
must have been a genuine native of the district, as there is much timber
about, and certainly no need for foreign importation. I may also mention
that Sirex juvencus was for many years established in a small fir-wood at
Rock Ferry, Cheshire, where I frequently saw specimens; I have not
visited the locality lately, so cannot say if the species occurs there still. —
Willoughby Gardner ; 18c, Exchange, Liverpool.
Sirex juvencus in London. — My insect, referred to by Mr. E. R*
Dale (Entom. 17), I think must have come from one of the factories or
timber-yards in the neighbourhood. Some years ago I caught three examples
of Sirex gigas in a pianoforte factory at Wood Green, where a quantity of
pine timber was used, but not being then a collector I destroyed them. —
S. Robinson ; Claptield Terrace, Winchmore Hill, N.
Dolomedes fimbriatus in Ireland. — A few years ago, when search-
ing for the rare little water-snail, LimncBus involutus, Harv., in the small
lake which lies on Cromagloun Mountain, above the Tower Lodge, 1 met
with a large and handsome spider, which I was not able to capture, and I
suppose it then escaped into the water. But, on visiting this like a second
time with some friends, we succeeded in capturing the spider, which, as I
anticipated from what I had seen of it, proved to be the rare and local
species, Dolomedes Jimhriatus (Clerck), long known in the fens of Cam-
bridgeshire, but which 1 believe I was the first to find in Ireland. — A. G
More ; 74, Leinster Road, Dublin.
Newspaper Entomology. — Now that the " Institute of Journalists,"
which was lately paraded before the public with such ceremony, has com-*
menced work, it is to be hoped that a little elementary science-teaching will
be impressed upon its members. We have on several occasions given
examples of " Newspaper Entomology," and here is another, showing the
necessity for some attention among " reporters " to more exact definition of
such words as "species." The London 'Daily Chronicle,' of Feb. 19th,
1889, in reporting a lecture by the late Rev. J. G. Wood upon "Ants,"
says he "spoke chiefly of that wonderful species of ants known as the
Hymenoptera;" again, "at one period of the year there appeared some
50,000 small bees, which were incessantly at work."~JoHN T. Carrinoton.
Erratum.— Page 77, line ^8— 29, for " the part if any," read " the vast
\{ any."
118
SOCIETIES.
ENroMOLOGrcAL Society of London. — March 6, 1889. —The Rt. Hon.
Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair. The Rev. W.
F. Johnson, M.A., of Arniitgh ; the Rev. C. F. Thornewill, M.A., of
Biirton-on-Trent; and Mr. C. R. Straton, F.R.C.S., of Wilton, were elected
Fellows. Mr. F. P. Pascoe exhibited several specimens of the Saiiba Ant
( CEcodoma cephalotes), from Para, carrying portions of dried leaves. It
seemed questionable whether the leaves were collected by the Ants for the
purpose of maUing their nests or for the sake of some fungus which might
be growing on them. Mr. Jenner-Weir exhibited, and read notes on, speci-
mens of a ButterHy {Tiruuiala petiverana), from Mombaza, Eastern Africa.
Mr. J. H. Durrant exhibited a living larva of Cossus lijniperda, which had
entirely lost its ordinary colour and had become first pink and then white.
He attributed the change, and sul)sequent loss, of colour, to the fact that
it had been deprived of its natural food and fed for eighteen months on pink
paper, with which the box in which it was kept was lined, and subsequently
on white cardboard. Mr. M'Lachlan remarked that the most extraordinary
peculiarity about this larva, in addition to the loss of colour, was the
absence of the usual odour of Cossus. Lord VValsinghara observed that it
was questionable whether the colours of larvae were dependent on the colours
of their surroundings, or whether they were affected by the contents of
the intestinal canal. Prof. Meldola said that the caterpillar exhibited having
eaten the pink paper had most probably become dyed by the colouring
matter, and he did not think the observation had much bearing on the
question of the protective colouring of caterpillars. It was well known to
physiologists that certain dye-stufis could be introduced into the tissues
of animals by mixing the colouring matters with the food, and paper was
frequently stained with coal-tar dyes such as eosin, magenta, &c., so that it
was simply a case of direct dyeing of the larva. Mr. W. White observed
that two extreme forms of a larva might often be found feeding side by
side on the same tree or shrub, so that the colour of a larva could not be
altogether governed by the colour of its food. Mr. B. A. Bower exhibited a
specimen of Parasia neuropterella, bred from heads of Centaurea scabiosa,
and said he believed tlie species had not been previously bred. He also
exhibited series of Coleophora olivaceella, C.soUtariella, and Laverna siibbis-
trigella. The President remarked on the beautiful condition and setting of
the specimens. Mr. White exhibited a series of male and female specimens
of Orgyia thyalina, belonging to Mr. Leech, and obtained by the late Mr.
H. J. S. Pryer in Japan. Some of the females had their wings fully developed,
and some of them were semi-apterous, as is usual with the females of this
genus. Mr. White remarked that he knew of no other species of the genus
in which the females had fully-developed wings. Lord Walsingham, Prof.
Meldola, and Mr. R. South took part in the discussion which ensued.
Lord Walsingham exhibited specimens of preserved larvae of EnpUhecia
extensaria, from King's Lynn, Norfolk ; also a preserved larva of Sinerinthus
ocellatus and one of Sphinx Ugustrl. The larva of the last-named species
was a variety, and the President remarked that it was the only one of this
species he had ever seen. The Secretary read a communication from the
Rev. Dr. Walker, announcing his intention of making an expedition to
Iceland this year, from the '23rd June to the 29th July, and asking that
any entomologists who might wish to accompany him would send him their
SOCIETIES. 119
ivimes. Mr. Gervase F. Maihew communioatpd a paper entitled *' Descrip-
tions and Life- Histories of new species of RhopalocerA from the Western
Pacific." — H. Goss, Hon. Secretary.
Thk South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
February '2Slk, 18t59. T. R. Billups, F.E.S., President in tlie chair. Miss
K. Hiiichliff, of N. Devon ; Messrs. J. F. Perry, of Birminu;ham ; A. Nott,
of Brixton ; H. More, of Rotherhithe ; G. J, Randall, of Brixton ; W. H.
McLachlan, of Clapham ; and J. Smith, of Plumstead, were elected
members. Mr. R. Adkin exhibited Anerastia lotella, from Forres, Norfolk^,
and Kent; Dloryctria aHetella, from Forres and Kent; Cranibus dume-
tellus, from Forres, with C. pratellm : and C. dmnetellus, from Kent, and
C. erucelliis, for comp-irison; ami called attention to the close resemblance of
the Forres duinetellus to the Kentish pratellus in colour and size, but that
the markings were clearly those of dunietellus. In answer to Mr. Tugwell,
Mr. Adkin stated that the specimen of D. abietella from Kent, was taken
within a few miles of Deal, among a clump of about twenty fir-trees. Mr.
Robinson exhibited varieties of Agrotis seyetum and A. exclamatlonis from
Hunts. Mr. Manger, Coleopiera from Darjeejing, India ; and Mr. Billups,
over forty species of Arachnida, including three rare and local species,
Heltoplianus Jiavipes. BalLus depressus, Pachyynatha degeerl.
March lu/i, 18«9. — John T. Carrington, F.L.S., Vice-President in the
chair. Mr. A. Home, of Aberdeen, was elected a member, Mr. Percy
Kuss exhibited a large number of species of Lepidoptera taken in the
neighbourhood of Sligo, including Aporophyla lutulenta, var. limeburgensis,
ami many other local forms and varietie-. Mr. Adye, series of Dasycainpa
rublyinea, and varieties of Xanthla fiavago, taken in Hampshire. Mr. R.
South, a curiously coloured specimen of Z ygccna JiUpendalcB, and what he
thought was a variety of Hadena dentina, both received from Mr. Baxter,
of St. Ann's-on-Sea. Mr. R. Ad kin, two dwarfed specimens of Lycama
corydon, an underside of the male of L. icarus, with the black central dot
of the lower of the two basal spots on the superior wings absent, and the
outer light ring elongated ; also specimens of Endotricha Jiainmealis,
Scopida ferrugalis, and Rhodophaa marmorea, all from the Sussex coast,
18«8. The Secretary read a note from Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell, on
Pyractomena boreaUs, and an aberration of Derinestes fasciatus, having the
left elytron grey l)elow the grey band, almost as grey as the band itself,
with but little black marbling, the right elytron below the band black, witli
a trace of pale marbling, probably this was due to pirtial atavism. Mr.
Tugwell read a paper "Practical Hints on breeding Macrolepidoptera,"
upon which an interesting discussion ensued. — H. W. Barkbr, Hon. Sec.
City of London Entomologtcal and Natural History Society. —
An exhibition in connection with this Society was held on March '21st last,
at the Albion Hall, London Wall. The entomological exhibits were very
varied, and of a highly interesting character. A prominent feature of the
exhibition was the great display of Coleoptera, which comprised representa-
tives of nearly all the British species. The groups Rhynchophora and
Phytophaga were contained in Mr. E. A. Newbery's exhibit ; while Mr.
Cripps showed Geodephaga ; and Mr. G. A. Lewcock, the genera Necro-
phoros and Silpha, and 3-2 species of Longicornia. Mr. Jarvis exhibited a
typical collection of British Coleoptera and other entomological orders.
Mr. Milton also exhibited Coleoptera, a case of dragon Hies preserved in
their natural colouring, also several species of Orthoptera. A wasp's nest.
1*20 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
obtained from Southj^ate by Mr. Battley, attracted much attention ; as also
did Mr. Bellamy's Asiatic liOpidoptera and Coleoptera, and Mr. R. W.
Thompson's collection of butteiHies from Alabama. Messrs. Cooke and
Ashmead showed fine examples of Exotic Lepidoptera. ]\Ir. Cooke also
contributed a bred series of Acronycta alrii, Eagonia autuinnaria, and a
specimen of Noctna subrosea. Mr. J. A. Clark's case contained some
extraordinary varieties of Triphcena comes, Asphalia Jlavicornis, &c., from
Scotland. Mr. G. Hollis exhibited examples of Emydla cribrnni, Drepana
harpagula, and a specimen of Chccrocampa neril, captured on London
Bridge, ill October, 1888. Dr. Sequieras collection of insects taken in the
New Forest lust season, included Aryynnis paphia, var. valesina, &c. Mr.
O. C. (toldthwaite's case contained vars. of Boannia reparidata, nearly-
white, B. rhoinboidaria, &c. Among the numerous varieties exhibited
during the evening may be mentioned a black form of Llmenitls sibylla, by
Mr. H. Conquest; Epinephele hyperantkes, de\'o\d of ocelli on upper-vv'ings,
by Mr. C. Levett : Cyinatophora or, by Mr. Mellor ; and a large number of
Angerona prnnaria, by Messrs. Huckett, Mera, and Williams. The life-
histories by Mr. Pearson were arranged with great cnre and neatness. Mr.
G. Bryant's preserved larvae of Argynnis adippe were also remarked in tiiis
department. Other exhibitors were Messrs. Gates and Boden, with Micro-
Lepidoptera ; Mr. Hawes, &c. Several drawers containing the Society's
collections of Lepidoptera were also on view. — E. H. H.\wks, 16, Raveley
Street, N.W. ; G. A. Lewgock, 73, Oxford Road, N., Joint Hon. Seg^s.
REVIEWS.
Monograph of the Sphingldm of America, north of Mexico. By John B.
Smith. American Entomological Society, Philadelphia. 1888.
We find that Mr. Smith has treated eightj'^^three species as SphingidaB,
inhabiting temperate North America, sixteen being Macroglossiriae, eighteen
Choerocampinse, forty-one Sphinginas, and eight Smerinthinae. The work
is very complete, including tables of genera and species, descriptions of the
insects and, where known, also of the earlier stages, range of occurrence,
notes on variation, bibliography, &c. In looking through the work one cannot
help noting how little is known of the earlier stages of a large proportion of
the American Sphingidse, which is remarkable. Our " cousins " have the,
pleasure of discovery before them. There are ten plates illustrating this
monograph, nine and a half being devoted to the illustration of the genital
organs of various species, and the remainder to venation in certain
genera. We have to congratulate the American Entomological Society upon
issuing this monograph. Mr. Smith being so well known as an entomolo-
gist, and an authority upon the group, the work will remain long the
standard of reference upon this subject. — J. T. C.
An Introduction to Entomology. By Professor John Henry Comstock.
Part I. Ithaca, New York. Published by the Author. 1888.
This part, which introduces what bids fair to be one of the most
important books upon the subject of Entomology, contains — Thysanura,
Mallophaga, Orthoptera, Neuroptera and Hemiptera. There is much
originality in the work, which is profusely illustrated ; many being from
drawings by Mrs. Comstock, others having done duty elsewhere, but they
are none the less useful now. We shall be interested to see the whole work
on completion. — J. T. C.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIL] MAY, 1889. [No. 812.
ON THE SYNONYMY OF ACWALIA HUMILIATA, Hufn.
By Jas. W. Tutt, F.E.S.
I HAVE been much puzzled about the synonymy of one of our
common Kent Acidalige, viz., the one that goes in different lists
by the names of osseata, dilutaria, and interjectaria.
Wishing to form some sort of satisfactory conclusion as to
which of these our species really was, I have worked up all the
continental literature I can find on the subject, and have come
to the conclusion that the name ossearia, Hb., had long been
used in England ; that owing to the absence in some of our
specimens of a dark costal streak, and the position of the black
central spot, this name was dropped and dilutaria, Hb., substi-
tuted ; that Newman, for no very apparent reason,* dropped both
these older names, and gave us Boisduval's comparatively new
synonym — interjectaria.
The matter seems to resolve itself into the consideration of
the two older names, dilutaria and ossearia. Dilutaria is figured
by Hiibner (fig. 100), ossearia also by Hiibner (fig. 102), so that
on the score of age both were produced together, although I
suppose for our purpose fig. 100 must be considered older than
fig. 102.
Turning to Htlbner's fig. 100 {dilutaria), we find an insect
about which, I must confess, I have considerable doubt. I have
a long series before me, of some 60 or 70 of the species under
question, and must own that among them I have not a specimen
which I believe to be represented by Hiibner's figure. My
opinion is that dilutaria is a distinct continental species which
we do not get. This opinion is borne out by the way that Dr.
Staudinger treats the two figures of Hiibner in the last edition of
his * Catalogue.' He retains the species represented by fig. 100 as
* The reason probably was that Boisduval treated the specimens with a brownish
costa as specifically distinct.
ENTOM. — MAY, 1889. N
122 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
^
distinct from that represented by fig. 102, and treats them in his
list as two distinct definite species, fig. 100 being his dilutaria,
fig. 102, ossearia, being a synonym of Hufnagel's humiliata. If,
therefore, the two figures of Hiibner represent distinct species,
and I feel satisfied they do, the question is, To which is our
species to be referred ? I think I am right in believing it to be
ossearia. Hiibner's figure is characteristic of many bred and fine
English specimens, the dark shade perhaps a little overdone, but
otherwise the rounded character of the wings is clearly developed,
and also the characteristic fine wavy lines. I once reared this
species (about 1875), on knotgrass I believe, — but I am speaking
from memory, and have no notes, — some with fine dark costse,
but some without, and I have frequently captured such specimens
at Strood, Deal, and many other localities. Onl}^ those in the
finest condition are thus marked, and not always then, for bred
specimens are frequently without any special development of this
shade ; but I believe every one who has had a long and close
acquaintance with the species would support me in this view.
With regard to the position of the black central dot in the
anterior wings of our species, I may say that I have specimens
in which it varies from being on the second streak to midway
between the second and third streaks, others being intermediate
between the two extremes, so that this is really no definite
character at all.
As there seems very little doubt that our species is not the
continental dilutaria at all, nor the dilutaria of Hiibner, but that
it is the ossearia of Hiibner, which Dr. Staudinger is perfectly
convinced is only a synonym of Hufnagel's humiliata (Hufn. Berl.
M. iv. 614, date 1769) ; all our English-used names should drop
out, and humiliata, Hufn., be substituted in its place, thus
bringing us into unison with continental nomenclature.
The species should stand in our lists as —
Acidalia, Tr.
humiliata, Hufn.
osseata, Schiff. (S. V. p. 33, n. Cat.), Tr. (vi. 2, 32), Gn. (i. 467),
Mill. (Ic. 64-7), Dup. viii., Hb. 102.
inter jectaria, B. (gen. p. 224). dilutaria, Hb. 100 ?.
In the distribution of humiliata, Hufn. = ossearia, Hb.,
Staudinger gives Europe, except reg. bor., Sicily, Sardinia, Cor-
sica, and Greece, — thus including England ; while in the distri-
bution of dilutaria he gives Central Europe, except Germany,
S. Belgium, and England, — thus expressly excluding England.
If any entomologists should still consider that Hiibner's
figs. 100 and 102 {dilutaria and ossearia) really represent two
forms of our species, both the names must sink as synonyms of
Hufnagel's humiliata, for if one falls, the other — being of the
same date— must sink with it.
ON THE SYNONYMY OF ACID ALIA HUMILIATA. 123
It will be seen that I have altogether ignored Boisduval's and
Guenee's name interjectaria.for after carefully studying their works
I have come to the conclusion that Boisduval did not even make
out a prima facie reason for re-naming the insect. In his ' Index
Lepidoptera Europee ' he gives the following synonymy for the
two species : —
( osseata, Hh^Dnv). ] ^j ,^^^ _,^.
Usearia, W. V., F., D.j ^o. 1877. p. 324,
Unterjectaria, Boisd. ) -vt -lorvrv c^^4
Uilutaria^m. } No. 1879, p. 224 J
A.D. 1840.
If he considered Hiibner's dilutaria synonymous with his inter-
jectaria, why did he re-name the species ? And how can we
possibly account for the fact that in his and Guenee's joint
work, * Naturelle des Insectes,' vol. ix., published seventeen years
afterwards, they (or rather Guenee) make the distinction between
osseata and his interjectaria to consist in the fact that while
*' osseata has a reddish shade along the costa, interjectaria has a
brown one," when Hubner's dilutaria has no such shade ? He
(or Guenee) must have had interjectaria without a costal shade,
otherwise the use of the synonym becomes inexplicable. I can
recommend those interested in the matter to look up pp. 467, 468,
of the above work. It will give them a good insight into what a
French species is sometimes worth, and is an excellent charac-
teristic of un peu plus and unpeu moins, for which the descriptions
of French entomologists have become celebrated. To explain
what I mean, Boisduval and Guenee say of osseata: — "It is
singular that neither the authors of the Vienna Catalogue nor
English authors have mentioned as a salient character the red
costa of this species. It is true that it is pale sometimes "
(Guenee thus acknowledges that the character is inconstant), "but
rarely so altogether ; and for myself, I believe it necessary to drop
all descriptions which omit this character, and to treat them as
the next species, with which, at first sight, this species might
easily be confounded." But of interjectaria they say : — " This is
a species very close to osseata; one only distinguishes it at first
by the costa, which is brown and not red, but besides this the
colour is paler, more pallid and shining, the wings are more
sinuous at the margins, &c." These are the salient points of
their diagnoses of the two species, and, considering what we know
of the species, I am certain there is not a point mentioned by
them that is reliable. Our species sometimes has a decided
reddish brown costa, sometimes brownish with scarcely a tinge
of red. At other times it is quite free from any shade whatever,
but there is every intermediate form, and these differences cannot
constitute a specific difference. Again, there is a good deal of
difference in the shape of the outer margin and apex of the
N 2
124 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
anterior wings, but this is common to many species in this and
other genera.
One very pointed note is added by Boisduval to his description
of interjectaria : — " II a tout-a-fait raison lorsqu'il (M. Delaharpe),
dit, qu'elle disparait quand osseata commence." Our experience
in England is quite against this, for we get the forms altogether.
I have captured the species continuously from June 30th to
August 12th, at Deal. I may add that Boisduval and Guenee, in
their work mentioned, say of both these supposed species ** larva
unknown," so that the characters of the imagines were the only
means of separation.
The first note as to A. interjectaria being a British insect is
to be found from the pen of Mr. Doubleday (Entom. iii. 261),
where he states that " having received specimens of interjectaria
from Dr. Staudinger, he was convinced that specimens he had
received from Cambridge belonged to this species, and that
Guenee had identified them as such." This I quite agree with ;
there is not the remotest doubt that some of our specimens
represent the interjectaria of Boisduval. We must remember,
however, that our lepidopterists considered they were getting
two species — osseata and interjectaria. The next note is from
Mr. Howard Vaughan (Ent. Mo. Mag. iv. 91), where he announces
the capture of the new species interjectaria at Plumstead, and
telling us he did not distinguish them at the time from osseata,
leaving us to assume that he did afterwards so distinguish them.
The next note is from Dr. Knaggs (Ent. Mo. Mag. iv. 113), to
the effect that A. interjectaria is tolerably abundant at Folke-
stone. He then points out differences between the Folkestone
specimens, Cambridge interjectaria, and British osseata, and adds,
— " No doubt the extremes of these two forms are distinct
enough, but it is a confessedly difficult job to draw the line
between them." Probably, considering that we have only one
species in England, and have to split it up " to draw the line."
This was followed by a note from Mr. Doubleday (Ent. Mo. Mag.
iv. 161), who writes from Epping: — "^. osseata is rare here, and
I only know of one spot where it occurs. Specimens taken a few
years since, which were evidently very fresh, had the costa
decidedly ferruginous, but this colour faded soon after they were
dead. The ground colour of the wings was also yellower than in
any specimens of interjectaria J" These differences also referred,
of course, to our one British species. This last extract was
written in December, 1867, and was followed in February, 1868,
by another note (Entom. iv. 30), where he writes: — '* I have
recently received from Dr. Staudinger several specimens of the
true Acidalia osseata, I had not seen a continental specimen
before. The typical examples have a bright red costa, and I
have never seen any British specimens like them ; but I possess
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 125
five or six which appear to be identical with a pale variety (of
osseata), also sent to me by Dr. Staudinger. There is, however,
no doubt that the majority of specimens in our cabinets under
the name of osseata are really interject aria'' This I quite agree
with ; the majority are of that particular form. And here our
greatest lepidopterist left it. I have in my own collection conti-
nental typical osseata with red costa, and pale varieties of the
same species identical with ours. My specimen of the former is
almost identical with a strongly-marked specimen I captured last
year within a hundred yards of my own house. The Rev. H.
Burney has a note (Entom. iv. 19), but I do not attach much
importance to it, for the most strongly marked of our own speci-
mens on the one hand, and the palest on the other, would make
two tolerably distinct series ; but this gentleman was the first to
give us dilutaria as a synonym. I do not find, however, that he
ever referred to the original figures or descriptions of Hiibner,
but based his note on the opinion of Dr. Staudinger as exem-
plified in the arrangement of the cabinet of Herr Kaltenbach.
Neither Mr. Doubleday nor Dr. Knaggs appear to have referred
to Hiibner, but took for granted what Mons. Guenee or Dr.
Staudinger considered correct. Yet this book is readily attainable.
Dr. Staudinger, apparently soon after this, came to the conclusion
that our species was specifically identical with ossearia^ Hb. {teste
his ' Catalog '). Hufnagel's work cannot be referred to by British
lepidopterists, but so far as I have tested Dr. Staudinger's use of
this author he has always been correct. In conclusion I would
add that if anyone who has really long series from many different
localities will compare their specimens with Hiibner's figures,
they will be satisfied that Hiibner's ossearia is a strongly- marked
form of our species, and that interjectaria, Bdv., has no raison
d'etre.
Westcombe Park, Blackheath, S.E.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 100.)
Summary and Remarks on Colour Varieties.
The portions of this paper which have already appeared were
written early in 1888, and hence some interesting facts more
recently made known to me have yet no place in it. In any case,
a subject of this kind cannot be in any sense finally treated,— -at
least not until our knowledge is incomparably greater than it is
at the present day ; and any writer who discusses variation must
be prepared to consider every new fact or suggestion without
126 THE ENTOMOLOGIST. i
being unduly biassed by previous conceptions. The phenomena
of colour variation are essentially of three distinct kinds : —
1. Due to a change in the nature or arrest in the metabolism
of a pigment (chemical).
2. Due to a change of structure (physical).
3. Due to a change in the proportion of the normal colours.
The third of these is generally easy to distinguish ; the first
and second are easily confused, especially when descriptions only
are accessible of the varieties under consideration. It will be
useful to review these three classes : —
1. We have seen that red may be replaced by yellow, and more
rarely yellow by red. A white pigment may also be changed to
yellow, and, again, yellow is sometimes replaced by white (as in
Rumia, see Entom. xxi. 15 ; and in Heliodes arbuti albescens,
which has white in place of yellow on the secondaries, see
Newman, * Brit. Moths '). A caustic alkali will change the white
of Lyccena to yellow, and a damp cyanide bottle will dye the
yellow of Colias and of some Hymenoptera a deep red : these are
chemical changes, presumably due to a change in the nature of
the pigment. But alkali will not turn a white Pleris yellow ; and,
in fact, according to Dr. Dimmock, there is very little pigment at
all in the white of a Pieris, — 'it is a sort of optical illusion, com-
parable to the white of finely-ground glass. So here at once is
introduced a difficulty, which seems to throw such variations as
Pieris rapes novanglice, P, napi flava (upper side entirely canary-
yellow, C. G. Barrett, K M. M., 1888, 81), and Bryophila perla
flavescens into the third class instead of the first, and prove them
to be caused by an enormous preponderance of that yellow
pigment which is generally more or less visible about the typical
forms. Abraxas grossulariata lutea I had already recognised (p. 2)
as being of this nature. In the face of this evidence that changes
from yellow to white and white to yellow, though apparently
identical in their nature, really represent two radically different
phenomena, one feels afraid of theorising about the other varia-
tions. Dimorphism of pigment, or dichroism, most certainly does
exist, and is even frequent ; but it is perfectly plain that to decide
which varieties really belong to this class requires something
more than a superficial examination. It is by the action of
chemical reagents that we must test them. Pale forms, if due to
a non-metabolism of pigment, will come properly under the first
division ; but it is possible that the green of Venilia macularia
viridimaculata is really a deceiving combination of black and
yellow, like the green of Anthocharis. Will anyone who has an
example of this variety please examine it with a microscope, and
report? Some suffused varieties, which one would naturally
class under the third division, must belong to the first, because a
damp cyanide bottle gives a sufi'ased appearance to Danais
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 187
plexippus, and a similar variety occurs in nature (see * Entomo-
logica Americana,' vol. i. p. 159). A noteworthy form of dichroism,
which must surely belong to the first division, is a change from
blue to red or crimson, and vice-versa. This occurs in Catocala
(e. g., Catocala nupta C(Brvlescens, with blue secondaries, as
recorded in the 'Entomologist,' p. 51), and more frequently in the
Locustidse, as Melanoplus atlanis cceruleipes, Ckll. ; M. packardii
rvfipes, with hind tibisB red instead of blue (see * Canadian Ento-
mologist,' 1885, p. 18) ; Caloptenus spretus cceruleipes, with hind
tibiae blue instead of red (Can. Ent., 1878, 105). A similar
dichroism appears in the secondaries of a European locust. It is
worthy of remark that (so far as I know) each genus that presents
this kind of dichroism also has species in which yellow takes the
place of red or blue, and others in which the typical red varies to
yellow, though in these species the red does not also vary to blue,
nor do blue species seem to revert to yellow. Probably the yellow
represents least, and the blue most, specialisation, as is said to be
the case with the colours of flowers.
2. This is Hagen's class 1 (Ent. Mo. Mag. 1872, 78—83). I
think it is almost certain that silver markings (as in Argynnis) are
due to a change from white, but neither white nor silver are
pigment. Dr. Dimmock (in * Psyche ') compares the white to
ground-, and the silver to smooth-glass; and the comparison
seems a particularly happy one. Probably such varieties as
Colias edusa purpurascens belong to this division.
3. This, in which the proportions of the different colours are
changed, includes a vast multitude of forms; and variation of
this kind, instead of being comparatively rare, like those under
1 and 2, occurs in almost every species. My subdivisions " m,"
*' n," " o," " p," afford good illustration of this variation.
Additions and References,
Glancing over the various subdivisions ("a" to "p "), I now
give a few addenda and references to literature, which will be
useful to those interested in the matter : —
(a.) 1. I have taken a variety of Danais plexippus, illustrating
a condition opposite to that of the variety of P. huntera, quoted.
This is described by Mr. Jenner Weir (Entom. 62). 2. See
Scudder, on red varieties of the locustid Amblycorypha (' Psyche,*
1888, 69). I have not seen these varieties, and dare not theorise ;
but it is worth noting that some Locustids when put into alcohol
turn red. 3. The American species of Callimorpha are divided into
those with white and those with yellow secondaries (see Lyman,
Can. Entom., 1887, 181). Probably the European red-winged
species are more highly specialised than the American, and these
occasionally revert to yellow. In the same way, the American
form (americana) of Chelonia caia is probably nearer the primitive
128 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I
type than ours, especially the var. utahensis, Hy. Edw., which has
pale orange secondaries. (7. parthenos is another nearly-allied
form, which I find in Western Custer Co., Colorado, at 8400
feet alt. (I have to thank Mr. H. Strecker for the identification
of this). 4. Zygcena lavandulce lutescens has been found at
Cannes (see Entom. xxi. 211). For another example of red and
yellow forms, see G. M. Dodge on (Edipoda corallipes (Can. Ent.,
1876, 101).
(e.) Teras oxycoccana is ash-grey, but the dimorphic form
malivorana of Le Baron is orange. This dimorphism is without
reference to food or sex. Similar phenomena occur in many
British species, of which I have received full and interesting
details through the kindness of Mr. J. W. Tutt. Teras (Rhacodia)
caudana has two forms, which are neither sexual, seasonal, nor
phytophagic. Mr. Tutt adds, " With regard to the other Tortrices
it is a wide question ; and when an extensive series is obtained I
believe many dimorphic species become polymorphic, i. e., I believe
that the two extremes and generally better-known forms are
connected by other intermediate forms. I hardly know whether
polymorphic is at all a correct word to use in this case, as there
are decidedly only two forms joined by intermediates." Of the
British species of Tortrix, Mr. Tatt tells me that xylosteana and
ribeana are polymorphic ; rosana, heparana, costana, and palleana
are dimorphic ; lafauryana, unifasciana, viburnana, and palleana
var. icterana are sexually dimorphic ; ministrana has a melanic
form of restricted occurrence ; but the black form of podana is
not restricted to any particular district, being taken in Notts,
Yorks, Kent, Surrey, &c. In Penthina, says Mr. Tutt, " there is
a strange case of dimorphism, certain forms losing their dark
colours, and becoming white, with grey shades." Mr. Tutt has
such a form of P. variegana. In the birds of the genus
Nyctidromus, red and grey phases occur, the red being more
prevalent in the tropics (see Gr. B. Sennett, ' The Auk,' 1888).
(f.) 1. Mr. W.H. Edwards, in Canad. Ent., 1876, 203, writes
that Lyccena comyntas is *' dimorphic in the female, most of this
sex here (Coalburgh) being black, the others blue, with broad
black margins. This phenomenon is similar to that oi pseudargiolus
in its winter form violacea." But the black pseudargiolus have
since been found to be males, so perhaps the dimorphism of
comyntas is also really in the male. I incline to consider that
Lyccena presents an exception to the general rule, that in cases
of sexual dimorphism in Lepidoptera it is the female that has
varied from the original type ; and this is why we find that
almost unique phenomenon, a phase of dimorphism confined to the
male. 2. To the cases of pale female Coliades, G. Christina ? pallida
(H.H.Lyman, Can. Ent., 1884, 6) and C , alexandra ^ pallida
(W. H. Edwards, Can. Ent., 1887, 229) may be added. The
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 129
frequency of these pale females varies exceedingly in the different
species. In C. scudderi the yellow female seems to be an exception.
In the seasonally dimorphic forms of C. eurytheme here, pallida
is very common in the summer brood (intermedia), but I have
never found it in the autumn and spring form (antumnalis).
Nevertheless, a whitish form has been recorded for the var.
hagenii, which is close to autumnalis. Mr. J. Anderson, jun., in
his most interesting note (Entom. 72), shows that the helice
female of C. edusa varies itself quite considerably, and he has
even a buff-coloured variety of the female edusa, apparently
intermediate between helice and the type.
(g.) 1. Aberrations, somewhat similar to that quoted in
Leucania conigera, are recorded in Chrysophanus phlceas and
Papilio bianor (see Ent. Mo. Mag., 1888, 278). 2. May I again
entreat entomologists to look to the matter of asymmetry ?
C. H. T. Townsend, in Can. Ent., 1884, 238, says that the
elytra of seven out of seventeen specimens of Alaus oculatus
were unequal in length ; of these seven, five had the left elytron
shortest, these also being the cases in which the inequality was
most prominent.
(h.) Additional cases of pseudohermaphroditism have been
recorded in Bupalus and Erehia (* Psyche,' 1888, 92), in Lyccena
corydon (Entom. xxi. 13), and in Saturnia pavonia; the last from
Lincoln, recorded in * Naturalist,' 1888,199. The last sentence
of section " h," ** tokens that the female was once dimorphic,"
should read " female or male," as I think it was the male Lyccena
that varied, and probably also the male Anthocharis, though we
hear (Entom. 72) of a female A.cardamines with some of the orange
of the male asymmetrically developed. This, however, is probably
not an atavism, but a tendency on the part of one sex to adopt new
peculiarities which have long been held by the other. It quite
confirms the view that it is the male Lyccena that has varied,
that Mr, W. H. Edwards records (Can. Ent., 1888, 160) an
" hermaphrodite " of Lyccena neglecta, which on dissection proved
to be a male. This observation is very important, and it is
exceedingly desirable that it should be repeated with other
pseudohermaphrodites.
(i.) Although one Chalcid presents a pseudomas form, another,
Pteromalus quadrimaculatce, has a var. of the male approaching
the female in appearance, as recorded by Mr. Ashmead.
(k.) 1. On the small size of vernal broods (see C. V. Riley,
4th Report, U. S. Ent. Comm., 1885, 352). 2. On dark vernal
forms of Ips fasciatus (see Dr. John Hamilton, Can. Ent., 1885,
pp. 46, 47). 3. Compare the remarks (p. 29) on Gonepteryx with
Darwin on Fringilla cannahina in England and Madeira (' Descent
of Man,' p. 394).
(1.) 1. The dark Colias, mentioned on p. 55, is C. meadiiy
130 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Edw. Mr. W. H. Edwards has recently described the larva from
specimens obtained from eggs laid by a female captured by Mr.
"W. S. Foster on Marshall Pass, Colorado. The larvae are darker
than those of any other Colias known to Mr. Edwards. 2. Recent
observations and records have tended to confirm the view that
melanism, or at least one form of it, is due to dampness.
Conversely, pallid forms occur predominantly in the arid districts
of Western North America, and I believe also in similar districts
in Asia. With regard to the small mammal Spermophilus tri-
decemlineatus pallidus, it "is the subspecies characteristic of the
plains, and its pallid colour, like that of numerous mammals and
birds of the same region (of Western N. America), is due to the
aridness of the area which they inhabit " (Dr. C. H. Merriam,
in litt. to H. G. Smith, jun.).
For the present paper, this shall suffice for colour- variation.
It now remains to treat of varieties of shape and size, and of
certain other matters, such as hybridism.
Ehrata. — P. 4, line 9'from bottom, for " typica " read " chrysographa,
Hb." P. 6, line '25 from bottom, for '* formally " read " formerly." P. 55,
line 11 from top, for **obscura'' read *' salicis, Staiat." P. 55, line 13 from
top, for " nigrescem " read " infuscatu, White."
(To be continued.)
LIST OF THE BRITISH STRATIOMYID^, WITH
ANALYTICAL TABLES AND NOTES.
By E. Brunetti.
(Concluded from p. 86.)
6. Odontomyia, M^. (1804), Klass. i. 128.
= Stratiomys, p. Zett.
A. First antennal joint twice as long as 2nd.
B. Abdomen with whitish pubescence . . - . argentata.
BB. Pubescence absent. - microleon.
AA. First antennal joint as long as 2nd.
C. Abdomen all black tigrina.
CO. Abdomen yellow or green, marked with black
D. With 3 pairs of distinct spots ornata.
DD. Yellow or green, with black dorsal stripe ; no distinct spots.
E. First vein from the discoidal cell rudimentary, 3rd complete
viridula,
EE. First vein complete, 3rd rudimentary.
F. Black abdominal band narrower on 1st segment than the others.
hydropota,
FF. Black abdominal band of equal width on all segments. angidata,
1. 0. microleon, L. (1761), F. Suec. ii. 1781. — Four distinct
species have come under my notice as ^^ microleon." One in the
Entomological Club collection was 0. ornata var. ; one in
LIST OF THE BRITISH STRATIOMYID^. 131
the Banksian collection was far too small to be this species, and
was too dilapidated to identify ; one in Dr. Mason's collection
which, though I fail to recognise it, is certainly not this species;
and one in Dr. Meade's cabinet, this latter being the only
specimen I can safely refer to this species. I found one in the
British Museum general collection under the genus Oxycera,
Very rare. I have one from Austria.
2. 0. argentata, F. (1794), Ent. Sys. iv. 266. = paludosa,
Schum. — The under side of the abdomen of this species is said to
be green, but I have not noticed this fact, it may, however be
the case in living specimens ; I know the green colour of O.
viridula often fades after death. Not uncommon. On willows.
Generally distributed.
3. 0. ornata, Mg. (1804), Klass. i. 129. = furcata, Latr.;
transformations, Reaumur Mem. iv. pi. xxv. — The British
Museum collection contains an interesting variety, in which the
markings on the face differ from those in the type. Prof.
Jsennicke has bred this species from aquatic larva. Rather
common, and generally distributed.
4. 0. tigrina, F. (1781), Sp. Ins. i. 417. = nigrita, Fall. —
Not common. Easily recognised by its entirely black colour.
6. 0. angulata, Panz. (1798), F. Germ. Iviii. 19. = ruficornis,
Zett. ; brevicorniSy Lw. — Mr. Verrall introduced it to our fauna
in the Ent. Month. Mag. for Jan., 1886, having taken one female at
Tuddenham in July. Mr. Dale has it also in his collection from
the south-west. Allied to hydropota, Mg. Very rare.
6. 0. hydropota, Mg. (1822), Sys. Bes. iii. 147. — This species
I considered " uncertain " for a long time, but among some
specimens from his collection very kindly lent me by Mr. C. Dale
for examination, I found a specimen undoubtedly of this species.
I have it from France and Bohemia, it being rather common on
the Continent. Very possibly it is now quite extinct in Britain.
7. 0. viridula, F. (1775), Sys. Ent. 760. = eaniina, Pz. ;
jejuna, Schr. ; dentata, suhvittata, bimaculata, Mg. ; interrupta,
Lw. — The variety suhvittata, Mg., is so pronounced that, but for
Schiner and Jsennicke ranking it as such, I should have regarded
it as specifically distinct. It is entirely yellowish, with an
irregular narrow black central stripe on the abdomen. Dr.
Mason's collection contains some extraordinary varieties of this
common and widely distributed species.
Walker introduced 0. connexa as British, giving no locality,
but mentioning its rarity and presence in the British Museum.
In the corrections in vol. iii. of his Ins. Brit., he admits that it
is not even European, and that it was inserted by mistake. What
I believe to be his type specimen is still in the British Museum
British collection. He also introduces 0. hydrodromia, Mg.,
and O. hydroleon, Mg. ; but of neither of these species can I iind
132 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
any specimen. 0. hydroleon having pubescent eyes, would fall in
Eondani's genus Psellidotus.
7. Sargus, F. (1798), Ent. Sys. Supp. 666.
= Nemotelus, DeG. ; musca, L.
Walker and Curtis both describe this genus as being destitute
of palpi, but these organs (though small) are present.
Brown suffusion around stigma .... cuprarius.
No suffusion.
Wings almost clear. fiavipes.
Wings uniformly pale brown . . . . infuscatus.
1. S. cuprariuSi L. (1761), F. Suec. 1853. = violaceus, Scop.;
cceruleicollis, Mg. ; nuheculosus, Zett. ; larva, De G. Ins. vi. pi. xii. —
Zetterstedt's nuheculosus was ranked by Walker and Schiner as
distinct, the former suggesting that it was a variety of this
species. Zetterstedt made its inferior size the principal dis-
tinction, but I have seen specimens showing every grade in size.
Van der VVulp, the latest authority on this family, also ranks it
as a var. of cuprarius. Common everywhere ; London included.
2. S. infuscatus, Mg. (1822), Sys. Bes. iii. 107. = cuprarius,
Linne's Coll.; indicus, Harr. ; auratus, Mg. ; iridatas, Walk. —
Common, and widely distributed. Easily recognised by the
uniformly brown wings. Taken occasionally in and about London.
3. S. flavipes, Mg. (1822), Sys. Bes. iii. 108, pi. xxv. 14.—
Zetterstedt mentions that the femora in the male are black. It
is important to know this, as it affords an easy method of distin-
guishing it from the male of C. bipimctattts, in which species the
legs are entirely tawny-yellow in both sexes. Rather uncommon,
though Walker describes it with his customary and monotonous,
" generally distributed." S. nitidus, Mg., was introduced as British
by Curtis, but I can find no specimens belonging to this species.
8. Chrysonotus, Lw. (1855), Verb. Zoo. Bot. Ges. v. 131.
— Sargus, Walk., Curt. ; Musca, Scop.
1. C. hipunctatuSy Scop. (1763), Ent. Carn. 341. = Reaumur,
F. ; transformations, Eeaumur, Mem. iv., PI. xiii., xiv., xxii. —
Uncommon, almost rare. It has occurred in Yorkshire, Kent,
and other well-separated localities. Curtis' figure of the antenna
is incorrect.
9. Chloromyia, Dune. (1837), Mag. Zoo. Bot. (1837).
= Musca, L. ; Nemotelus, De G. ; Sargus, F. ; Chrysomyia,
Walk., Schin. ; Chlorisoma, Chlorosia, Kond.
Prof. Van der Wulp, in his ' Diptera Neerlandica,' retains the
old generic name, Chrysomyia, for this species, and includes in
the same genus both species of Microchrysa. I am rather
doubtful of the right of Chrysonotus to generic rank, but
Chloromyia and Microchrysa seem quite distinct.
LIST OF THE BRITISH STRATIOMYID^. 133
1. C.formosa, Scop. (1763), Ent. Carn. 839-910. = auratus,
F. ; flavogeniculatus, De G. ; cuprarluSy Scop. ; cicur, Harr. ;
xanthoptera, Mg. ; azureus, Lw. — Very common everywhere ;
London included. The list of synonyms will show how variable
the species is, though when once well recognised it cannot be
mistaken for any other species in the whole order.
10. MicRocHRYSA, Lw. (1855), Verb. Zoo. Bot. Ges. v. 131.
= Chrysomyia, Walk. ; Sargus, F. ; Nemotklus, DeG.; Musca, L.
Antennae black. - - - polita.
Antennae tawny. - - - flavicornis.
1. M. polita, Linn. (1761), F. Suec. (1854). = aurata, De G. ;
cyaneus, F. ; splendens, Mg. ; vitrem, Harr. — In one variety of
this common and widely- distributed species, all the tibiae are
tawny-yellow in both sexes.
2. M. flavicornis, Mg. (1822), Sys. Bes. iii. 112. = parvuluSy
Harr. ; pallipes, cyaneiventris, Zett. ; politus. Fall. — Dr. Meade's
collection contains one specimen of the very distinct variety
cyaneiventris, taken near Bradford. The type and the var. pallipes
are common everywhere, both this and the last species occurring
also in London.
11. Beris, Latr. (1802), Hist. Nat. d'Ins. xiv. 340.
= Stratiomys, F. ; Musca, L. ; Actina, Mg.
A. Abdomen all tawny yellow.
B. Transverse abdominal furrows near apex of each segment. clavipes.
BB. Furrows hardly visible, or absent. vallata.
AA. Abdomen violet or bluish black.
C. Wings all brown ; legs chiefly black or brown.
D. Legs light brown ; hind metatarsus very thick, not longer than the
rest of the tarsus. chalybeata, $ .
DD. Legs dark brown, knees lighter ; hind metatarsus not thickened, longer
than the rest of the tarsus. fuscipea, ^ .
CC. Wings yellowish grey, a large brownish black stigma; legs chiefly
yellow.
E. Eyes on vertex separated by one -third of the width of the head.
F. Hind metatarsus much longer than the four other tarsal joints
together. Brown band towards tip of posterior femora, fuscipes, J .
FF. Hind metatarsus as long or hardly longer than the four other tarsal
joints taken together. Posterior femora unmarked, chalybeata, $ .
EE. Eyes on vertex contiguous or parted by only one-fifth of the width of
the head. morriaii, (^ , $ .
There are only five European species of Beris, all of which
inhabit Great Britain.
1. B. clavipes, Linn. (1767), Sys. Nat. ii. 981. = nigra, Geoff.
— Comirion. The female has dark wings.
2, B. vallata, Forst. (1771), Nov. sp. Ins. Cent. i. 96. = nigri-
tarsis, Lat. ; clavipes, Mg.— It is almost impossible to distinguish
the males of this species from those of clavipes. The transverse
134 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
furrows on the abdomen are usually more distinct in clavipes.
The female has light wings. Common.
3. B. chalybeata, Forst. (1771), I.e. 95. = sexdentata, Mg. ;
flavipes, Mcq. ; obscura, Zett. ; atra, Mg. — This species has been
bred from pupse found in moss. Variable, common.
4. B.fuscipes, Mg. (1820), Sys. Bes. ii. 8. = geniculata, Curt.
— Uncommon ; but not " rare," as Walker states. South coast.
The geniculata var. of Curtis comes from Ireland.
5. B. morrisii, Dale (1842), Entom. (1842), p. 115. =pallipes,
JAw, — Uncommon. South Coast.
12. ACTINA, Mg.
== Chlorisops, Eond.
1. A tibialis, Mg. (1820), Sys. Bes. ii. 3. — Variable, rather
common. Found in woods. The other European species,
A. nitens, has been recorded as British, but does not appear to
have any claim to a place in our lists.
Being at present engaged on a revision of the British Asilidce
and Conopid(By I should esteem it a favour if anyone having
collections of these groups would kindly allow me to examine
them.
My best thanks are due to Mr. Verrall, Dr. Meade, Dr. Mason,
and Mr. Dale, for allowing me examination, in whole or in part,
of their collections, and for most useful information ; also to
Mr. B. Lowne, for affording me an opportunity of inspecting the
Entomological Club Collection.
129, Grosvenor Park, Camberwell, S.E.
i
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTU^ OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 98.)
Neuria, Gn., reticulata, Vill.
The type of this species is described in De Villers' * Caroli
Linnsei Entomologia Fauna Suecicse,' &c., ii. p. 254, as follows : —
*' Phalsena Noctua (le reticulee) spirilinguis, thorace cristato-
angularie, alis deflexis fuscis, rivulis reticulatis griseis. Alse
superiores brunnese, lineis strigisque griseis quasi reticulatse ; in
medio prope marginem exteriorem, macula grisea ovaliformi
duplicique circulo. Alse inferiores infra et supra grisese."
This is one of our most constant species in Britain. In the
series I have, the only noticeable point of variation is in the shape
and direction of the stigmata (orbicular and reniform) ; but it
VARIETIES OF NOCTU-E IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 135
does not appear to be so invariable, in the ground colour at least,
on the Continent. Hiibner, under the name of typica^ figures a
rich purple-brown variety ; while Guenee says of the French
specimens, " The two median lines geminated, tinted with rose-
colour" (' Noctuelles,' vol. v. p. 167). Probably these brightly-
coloured forms exist in collections in Britain. Mr. N. F. Dobree
writes : — "iV. reticulata is so scarce in this part of the E. Biding
(Beverley) that I have never taken more than two ; but these
still retain a decided vinous tinge, though taken five years ago "
(in litt.). Our ordinary British form was described by Haworth,
under the name of marginosa (' Lepidoptera Britannica,' p. 195,
No. 101).
«. var. typica^Hh. — Hiibner figures (58) the type of this variety, of which
I made the following description: — "Anterior wings of a rich purplish
brown, with the longitudinal nervures nearly absent, otherwise much like
our own specimens ; the three pale transverse lines and stigmata outlined
in pinkish grey. Hind wings grey, hind margin darker, with three white
dots in centre of extreme outer margin ; a distinct transverse line
and lunule."
p. var. unicolor, Stdgr. — This variety is mentioned by Staudinger in
his trade list, and in answer to a query Mr. Dobree has written : — " The
var. unicolor derives its name from being a uniform brown-grey, the
nervures and markings being pricked out in a lighter shade of the ground
colour. My specimens are from Kaschgar, in Russian Turkestan "
{in litt.).
Neuronia, Hb., popularis, Fab.
This species was described more than once by Fabricius.
His description, taken from the ' Entomologia systematica
emendata et aucta,' &c., p. 484, No. 240, is as follows: —
"Bombyx* alis incumbentibus fuscis albo venosis posticis
albidis. Statura prsecedentis {graminis). Antennae pectinatse,
fuscse. Alse anticse fuscse venis albis. In medio maculae
ordinarise pupilla obscuriore. Versus apicem striga e maculis
parvis, sagittatis, atris. Posticse albidse margine obscuriore
subtusque puncto centrali, fusco." Haworth, in the * Lepidoptera
Britannica,' p. 117, describes the species under the name of
popularius ; whilst Hubner figures a form tinged with pink under
the name of graminis.
The variation of this species appears to be confined within
very narrow limits. In some specimens the orbicular is large,
and formed of a dark centre surrounded by white or ochreous,
in others it is a pale spot, while in others it is almost obsolete ;
the reniform also varies in colour and size. The transverse lines
are sometimes white, sometimes ochreous, sometimes tinged with
pink, as in Hiibner's graminis. There is also a considerable
* It must be borne in mind that the early lepidopterists classed all our Noctua
with pectinated antenna as Bombyces.
136 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
amount of difference in the intensity of the dark grey border to
the hind wings of the males. In some it may be described as
black, so intense is it ; while in other specimens there is every
grade of intensity to an almost total absence. In both sexes
there is a great deal of difference in the development of the dark
wedge-shaped marks parallel to the hind margin, but the males
vary most in this respect. There is a good deal of sexual
difference, the males being, as a rule, much smaller than the
females, Mr. Dobree writes : — *' In a male I have from Central
Kussia, the ground colour is slate-grey " (in lltt.).
Var. graminis, Hb. — Hiibner's fig. 59 has " all the pale longitudinal
and transverse markings with a distinct pinkish tinge, hind wings also
pinkish." The markings are as in our British specimens, the only
difference being that of colour, although our British specimens often have
the nervures tinged with pink.
Heliophobus, Bdv., hispida, Hb.-Gey.
Geyer's figures 784-86, in his Supplement to Hubner's
* Schmetterlinge,' &c., represent the type of this species. His
figure 784 may be described as, "Anterior wings purplish brown,
with all the pale markings of a delicate violet, except along the
inner margin, where they are yellow. Antennae pectinated. Hind
wings grey, darker on the hind margin, with a dark line parallel
to the hind margin." His figure 785 is the under side of the
male represented in fig. 784; while fig. 786 is a female, having
" the anterior wings dark reddish brown, with all the pale
transverse lines ochreous, and nervures white." I believe the
oditis of Hiibner (fig. 694) is only a small hispida ? . It would
appear that the continental specimens of this species are, in
general, more violet than our British specimens, for in the
* Noctuelles,' vol. v. p. 172, Guenee, describing his var. a, says,
" less violet," thus leaving us to assume that their type, which he
refers to Hiibner's fig. 784, is violet-coloured. For this type he
gives as a locality, *' Provence." Regarding these violet-tinged
hispida in England, in answer to a query from me, Mr. Nelson M.
Richardson, M.A., writing from Weymouth, says : — " I cannot see
anything worth calling a violet tinge on any of my specimens :
there is an approach to a violet tinge on the transverse line just
beyond the reniform, but I should not mention it in a description
as such, as it is scarcely violet, but rather steel-grey." I have
received specimens from Mr. Richardson and Major Partridge,
captured at Portland last year (1888), and I have a number of
specimens from Torquay, but none of these show the typical
violet coloration. It is remarkable that the specimens from
Portland have a much clearer white ground colour* than those
* This is worthy of notice, as the same difference exists in specimens of
E. lichenea from these localities.
VARIETIES OF NOCTURE IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 137
from Torquay, — the hind margin of the anterior wings with a
broad silvery band ; while those from the latter place have only a
fine line, and the hind wings of the former are so white that they
present a very different appearance to Torquay specimens. The
latter, indeed, appear to be Hubner's oditis. Among our ordinary
British specimens we appear to have four (at least) distinct
forms : —
1. A dark brown form, with deep ochreous stigmata, and dark
ochreous grey hind wings in both sexes, = var. suffusa,
2. A dark brown form, with silvery white markings, white
band on hind margin, hind wings comparatively pale, = var.
argentea.
3. A pale brownish grey form, with white markings and white
hind wings, = var. pallida.
4. An obsolete form, with no markings whatever between the
reniform and outer margin, = var. obsoleta.
a. var. intermedia, mihi. — An intermediate form, described by Guenee
as var. a, which serves to connect Hiibner s violet type with our British
specimens which are without such a tint. It is described in his
* Noctuelles,' vol. v. p. 172, as *' Generally paler, more yellow, less violet,
with the lines and stigmata more decided of a clearer white. The inferior
wings clearer. Locality, West of France." If Guenee did not leave us to
suppose that this variety was violet-tinged, I should certainly suppose it
was the same as the ordinary Portland specimens.
13. var. suffusa, mihi. — Ground colour dark brown, with the stigmata of
deep ochreous colour, the transverse lines and nervures of a whitish ochreous
in the males, yellow ochreous in the females, a fine hne bordering the hind
margin ; fringes grey. Hind wings grey in both sexes, with a very dark
outer margin, and a dark transverse line; fringes grey. This is by far the
most suffused form I have seen. My specimens came from Torquay.
y. var. argentea, mihi. — Ground colour dark brown, with longitudinal
nervures and basal transverse lines white; orbicular and reniform white,
with a faint yellow tinge ; a transverse grey (almost steel-grey) band beyond
the reniform, and a broad white line parallel to the hind margin. Hind
wings white, with a broken grey hind marginal band, and a grey transverse
line; fringes white. The ground colour of the females is darker. My
specimens came from Portland.
I. \ SLY. pallida, mihi. — Ground colour grey, very pale, with a slight
brownish tinge ; costa very pale, whitish ochreous ; a broad white line at
hind margin ; fringes white. Hind wings white, with scarcely a trace of
the grey marginal border, and only the basal part of the grey transverse
line ; fringes white. This is an extreme form of var. argentea. Of this
variety, Mr. Nelson Richardson writes, " This is a more common var., and
very pretty, .... I think the pale hispidus is the prettiest form of the
species " {in litt.). My specimens came from Portland.
s. var. obsoleta, mihi. — A very peculiar form of the insect. Ground
colour dull grey, with very few pale markings ; a pale abbreviated transverse
basal line, a complete one just before the orbicular, a bifurcate transverse
median hne, extending under orbicular to the reniform and the central
part of the basal nervures, are the only pale markings, besides the
ENTOM. — may, 1889. O
138 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
orbicular, reniform, and a line parallel to hind margin. There is scarcely
a trace of the ordinary pale markings between the reniform area and hind
margin. Hind wings as in var. argentea. This appears to be a rare variety,
for Mr. Richardson writes, " This does not seem to be a common var., as
I have only seen one or two others with so little in the way of light
markings " [in litt.). I have only Portland specimens.
f. var. oditis, Hb. ? — I am not certain that Hiibner's figs. 694 and 695,
oditis, really represent a variety of hupidus, but I firmly believe it is the same
as my var. suffusa. If Hiibner's oditis really is this species, the name would
take priority of Geyer's hispidus. My description of oditis is as follows : —
** $. Looks like a small hispidus. Anterior wings brown, all nervures
transverse lines and stigmata yellow-ochreous. Hind wings grey, darker on
margin, a dark line parallel to hind margin, and dark lunule." Fig. 695 is
the under side of fig. 694. Guenee, referring to oditis, says (* Noctuelles,'
vol. V. p. 172), *' I have not seen it, and know no one who possesses it."
(To be continued.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
General Index to thk * Entomologist.' — The proposal that Mr.
Newman should publish, by subscription, a General Index to all the
volumes of the * Entomologist ' issued {vide Entom. 78), has, we are
pleased to say, been favourably received, and a large number who wish to
take copies have already sent in their names. There still, however,
remains a deficit, and it is most desirable that all those who intend to
subscribe, but who have not, should do so as early as possible, so that the
work may be proceeded with. We would remind our readers that this work
will really constitute a resume of Entomology for the past quarter century,
and will form a large-sized volume, uniform with the series of the
* Entomologist.' — Ed.
PiERis BRASsic^ WITH VEINS OF WINGS Green. — Chauco has satisfied
me that more importance has been given to this than the subject deserves.
In Dr. Gill's cabinet there was a male specimen of this butterfly, with all
the veins broadly green from the margins to the centre of the wings ; and
in Mr. Gregson's another, also a male, in which the same appears, but not
quite so strikingly. In each of these insects blotches of colour at the end of
some of the veins show that there has been a rupture, and that the cause
came from the margins, not from moisture from the body of the butterfly.
Last year I netted several brassiccs for practice in setting by my children.
Individuals of these, pinned in a damp box, were neglected for some little
time. When taken out, behold similar specimens to the above examples !
the veins green, and ruptured identically the same as these so-called
varieties. An experiment, made in consequence, proved that these could,
at pleasure, be produced, provided the insect to be acted upon had been but
a short time from the pupa. — Sydney Webb ; Maidstone House, Dover,
April 3, 1889.
Food-plant of Hesperia act^eon, — In the E. M. M., vol x., p. 86,
the late Mr. Wm. Buckler described the food-plant of the larva of Hesperia
actcBon as Brachypodium sylvaticum, and as I find this statement is not
corrected in 'Buckler's Larvae,' published by the Ray Society, it may be
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 189
well to publish Mr. W. Buckler's own correction of this error. The following
is an extract from a letter received by myself from Mr. Buckler, dated,
Emsworth, June 7th, 1880: — '* I am indeed greatly rejoiced to see the
larvae of H. actcBon in all stages of growth that you have so kindly sent me,
and particularly at the blossom of the grass they feed on, for I can now be
sure it is that of Brachypodium pinnatum, and not sylvaticwn.'" I may add
that B. sylvaticum, so far as I am aware, does not grow in the localities
frequented by H. actaon, while B. jnnnatum is abundant.— (Rev.) C. R.
Digby; Studland Rectory, Wareham, April 1st, 1889.
Aglia tau. — The preconviction I entertained with respect to Aglia tau
was that it haunted the shade of forest glades and clearings, where the
caterpillar bred recluse on the tall and lofty trees; Mr. Kirby specifies the
beech, lime, and oak. I encountered it, however, under different circum-
stances on a shrubby slope above the village of Olewig, near Treves, where
I mistook it for a large unknown Argynnis butterfly ; and later on I found
the egfTs laid on a low bush, resembling in aspect our English sloe, but with
pointed leaves and otherwise different; a common shrub on the bleaker
exposures of the heights that command the valley of the Moselle. — A. H.
SwiNTON ; Tudor Villas, Bedford.
Food of Nyssia zonaria.— Noticing Mr. Milton's remarks (Entom.
113) that he had fed the larvae of Nyssia zonaria on yarrow, I may mention
that I have on two or three occasions (some few years since) reared the larvae
on yarrow. I think Mr. Arkle must have overlooked Stainton, Newman,
and Merrin's Calendar, or he would have seen they all give yarrow as the
food-plant. — Jno. Harrison; 7, Gawber Road, Barusley, April 8, 1889.
Food of Epunda lichenea. — On the 8th instant I found a dozen
larvae of Epunda lichenea feeding on Linaria cymbalaria in a greenhouse,
where the ivy-leaved snap-dragon was permitted to grow and trail on the
shelves. My attention was first drawn to it by seeing so many of the long
slender leaf-stems standing erect, minus the leaves, which had been
consumed by the larvae. I think this is worth noting, as it is a plant not
hitherto recorded as its food-plant. — G. C. Bignell; 7, Clarence Place,
Stonehouse, Devon, April 11, 1889.
OxYPTiLus teucrii. — In his remarks on the Pterophori, Mr. South
still seems to overlook that the only way in which we could at present
accept Haworth's name, heterodactylus, for this species, is by deliberately
ignoring the law of priority, and accepting Haworth as the originator of the
name, passing over De Villers altogether. At present we have no evidence
at all of the identity of Haworth's heterodactylus with De Villers' heterodac-
tylus, or that Haworth ever saw a single specimen, or even drawing, of the
latter. Neither do we know at all what species De Villers' heterodactylus
was. His description, " Alis patentibus fissis, nigris, maculis albis," is so
vague, that it might equally well apply to several of the genus. The fact
that Mr. Stephens, in his second and larger work in 1834, omitted the
reference to Haworth, which he had inserted in his previous work in 18-29,
would rather lead us to suppose that he was in some doubt as to the
synonymy. Mr. South 's argument, elsewhere, that we should adopt the
Hame from Haworth's specimen, because it may be identical with De Villers'
species, is wholly unscientific. The burden of proof clearly lies on thosa
140 TOE ENTOMOLOGIST.
who wish to change a name like teucrii, which every British entomologist
knows and understands, for a name which, to say the least of it, is utterly
forgotten, is very questionable ; and if adopted on the grounds brought
forward may at any time have to be changed again if a named specimen of
any other entomologist, British or continental, subsequent to De Villers,
turned up, for there is no reason why Havvorth's opinion alone should be
accepted as final. — C. A. Briggs ; 55, Lincoln's Inn Fields, April 15, 188y.
BuTALis LAMiNELLA IN Kent. — On looking through my series of
Butalis fuscocuprella recently, I found four specimens of B. laminella among
specimens captured at Cuxton in Kent. It will be remembered that this
species was recently added to the British fauna by Mr. W. H. B. Fletcher.
—J. W. TUTT.
SiREX IN North Wales. — A year or two ago I caught a fine female
specimen of Sirex gigas flying round a juniper in the garden. They are not
uncommon round here, atid several trees have been injured by the larvae. —
Hilda G. Naylor ; Brynllywarch Hall, Kerry, Montgomeryshire.
Destruction by Anobium paniceum, L. — During March last I dis-
covered in my warehouse quite a colony of beetles, which had taken up their
quarters in a box containing packets of Dr. Jenner's Food for Infants. The
packets were completely riddled through and through, and the sides of the
wooden box were grooved out, as if done with a very small chisel and auger,
where the larvae of the beetles had made their galleries. Both larvae and
beetles could be seen in hundreds ; in fact all stages of the insect were
present. Not being acquainted with its name, I sent a few by post to Mr.
G. A. Lewcock, who kindly replied as follows : — *' The beetles you sent are
named Anobium paniceum, generally a very destructive species in its habits,
particularly when allowed to remain undisturbed for some time in one
habitat, as it breeds rapidly, and does not confine itself to any one class of
goods. Very few articles of produce seem to come amiss as food, for I have
seen drawers of whole ginger literally crowded with the beetles ; and I have
no doubt that Dr. Jenner's Food is admirably suited to the requirements of
the larvae, as instanced by your fine specimens." — J. A. Clark ; 48, The
Broadway, London Fields, N.E.
The Cold Summer of 1888, and Double-brooded Moths. — It
seems probable that the cold summer of last year will have left its mark
on many of the insects which will emerge this year, and especially on the
double-brooded moths, such as species of the genus Selenia; and it would
be interesting to know whether the experience of collectors in any way
bears this out. To my knowledge, species that would in ordinary seasons
have been all double-brooded, had but a single brood in some cases last
year ; and when there was a double brood the larvae of the second one
suffered greatly in cases which fell under my observation, in numbers,
vigour, and size, from the adverse influences to which they were exposed.
Those SelenicB I have bred — all of which proceed from the second brood —
have been comparatively few in number, small in size, and with a large
proportion of deformities. I am inclined to think that few of the second
brood will have survived, and that what moths are taken this year will
mostly be the immediate offspring of parents which laid their eggs last
spring. They ought, therefore, — unless from other causes, which may be
SOCIETIES. 141
at work, — not to be very abundant. I think there is no reason to expect
those which have taken a whole year over their transformation to be very
different in appearance from the ordinary springexamples. — F.Mekrifield;
24, Vernon Terrace, Brighton.
Extraction of Moths from Pupa. — With further reference to notes
on this subject (Entom. xxi. 236, and xxii. 50, 76), permit me to say that
I came in February, 1888, from South Carolina, U.S.A., and brought with
me a large number of pupae, among which were some Papilios, Sphinges,
and Bombyces. These J placed in a cool greenhouse, and carefully looked
after them ; but several, apparently being ready to emerge, shrivelled and
died. I finally decided to break the cases of those which laboured to
emerge, and succeeded on several occasions ; the wings expanded quite
naturally, although some, I must add, failed to do so. I believe that if the
attempt to assist the insect be made at the opportune moment it will most
likely prove successful; but I think that the reverse will occur if the
operation be either too early or too late. — J. P. Gregoe ; Tredinick,
Bodmin, February 15, 3 889.
Inskcts at High Altitudks. — I am just now accumulating material
for an account of the insect-fauna above 1U,000 feet altitude on the E. slope
of the Sangre de Cristo range ; and, while doing so, I find I have notes of
nine species taken above 10,000 feet in other parts of Colorado, which I
may as well put on record, as insects from these high altitudes are always
interesting to compare with those of the Palaeartic regions. Pachyta
liturata, Kirby, Leadville (10,*200 feet), August 18th, 1887; Buprestis
macuiiventrlSf Say, and Melanophila longipes. Say, Pottery Pass (between
Wheeler and Red Cliff), 1887; Sirex flavicomis, Fab., Leadville, August
18th, 1887 ; Parnassius smintheus, Dbl. & Hew., near Gibb's Peak,
Sagnache Co. (over 11,000 feet), 1887 ; Satyrus charon, Edw., and Lyccena
rustica, Edw., Fremont Pass, Lake Co. (over 11,000 feet), 1887; Agrotis
rubefactalis, Grote, Fremont Pass, Lake Co. ; Camnula atrox, Scudd.,
Leadville and Fremont Pass. For the identification of these (except the
Parnassim) I am indebted to Mr. Hy. Edwards, Dr. John Hamilton, and
the U. S. National Museum.— T. D. A. Cockerell; West Cliff, Custer
Co., Colorado, U.S.A., February 25, 1889.
Rearing Larvae in Glass-cylinders. — Can any of your correspondents
refer me either to the * Entomologist ' or elsewhere for information as to
rearing larvae in glass-cylinders? — A. N. Chamberlain; Highbury, Moor
Green, Birmingham, April 22, 1889.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — April ^rd, 1889. — Mr. F. Du
Cane-Godman, M.A., F.R.S., Vice-President, in the chair. Mr. A. Cant,
of 93, Robert Street, Regent's Park, N.W. ; Mr. C. Cave, of 13, Lowndes
Square, S.W. ; Mr. N. F. Dobree, of The New Walk, Beverley;
Mr. J. Harrison, of Gawber Road, Barnsley; Mr. S. L. Mosley, of
Beaumont Park, Huddersfield; and Mr. B. G. Nevinson, M.A., F.Z.S.,
of 6, Tite Street, Chelsea, S.W., were elected Fellows. Mr. Osbert Salvia
Ii2 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
exhibited specimens of Ornlthoptera trojana, Staud., and 0. plateni, Staud.,
received frona Dr. Staudinger, and obtained in Palawan, an island between
Borneo and the Philippines. He remarked that Ornlthoptera trojana was
allied to 0. brookiana, Wall. Mr. R. M'Lachlan exhibited, and made
remarks on, seven exfim.ples of Mschiia horealis, Zett., a little-known
species of European Dragonliies. He said that son)e of the specimens were
captured by himself at Rannoch, Scotland, in June, 1865, when he was
accompanied by Dr. Sharp and the late Mr. E. C. Rye. The other speci-
mens were taken in I^ulea, North Sweden, and the Upper Engadine
(5000-6000 feet), in Switzerland. Mr. W. H. B. Fletcher exhibited
specimens of Agrotis pyrophila from various localities, including two from
Portland, three from Forres of a smaller and darker form, taken by
Mr. Salvage last year, and a melanic specimen from Stornoway, at first
supposed to belong to A. lucernea, but which, on closer examination, was
seen to be referable to this species. He also exhibited series of Triphmna
orhona from Stornoway and Forres, and T. subsequa from Forres and the
'New Forest. The specimens of T. subsequa from Forres were more
distinctly and richly marked than those from the New Forest, and were
also rather more variable in colour. Dr. Sharp exhibited specimens of
Proculus gory'i, Kaup, found by Mr. Champion in Guatemala, prepared to
show the rudimentary wings under the soldered elytra. Dr. Sharp called
attention to the existence of a peculiar articulated papilla at the base of one
of the mandibles ; and he also showed sections of the head of Neleus inter-
ruptus displaying this papilla, as well as the articulated teeth on the
mandibles. T'ne Rev. Canon Fowler exhibited specimens of Agapanthia
lineatocollls, Don, and remarked that they were able to produce a distinct
stridulation by the movement of the head against the prothorax, and of tbe
hinder part of the prothorax against the mesothorax ; they were also able
to produce an unpleasant scent. He further remarked that Dr. Chapman
had lately informed him that Erirrhinus maculatus, F., had the power of
stridulating strongly developed. He also exhibited a specimen of Barynotus,
taken in Norft^lk, which was apparently an abnormal example of B. obscurus.
Mr. Edward Saunders exhibited, on behalf of Mr. G. A. J. Rothney, in
illustration of his paper on Indian Ants, specimens of the following:—
Camponotus compressus and fragments of Solenopsis geminatus destroyed by
it; Camponotus sp. ?, with a mimicking spider {Salticus sp.); Pseudo-
myrma bicolor, with its mimicking Salticus, and a new species of Ehinopsis,
viz. ruficornis, Cameron, also found with it, and closely resembling its
host ; Diacamma vagans ; Holcomyrmex indicus, with specimens of the
grain which it stores and the chaff which it rejects ; and AphcBUogaster sp.,
with the pieces of Mimosa, &c., with which it covers its nest. Mr. G. A. J.
Rothney communicated a paper entitled "Notes on Indian Ants." Mr.
Lionel de Niceville communicated a paper entitled '• Notes regarding
Delias sanaca, Moore, a Western Himalayan Butterfly." Capt. H. J.
Elwes communicated a note in support of the views expressed by Mr. de
Niceville in his paper. — H. Goss and W. W. Fowler, Joint Hon. Sees.
Thr South London Entomological and Natural History Society.—
28</i March, 1889. — T. R. Billups, President, in the chair. Messrs. J. E.
Cutts, of Watford, W. T. Sturt, of Kingston, and W. G. Macmurdo, of
Wanstead, were elected members. Mr. Hawes exhibited a variety of
Ejnnephele ianira with additional spots on the primaries, and two varieties
SOCIETIES. 143
of Zygoena Jilipendul(B, both having the central spots and upper spot of the
outer pair absent, and the inner pair of spots being very much contracted:
the two examples were captured in July, 1876, near Oakleigh Park.
Mr. Tugwell, specimens of Deilephila galii, bred by him from a large
number of larvee taken at Deal in 1888, together with continental examples
of the species, and remarked that the most probable explanation of the
unusual abundance of D. galii last season was that of immigration, and
it had occurred to him that the specimens of the moth taken in the early
part of the year were from continentally-fed larvae; he had, therefore,
written to most of the captors of the species, and he found that the
measurements of the females ranged from 3i in. to 3f in., while out of a
total of ninety-two males and females, about two-thirds being the latter,
bred by him from English-fed larvae, the largest was 3^^^"- > one, however,
had been bred at Liverpool, which measured 3|^ in. : this difference of
nearly f in., in his opinion, clearly proved that the bulk of the 1888
captured specimens had immigrated to England. Mr. Billups exhibited
exotic Orthoptera, Hemiptera, and Homoptera, and three species of
Coleoptera : — Sagra huquetii from Java, 8. chrysochlora from Australia,
and S. cceruleata from Madagascar. Mr. W. West, two specimens of
Calosoma sycophanta (male and female), one captured, 1873, at Freshwater
Bay, and the other in Greenwich Park, 1888. The remainder of the evening
was devoted to an exhibition of microscopical objects by the members.
11th April. — The President in the chair. Messrs. A. W. Dennis, of
Kingsland, and G. E. Dench, of Tufnell Park, were elected members.
Mr. Tugwell exhibited a bred series of Nyssia hispidaria, showing extreme
forms of dark coloration ; and a bred series of Tceniocampa leucographa.
Mr. R. Adkin, Euchromia mygindana, E. arhutella, and Coccyx neinorivaga,
bred from larvae in shoots of the common bearberry [Arctostaphytos uva-ursi)
from Forres. Mr. South, series of Plusia iota, including two of the variety
percontationis, P. pulchrina, and made some remarks on the differences
between the two species ; two series of Epunda lichenea, one from Plymouth
and the other from Portland ; the specimens from the first-mentioned locality
were fairly typical, the others were small greenish grey specimens, with but
little, if any, of the pink or reddish tinge characteristic of the type ; Eubolia
limitata and Bupalus piniaria from various localities, and made observations
thereon. Mr. Jenner Weir, some butterdies, which he had desquamated by
the •' Waterhouse process," and remarked that although the scales of the
wings were dissolved, yet the hairs remained unaffected, and that the green
pattern on the wings of sucli butterflies as Papilio lurhinm and Tirumala
petiverana retained their colour after the desquamation ; the markings were
not merely superficial in these insects. A paper, " On the origin of the
genus Aiithocharis" by Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell, was read. Mr. Cockerell
was of opinion that the genus Anthocharis was by no means an ancient
genus, and that it arose directly from an old Pieris stock, and that probably
on the American continent. Messrs. Weir, South, and Tutt made some
observations on Mr. Cockerell's paper. Mr. Wilkinson exhibited several
species of scorpions; and Mr. White, some of the larger species of
Arachnida. — H. W. Bakker, Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — This Society which was
recently started, has already held several meetings in a room at the Medical
Institute, Birmingham, which has been secured for the Society by its
141 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Council. Interesting papers have been read, and exhibitions of specimens
made. The attendance at the meetings has been good, but additional
members are much wanted, in order to place the Council in a position to
purchase books for a library, and otherwise carry out necessary work.
Entomologists wishing to join are requested to communicate with the Hon.
Sec, McCoLBRAN J. Wainwright, Hall Road, Handsworth, near Bir-
mingham.
Aberdeen Working Men's Natural History Society.— This Society
has been formed for the development of Nutural-History study in the
neighbourhood of Aberdeen. Among the supporters we notice the name of
that well-known entomologist. Professor J. W. H. Trail. The first annual
Exhibition was held on four evenings in March last, when Entomology
was represented by half a dozen or more exhibitors. The address of the
Secretary is Mr. Andrew Matthew; 93, Skene Street, Wales Street,
Aberdeen.
OBITUARY.
Dr. Victor Signoret died on the 3rd April, as I am informed by a
letter from Mons. L. Fairmaire, who deplores the loss of a friend of forty-eight
years' standing. Dr. Signoret was a well-known hemipterist of repute,
wherever the study of Entomology was cultivated. I do not know the date
of his birth, or other private particulars; but the work he accomplished
is in our libraries, and that work is careful and thorough. The first
paper written by Dr. Signoret bears the date of 1847. It relates to the
order Rhynchota and to the suborder Homoptera. Since that time to quite
recently, before an insidious disease paralysed faculties that had always
been active, a series of faunestic and descriptive papers appeared, with that
rhythmical sequence that always denotes the life of the persistent student
of our science. For entomologists, as a rule, cannot study without
publishing; species and genera must be distinguished; and to prove of
universal application must be registered in the only way that civilised man
attacks the problem of ultimate knowledge. Of the papers written by
Dr. Signoret, certainly not the least important are his * Revue icono-
graphique des Tettigonides,' which was commenced in 185'2 ; and his
' Revision du Groupe des Cydnides,' began in 1881 and completed in 1884.
When I remember the care with which the last paper or rather series of
papers were elaborated ; the material so carefully manipulated and so
persistently followed, wherever specimens could be borrowed or figures
obtained ; the continued correspondence, interrogative and suggestive; the
frequent enquiries as to Walker's types, often difficult to satisfy for lack of
equal comprehension of an obscure group of insects ; — the thought arises
that this will prove to be Signoret's greatest contribution to Entomology.
I have been under no inconsiderable obligation to my late colleague : the
loan of specimens, information, advice, were always at disposal and
frequently solicited. His writings were never disfigured by that amateur
criticism which affords a retreat for mediocrity ; and if one may search in
vain amongst them for theories, the facts will be found on which philoso-
phical theories in Entomology can alone be founded. The names of Stal
and Signoret will ever be familiar words to the student of the Rhynchota.
— VV. L. Distant.
>
i
Eiatomologist. June. 1889.
Plate 6.
We s b^ewmajL &. Go, chromo .
Vax^ieties of TPiph^na comes =orboTia
rt^
IHE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIL] JUNE, 1889. [No. 313.
NOTES ON SOME VARIETIES of TRIPIIMNA COMES, Hb.,
= ORBONA, Fb.
By J. A. Clark, M.P.S., L.D.S., F.E.S.
(Plate VI.)
In the autumn of last year I obtained a series of the variable
Forres form of this species, together with a number of ova.
These hatched, and I reared the larvae through the late autumn
on dock leaves {Rumex pratensis) in a warm room, thereby avoid-
ing the large percentage of loss which usually occurs when it is
attempted to hybernate them. On December 3rd the first of the
specimens appeared, and the bulk of the remainder by the 15th,
a few stragglers lagging behind till the last week in January.
The result was a fine series, consisting of thirty-six specimens,
thf» whole of which were totally different from our usual southern
forms, and, inter se, they presented a very considerable difference,
both in shade and markings, as will be seen from the accompany-
ing plate. The series may be divided into four main groups, and
a fifth containing varieties, which can hardly be collated with any
of the other forms. They are as follows : —
Group A. — The pallid or clay-coloured form, which more
nearly resembles the typical South of England form than any
other. This is illustrated by two examples. Fig. a, 1, where we
have the markings similar to the usual South of England type,
but the coloration intensified. Fig. a, 2, like fig. 1, but the fore
wings more suffused with reddish colour, and the lunules on the
fore wings rufous.
Group B. — Fig. b, 1. F"'ore wings rufous, with but indistinct
markings ; the submarginal line is almost absent. Fig. b, 2. A
more intensified form of fig. 1, with the subterminal line very
distinctly marked. Fig. B, 3. This is a beautiful variety, the
fore wings having a rich, almost crimson, shade suffused over
ENTOM. — JUNK, IHSV). i*
140 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
them; the stigmata are darker, and delicately edged with a
golden line; on the costa is a dark spot, which at the first
glance gives the insect the appearance of a rufous type of
Triphcena orhona, Hufn., = suhsequa, Hb. Closer inspection,
however, proves that it is a true T. comes.
Group C. — Var. curtisii. This is a richly-coloured series,
quite distinct from either of the foregoing, the colours indeed
reminding one rather of Triphcena interjecta, Hb., than the
ordinary comes. Fig. c, 1. The colours of the fore wings of this
variety are a rich claret-red, with no dark markings, even the
stigmata being only indicated by outlines of golden yellow ; the
hind wings are quite smoky throughout, and the black border
very broad. Fig. c, 2. This is a still darker form, the fore
wings being a rich ruddy umber, almost black, on the hind and
inner margins, and the discoidal spots are clearl}^ defined by fine
golden outlines.
Group D. — Fig. d, 1. In this variety the general tone of the
fore wings is as intense as that of c, 2, but the claret colour is
giving place to a dark slate ; the pale line beyond the discoidal
spots is very distinct. Fig. d, 2. Here we have the clay colour
of the first set, the rusty line of the second, and the rich claret-red
of the third series entirely replaced by a dark slate or smoke
colour, with hardly any markings at all.
Of the unclassified series. Fig. e is the most singular : it is
a very rich blue-slate colour, suffused with red on the costa, all
the markings, except the inner lines, being very distinctly picked
out. Its great features, however, are to be found in the hind
wings : the right wing is like d, 2, with the usual lunule ; but the
left is very much paler, and has no lunule spot at all. Fig. f. In
this variety the base of the fore wings is pale, the centre is dark
like D, 2, and the tip and costa paler, with the terminal bands
very distinctly defined ; the hind wings are a greyish yellow, the
left being lighter than the right; the band is paler, and of a
smoky black. Fig. g. This can hardly be referred to any of the
other groups, though it more nearly resembles a redder form of
fig. 2 ; the subterminal line is very dark and distinct, while the
inner lines, too, are very clearly defined ; the whole fore wing,
indeed, is richly mottled with delicate lines and patches of
colour ; the hind wings are somewhat like the last variety, but
rather brighter.
Of the series of 36 which were reared from this brood of ova,
8 belonged to group A, 14 to group B, 14 to group C, and none
to D. Those of group D and the unclassified series were captured.
The intensity of the colouring of group B, and more especially
of group C, cannot adequately be shown by any lithograph, as
there is a warmth and depth of colouring giving them a wonderful
richness, which is lost in the printing.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 147
It is singular that while Triphcsna comes should present such
remarkable varieties, — such, indeed as would warrant their being
called new species, could their various gradations be not traced
southwards to the localit}^ of the typical comes, — yet Triphcena
fimbria and T. interjecta, bred from the same locality, present no
difference in form to the southern types.
The Broadway, London Fields, N.E., March 5, 1889.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 100.)
Class II. — Varieties of Form.
a. In the Form of the Markings.
These variations, though differing apparently from any of
those enumerated under Class I. (in that they are not due to a
change of colour, a change of structure, or necessarily a change
in the proportions of the colours), are probably not to be distin-
guished from them. The question at issue is briefl}'^ this — Do all
variations in the markings of insects follow the same law, dift'ering
only in intensity and not in kind, or do they strike out to form
new patterns, different from anything which could have arisen
merely from an increase or decrease of the intensity of the pre-
existing markings ? Mr. Scudder has argued that the markings
on the wings of Lepidoptera arose fi'om simple dark transverse
bands, which by coalescence and division, have given rise to spots,
streaks, and even ocelli.* Assuming a number of transverse
bands, which have been subject to a tendency to be interrupted at
intervals, it is easy to see how the wings might have become
ornamented with a number of equidistant spots. These spots, if
allowed to coalesce either in a lateral, transverse, or oblique
direction, or to become enlarged or suppressed, or " redistributed,
centripetally or centrifugally " (Darwin), will probably give us all
the markings that we see on the wings of insects. These spots,
the result of the breaking-up of the primitive bands, are well
seen in an American moth, Tephrosia crihratariay Guen. Accord-
ing to this view, the streaked or rayed varieties (such as Spilo-
soma rnenthastri walkeriy Curt.; S, urticce radiata, figured by Mr.
C. A. Briggs (Entom. xxi. 07) ; Lyccena astrarche, var. from
Surrey (Entom. xii., 185, and fi^.) ; L. icarus, var. Newman,
Brit. 13utt., 128 ; Chrysophaniis phloeasy var. {torn, cit., 115) will fall
under Class I., '* n. Coalescence of dark markings."! Staudinger,
* See also Darwin, ' Descent of Man,' 2nd ed., pp. 428—440.
t The recently described Mctacrias strateffica, Hudson (Entom. xxii. 5.3), probably
owes the ornamentation of its fore-wings to an ancestral " radiata " variation.
r 2
148 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
in his description of S. m, walkeri, clearly indicates its true
nature. The form zatima or radiata of S. luhricipeda seems to
occur almost exclusively in Heligoland, but to be quite usual
there (see ' Naturalist, 1888, 220).
A far more puzzling variation is that of CoUas edusa (recorded
in Entom., 1878, by Mr. E. A. Fitch), in which the black spots on
the fore -wings were distinctly trilobed, and at the same time the
outer margins of the wings were wavy. The specimen was cap-
tured at Colchester.
b. In the shape and development of the Wings,
The outline of the wing, especially in species of Lepidoptera,
is liable to considerable variation, although the varieties are
generally rare. The " tails " of butterflies seem much more
variable than any other point in the outline of the wings, as, for
instance, in Thais cerisyi (varying from the form caucasica, Ld.,
with no tails, to the three-tailed deyrolleiy Oberth.), and in Chry-
sophanus phlceaSy which has a var. eleus, F., described by Stau-
dinger as " v. caudata, supra nigricans.'' Sometimes the wings
vary in the direction of being broader or narrower, as, for
instance, Colias edusa angiistior, Entom., xi. (E. A. Fitcli),
which had the wings narrower and longer in proportion than is
usual. The example was bred, and abnormal external conditions
may have led to its peculiarity.
The late Mr. Pryer has recorded some extraordinary seasonal
variation in the shape of the wings of a Japanese Terias, The
hybernating form, it appears, is large and has pointed wings,
while the summer form is small and with rounded wings. It has
been suggested, however, that there was some error in the
experiments made, — that the larvae or eggs of T, Iceta were some-
how introduced into the breeding-cage, and so gave rise to
imagines which were supposed to have come from eggs of
bethesba^ — but in the face of Mr. Fryer's emphatic declaration
that this was not the case, it is difficult to raise that objection.
At any rate it is very exceptional, and on the North -American
continent, where seasonal variation is so familiar, anything like it
is unknown. Mr. W. H. Edwards has kindly given me his
opinion on the matter, and writes of the American Rhopalocera : —
" I can say this, so far as my experience goes, there is no
essential difference in shape of polymorphic forms of one species.
What difference there is is in the lengthening or shortening of
tail (Ajax)j the greater falcation of apex {Grapta interrogationis) :
I recall no changes in this line except in these two species. But
the changes are of colour, as a yellow Colias from an orange one,
&c." {in litt, March 5th, 1888).
The development of the wings does not always take place as
fully as is usual, and the consequence is that we have cripples,
DESCRIPTION OF A NEW BUTTERFLY FROM TRINIDAD. 149
apterous forms, &c. I am disposed to consider that the semi-
apterous females of certain moths arose by the perpetuation of
this condition, from winged ancestors ; and it is even possible
that the whole order of Diptera was originally four-winged, and
that the halteres represent what were once efficient flying organs,
although no doubt the progenitor of all insects was wingless, or
arose from a wingless form.
A wing arises in the form of a sac, which in development
becomes expanded ; if from any cause this sac, or part of it, fails
to expand, the wing wholly or partly fails to spread to its normal
size. Probably the two mam factors in producing the cripples
that are seen in breeding-cages are want of moisture and external
injury involving a perforation of the wing-membrane; but some-
times, as in the case of the variety of Ocneria dispar, with the
lower wings notched (Entom., 1878, 170), this peculiarity tends to
become permanent, and is actually so in the female of Orgyia
antiqua and other moths. It is, therefore, necessary to find
some other cause to explain these cases, since they cannot well
be the simple result of external conditions ; and I have thought
that an abnormal coalescence of the wing membranes may have
been the origin of the peculiarity, and have become perpetuated
in certain cases until it became normal.
I have note of two instances in which the hind-wings of
Lepidoptera failed to develop at all, one in Sphinx llgustri
(B. Cooper, Entom., xi. 20), and the other in Cidaria testata
(W. C. Boyd, Entom. Soc, Nov. 5th, 1879), while Mr. South has
recorded *' an apparently apterous specimen " of Zygcenajilipen-
dulce from Folkestone (Ent. Mo. Mag., 1887, J39).
A few cases have been put on record, in which Lepidoptera
exhibited an extra wing — five in all. This has happened in
Samia cecropia, Linienitis populi (Entom. Amer., vol. i., 1885, 56),
and Gonepteryx rhamni (Ent. Mo. Mag., 1878, 189). I have
never seen any of these, and so cannot easily guess at their
nature ; they may be either caused by the division (or apparent
division) of one of the wings into two, much after the fashion of
the Pterophoridae ; or they may represent two coalesced ova, like
the two-headed calves and other such monstrosities.
(To be continued.)
DESCRIPTION OF A NEW BUTTERE^LY FROM TRINIDAD.
Br W. F. KiuBY, F.E.S.
TiTHOREA FLAVESCENS.
Expanse from 2^ to 2i inches. Dark brown, with yellow markings,
more or less tinged with tawny, especially towards the base. Fore wings
rather pointed, the hind margin slightly oblique, very slightly sinuated, and
not convex, hind wings with the hind margin regularly rounded and
150 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
slightly sinuated. Fore wings dark brown, with the principal nervnres
orange towards the base, and in the yellow portions of the wing; from the base
run two yellow stripes, the first curves through the cell, till it descends on
the niediau nervure, after which it is slightly interrupted before meeting a
large yellow band divided by the nervures, which crosses the end of the
cell towards the hind margin. Just beyond the cell is a large oblong black
spot, and there is a smaller one between the 2nd and 3rd branches of the
median nervure, which are generally surrounded with yellow. Below this
point are two submarginal yellow spots, the upper one irregular, and the
second roundj above the hinder angle of the wing. The lower basal streak
is divided by the submedian and first branch of the median nervure, and
extends to about four-fifths of the length of the wing. Towards the tip is
an oblique row of four yellow spots; the uppermost, above the submedian
nervure (which is here black), is a mere streak.
Hind wings yellow, with all the borders brown, and a brown band den-
tated beneath towards the extremity, runs from the middle of the inner
margin, nearly across the wing, but ceases before reaching the border.
Under surface similar, but the yellow markings are paler, and rather more
extended, most of those on the fore wings being confluent ; hind margins
with a row of submarginal white spots between the nervures, mostly
arranged in pairs; hind wings with a curved subcostal basal stripe. Head
spotted with white, orbits white ; antennae fulvous, black towards the base.
Thorax with fulvous hairs above ; the sides spotted with yellow ; legs
black, femora streaked with white, abdomen black above and yellow beneath.
This species belongs to the group of T. harmonia, Cram., but
is of a much paler colour than any of its allies. It is abundant
in Trinidad, and is extremely constant in its markings. I have
never seen it from any other locality ; and like Papilio cymochles^
Gray, and one or two other species, it appears to be peculiar to
that island, which, however, is so close to the neighbouring coast
of South America, that its insects properly belong to the fauna
of that continent, and not to the West-Indian fauna.
Zoological Department, Brit. Mus. (Nat. Hist.), S. Kensington,
April, 1889.
LEPIDOPTERA OF WIMBLEDON.
By F. G. Whittle.
The following is a list of Lepidoptera taken on, and in the
neighbourhood of, Wimbledon Common ; it represents my own
captures, extending over more than one season : —
Vanessa poly cJdor OS, 24th July, not Sarothripus ««tZwZrtJiws, netted 19th
common. July, 14th Aug., and 21st Sept.
Lyccena argiolus, 14th April and 2nd Hylophila prasinana, larva common
August. on oak in the autumn.
Snieriiithus ocellatus, 15th August, Nudarla senex, 20th July.
larva not uncommon. 6'. tili(B, Neincophila riissula, 2iid July, not
larva in July. uncommon near the Uagstalf.
LEPIDOPTERA OF WIMBLEDON.
151
Cossus ligtilperda, 2Gth June, at
sugar.
Dasychira jmdihunda, larva on sallow
ill October.
Drepcma lacertinaria, larva beaten
early in October, from birch on
Putney Heath. D.falcatnr{a,'iovd
June, at a gas lamp. D. biiuiria,
larvae are rather common, early in
October, on oak.
Cilix tjJaucata, 2n(l August, at rest
on whitethorn. Putney Heath.
Pterostoina paljAva, 19Lh August, at
a gas lamp.
Lophopteryx camellna, larvae are com-
mon on oak in September.
Notodonta dictccoides, once on 21st
July, clasping an elm twig in Si«g
Lane. N.ziczac^rd September,
one larva beaten from sallow in the
ravine.
Tliyatlra derasa, 16th July, at sugar.
T. hatis, 7th July, at Fugar.
Cynmtophora duplaris, 7th July, on
the wing.
Asphalla Jiavicornis, Ath March, one
only on Putney Heath.
Hydraicia nictltans, 7lh and 21st
August, common at sugar.
Cerigo matura, 28th July, at sugar.
Caradrlna morpheus, 5th July on the
wing.
Ayrotis pitta, 24th August, at sugar
J. saucia, 27th September, at
sugar. A. niyrlcam, 26Lh July,
at sugar.
Noctuii glareosa, 7th September,
common at sugar. N.j)lecia, 10th
August, at sugar. N. c-niyruin,
3rd September, at sugar. N.
uiiihrosa, 25th August, at sugar.
Triphcena iaiUhiria'dndJinibria, April,
larvae on nettles in Stag Lane.
T. inter jecta, 19th August, on the
wing.
Tcbuiocampa yraciUs, 10th April, at
sallow catkms.
Orthosia lota, larva on blackthorn in
May.
Anchocelis litura, 21st September,
at sugar.
Xanthiafidvago, 24th September, at
sugar. X. flnvago, 17 th Sep-
tember, at sugar.
Tethea siibtusa, 30th August, on a
fence in Kingston Vale.
Ccdyinnia dlffiais, on sugared elms
in Stag Lane.
Misella oxyacanthcB, larva in May.
Hadena protea, 2rd September, at
sugar. H. dentina, 2lst July, at
sugar.
Xylocamjja areola, reared a nice
series from ova deposited by a
moth taken in April.
Calocampa vetusta, 27th September,
at sugar.
Heliaca teuehrata, 23rd May, near
the Beverley brook.
Catocala nupta, a pupa under willow
bark in August.
Epione apiciaria, a larva taken from
willow on the 15th August, pro-
duced a moth on 9th September.
A ngeronapruiiarla, netted 17th July.
Ferkallla syringaria, netted 10th
July.
Engoiila alniaria, pupa under wil-
low bark, 17th August.
Aiiiphidasys strataria, 8th April, on
a fence in Ki^igstoii Vale.
Geometra pajnlioiiaria, 8lh July, a
female hovering over hazel.
Zonosoina porata, 3rd August. Z.
punctaria, larva very common.
Actdalia imitaria, netted 9th July.
A. ernaryinnta, netted 1 8th July.
Tliiiinidra amataria, 21st June, near
the Beverley brook.
AfipUales striylllaria, netted, 3rd
June.
Lnrentia multistriyaria, 1 0th April,
common at gas lamps.
Eupithecla exigaata, at rest, 21st
June.
Coreniia designata, beaten, loth
June.
Scotosia vetulata, netted, 18th July.
Feliirga com 'data, netted, 8th Aug.,
in Stag Lane.
Euholia cervlnata, 1st October, at a
gas lamp.
Endotricha Jlammealis, 3rd August,
abundant.
152 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Ebulea verhascalis, netted, 3rd Aug. uncommon on fences in Alton
E. sambucaliSf 2'2nd June, at rest Lane.
on a fence. Padisca bilunana,Qth June, common
Scopula ferrugalis, 31st August, at on birch trunks. P. solayidriamiy
rest, Putney Hill. an interesting series bred from
Crambus innellus, 9th August, rather larvae found between leaves of birch.
common. Semasia wceberiana, 1st July, on a
Dichelia grotiana, 23rd July. fence at Putney.
Leptogramma literana, 22nd August, Coccyx argyrana, 8th June, oak
a single example on an oak trunk. trunks in Richmond Park.
Peronea variegana, 25th July, com- Stigmonota perlepidana, 7th May.
mon. S. reglana, 11th July, on a fence
Penthlna pruniana, 25th June. at Putney.
Antlthesla salicella, 2nd July, on a Pyrodes r/ieefZtVZZa, beaten, 14th May.
fence in Alton Lane. Catoptrla albersana, 27th May.
Aspls udmanniana, 23rd June, Dasystoma salicella, 29th March.
among bramble. Micropteryx subpurpurella, 20lh
Sideria achatana, 22nd July. May.
Phtheocroa rugosana, 15th May, Adela cupreJla, 23rd April, flying
among bryony in Stag Lane. over sallows.
Gmpholitha subocellana, 30th May, Harpipteryx xylostella, 1st August.
G. minutaiia, 15th July, not Dasycera olivierella, 18th July.
2, Cambridge Terrace, Lupus Street, S.W., 1889.
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTQ^ OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 138.)
Charceas, St., graminis, L.
The type of this species is described by Linnseus in
* Systema Naturje' (10th edition), p. 506, No. 50, as, " Bombyx
spirilinguis alis depressis griseis : linea ramosa lunulaque
glaucis." It is a most variable species, not only in ground
colour, which varies from a dull grey through different shades of
brown to a ferruginous red, but in the character and quantity of
the pale markings. The type has the branched central line and
reniform glaucous ; most British specimens have them white ;
whilst others have only the forked end of the central line and
reniform white, the base of the line and branches being almost
of the ground colour, whilst, on the other hand, I have specimens
in which the white median nervure develops into a broad band,
with many branches, running longitudinally through the centre
of the wing from the base to beyond the reniform. As in all this
family, there is great variation in the size and shape of the
stigmata, and the females are, as a rule, much larger, and less
liable to variation than the males. Mr. Porritt writes me that
1
m
ms
VARIETIES OF NOCTURE IX THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 153
*' red and grey forms in both sexes occur in the Huddersfield
district." There are numbers of intermediate forms, but the
following are some of the most striking forms that have been
described : —
1. Grey, with branched central line and stigmata glaucous,
= graminis, L.
2. Grey, with white three-branched central line, stigmata
yellowish, = gramineus, Haw.
0. Ked-brown, with ochreous ramose central line, ochreous
stigmata, = tricuspiSy Esp., ^ .
4. Red-brov;n, with white ramose central line, whitish
stigmata, = trlcuspis, Hb., = var. rufa,
5. Grey, with red costa, with ochreous ramose central line,
ochreous stigmata, = graininis, Hb., = var. rufo-costa.
6. Dull yellowish brown, with ochreous ramose central line,
ochreous stigmata, = hibernicus, Curt.
7. Pale ochreous yellow, with dark nervures, white orbicular
and reniform with a bitid line joining base of reniform, = trkuspis,
Esj)., $ , = var. ochrea.
The first five make the only reasonable method of arrange-
ment of the varieties which can be readily adopted, and include
most of the general forms. From Curtis's figure, pi. 451, it can
be seen that No. 0 is only an extreme modification of No. 'i,
and I have never seen an extreme form like No. 7, although
Mr. Dobree has it from Southern Germany. Two other
marked forms occur : one unicolorous dull grey-brown, with all
the ordinary pale transverse lines of the same colour as the rest
of the wings, but slightly paler, the whitish reniform and a white
blotch at its base alone being distinct of all the original markings ;
another form has the central ramose line developed into a large
white blotch. In Humphrey & Westwood's * British Moths,'
p. 113, we find :—" Varieties occur with the fore wings of a
uniform colour, except the pale yellow marks and stigmata ; and
others have the latter markings edged with black on a plain
ground."
a. var. gramineusy Haw. — No. 2, above. This is described by Haworth
as, " Alis griseis liuea trifurca alba, stigmatibus pallidis, lineolisque acuiis
ad apicera atris." " Affinis praecedentibus {popularis) at duplo minor;
aiitennis ferru«^iiieis minus pectiuatis et absque strigis moiiilirormibus.
Maris alae autica3 griseoe liiiea media trifurca albida a basi post-medium
ducta; supra lineam raaculis tnbus nigris ditformibus parvis et stigmata
ordinaria lutesceiUia circulo pallidiore: subtus lineam macula altera nigra
trigona, et stigma tertium teliforme lutescente nigro cinctum sed aliqiio
interruptum ; subtus hoc stigma lineola nigra ad marginem tenuiorem
prope basin. Ordo transvere>us puuctorum nigrorum cuspidatorum versus
marginem posticum. Alic posticie fuscai, ciliis Havicantibus "(' Lepidoptera
Britauuica,' pp. 117, 118). This is probably the must common lorm
154 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
occurring in Britain. I have it from Glasgow, Sligo, Yorks, and many
other Iccalilies, north and south.
p. var. tr'iGuspis, Esp. No. 3, above. Esper's trlcaspis, pi. Ixviii.,
figs. 2 and 3, may be described as follows : — Fig. 2, $ . "Anterior wings
deep reddish brown, with a short, two-forked, longitudinal, basal mark
starting from centre of thorax ; between this and the base, and extending
along the median nervure, is an oclireous longitudinal blotch, which is in
contact with the orbicular and reniform, the blotch branching beyond the
reniform. All the markings dull ochreous grey." Espers fig. 3 is a pale
ochreous form, which he calls a $, but from the tufted anal segment it
would appear to be a (^. Of tricuspls, Esp., Guenee writes: — * The
ordinary stigmata and the bidentate spot conBuent, also the clivifurm, and
[)rolonged in bright yellow almost to the base of the wing " (' Noctuelles,'
vol. v., p. no.) This should include all reddish forms with ochreous
markings. I have this variety from Sligo, Glasgow, Morpeth, &c. Conti-
nental lepidopterists often send out as trlcaspis, Esp., varieties which diff.^r
very much from Esper's figure; many of the specimens have a white
central line instead of ochreous, and others are more like Haworth's
graniineus.
y. var. yufa, raihi. — No. 4, above. This is Hiibner's tricuspls, fig. 143,
^vhich may be described as :—" Anterior wings dark reddish, with a pale
streak below the costa; orbicular indistinct; the pale median nervure,
touching the base of the orbicular and reniform, makes at the bise of the
reniform two distinct white branches; the vvedg-^shaped spots parallel to
the hind mnrgin are preceded by a pale band." Of this variety Guenee
says: — "Hiibner's fig. 143 is a strongly-marked variety, but entirely
accidental" (* Noctuelles,' v. p. 176). Staudinger's descri[)tion of tricnsplsy
Esp., does not apply so well to that form as to var. riifa. He says : — *' Al. ant.
unicolor rufescentibus, mac. magna trifida alba." This name should include
all red forms with white markings. I have this variety from Sligo,
Glasgow, Yorkshire, &c.
3. var. riifo-costa, mihi. No. 5, above. This is Hiibner's rp-aniluisy
fig. 480, which may be described as : — "Anterior wings grey, with bright
red costa from base to apex ; stigmata ochreous, median nei vure branched,
ochreous; that part of the wing just around the stigmata dark reddish
brown; beyond the reniform a broad red patch extends Irom the costa to
the inner margin ; the ordinary row of wedge-shaped s[)ots paiallel to the
hind margin." I would include all forms with a red costa under this name.
I have only specimens from the Hebrides of this variety, but it undoubtedly
occurs elsewhere.
£. war. hiberuicus, Curt.— Curtis's description ('British Entomology,'
p. 451) is as follows: — "Dull yellowish brown; superior wings with an
elongated pale ochreous spot at the base above the central nervure,
and another subeUiptical one more towards the middle, with a lemon-
shaped one above it; beyond the middle is a trapezoid spot resting on a
trifid chfjracter all of the sam^ pale colour, some of them being partially
relieved by a dark brown ; between the nervures at the posterior margin
are obscure, elongate-trigonate brown marks ; abdomen and inferior wings
fuscous, cilia pale ochreous. I am fully aware that C. gramliils is a most
variable species; but as I have never seen one similar to the specimen
figured, I consider it may be a distinct species. It was captured last
iSeptember in the county of Mayo, Ireland." I have this variety Irom
VARIETIES OF NOCTU.i: IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 155
Mr. Russ, of Sljfjo; and Mr. Gregson (Etitoiu. iv. 51) records it from
Staley bridge lirushes.
f. var. ochrea, mihi. — No. 7, above. Anterior wings of a pale ochreous
yellow, with dark nervures, with whitish or ochreous reniform and
orbicular, the former joined with a bifid line, the extension of the pale
central line. It is figured by Esper as a $ of var. tricuspis. I have never
seen specimens of this variety. The nearest approach that I have to this
form came from Mr. Kuss, of Sligo.
*3. var. obsoleta, mihi. — Anterior wings unicolorous dark grey, with no
pale markings whatever, except the trifid mark made up of the reniform,
and a bifid patch joined below it. I have this variety from Mr. Finlay, of
IMorpeth, Mr. lluss, of Sligo, and it is obtained by Mr. Harrison,
of Harnsley.
G. wdY. pallida, mihi. — Anterior wings dark grey, but the white central
median Hue developed into a broad white band, including the claviform,
orbicular, and reniform, and extending over the whole of the centre of the
wing. I have this variety from SHgo and Yorkshire localities.
». var. megala, Alph. — In 1883 Dr. Staudinger had in his trade list a
doub ful variety of this species from Turkestan. The name I find is also
retained (as a distinct species, however) in the last trade catalogue of Herr
Heyne, Leipzig. Of this variety Mr. Dobree writes : — " I obtained a male,
which is small, and closely resembles tricuspis, Esp., differing only in that
the ground colour, blotch, and markings are all fainter, giving the insect a
more generally unicolorous look.
X. var. alhliienra, Bdv. — Boisduval, in his ' Icones, &c.,' pi. 74, fig. 4,
figures a variety of gramlnls, which I have been unable to refer to. In his
• Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 176, Guenee writes, "I have not seen in nature
Boisduval's alblneura, which appears to be simply a variety of gmmhiis ;"
and in the 'Entomologisk Tidskrift,' 1884, p. 101, referring to this variety,
Herr Sven writes, "Liknar hufvudformen, men cellerna aro svarta uti
framvingarnes basal-och mellanfalt, samt nara utkanten."
X. var. alhlpuncta, Sven. — Herr Sven, 'Entomologisk Tidskrift,' 1884,
p. 161, describes a variety as, " framvingarne rodbruna, med svartaktiga
ribbor, samt en hvit punkt i njurflackens bakkant, $ , Sallsynt."
IX. var. bnumea, Sven. — Sven, 'Entomologisk Tidskrift,' 1884, p. 161,
describes his var. hrunnea as, '* framvingarnes grundfargrcidbrun." *• Hvad
framvingarnes teckningar angar, sa, iiro afven dessa underkastade
maudfaldiga variationer. Bland de manga exemplar, Lektor Sven insauilat,
iiro nedanstiiende afvikande former de anmiirkningsvardaste."
Pachetra, Gn,^ leucophcea, View.
Vieweg, in his * Tabellarisches Verzeichniss,' &c., p. 2'), No. 2^,
thus describes the type of this species : — " Noctua leucopluea alis
incumbentibus dentatis griseo fiiscoque variegatis, maculis ordi-
iiariis albidis." This short Latin diagnosis he follows up with a
much fuller description in German, as follows : — " The antennae
of the males are pectinated. The toothed fore wings are whitish
grey, with darker shades. In the middle of the wing are an
orbicular and reniform stigma, both of a whitish colour. Beneath
the orbicular stigma is a black mark, like a Greek v. Near the
hind margin runs a whitish transverse line, with a row of black
156 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
triangular spots, pointing to the base of the wing. The hind
margin is black and white-spotted. The hind wings are grey.
Under side of fore and hind wings with a dark spot and a trans-
verse line." This species is very rare in Britain, although most
cabinets contain specimens, which their possessors believe are
British. On the Continent, however, the species is in many
places common. Hiibner, under the name of leucophcea, figures
(fig. 80) a specimen of a pale grey ground colour, with a much
darker central band, having a purplish tinge. The darker
markings, however, are much as in the figure in Newman's
'British Moths,' p. 295, but there are only two of the black
wedge-shaped spots parallel to the hind margin. Tlie specimen
is a large female. Geyer, in his supplement to Hubner's
* Schmet, &c.,' figures (817) another female, of bad shape, but
purplish in colour. Fabricius describes this species under the
name of fulminea, his description of the species agreeing almost
precisely with that of Vieweg. It is as follows : — " Bombyx alis
incumbentibus dentatis griseo fuscoque variegatis, thorace antice
albo ; striga nigra" ('Entomologia systematica,' &c., p. 484,
No. 241). Newman, in his ' British Moths,' p. 295, says, '* tinged
with ochreous," which has been the case with several specimens
I have seen. These '* ochreous-tinged " specimens would appear
to be Hubner's vestigialis (described below), whilst a peculiar
slaty form, with dark red central band, is figured by the same
autlior under the name of ravicla. It is also the ochreous form
which is the leucoplicea of Guenee's * Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 177,
where he writes, *' Superior wings of a greyish white, tinged in
places with yellowish, and shaded with brownish black," &c.
Taking the white and fuscous form as the type, there seem to be
the following varieties noted by other authors : —
1. Speckled with ochreous, = vestigialis^ Esp.
2. With the central area red, = ravida, Esp.
3. Smaller than type, = bombycina, Ev.
a. var. vestigialis, Esp. — Esper (vol. iii., pi. liii., fig. 5) figures a form of
leucoplma under this name, of which I made the following description : —
'* Male. Pectinated antennae ; ground colour greyish brown, with yellowish
nervures ; a white patch at base of wing directly under costa, followed by a
double whitish basal line, edged interiorly with black. Claviform of ground
colour outlined in black and then with white ; orbicular reaching to costa,
outlined in white and then with black; reniform also outlined iu white and
then with black ; a black wavy line from base of reniform to the inner
margin ; six short black costal streaks above the reniform and towards the
apex ; a series of black wedge-shaped spots parallel to hind margin ; fringes
alternately dark and pale grey. Hind wings grey, paler in centre and
towards the upper margin; lunule in this paler space, dark hind margin,
extreme outer edge whitish." His figure 4 on the same plate is a female,
" much more brightly marked, more variegated, orbicular not reaching
costa; ground colour deeper, and with a slight reddish tinge, a wavy
transverse line parallel to hind margin." This variety is, as mentioned
ENTOMOLOGY OF ICELAND. 157
above, the leucoplma of Guenee. Under this name I would include all
specimens speckled with ochreous.
/3. var. ravida, Esp. — Esper (vol. iv., pi. 145, fig. 1) figures another
variety of leucopk(Ba under this name. The description I have made is as
follows: — "Female. Anterior wings grey, with a slaty shade along the
costa, in which are four short black costal streaks ; there are two black
transverse basal streaks ; the claviform brown, edged with black ; reniforoi
and orbicular slaty, outlined in pale. Directly beyond reniform is a white
transverse wavy line, edged internally with black ; all the wing, between
this transverse line and the base, tinged with reddish brown, except
the costa and inner margin, which are of a slaty colour ; a wavy W line
parallel to the hind margin, pale, but internally edged with black. The
space outside this waved line, and between it and the hind margin, deep
reddish brown. Hind wings dark grey, central area paler, which contains
a dark lunule, paler; immediately beyond the lunule is a dark transverse
line, extreme hind margin paler." Guenee, in his * Noctuelles,' vol. v.,
p. 178, writes of this variety, " all the median space reddish, lines and
stigmata well marked. Between the lunule and the subterminal shade of
the inferior wings is a median line. Locality, Bavaria."
y. var. bomhyciiia, Ev. — Staudinger mentions in his ' Catalogue ' a
variety under this name, which is there described as " minor," I know
nothing of it.
(To be continued.)
ENTOMOLOGY OF ICELAND.
By Rev. F. A. Walker, D.D., F.L.S., &c.
Having been unable to discover any notice of the Entomolo-
gical fauna of Iceland in any volume of the ' Entomologist ' since
its commencement, I judged that a brief resume of the very
imperfect knowledge that we possess on this particular subject
might be acceptable to its readers.
I have studied the works on Iceland of several travellers, and
also corresponded with others who have paid a visit there, with
the view of definitely ascertaining the existence of butterflies.
The preponderance of evidence obtained after a great deal of
trouble on my part was in favour of their existence, though no
particular species could be certainly ascertained. I may add that
their occurrence in that Arctic region has been the subject
of dispute; and that Staudinger, who visited the island more than
thirty years since in 1856, has furnished a list of 83 species
of moths, and of 81 beetles, 114 kinds in all, in the * Proceedings
of the Entomological Society of Stettin,' but mentioning no
butterflies whatever.
The catalogue contained in the Appendix to the work on
Iceland, by Paijkull, a Swede, is less satisfactory than that of
Staudinger, as containing even fewer species, and also record-
ing no butterflies, though including some Ilymenoptera and
158 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Diptera. Moreover, I believe it has not the merit of being
original, but was compiled from the work or observation of some
Frenchman. And among the ninety odd species here recorded
are included Arachnida, Acari, &c.
I refrain from giving Staudinger's and Paijkull's lists in
extenso, for fear of trespassing on your valuable space ; but I give
the following extracts, from various sources, as an addition to the
knowledge that we possess on the subject of the Icelandic Fauna.
At a later period of the year I hope to enlarge this knowledge by
actual observation during a visit I propose to the island this
summer.
(1.) " In the neighbourhood of the river (Bruara, or Bridge River), we
saw many small butterflies, bhie and white, both fluttering and flying
kinds." — (Symington's * Pen and Pencil Sketches of Faroe and Iceland,
186-2.' p. J 05).
('2.j " I did not see a collection of insects in the museum, but I have
just heard from my friend, who reports having seen one or two butterflies,
one was bhie, also several beetles, and some moths," This is an extract
from a letter of a correspondent of mine who visited Iceland in 1888.
(3.) " One of these swamps put me in a position of much difficulty and
embarrassment during one of my solitary excursions. I was sauntering
quietly along, when suddenly a little butterfly fluttered past me. It was
the first I had seen in this country, and my eagerness to catch it was pro-
portionately great. I hastened after it, thought neither of swamp nor of
clanger, and in the heat of the chase did not observe that the mounds
became every moment fewer and further between." — Ida Pfeiffer's * Visit to
Iceland,' p. 81. Madame Pfeiffer does not add that she caught the insect
ill question, and it is just possible, that not being a professed entomologist,
she may have mistaken a moth for a butterfly.
(4.) For the accompanying list of half-a-dozen species of butterflies
reputed to occur in Iceland, I am indebted to Mr. Kirby's kindness: —
Colias pelidne ; C. nastes ; C. Jiecla ; Argynnls freijja ; (Eiieis jutta ; (E.
csno. I believe, however, that the existence of these species in Greenland
is the only argument for their supposed existence in Iceland, Greenland
and Lapland being portions of the mainland of America and Europe, and
this makes all the difference.
(5.) " If the main difference between a moth and a butterfly is that the
wings of the former lie flat, and those of the latter stand up;ight when the
insects are not on the wing, then I think I may certainly assure you that
there are butterflies in Iceland. I remember distinctly having chased them
in my youth. Last time I was in the island, the year before last (1887), I
was on the look out for moths and butterflies, knowin« that the existence of
the latter was disputed, but I never saw one individual of either kind all
the time. I ascribed it to the fact that the country was surrounded by
closely-packed Arctic ice all through July and August, the warmest months
of the season ; and that off and on the chilliness of the atmosphere was
insufferably keen. But, in warm summers, I remember from my boyhood
the fields and meadows were quite alive with winged insects; moths
or butterflies, I could not say with certainty. I should have imagined,
judging from my recollections, that the chief haunts of moths (and butter-
ENTOMOLOGY OF ICELAND. 159
flies, if there be anv), would be the manured home-fields (grass plots
round the homesteads) at the time when the grass is ripe for mowing, vlz.^
early in Jul}', at which time the not inconsiderable number of flowers that
take advantage of the shelter of the grass are also at their best. I don't
think I am wrong in saying that in a cold season, which in Iceland means
an ' ice-summer,' — if there is no ' ice,' the season is delightfully genial, —
search for butterflies and moths should be made as far up inland valleys as
the altitude of the terrain makes advisable, or midway between sea-draught
and glacier-draught. In a warm season I suppose it matters little where
the search is made on the lowlands of the island." — (Extract from the
letter of another correspondent, who is a native of Iceland, April, 1889).
Apropos of Staudinger's list, I may add that he considers
that the total sum of the species of insects found in Iceland is
about 812 kinds, and that over one-third of these (110) consists
of Diptera ; almost one-fourth (81) of Coleoptera ; one-fifth (01)
of Hymenoptera ; one-tenth (33) of Lepidoptera, and the other
tenth of the remaining orders, to wit, 9 Homoptera, 8 Hernip-
tera, G Parasites, 3 — 6 Poduridse, 29 highest total. Orthoptera
are wanting.
That there are 500 species found there he decidedly does not
believe. Most of the species of Coleoptera he found under
stones, in turf, all the Staphylinidse in dung, or under dead birds.
Grubs of some of the Diptera, namel}^ Tipulidse, and of a few
Ichneumons, found on a great variety of flowers.
"Are you aware that in certain seasons in June, certain localities in
Iceland are visited by the so-called * gras-madkr,' or caterpillar plague ?
Unfortunately, I cannot say with any certainty what the particular atmos-
pheric conditions are, much less what the nature of the caterpillar,
or caterpillars is. This is not confined to any particular locality, but seems
to be the result of the temperature. I rather fancy that the summer's
product of winged insects in these localities afterwards is generally very scant.
13y the last accounts from Iceland, it seemed probable that the present
summer might be a particularly good one, no ice having arrived on the
coast at the end of March. But if the ice makes its appearance in April,
a deadly summer follows." — (Additional extract from the letter of a native
of Iceland, April, 1889).
I may add, in conclusion, that the gentleman from whose
letter I have thus twice quoted informed me that he thought he
had seen a pale yellow butterfly in his boyhood in Iceland ; and
also that his wife, in inspecting one of my cabinets, was under
the impression that she recognised Gonepteryx rhamni and Colias
liyale again.
Dun Mallard, Cricklewood, May 1st.
IGO THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
CoLiAS EDUSA IN SpRiNG. — A friend of mine saw a Colim edusa flying
over the nnoat at Braml)er Castle, in Sussex, on May Gth, 1889. — Hauold
Mann ; 9, The Drive, Brighton, May 12th, 1889.
Vanessa antiopa in Sussex. — While driving through Beckley, in
East Sussex, on April 29th, I saw a fine specimen of V. antiopa, which,
although strong on the wing, obligingly rested upon a dry bank, and so
enabled me to capture it. — Thos. Daws ; Ewhurst, Sussex, April 30, 1889.
Vanessa antiopa in Kent. — On May 5th, 1889, I took a female
specimen of this insect in the vicarage garden of Horton Kirby, Dartford. —
J. R. Hale ; Horton Kirby, Dartford.
Vanessa antiopa in Cambridgeshire. — A specimen of this butterfly
was taken by me on May dth, in a plantation near my house. It showed
evidences of hybernation. — Philip T. Gardner ; Conington Hall, Cam-
bridgeshire, May 4, 1889.
Varieties of Rhopalocera in Hampshire. — On July 24th, 1888,
whilst staying at Brockenhurst, I took a fine example of the black variety of
Limenitis sihylla. The normal form occurred in great numbers on the
same occasion. On this day also, which was the only really fine one during
a fortnight spent in the New Forest, Argynnis papilla, var. valesina, was by
no means uncommon ; some dozen specimens in beautiful condition being
captured. Two males of A. paphia were also taken, with light yellowish
spots on the fore-wings, which latter form was, I believe, not very
uncommon, for I heard of several other examples being taken. — H.
Conquest ; 1, Mary Villas, Greenleaf Lane, Walthamstow, May 2, 1889.
Erebia ^thiops near London. — About the 22nd of July last a
friend of mine took a fine specimen of Erebia atJiiops {hlandina) in his
garden at Brixton. It flew over the wall, and he managed to capture it in
a net. As far as I know, there were only two gentlemen breeding Erebia
(Ethiops last summer in Brixton, and they are both able to account for all
their specimens, so it cannot have escaped from their breeding-cages. —
C. A. Tearoe ; 14, Ducie Street, Clapham, S.W., March 13, 1889. [The
specimen doubtless escaped from captivity in the neighbourhood. — Ed.]
Lyc;ena corydon, Female var. — On September 12th last I captured
at Lulworth, Dorsetshire, a female L. corydon, the under side of which
presented a striking variation from the general type. Instead of the usual
brown the ground colour is gray, inclining to white on the four wings. The
discoidal spot and the marginal series of compound eye-like spots are
present on all four wings; but, besides these, there are only two other spots
on each of the hind wings and none on the fore, instead of the usual
eleven and nine respectively. — Alfred T. Stiff; The Laurels, Clapham
Common, S.W.
Pale Variety of Lyc^na bellargus. — When the discussion con-
cerning the pale varieties of Lycmia bellargus (adonis) was taking place
(Entom. XX. pp. 207—209, 220—224, 253—260), l' incidentally men-
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. IGl
tioned (p. '207) that the pale variety then under consideration had been pre-
viously recorded, but that I could not then find the record. When search-
ing through the back numbers of the * Eiiloinologist ' a short time since, I
came accidentally across the record (Eiitom. ix. p. 253). It is by Mr.
Jenner Weir, who quotes M. E. Bellier de Chavignetie, and the note dates
back to August 15th, 1847. The note is to the effect that " five adonis,
which were captured just previous to a violent thunderstorm, were of a
beautiful lilac instead of the briglit blue of adonis;'' but tliose who are
interested can easily read the whole of this most interesting note them-
selves. Suffice it to say that Mr. J. Jenner Weir, although not sup-
porting the view that " electricity " was the agent, inclined to the opinion of
the change of colour being due to " moisture ;" and this directly supports
the opinion of Mr. Briggs (Entom. xx. p 254), who considered that the
cause of these varieties should be sought for directly " in local or phyto-
phagical causes." Considering the light that appears of late to have been
thrown on the direct and indirect influence of moisture in the production of
certain forms of variation, it is most interesting to find that this record
should practically support that view. — J. W. Tutt ; Westcombe Park.
OcNERiA DisPAR. — Up to the end of 1888, 1 h^ve had in my possession
a race of this species, which the late Mr. Henry Willits and I have kept for
upwards of fourteen years. In 1886 I had fifteen female pupte, from which
I bred one perfect imago, and from the remainder complete or partial
cripples (Entoni. xix. 282). From five of these crippled specimens I
obtained ova, and in 1887 I bred about 100 perfect specimens from those
larvae which 1 retained for myself, and had only one cripple, a male. I
obtained ova from several pairs, and placed a few of these batches in
localities around here to try and naturalize them, but if they have fared the
same as mine the result will be nil. 1 reserved one batch for myself which
emerged on May 13th of this year. The greater part pupated during the
last week in August, but on October 21st I had eight larvae feeding
on withered whitethorn, there being no fresh |)roeurable, which have
since died, though they were then only about half-grown. I have had
but one male out on September 24th. At the beginning of November,
though the pupas were aUve, I felt anxious lest a night or two's frost
might prove fatal to them, and wishing them to emerge I brought them
into a room with a fire. All the pupae have now died and shrivelled
up, though not by any means kept too hot, and I have thus lost a brood
which I have reason to believe was of British extraction; I see the late Mr.
Buckler, in his ' Larvae of British Butterflies and Moths,' vol. ii., p. 32,
comes to the same conclusion with respect to forcing Deilepldla when the
weather was mild, as I have done with my Ocneiia dispar, viz., " that
I ought not to have begun the forcing till the weather had become dry and
frosty, then the heat would have had due effect ; but, as it was, the great
humidity of the atmosphere had prevented this, and sufficient heat had not
reached the pupae to develop the imagines in them at once." Of course
these remarks apply to an insect which in a state of nature remains through
the winter in the pupa state, whereas O. dispar is in the ova stage ; but the
same reason holds good for each, and, doubtless, if I had waited for cold
weather, I should have succeeded in getting at least a few out, as the pupae
were lively enough till I took them indoors, and twisted around in their
cocoons when touched, as noticed by Kirby and Spence in their ' Introduc-
ENTOM. — JUNE, 1889. ^
1G2 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
tion to Entomology,' vol. ii. p. 295. — A. E. Hall; Norbury, Sheffield, Dec.
10, 1888.
OcNEREA DrsPAR. — Before last summer I had bred many of this insect,
with the too general result, — three out of every four, or thereabouts,
proved to be '* cripples " on emergence. Last summer I bred upwards of 150
larvae, and tried another plan. I left the pup^e in the places in my
inverted bell-glasses, where they spun up and never in any way interfered
with or touched them. The result was, that out of over 130 emergences, I
had but some half-dozen " cripples." Whether this is the solution of the
difficulty in rearing 0. dispar, perhaps other readers may endeavour to
prove during this coming summer. — (Rev.) J. Seymour St. John; 42,
Castlftwood, Road, Stamford Hill, N., March 16, 1889.
Panolfs piniperda in Ireland. — It may interest some of your Irish
readers to know that I took two specimens of PanoUs piniperda at Howth,
on the trunks of two Scotch firs, on April 14th. Newman states that it is
not reported from Ireland, but I understand that it has been taken
at Wicklow since his time. I should like to know any particulars about its
occurrence in this country. — Geo. W. Hart ; 14, Lower Pembroke Street,
April 16, 1889.
Caradrina qdadrtpunctata. — On the 9th of this month a specimen
of the above moth was found flying in one of the rooms in this house; it
appeared to be very recently emerged. Newman states that the larva
passes the winter in its " cubiculum," and does not change to the pupa stage
till May, the moth appearing a few weeks later. It seems fairly certain that
in the present case the larva pupated about the middle of the winter, the
imago emerging a few weeks later. Probably the larva " made up " in
some warm spot, which induced it to undergo its transformations so prema-
turely. I suppose C. quadripunctata has never been known to hibernate
in the imago stage? Newman states that the larva feeds on ''farinaceous
and leguminous crops." I remember a few years ago, in the autumn,
finding a half-grown larva feeding inside a pear : I put the pear, with its
occupant, inside a box which was afterwards mislaid. Next summer the
box turned up, and it was found that the insect had duly emerged as this
species ; so that C. quadripunctata appears to be a very general feeder,
and capable of doing much damage to crops, if present in great numbers. —
E. W. H. Blagg; Greenhill, Cheadle, Staffordshire, March 12, 1889.
Amphidasys betularia, buff var. — In reply to Mr. Joseph Chap-
pell (Entom. 113) respecting this remarkable variety that was often bred by
Middleton collectors, as he says, it would be interesting to know something of
their history, and whether the same has been lost. As some entomologists, I
understand, believed them to have been manufactured, I will give a short
history of them. In 1874, Thomas Lomas and Jonathan Fielding, two mem-
bers of our local Entomological Society, captured near Heaton Park a buff
female bi copula with a black male. After depositing ova, the female was
sold to a London dealer, the ova being taken great care of, and the larva fed
up well. Many buff varieties were expected to turn up from this brood that
emerged from the pupae in 1875, but the breeders were disappointed, for
not a single buff variety turned up, all being black and ordinary forms.
Being thus disappointed, and having no idea the buff forms might reappear,
they gave to several collectors virgin females to cross with black males.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 163
which were being bred very freely at this time in Middleton. I was
commissioned by the late Henry Doubleday to purchase all black ones
that some six or seven collectors were breeding. I understood he sent
them on to the Continent. This crossing was so favourable to the
re-appearance of the buff variety that no less than seven collectors, who
had had virgin females given to them to cross with black males, produced
the buff variety in 1876; the proportion being about 10 per cent. Many of
these collectors crossed them again with poor success. Lomas and Fielding,
who had the greatest number, did not try crossing again, but bred them in
and in, and from this breeding no less than 80 per cent, of buff moths
turned up in 1877. In these moths of 1877 there was every form of
variation, from pure buff to the ordinary type. After that year they
gradually grew weaker, and in the course of three years following, the
strain was totally lost, and not a single buff variety has been produced
since. These varieties were exhibited at the monthly meetings of the
Middleton Society in May and June for several years, many of them being
alive and in copulation. Any amount of evidence can be obtained from
collectors who saw them while being bred and exhibited alive as proof of
their genuineness. They were never kept secret, every specimen being
shown to any entomologist who wished to see them. Mr. C. S. Gregson,
of Liverpool, came several times. After some time a certain London
dealer came over very late one Saturday evening ; the day following I
rayself took him to see Fielding's lot of buff varieties. At this time the
great bulk were in the hands of Fielding and Lomas. After much per-
suasion and promise of some extraordinary foreign butterflies for " picture-
making," the dealer got every specimen that Fielding had got ; but when
the case of foreign butterflies arrived, they wei-e not worth the cost of
carriage. This so disgusted Fielding that he gave up collecting. Some
time after I purchased Lomas' collection, including every specimen of
the buff variety he had bred, with the exception of two I had understood he
had sold to Mr. Bond. Wiih the exception of two or three specimens in
several collections in Middleton, and a few I have given to entomological
friends in different parts, including two to the British Museum collection, F
possess the whole of what remains of these varieties. This form has not
since been bred, and seems to be quite lost. — John Thorpe ; Middleton,
Lancashire, April 23, 1889.
ToHTRix CKATiEGANA IN HAMPSHIRE. — I obtained this interesting,
and not usually common species, in numbers and in line condition on tlie
16th July, 1888, whilst beating for larvae in Hurst Hill Enclosure, in the
New Forest. They were dislodged from the oaks in company with
T. podana, T. sorhiaiia, and T. xylosteana ; but T. cratcegana was on this
particular day by far the most plentiful of the species named. — Haiiold
Conquest ; 1, Mary Villas, Greenleaf Lane, Walthamstow, May 2nd, 1889.
Sericoris urticana, var. rufa. — Everywhere in Kent the larvae of
Sericoria urticana last year appeared to be more than usually abundant, and
in June I bred a long series from larva) obtained in different localities.
These were all of a greenish or whitish grey ground colour with one
exception, and this satisfied the description in Stainton's * Manual,' vol. ii.
p. 2ij3, where the ground colour is said to be " pale reddish grey." Whilst
at Deal in the early part of July, T took a number of larvae on Hippophud
rhamnoides, some of which produced at the end of the month u bcnes of
164 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
what are, from ihe markings, a striking, deep red variety of S. urticana. They
are somewhat smaller than the other specimens in my series, the ground
colour very red, the markings appear darker and more distinct. 1 think it
advisable to pnt tliis local form on record and should be pleased to hear if
such a form is found in any other locahty. Are the moorland forms any-
thing like this? — J. W. Tutt ; Westcombe Park.
Nepticula minusculella. — During 1887 I found a number of nnnes
in the pear leaves. A few moths came out in 1888, and this year six more
have now emerged. I may add 1 could not find a single mine last season.
No doubt very few moths came out last year, owing to tiie wet and cold
weather; and possibly the rest remained over for more favourable times, as
indicated by my speciuiens. — J. B. Hodgkinson ; Abhton-on-Ribble, April 6.
PsYCHODA coNSPrciLLATA IN New Zkaland. — Doubtless some of
your readers who make the Diptera their especial study, will be able to
throw some light on the following fragmentary observations made during
last wititer, on the natural history of the above insect. On July SOth I
noticed a large number of Psychoda conspicillata in a cage containing larvae
of Agrotis nullifera. I concluded that they had resulted from a large
assemblage of small dipterous larvae, observed on one of the blades of
the speargrass about a month previously. From the uniform size of these
larvse, and the fact that I had not observed them before, I supposed that
they had eaten their way out of one of the A. nullifera larvse, but did not
nonce any remains of the larva. I distinctly recollect, however, that the
dipterous larvae were in one mass when first seen, as if they had all
emerged together, but that they afterwards dispersed and buried themselves.
On July 31st I examined some of the earth in the cage, and discovered
several minute dipterous pupa3, which I isolated in a glass-topped box.
These pupae emerged as P. compicillata on August 8th, at which time the
flies were to be seen in great numbers about the houses in Wellington, in
the bush and in fact almost everywhere. Hence I feel sure that the
insect cannot habitually be a parasite of Agrotis nullifera, as the compara-
tive rarity of that insect forbids it, although the above evidence seems to
indicate such to be the case. Where, therefore, does Psychoda conspicillata
generally spend its larval state ? — G. V. Hudson ; Wellington, New
Zealand, March 19, 1889.
The Cold Summer of 1888, and Double-brooded Moths. — My
experience this season hitherto does not coincide with that of your corres-
pondent (Entom. 140). Selenia bilunaria has been common in this neigh-
bourhood. 1 have also seen numbers of Tephrosia crepiiscidaria. Many of
the single-brooded Lepidoptera, whose Lirvse must have experienced some
of the cold of last summer, have been abundant, as Ta^niocampa pulveru-
lenta, T. gothica^ and T. stabilis. I have, however, certainly expected the
same results as your correspondent, lor in one locality, namely, in Glouces-
tershire, on the Cotswolds, a frost occurred on one night in July. This
must have killed many larvae, I should imagine, unless their instinct fore-
warned them of the approaching cold, and they concealed themselves. No
doubt in exposed districts and situations they mostly suffered. — T. B.
Jefferys ; Clevedon. [It would be interesting to actually know whether
summer frosts do kill lepidopterous larvte. Those species which hybernate
as larvae are none the worse for being frozen hard and stiff for weeks; but
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 165
whether such species have through heredity attained that facuU)', while
those which are larvae in summer suffer death from frost, is a fact which
has, probably, never been cleared up. — J. T. C]
Lepidoptera of South Buckinghamshire. — Tn April, 1887 (Entom.
XX. 89), I recorded the actual captures of Macro-lepidoptera made by me
during the season of J 880 at Chalfont St. Peter. I am now able to give
the result of my efforts in the same locality during the following season of
1887, though my hours of hunting were limited. Wishing to cojnplete the
list, so far as I am personally concerned, I only state my actual captures,
arranjjed in the same way as in my last contribution, omitting all species
there recorded. Besides those I give in the following list, T came upon one
specimen of Tephrosia /w/ic^a^«, which I unfortunately lost ; and on the
ledge of a small hut in a wood I found, in a small heap, enough wings of
Stauroj^tus fagi to make two perfect insects, which had evidently been
destroyed by our entomological enemies, the bats. January. — Caught :
Hybernla ruplcapraria (3). March. — Caught: At sallows, TcBniocauipa
puLverulenta (b), T. gothica, T. stahilis (common); at sugar, Scopolosoma
satellitia (2). April. — Caught : Aiiticlea hadiata (4), Hybernla marginaria,
Xylocamp a areola [U] ; at sallows, Tceniocanipa pulverulenta (ij), T. gothica
(5), T. stahilis (common) ; at sugar, Pachnobia rubricosa. May. — Caught:
Euchloe cardamines {sewer al), Fierisr apes {common), P.napiy^), Gonepteryx
rharnni, Argynnis eiijjhrosyne (4), Odontopera bidentata, Drepana falcataria
V. pallida, Melanippe sociata (2), Panagra petraria (common); at rest,
Hepialus lupulinus, Spilosoma mendica (female). June. — Caught : Poly-
ornmatus p^Moeas (3), Argynnis eiqjJirosyne (common), A. selene, Pieris
brassiccB (common), P. rapcb (common), P. napi (common), Euchloe carda-
7nines (common), Melanippe sociata (8), Thera variata (common), Syrichthus
malvcB, Cidaria trimcata v. perfuscata (4), C.conjlata, Emmelesia aj/initata,
Eupithecia exiguata (3), E. castigata, Strenia clathrata, Coenonympha pavi-
■philus (common), Panagra petraria (common), Lomaspilis warginata (3),
Eurymene dolobraria (2), Bapta biniaciilata, Macaria litarata {'Z\, Euclidia
mi, Hepialus lupulinus (abundant), Spilosoma mendica (2 females), Cilice
glaucata (2), Drepana falcataria and v. pallida (7), Hylopldla prasinana (0),
Euchelia Jacob cece (common) . Agrotis urticcB ; at rest, Dasychira jmdibuiida
{2), Tephrosia crepuscularia [o). July. — Caught: Uropteryx sambucaria[<^),
Bapta biniaculata, Cidaria picata, Thyatira balls. August. — Caught :
Thecla quercus (abundant), Polyoininatus phloias, Gonepteryx rhainni^
Acidalia blsetata (3), Cidaria corylata, C. linnianata, Eubolla bipunctaria,
Dianthcccla carpophaga, D. capslncola ; at light, Strenia clathrata, Melanthla
ocellata, Luperlna testacea (common), Cerlgo matura, Eupithecia absynthiata
{'^4), Charcaas graminls (3), Calytanla affinls ; at sugar, Noctua castanea ; at
rest, Sphinx convolvull, Clrrha^dia xerai/ipelina (21). September. — At rest :
Cirrhuidia xerainpellna (8). I was away the greater part of July, and
throughout the season "sugar" was almost a failure, the opposite of the
previous year. — (Rev.) J. Seymour St. Jopin ; 42, Castlewood lioad,
Stamford Hill, N., March, 1889.
Sugar versus Blossoms in New Zealand. — Much has beer. (\'ntlen
at various times on the futility of sugaring in the neighhourhood of blos-
soms, but 1 think that this axiom should be taken in a far more limited
sense than is usually the case. On the evening of February 8ih 1 was
collecting in the Botanical (Jardens here, the white rata {MvLroaiderus
IGG THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
scandens) being in full bloora at the time, and attracting large numbers of
Lepidoptera. I however determined, by way of experiment, to try sugaring
in a small wooded gully, less than quarter of a mile distant from the
blossoms, and was rewarded by taking a good series of several Noctuse and
Geometrse at the sugar. I should also mention, while on this subject, that
I always use rum and honey, which gives out a much more powerful odour
than the ordinary sugar : I also apply the mixture at least fifteen minutes
after sunset, which I think is a matter of some importance as the bait
does not have time to lose its attractive scent before the moths begin
to fly.— G. V. Hudson ; Wellington, New Zealand, March 19, 1889.
Australian Lepidoptera. — We hear that the publication of the fine
illustrated work on the life-histories of Australian Lepidoptera, of which
three parts were published by the late Mr. A. Scott, under the title,
'Australian Lepidoptera and their Transformations,' is to be continued by
the Trustees of the Australian Museum, Sydney. The work of editing the
valuable material left by Mr. Scott, and of revisine; the classification and
nomenclature of the species, has been entrusted to his daughter Mrs.
Edward Forrde and Mr. Sidney Olliff.— Ed.
CoLEOPTERA NEAR BIRMINGHAM. — At a rcccnt meeting of the
Birmingham Entomological Society, Mr. W. G. Blatch made some
interesting remarks on an extraordinary find of Coleoptera near Knowle.
On a mossy bank facing the north, about two by three yards, lie has taken
during a few short visits in March and April, 145 species, including Amara
7iitida, Sturm., Homalota atomaria, and many other very rare species. He
believes the bank is by no means exhausted yet. The remarks were
illustrated by the beetles themselves.— C. J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec,
Birmingham Entom. Soc, April, 1889.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — May 1st, 1889. — Mr. F. Du
Cane Godman, M.A., F.R.S., Vice-President, in the chair. Mr. Walter
Y. H. Blandford, B.A., of Trinity College, Cambridge, and 48, Wirapole
Street, W., and Mr. John W. Downing, of 59, Lupus Street, St. George's
Square, S.W., were elected Fellows. Mr. W. L. Distant announced
the death of Dr. Signoret of Paris, one of the Honorary Fellows of the
Society. Dr. Sharp exhibited male and female specimens of an abnormal
form of Rhonihorhina japonica, found in Japan by Mr. G. I^ewis. They
exhibited a contraction of the thorax, which v.-as much narrower than usual
at the base, so that the mesothoracic epimera were entirely exposed. Dr.
Sharp also exhibited a small collection of Coleoptera made by Dr. N.
Manders in the Shan states, Upper Burm.ah; this collection contained
several new interesting forms, the most remarkable being a small Hetero-
merous insect bearing a considerable resemblance to FJujsodes. Amongst the
specimens was an example of Batocera roylei, which he had retained in a
relaxed condition, so that the Fellows might have an opportunity of
healing its stridulaiion ; this was produced in a very audible manner by
passing i\\h base of the prothorax backwards and forwards over a striated
space at the base of the scutellum. Mr. C. 0. Waterhouse exhibited, for
Mr. Frohawk, a series of wings of British Biitterflies, prepared in accord-
ance with a process (described by Mr. Waterhouse in the Proc. Ent. Soc.
SOCIETIES. 167
1887, p. xxiii), by which they were denuded of their scales so as to expose
the neuratioii. Dr. P. B. Mason exhibited cocoons of a species of spider, —
Theridion pallens, Black., — from Cannock Chase, distinguished by the
presence of large blunt processes on their surface. Mr. H. Goss exhibited,
for Mr. N. F. Dobree, a number of galls of Coccidce, picked off trees
of Acacia melanoocylon and Grevillea robusta growing in the Market
Square, Natal. These galls had been referred to Mr. J. W. Douglas, who
expressed an opinion that they belonged to the Fam. Brachyscelidae, and
probably to the genus Brachyscelis, Schrader. He said that most of the
species lived on Eucalyptus. Captain H. J. Elwes exhibited a long and
varied series of Terias hecahe. He remarked that all the specimens which
had strongly defined chocolate markings were taken in the cold and dry
season, and that those which were without, or almost without, markings,
were taken in the hot and wet season. Captain Elwes further observed
that he believed that many specimens which had been described as distinct
were merely seasonal forms of this variable species. Mr. W. L. Distant,
Mr. F. D. Godman, Prof. Meldola, Mr. H. T. Stainton, and Mr. G. Lewis
took part in the discussion which ensued. Mr. W. Dannatt exhibited
specimens of Thaumantis hoicqua. West, from Shanghai. Mr. H. Burns
exhibited, and made remarks on, a number of nests of living ants of the
following species, viz., Formica fusca, Lasius alienus, L. Jiavits, L. niger,
Myrmica scahrinodis, &c. One of the nests contained a queen of L. fiavus
which had been in the exhibitor's possession since September, 1882.
Mr. G. C. Bignell communicated a paper entitled " Description of a
new species of British Ichneumonidae." Mr. A. G. Butler communicated
a paper entitled ** A few words in reply to Mr. Elwes' statements respecting
the incorporation of the Zeller Collection with the General Collection of
Lepidoptera in the Natural History Museum." Capt. Elwes, Mr. Stainton,
Mr. Godman and others took part in the discussion which ensued. —
H, Goss and W. W. Fowler, Joint Hon. Sees.
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
Apnl ^bth, 1889.— T. R. Billups, F.E.S., President, in the chair. Messrs. W.
Cant, of Regent's Park, and R. Fortune, of Harrogate, were elected members.
Mr. Cooper exhibited a series of Taniocampa populeti, bred from a specimen
said to have been taken at Rannoch. Mr. Tugwell said that the specimens
did not differ from the southern form of the species, and Mr. Carrington
remarked that the same form was taken in Yorkshire. Mr. Adye showed a
long series of Asphalia ridens, from the New Forest. Mr. Fremlin, varieties
of Vanessa urticm, picked from 3500 specimens bred by him last season ; in
some of the specimens the variation was in the shade of colour of the wings,
in others in the size of the two spots on the superior wings and in the
duplication of the spots, and in many in the absence of the pigment. These
last Mr. Fremlin said emerged with crumpled wings, and died within a few
hours of doing so. There were also several varieties of Vanessa io in Mr.
Fremlin's exhibit. Mr. W. West (Greenwich) exhibited the specimen of
Carpocapsa pomonella, referred to in Mr. Cockerell's note, read at the
previous meeting. Mr. T. R. Billups, a large number of British spiders,
mounted on card, and he stated that he had very little difficulty in pressing
them in this way. Mr. Wilkinson, an example of Neplula inaurata, from
the Seychelle Islands, but expressed some doubt as to whether the insect
was properly named. Mr. Carrington contributed a paper, " British
Spiders," which was followed by a discussion.
108 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
May 9th.- 'The President in the chair. Mr. Tugwell exhibited Teplirosia
hlundidaria, showing marked variation, ineludiiig a banded male, all bred
from a specimen taken at Tilgate Forest, May, 18^8 : also bred series of
T. crepuscularia, spring and summer broods, from the same locality. Mr.
Ad ye, a light form of Catocala j^romissa, the dark band on the hind wings
being very indistinct. Mr. Moore, two larvae of a species of Sphinx, from
the West Indies. Mr. Adkin, a short series of Xyssia hispidaria, from the
New Forest, and remarked that it had been fairly common in the Forest.
Mr. Watson also exhibited N. hispidaria, from West Wickham. Mr. South
exhibited a long series of Noctua brannea and N. dahlii, N. /estiva and var.
conflaa, from various localities, and remarked that in 1886 and 1887 he
obtained large numbers of the larvae of N. hnumeci from North Devon,
which were found feeding on bilberry and a species of wood-rush ; although
the larvae differed in colour very considerably, yet they were very constant
in the markings. He then at some length pointed out the different forms
of variation of bnuinea in his exhibit, and said that in some cases brunnea so
closely approached dahlii that he had a difficulty in saying which was
which; and he was of opinion that the relationship between brunnea and
dahlii was something similar to that heiween /estiva and con/lua. Mr. Tutt
also exhibited two drawers from his collection, containing the species
referred to ; and Mr. Adkin, N. brunnea and N. dahlii^ from Sligo, Kent,
and other localities. A discussion ensued, Messrs. Tutt, Adkin, irugwell,
Carrington, and others taking part. Mr. Billups exhibited a series of
Bembidium testaceuin, from Chobham ; living specimens of Carabus auratusy
captured in the Borough Market; and a species of Oribatidae, which he
stated was causing an immense amount of mischief to corn-chandlers by
feeding on the crushed oats. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
REVIEW.
Australian Butterflies. By A. Sedney Olltff, F.E.S., &c. Sydney:
Batson & Co. 1889.
Mr. Olliff, whom it will be remembered left this country to take up a
position in the Zoological Department of the Australian Museum, Sydney,
some time ago communicated to the columns of the ' Sydney Mail ' news-
paper, a series of popular articles upon the Rhopalocera of that region.
These articles have been collected, enlarged, and printed, at the request of
the Natural History Society of New South Wales, in book form ; with a
chapter upon collecting and preserving insects generally. The work, both
in the newspaper and now under notice, is extensively illustrated by wood-
cuts of drawings by Mr. J. M. Cantle. The evident object is to popularise
the study of Rhopalocera in Australia, and we can hardly imagine that Mr.
Quiff's litile work will fail in its intention. There is no systematic list in
the book of the species inhabiting Australia, which would have been an
advantage, but we gather that material is still wanted for such. On looking
through the faniilies there appears to be mentioned nearly 300 species
now known, to which number others will doubtless be ad<led from time to
time. In point of numbers the Lycaenidae stand first with about eighty
species, next Hesperidae about seventy species, Pierinae about fifty, Nympha-
linae twenty-five, Papil'os twenty ; the remainder being spread over other
families and genera in small numbers. — J. T. C.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIL] JULY, 1889. [No. 814.
BRITISH ORTHOPTERA.
By Edward Ingleby Miller.
1 2 3 4 5
7 8 9 10
1, head of Odontura punctatissima ; 2, head of Meconema varia ; 3, apex of
abdomen of Meconema varia, $ ; 4, head of Xiphidium dorsale ; 5, head of Phasgo-
nura viridissima ; 6, head of Thamnotrizon cinereus ; 7, head of Decticus brevi-
pennis ; 8, head of Stenohothrus parallelus : all twice magnified. 9, pronotum of
Locusta peregrina, natural size. 10, head of (Edipoda ccei-ulesceris, twice magnified.
Few of our British insects have been so much neglected as
the Orthoptera, no work having been published since * British
Entomology,' by Curtis (1824 — 39), and 'Illustrations of British
Entomology,' by Stephens (1828 — 36) ; this is the more remark-
able, as they are both large and handsome, besides being easily
preserved and retaining their colours fairly with the exception
of the green on many species. The larvae and pupae strongly
resemble the perfect insects, the latter only having the rudiments
of wings, and the former none at all.
Many of these large and beautiful insects are found abundantly
in dry meadows, pastures, grassy places, &c., during summer
and autumn, where they may be caught in large numbers with a
net ; some occur upon trees (these latter having long antennae),
ENTOM. — JULY, 1889. B
170
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
and others in boggy places. They may be killed with carbon
disulphide or potassium cyanide, after which they should be
pinned through the thorax and set.
There is great confusion in the nomenclature of the families,
different authors applying the name Gryllidse to each of the
families composing the Saltatoria, while the term Locustidas is
by some used for those grasshoppers with long antennae, by
others for those with short antennge ; in order to avoid the con-
fusion as much as possible, I have called the first family
Achetidse, and the other two respectively Gryllidae and Acrididas.
The most useful works on Orthoptera (besides the two
mentioned above) are Fischer's ' Orthoptera Europaea ' and
Brunner von Wattenwyl's ' Prodromus der Europaischen Ortho-
pteren' (both written in Latin and German).
List of Bbitish Orthoptera.
CUESOEIA.
Blattidae, Steph., 1829.
Blatta, L., 1766.
lapponica, L., 1745.
livida, Fab., 1793.
ericetorum, Wesm., 1838.
nigripes, St.
germanica, L., 1766.
Pbriplaneta, Burm., 1839.
orientalis, L., 1745.
americana, L., 1766.
Panchlora, Burm.
maderce, Fab.
SALTATOKIA.
Achetidse, Leach, 1817.
Acheta, Fab.
campestris, L., 1764.
domestica, L., 1758.
Gbyllotalpa, Latr., 1807.
vulgaris, Latr., 1807.
Nemobius, Serv., 1839.
sylvestris, Fab., 1793.
Gryllidae, Steph., 1829.
Odontuba, Eamb., 1838.
punctatissima, Bsc, 1792.
standisldi.
Meconbma, Serv., 1881.
varia, Fab., 1793.
XiPHiDiuM, Serv., 1831.
fuscum, Fab., 1793.
dorsale, Latr., 1804.
Phasgontjba, Westw.
viridissima, L., 1758.
Thamnotrizon, Fsch., 1853.
cijiereus, L., 1789.
Decticus, Serv., 1831.
griseus, Fab., 1793.
brevipennis, Charp.
hrachyterus, L., 1745.
verrucivoj'us, L,, 1761.
Acrididae.
Stenobothrus, Fisch.
(Ehammatoc5rus, Fisch.)
elegans, Charp., 1825.
parallelus, Zett,, 1821.
Table of Families.
I. Legs formed for running (Cursoria) -
II. Legs formed for jumping (Saltatoria).
1. Antennae long.
A. Elytra horizontal when in repose
B. Elytra deflected when in repose
2. Antennae short ....
lineatus, Panz., 1796.
viridulus, L., 1761.
bicolor, Charp., 1825.
rujipes, Zett., 1821.
(Gomphocerus, Thb., 1815).
biguttatusy Charp.
rufus, L., 1766.
sibiricus, L., 1766.
Stetheophyma, Fisch.
grossum, L., 1766.
Pezoteteix, Burm., 1839.
pedestris, L., 1761.
LocusTA, L., 1748.
peregrina, Oliv., 1807.
Pachytylus, Fieb., 1852.
migratorius, L., 1793.
fiavipes, Don. (Gmel.).
stridulus, L., 1761.
(Edipoda, Burm., 1825.
ccerulescens, L., 1764.
Tetbix, Charp., 1841.
subulata, L., 1761.
bipunctata, L., 1761.
Blattid^.
ACHETID^.
Gryllidae.
ACRIDID^.
Blattidae, Steph., 1829.
= Order Dictyoptera, Leach.
Eight species. Nocturnal, omnivorous insects, easily dis-
tinguished from the other families by their inability to jump and
the rapidity of their movements ; the larger species (of which
our common cockroach is a familiar example) have been
BRITISH ORTHOPTERA. 171
introduced from foreign countries, and are usually found in
dwellings, warehouses, &c. ; while the smaller species (Blatta)
occur in woods, under stones, amongst heath, rushes, &c. The
eggs are laid all at once enclosed in a capsule.
Table of Genera.
I. Species smaller Blatta.
II, Species larger.
1. Antennas long Periplaneta.
2. Antennae short .... Panchlora.
1. Blatta, L., 1766.
= EcTOBiA, Westw., 1840.
These insects differ from Periplaneta and Panchlora by their
smaller size ; they occur on herbage, beneath stones, under the
bark of trees, &c. ; several of the species may be caught bv
sweeping.
I. Legs yellowish.
1. Species larger. Two distinct dark marks on thorax - gennanica.
2. Species smaller livida.
II. Legs brown or blackish.
1. Species larger. One distinct dark mark on thorax • lappotvica.
2. Species smaller.
A. First joint of hind tarsi pale ... - ericetorum,
B. Base only of first joint of hind tarsi pale - - nigrijpes.
1. B, lapponic a ^L.y 174:5, =:7iigro-fusca,'DeGeer; sylvestris,
Scop. ; hemipteray Fab. — Figures of this species will be found in
Curtis's * British Entomology,' xii. 556; Donovan's 'British
Insects,' X. pi. 882; and Staveley's * British Insects,' pi. iv.
fig. 2. Very like B. ericetorum and ni gripes ^ but larger, and
with a distinct, well-defined dark mark on the thorax. Occurs
in woods in the South of England from May to July. Bare.
2. B. livida, Fab., 1798. = pallida, Oliv.— Comparatively
shorter and broader than the other species, with the disk of the
thorax scarcely, if at all, darker than the ground colour. Found
under the bark of trees and beneath stones in the South ol
England during June and July.
8. B. ericetoruMy Wesm., 1888. = germanica, Panz. ; panzeri,
Hag., Steph. — Strongly resembles B. nigripes, but easily dis-
tinguished by the colour of the first tarsal joint. Occurs among
heath, under stones, in woods, &c., near the coast, and is not
uncommon in the South of England from June to August.
4. B. nigripes, St. = ericetorum, var. ?. — Bather larger and
of a more mottled appearance than B, ericetorum, of which
it is perhaps a variety. Occurs in woods during June.
5. B. germanica, L., 1766. = asiatica, Pallas. — Figures of
this insect will be found in Donovan's * British Insects,' x.
pi. 841 ; and in Kirby & Spence's * Introduction to Entomology,'
5th ed. i. pi. ii. fig. 8. Our largest species ; easily distinguished
r2
173 .THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
by the two distinct dark marks on the thorax; it is a rare
insect, but occurs in various parts of London and other towns
with foreign trade, but is always very local, inhabiting particular
houses. It is a native of Asia and the east of Europe.
2. Peeiplaneta, Burm., 1839.
= Blatta, L, ; Kakerlac, Latr. ; Steleopyga, Fisch.
Easily distinguished from Panchlora by the long antennae.
I. <y . Elytra shorter than abdomen. 5 . Elytra very small orientalis.
II. Elytra as long or longer than the abdomen in both sexes americana.
1. P. orientalis, L., 1745. = culinariSf DeGeer. — Not a
native of this country, having been introduced from India ; it is
the common cockroach, so abundant in our houses ; also occur-
ring out-of-doors.
2. P. americana, L., 1766. — This species is figured in Cuvier's
*Kegne Animal,' pi. 77, fig. 4. Larger and handsomer than
P. orientalis. Very local, but occasionally found in London and
other places, where it has been introduced from abroad ; it is
well-established in many houses, and appears to be gradually
spreading.
3. Panchlora, Burm.
. , = Blaberus, L. ?
1. P, madercBf Fah.y is the largest of our Blattidse; it has
been occasionally found in London, having been introduced from
its native place (Madeira), but is not so well established as
P. orientalii and P. americana,
AcHETiD^, Leach, 1817.
= Gryllid^, Latr. ; Gryllus-Acheta, L. ; Acheta, Fab.
Four species. Nocturnal, burrowing insects, easily dis-
tinguished from the Gryllidse and Acrididae by the horizontal
position of the elytra when at rest, and (with the exception of
Nemobius) the great length of the wings, which are longer than
the elytra ; they stridulate by rubbing the base of one elytron
upon the other. Found in woods, gardens, &c. ; one species
{A. domesticiis) occurring in houses.
Table of Genera.
I. Elytra much shorter than abdomen.
1. Very large Gryllotalpa.
2. Small Nemobius.
II. Elytra as long as abdomen - - - Acheta,
1. Gryllotalpa, Latr., 1807.
= Gryllus (Acheta), L.
1. G. vulgaris, Latr., 1807. = Gryllotalpa, L. — Figures of
this species will be found in Curtis's 'British Entomology,' x.
456; Donovan's * British Insects,' v. pi. 147 ; Cuvier's *Kegne
Animal,' pi. 81, fig. 1 ; &c. This remarkable insect cannot be
BRITISH ORTHOPTERA. 178
confounded with any other, its large size and enormously thick
anterior legs distinguishing it at once. Not uncommon in many
localities, especially in the South-west of England ; it frequents
damp places, occurring from April to June, and may be caught
by inserting a stem of grass into its burrow, which (being
extremely ferocious) it will seize, and can then be pulled out, as
it will not leave loose; A, campestris can also be captured in
this manner.
2. AcHETA, Fab.
= Gryllus, L.
The insects in this genus may be distinguished from the
other Achetidae by their elytra being as long as the abdomen ;
they can also be recognised by their size, which is much smaller
than Gryllotalpay and much larger than Nemobius,
I. Colour blackish - - - campestris.
II. Colour brown .... domestica.
1. A, campestris, L., 1764. — This species is figured in Cuvier's
*Eegne Animal,' pi. 81, fig. 3. A rare carnivorous insect,
haunting hot sandy places ; it burrows to the depth of from six
to twelve inches ; it occurs chiefly in the South-west of England
during May, June, and July, and the male chirps very loudly
both day and night.
2. A, domestica^ L., 1758. — Figured in Curtis's * British
Entomology,' vii. 293 ; Staveley's * British Insects ' ; and Cuvier's
'Animal Kingdom' (Griffith), xv. pi. 130, fig. 2. Narrower
than A, campestris. This is the well-known cricket so often
heard in our houses.
3. Nemobius, Serv., 1839.
= AcHETA, Curtis.
1. N, sylvestrisj Fab,, 1793. — The smallest of our Achetid83;
it is a very rare southern insect, occurring in woods during -
August and September.
Gryllid^, Steph., 1829.
= Gryllus-Tettiggnia, L. ; Locusta, Fab. ; Locustari^, Latr.
Ten species. Diurnal insects ; distinguished from the
AcrididsB by their long antennae, and by the females having a
long exserted ovipositor ; they stridulate by rubbing the elytra
together. Found in fields, hedges, and upon trees ; many species
are very local. These insects should not be placed together in
confinement, as many of them are very pugnacious, and will kill
and devour one another.
Table of Genera.
I. Elytra very short, less than half the length of abdomen.
1. Thorax short Odontura.
2. Thorax very long Thamnotrizon..^ •
174 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
II. Elytra more than half as long, but not longer than abdomen.
1. Antennse about twice as long as rest of insect Xiphidium (part).
2. Antennae not much longer than rest of insect Dectious (part).
III. Elytra longer than abdomen.
1. Species smaller.
A. Elytra brownish Xiphidium (part).
B. Elytra green Meconema.
2. Species larger.
A. Front of head (seen from above) rounded.
Eyes not prominent .... Dectious (part).
B. Front of head (seen from above) produced
into a blunt point. Eyes prominent - Phasgonuba.
1. Odontura, Kamb., 1888.
= Barbitistes, Charp. ; Ephippiger, Latr. ; Leptophyes, Fieb.
Differs from all the other Gryllidse except Tkamnotrizon by'
its short elytra.
I. Elytra brown standishii,
II. Elytra partly green .... punctatissima.
1. 0. punetatissimaf Bosc, 1792. = autumnalisy Hag. ; vire-
scens, Steph. — This insect is green when living, but soon fades
to brown after death. Not uncommon ; usually found upon the
foliage of bushes and trees during August and September. Fig. 1.
2. 0. standishii, — I am unable to obtain any information of
this species, which differs from 0. punctatissima in the colour
of the elytra.
2. Mboonema, Serv., 1831.
1. M. varia, Fab., 1793. = thalassimaf DeGeer ; nana,
Stoll.; viridissimus minor f St.; ar^orews, Fuessly. — This beautiful
insect is figured in Donovan's ' British Insects,' iii. pi. 79, fig. 1.
Very common on the foliage of lime and oak trees, feeding upon
the leaves ; it occurs during August and September, and may be
caught by beating the branches. This species does not stridu-
late. Figs, 2 and 3.
3. Xiphidium, Serv., 1831.
= LocusTA, Fab.
I. Elytra longer than the abdomen - • - fuscum.
II. Elytra shorter than the abdomen - - - dorsale.
1. X. fuscum, Fab., 1793.— Figured by Panzer, 33, fig. 2.
This species may be looked for upon herbage and the leaves of
trees in damp places ; ? indigenous.
2. X. dorsale, Latr., 1804. = dorsalum, H.-Schaeff. ; fusca,
Zett. — Not uncommon in some localities, occurring in damp
places during July and August. Fig. 4.
4. Phasgonuba, Westw.
= Locusta, DeGeer, Wat.
1. P. viridissima, L., 1758. — This species is figured in Cuvier's
' Regne Animal,' pi. 82, fig. 3 ; and Donovan figures the larva
BRITISH ORTHOPTEKA. 176
and eggs as well as the imago. Easily distinguished by its
large size and long unspotted green elytra ; it is usually found
on trees and bushes, and is not uncommon in many localities
during August and September. Omnivorous. Collectors should
be careful not to allow this species to bite them (as it will
certainly do if they put their fingers too near) ; it will, however,
be an interesting experiment for any one seeking information.
This insect is said to be excellent when boiled in water for half-
an-hour (having thrown away the head, wings, and legs), then
sprinkled with salt and pepper and fried, adding a little butter.
Fig. 5.
5. Thamnotrizon, Fisch., 1853.
= MicKOPTERYx, Stepli. ; Anisoptera, Serv.
1. T. cinereus, L., 1789. = griseo-a'ptera, DeGeer; apiera,
Charp. ; clypeata, Panz. — Eesembles Odontura in having extremely
short elytra, but may be distinguished from it by the very long
thorax ; it should be looked for among herbage during September.
The males are much rarer than the females. Fig. 6.
6. Decticus, Serv., 1831.
= AcRiDA, Cm-tis.
I. Elytra much longer than the abdomen.
1. Colour grey-brown griseus.
2. Colour green verrucivorus.
II. Elytra not longer than the abdomen.
1. Thorax with a distinct pale mark on the side ;
elytra without any green hrevipennis,
2. Thorax with an indistinct pale mark on the side ;
elytra usually partly green .... hrachypterus.
1. D. griseus, Fab., 1793. = denticulata , Panz. ; falcata,
Zett. ; intermedins, Serv., var. ; krynickii, Fisch., var. — Very
local and rare, preferring chalky maritime districts ; it occurs
from July to September.
2. D. brevipennisj Charp. — Found amongst herbage, &c., in
July and August. Local, but not uncommon. Fig. 7.
3. Z). brachypterus, L., 1745. = kirhii, Dale.— In this species
the ovipositor is more than half the length of the abnomen,
whereas in D. hrevipennis it is less. Occurs on herbage from
July to September.
4. D. verrucivorus, L., 1761. = hinglei, Curt. — This insect
is figured in Curtis's 'British Entomology,' ii. 82. Kare and
very local; it occurs during August and September, usually
amongst grass near the sea-coast. The Swedish peasants are
said to make this insect bite the warts on their hands in order
to cure them. D. verrucivorus can be distinguished from
Phasgonura by its more robust form, spotted elytra, and the curved
ovipositor of the female (which in Phasgonura is nearly straight).
Dulwich Village, S.E., May, 188'J.
(To be concluded.)
176 THE ENTOMOLOGIST,
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 149.)
Class III. — Varieties of Size.
Colias edusa major^ expanse 67 mill. ; G, edusa minor, exp.
32 mill. (Entom. xi. 51). Samia cecropia, wing-expanse varies
from 4j to 7j inches (Worthington, Can. Entom. 1876, 166).
Lyccena corydon minor, confined to one spot near Lewes
(A. W. Gush, Entom. xx. 265). Lyccena icarus minor, exp. less
than 20 mill. (Sabine, Entom. xx. 287). Spilochalcis marics,
Riley, female, varies from 4 to 8 mill, in length, and the male
from 3j to 6 mill., while Ghalcis ovata, Say, varies from 6 to
3 mill, long (L. 0. Howard, Bull 5, U. S. Dept. of Agr. Bureau
of Entom. 1885). Euchloe cardamines minor, ** about half normal
size in both sexes" (Ent. Mo. Mag. 1888, 81). — We find that
when insects vary in size it is more commonly the case that they
become smaller than larger, — that is to say, the influences which
act upon the size of an insect are more powerful or more frequent
in the direction of dwarfing than in that of adding to the normal
growth. The reason of this can be understood if we consider
what are the factors in this matter ; they are probably three,
nutrition (quality or amount of food), length of the period of
development, and power of assimilation.
Guyot Daubes, in an admirable paper on "Variations in
Human Stature " (translated in ' Popular Science Monthly,' July,
1887), has laid down a general law, which seems also largely
applicable to insects. He argues that nutrition is the main thing
affecting human stature. In high latitudes the power of assimi-
lation is great, but the food-supply scanty, and this gives rise to
a dwarfed race. On the other hand, in hot climates the food-
supply may be abundant, but the power of assimilation small,
and this again dwarfs stature. But in temperate climates there
is a good supply of food, and the conditions are favourable for
assimilation ; and here we get the maximum of stature. It is to
be remembered, though, that recent investigations have shown
that tall and dwarf races dwell side by side in equatorial Africa,
and I do not know whether the reason of this has been satisfac-
torily explained.
Now, generally speaking, the power of assimilation, at least
of herbivorous insects, is taxed to the utmost : they have all they
can eat, and they eat all they can digest ; but on the other hand,
if the food-supply falls short or dries up, they possess great
powers of vitality, and manage to reach the imago stage in the
form of dwarfs. This, I think, will explain why we see more
dwarfs than giants among Lepidoptera. It will sometimes happen
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 177
that, owing to some peculiarities of the season, the number of
dwarfed forms observed is unusually great. In 1887 this seems to
have been the case in England, and Mr. J. T. Williams (Entom. xx.
288) attributed it, no doubt correctly, to the dryness of the
atmosphere and consequent partial drying-up of the food- plants.
This is dwarfing due to the inferior condition of the food, but in
other cases the quantity of it has to be considered. Mr. John T.
Carrington {in litt.) gives a good illustration of this ; he writes : —
" Some few Nyssia hispidaria have been taken in Richmond Park
this spring of 1889, but I hear they are small, and so are the
Hybernia leucophaaria. Last year there was a great plague of
larvae of Tortrix viridana, which ate off nearly all the leaves from
the oaks, which may account for the small specimens of these
two species."
Lepidoptera may be dwarfed in captivity, by giving the larvae
an insufiBcient supply of food, and it has been stated that these
dwarfs are generally of the male sex. Mr. T. G. Gentry (Can.
Ent. 1877, 60) believed he could influence the sex of insects in
this way, and out of twenty Samia cecropia so reared eighteen
proved to be males. It would be interesting if all those who
possess dwarfed Lepidoptera would examine them and report on
the sex.
Some species, as the Chalcididse quoted above, and species of
Lyccenaj vary much in size when apparently under the same
conditions. Mr. W. H. Edwards (Can. Ent. 1876, 203), writing
oi Lycana comyntaSj says: — "I believe that wherever comyntas is
found, two sizes of the butterfly appear, one scarcely more than
half the superficial area of the other. I do not know of any
other species in which this peculiarity is regularly found." Mr.
J. W. Tutt (Entom. xx. 823) relates that small I^yccBna corydon
occur every year at Dover, and he has found very small L. icarus
flying together with those of normal size. But here he offers
an intelligible explanation, that the dwarfs are those which have
been reared on isolated food-plants which were insufiicient for
their needs.
In insects which have more than one brood in the year, the
small size of many vernal broods is quite well known. Presumably
this has to do with the length of the period of development, and
I have dealt with this subject under *' Seasonal forms " on pages
27, 28. A curious instance, falling under this head, is given by
Mr. C. G. Barrett (Ent. Mo. Mag. 1888, 81) in connection with
Euchloe cardamines at Haslemere. There occurred a variety
about half the normal size, in both sexes, and the males of this
variety were invariably the earliest specimens seen, the normal
males appearing two or three days later.
Geographical variation in size has been much discussed.
Prof. Baud pointed out that birds and mammals tend to decrease
178 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
in size southward, and Dr. J. A. Allen has shown that in the eggs
of the same species of birds, those in the south are less in
number and of smaller size than in the north. Insects, on the
other hand, frequently, though not invariably,* increase in size
to the southward. These differences appear somewhat anomalous,
but remembering that in the Vertebrata an increase of temperature
may impair the power of assimilation, while it is not likely to
affect insects in this way, at any rate to so great an extent, it
is possible to see why size-variation should apparently not follow
precisely the same lines in these different classes of animals.
Prof. A.S.Packard (Mon. Geom. Moths, pp. 588, 589) has shown
that, in North America, Lepidoptera increase in size westward,
and this he attributes to the warmer and more humid climate of
the Pacific slope. Drasteria erechtea, a common North-American
moth, appears to reach its maximum size in California and its
minimum in the Hudson's Bay Territory (see Fourth Kept. U. S.
Ent. Com. 1885, p. 352). A. R. Grote (Can. Ent. xii. 17)
mentions examples of Crambus vulgivagellus and (7. topiarius from
the west which were smaller than eastern specimens, but the first
was from a rather northerly locality (Vancouver Island), and the
second from a mountainous district (Sierra Nevada), so they are
really only exceptions proving the rule.
Insects found on small islands are often undersized, and this
may easily be due to want of nutriment. Wollaston states that
Anthonomus ater, Mshm., averages two lines long, but none of
those collected on Lundy Island exceed one line, while
Ceuthorhynchus contractus, Mshm., is also small on Lundy.
Holme (Trans. Ent. Soc. Lond. ii., pp. 59 — 62) declares that
Bolitochara assimilis, Kirby, is invariably smaller in Scilly than
near Penzance. But insular faunae are not always dwarfed, even
where one would most expect it. St. Kilda " is very bare, being
closely fed down with sheep and cattle, and yet," says Mr. C. W.
Dale (Entom. xxii. 13), " I can fully endorse Dr. Sharp's
remarks of the specimens [of insects] showing no signs of
depauperation." It is worth noting, though, that with three
exceptions all the St. Kilda Coleoptera are Geodephaga, and such
groups as the Chrysomelidse and Curculionidse are (so far as is
known) wholly unrepresented. A more curious case is that of
the Deserta Grande, one of the Madeira Islands. This island is
exceedingly rocky and bare, and I believe closely fed down by
rabbits ; yet Wollaston records that several species of beetles,
such as Olisthopus maderensis, Woll., are larger there than on the
main island of Madeira.
* For instance, Vanessa urticce is said to be larger in Scotland than in England
(F. A. Walker, Entom. xx. 301).
(To be continued.)
ird
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTUiE OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 157.)
CerigOf St., matiira, Hufn.
Thanks to Herr Hoifman, of Hanover, I have been able to get
Hufnagel's description of this species from Berlin's ' Magazine,'
iii., p. 414. The description is as follows: — *' Phalcena matura
(Die Glanzmotte). Anterior wings brownish grey, with white and
light 3'ellow markings, which are generally surrounded with brown.
Hind wings light yellow, with a broad brown margin." It will at
once be seen on looking through a long series of this species, that
there are two well-marked extreme forms, — one much marbled
with white and red, and with distinct transverse lines and
stigmata ; the other with these lines and markings very obscured,
and the marbling due to the white and red scales almost entirely
absent, although these are joined by intermediate forms. Newman,
in his * British Moths,' pp. 295, 296, writes :—'* Their colour is
various, most commonly bistre-brown of several shades, yet
sometimes tinged with brick-dust red, and always having four
transverse lines and the two discoidal spots mapped out, or, at
least, indicated in pale brown, grey, or white." Gruen6e, in his
* Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 179, describes the variegated form under
the name of cytherea, as also does Fabricius in his * Entomologia
systematica' &c., p. 57, No. 157, where he writes, *' Noctua
cristata alls incumbentibus variegatis, striga alba; posticis
flavis, margine fusco." Hiibner figures a striking form in his
' Schmetterlinge,' &c., under the name of connexa^ with the red
colour greatly predominating, while Esper's texta (pi. 108, fig. 5)
represents the most obscure form of this species. Guenee, in his
* Noctuelles,* vol. v., p. 179, remarks : — " One must breed this
species if one wishes to have fine specimens, for so fleeting is the
colour, that, even on emergence, it appears as if faded." Taking,
therefore, the variegated form as the type, I think it advisable to
refer simply to the two forms named by Hiibner and Esper.
a. connexa, Hb. — Anterior wings with the base reddish brown to the
first transverse basal line ; between the first and second basal lines a broad
black line from the costa to the inner margin. A pale grey line beyond the
reniform, beyond which to the hind margin the colour is blackish grey ; a
wavy, red transverse line runs from costa to inner margin. Hind wings
pale yellow, with brown margin and distinct nervures (Hubner's ' Schmetter-
hnge,' &e., fig. 548).
p. texta, Esp. — Esper, pi. 108, fig. 6, figures a variety of matura
under this nanie, of which the following is the description : — '* Male.
Anterior wings almost unicolorous, dull purplish brown, with a dark streak
180 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
parallel to the costa from base to reniform, and two dull basal lines ;
no orbicular, but distinct reniform; a dull wavy line parallel to hind
margin. Hind wings yellowish, with a dull purplish grey hind margin."
Although this description would scarcely apply to any of our specimens of
matura, there is no doubt that Esper had before him an obscurely-marked
specimen of this species. I think this name should, therefore, stand for all
specimens of the obscure form.
Luperina, Bdv., luteago, Hb.
The type of this species does not occur in Britain, but a
melanic form from the Irish coast was described as a distinct
species by Mr. Doubleday, under the name of barrettii, and has
been generally placed in the genus Dlanthecia, Hiibner's fig. 184
represents the type of this species, and may be described as : —
** Anterior wings of a pale yellowish colour, median nervures
reddish, a reddish transverse basal line with another just within
the orbicular ; the stigmata very pale ; a double transverse line
just beyond the reniform, and a wavy reddish line parallel to the
hind margin ; a dark reddish blotch between the second and third
transverse lines (under the stigmata), continued up narrowly
outside the reniform, and making another blotch on the costa
just outside the reniform; hind margin dotted. Hind wings very
pale grey, slightly darker on the hind margin." Hiibner's
argillacea is, according to Dr. Staudinger, a var. of this species,
whilst Guenee refers Hb.-Geyer's olbiena to this species, and
Esper figures another form under the name of '* brunneago." Of
the general variation Guenee writes (' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 181) : —
*' It varies in colour from a more or less pure and more or less
intense yellow to greyish in some specimens." Of the varieties
the British barrettii is by far the most striking, and this peculiar
form is, I believe, unknown on the Continent. Barrettii seems
first to have been referred to this species by the late Mr. Buckler,
who ('Ent. Mo. Mag.,' vol. xvi., p. 55) writes : — " I am constrained
to believe barrettii to be an isolated and melanic variety of
luteago." On the same page Mr. M'Lachlan, in a footnote,
writes: — ** When last in London, Dr. Staudinger stated to me
that, in his opinion, D. barrettii is a form of D. luteago,'' and
Mr. Dobree writes : — " My continental specimens of the full-fed
larvae of luteago correspond exactly with Mr. Buckler's descrip-
tion of barrettii (* Ent. Mo. Mag.,' August, 1879), and anyone who
has seen them will recognise that this species has been quite
misplaced among the Dianthoecice '' {in litt,). " D. luteago occurs
very rarely in Mecklenburgh, Pomerania, and elsewhere in
Central Europe, in Sardinia, Corsica, and is one of the rarest
French moths " (' Proceedings of the Boyal Irish Academy,'
1884, p. 107).
a. var. barrettii, Dbdy. — This variety was first described by Mr.
Doubleday, at p. 124 of the * Entomologist's Annual ' for 1864, It is also
VARIETIES OP NOCTUJE IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 181
fully re-described and figured in Newman's * British Moths,' pp. 390, 391.
There seeras to have been a great deal of confusion attending these early
specimens, the dark varieties of conspersa, since added in tolerably large
numbers to our cabinets, having been discovered about the same time, and
frequently mistaken for them.
The following remarks on the occurrence of this variety in
Ireland are interesting: — ** D. bairettii is now considered to be a
remarkable variety of D. luteago, a species which occurs rarely in
Central Europe. One object I proposed to myself this summer
(1884) was the further investigation of this group, Dianthoecia.
The occurrence of D. harrettii only in one very restricted locality
at Howth, while its food-plant flourishes luxuriantly everywhere
on the littoral, seemed a remarkable anomaly. I was successful
in taking it on the coast of Waterford, and, I believe, the larvae
on the Wicklow shores, but unfortunately an accident killed the
pupae before they hatched out. I have no doubt that the insect
occurs elsewhere, but its habits are such as to render it very
difficult to capture. The divergence of this insect from its
original type is so great as to lead to the inference that a vast
period must have elapsed since its isolation from the parent
stock." (W. F. de V. Kane, in the * Proceedings of the Koyal Irish
Academy,' 1884, p. 107.)
/3. var. brunneago, Esp. — Esper, vol. iv., pi. 196, fig. 8, represents the
type of this variety. This figure may be described as having : — *' Anterior
wings dull yellow, with several (eight) short, dark red costal streaks ;
nervures at base dark reddish, with a single arched basal line of the same
colour; directly beyond reniform another transverse waved line, at its
centre in contact with lower part of reniform ; a narrow streak of dull
brownish orange colour along the costa, continued a short distance from the
apex down the outer margin ; median space (between two transverse lines
mentioned) extending from costa to inner margin, also dull brownish
orange ; stigmata dull grey ; a small yellowish patch between and under
orbicular and reniform ; outer margin below apical patch dull yellow; hind
margin with a darker line. Hind wings grey, with dark hind margin." His
fig. 3, on the same plate, represents a female which has •« more orange tint
in ground colour, and two transverse orange bands, — one nearer base than
orbicular, one just beyond reniform; a curved series of arches of the same
colour parallel to hind margin. Hind wings grey, distinct lunule and
transverse line, hind margin orange."
y. olbiena, Hb.-Gey. — Geyer's figure 829 is considered by Guenee to
represent a form of this species. It may be described as, *' Anterior wings
of a deep orange colour, with an abbreviated and complete double basal
transverse line outlined in reddish; stigmata also outlined in reddish; two
double transverse lines beyond the reniform, the outer one wavy." Geyer's
fig. 830 is the under side of 829.
^. var. argillacea, Hb. — According to Dr. Staudinger, Hiibner's argillacea .
is a variety of luteogo. This variety, represented by Hiibner's fig. 690, may
be described as: — " ^. Anterior wings having the ground colour bright
yellow, tinted slightly with orange, and much clouded with grey atoms; the
182 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
two transverse basal lines stand out distinctly in the clear ground colour ;
stigmata clear yellow ; a broad shade of the same colour from near the apex
to the inner margin ; the central area above, below and around the stigmata
grey with a greenish tinge, the outer margin of wing also greenish grey
with a fine wavy line passing through it parallel to hind margin. Hind
wings very dark grey, base paler."
Luperinay Bdv., dumerilii, Dup.
Of this very distinct Luperina six specimens are supposed to
have been captured in Britain ; see * Entomologist,' vol. xviii.,
pp. 73, 74, and Newman's 'British Moths,'* pp. 396, 297. I have
seen none of the British specimens, but amongst the conti-
nental ones I have looked through there appears to be a great
deal of difference in the intensity of the markings. The type
has distinct markings and pale stigmata, both males and females,
but the females are rather darker than the males. Some speci-
mens are, however, almost unicolorous, although the markings are
traceable. Dr. Staudinger treats these dark specimens as
Boisduval's desyllesi. The following note I made some time ago
of the specimens in the continental Doubleday collection at the
Bethnal Green Museum : — ** Dumerilii is very distinct from any
other species. The females are darker than the males ; the males
have whitish stigmata, and so has one female ; the other two
females are more unicolorous, and have the stigmata indistinct."
Var. desyllesi, Bdv. — This is treated by Guenee as a distinct species,
but Dr. Staudinger treats it as a var. of dumerilii, a view I believe now
accepted by most continental Lepidopterists. Staudinger says of it,
" Al. ant. fere unicolor." Guenee, in his * Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 183,
gives a very complete description. He writes : — '• Superior wings of a
grey-brown, with the two median lines slender, blackish, margined exteriorly
with a fine yellowish line. No claviform stigma (at least in the one I
describe from). Ordinary stigmata distinct, of a yellowish white, with a
grey-brown centre. Subterminal line of a yellowish white, straight, but
continued so as to touch the two edges of the wing. Terminal space not
much darker than the ground colour. Inferior wings white in both sexes,
with a greyish margin ; all four wings white beneath, with an angulated
grey line near the outer margin." Guenee mentions, too, only "two
examples."
(To be continued.)
SPRING BUTTERFLIES AT HYERES.
By Frank B. Norris.
A SHORT list of butterfly captures this spring may prove of
interest to some of your readers. The lovely scenery about
Hyeres and its islands is well known, and contributes not a little
to the charm of collecting in these favoured parts; whilst the
* This latter record is not quite correct in its particulars ; vido Eutom. xviii.,
p. 74.
SPRING BUTTERFLIES AT HYERES. 183
geology of the district is varied and somewhat peculiar, and
affords a rich harvest of rarities to the botanist. April was, on
the whole, a fine month, but more than usually marred by that
fierce, dry wind, the ''mistral" (N.W.), with the provokingly
cloudless sky that accompanies it, as a rule ; whilst it blows, no
insect stirs in the open, and the collector's only chance is to seek
some of the very sheltered gorges that run up into the surround-
ing hills. May opened with a fortnight's dull, cloudy, thundery
weather, and but little sunshine, or most likely the following list
would have been added to considerably.
Papilio sinou, was common in April, revelling in the warmth of
rocky hill-sides, where five or six might sometimes be seen together, and
early in the month it seemed partial to plum and almond blossom ; first
seen, April 4th, and onwards through May. P. machaon, appeared in
sheltered spots and gardens about April 6th, and was less numerous than
the preceding.
Thais pohjccena, var. cassandra, occurred here and there in the plain,
by the sides of streams and wet ditches, but occasionally at a slightly higher
elevation by small rivulets, on the banks of which its food-plant, the
Aristolochia rotunda, grows plentifully ; some specimens approached the
type very nearly ; I have been told the variety, usually taken here, is that
called ochrea ; first seen, April 6th, and throughout the month.
T. rumina, var. medesicaste, is a much scarcer insect usually, and occurs
as a rule singly, in dry, warm, sheltered slopes, where the Aristolochia
pistolochia (by no means a common plant), its caterpillar's food-plant,
grows; on May 3rd the writer was fortunate enough to find this butterfly
in profusion ; some specimens exhibited an almost total suppression of red
markings on the fore wing; first seen, April 13th, and it occurred up to
May 24th.
Aporia cratcBgi, common ; first seen, May 7th.
Pieris hrassiccB, P. rapa;, and P. najn were all very common.
P. daplidice was fairly common all April, chiefly in the plain, at the
flowers of Cruciferse, such as Biscutella; at Bordighera it was common
from the beginning of February ; var. hellidice was rare.
Eiichloe helia, was locally common on cistus-covered slopes ; its
habit of flight reminds one of Colias edusa; first captured, April 2nd,
thence onward through April and May. E. cardamiiies, common in pine
woods from April 13th, females being a little later than males in
appearance. E. eup)heno, var. euphenoides, in same situations as last, and
from same date ; it is easily captured, often settling on crucifers ; females
later and scarcer.
Leucophasia sinapis, appeared first, April 18th, in open spaces in
woods; aberration erysimi, occasionally in May; and aberration lathyri,
now and then.
Colias edusa, was common throughout ApriUand May, flying over wheat-
fields and sainfoin ; var. helice, sparingly.
Gonopteryx cleopatra, very common ; April and May.
Thecla ruhi, abundant in and near woods.
Thestor hallus, locally common where wild thyme abounds, on sheltered
southern slopes, settling on the flowers or on leaves, or the ground ;
it occurred all through April.
1^4 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Polyommatus alciphron, var. gordius, taken here and there in small
numbers on dry, warm, stony slopes ; the males are much sufiFused with
blue ; May 10th and onwards. P. phloeas, common on sunny banks.
Lyccena (Egon, occurred very sparingly on the sea-shore, near La Plage ;
first seen, May 20th. L. baton, first seen, April 5th ; locally common,
frequenting thyme flowers in old quarries; var. panoptes, also common
locally. L. astrarche, not very common ; first seen, April 22nd.
L icarus, dark in colour, fairly common over sainfoin and meadows.
L. corydon, occurred sparingly on lavender flowers and by road-sides ; first
taken, May 19th. L. argiolus, common all April over shrubby growth on
hills. L. sebrus, single specimens here and there, commoner at Montrieux
near Hyeres, and Mount Condon at beginning of May. L. semiargus, was
also very scarce. L. minimus^ common locally, as at Mount Condon,
May l'2th. L. cyllarus, fairly abundant from beginning of May ; specimens
of males and females occurred without ocelli on under side of hind wings.
L. melanops, first taken, April 14th; very local on cytisus and other
shrubs on southern slopes ; females ten days later.
Nemeobius lucina, occurred at beginning of May, sparingly, at
Montrieux, near Hyeres.
Libythea celtis, seen two or three times ; a rarity in these parts.
Charaxes jasius, occurred in the larva state on arbutus at the beginning
of April. Mr. Kane, in his usually excellent ' Handbook of European
Butterflies,' says, p. 54, " the chief emergence is in first half of May";
this is the case in the breeding-cage, but not under natural conditions.
Resident collectors at Hyeres tell me that it very rarely, if ever, occurs in
the open until the first week in June. I mention this, as Mr. Kane's
statement is misleading to some extent.
Apatura ilia, aberration clytie, occurred sparingly round poplars at
Montrieux, near Hyeres, about May 19th.
Limenitis Camilla, first captured, April 27th; was fairly common in
sunny glades in woods, and by hedgerows ; some specimens were very large.
Vanessa egea, was only seen twice; it is very rare at Hyeres, but
common at several places on the Eastern Riviera. F. polychloros and
V. c-album, pretty common here and there. V. urticm, very rarely seen.
V. 10, common ; V. antiopa, also common ; as were V. atalanta and
V. cardui.
MelitcBa aurinia, var. provincialis, the peculiar form found here,
common, but very local ; settling on the handsome yellow flowers of the
Linum companulatum ; April 28th, &c. M. didyma, of unusually deep
colour: occurring fairly abundantly in valleys from May 10th; some
females of this species had very dark fore wings, reminding one strongly in
colour of A. paphia, var. valesina, the hind wings in these specimens
being as type. M. cinxia, the commonest butterfly here; first seen,
April 7th. M. phcebe, also abundant, but more local than last insect.
M. iiarthenie, very local in warm valleys ; first seen, May 20th.
Argynnis latona, appeared here and there from April 2nd. A. euphro-
syne, was of very large size and rich colour ; some specimens measured
nearly 2^ inches in expanse; first taken, April 27th. A. dia, occurred
sparingly from end of April.
Melanargia syllius, taken commonly, but locally, from May 12th ;
specimens occurred over 2^ inches in expanse ; flies over grass slopes, and
settles frequently.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 185
Pararge mara, here and there over rocky dry water-courses in the
mountains, from May 15th. P. megceniy common everywhere. P. egeria^
common in shady lanes, and among foHage. They were all of the southern
type of colour.
Epinephele ianira^ males were common from May 15th ; specimens
were very large. E. pasiphae, on hill-sides ; common locally.
Ccenonympha pamphilus, common everywhere.
Spilothyrus alcea, was fairly common in warm dry nooks all April.
Sijrlchthus sidm, very local ; occurred in clearings in woods here and
there in small numbers ; flies rather late in afternoon. S. malvcBy
abundant, ^l orhlfer, occurs sparingly in May. S. sao, fairly common
over flowers of lavender and thyme.
Nisoniades tages, common in stony valleys near sea.
I was disappointed in not meeting with the tailed blues,
L. telicanus and L. bcetica, and others that should have been
out; but, as I have said, the season was not very propitious.
Hy^res, May 24, 1889. (20, Courtfield Gardens, Earl's Court, W.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
SpRiNa Rhopalocera. — It will be encouraging to beginners to know
that I have, this season, taken no less than twenty-four species of butterflies
up to the 15th of June, in one locality in Surrey. Most of them were
comparatively abundant. — John T. Carrington.
CoLTAS ED USA IN Wales. — I saw a specimen of Collas edusa, a male,
I believe, on the. wing this morning, a few miles from here. It will be
interesting to notice whether we are at last going to have a " clouded
yellow year," though I presume the one I saw had hybernated. — W. E. R.
Allen; Porthkerry Rectory, Cowbridge, S.Wales, June 13, 1889.
Scarcity of Thecla w-album. — It does not seem to be a good year
for Thecla w-album, as I have only taken one or two of the larvaB and
pupae in places where last year I took several dozen. — W. E. R. Allen ;
Porthkerry Rectory, Cowbridge, S. Wales, June 13, 1889.
Vanessa milbertii. — I have to-day taken an example of V. milhertU
here, at West Cliff", flying on a dry sunny bank near a swamp, where
V. antiopa and Pyrameis cardid were also on the wing. It is a variety,
which I will call subpallida, characterised by the broad reddish fulvous
band on the upper side being, at its upper extremity and for a considerable
area about its middle, of a pale yellowish colour. Prof. French (* Butt.
Eastern United States,' p. 195) has also recorded this form from Colorado,
for he says, '• one example from Colorado has fully half the pale band buff*."
This is very interesting, because it is one of those pale forms produced in
the arid region, where we see that as moisture causes darkening, so dryness
tends to bleach; and this is so noteworthy in parts of Arizona and Mexico
as to give a special character to mammals, birds, and insects alike. Lately
I have found Aphodius vittatus here in considerable plenty ; and althougli
ENTOM. — JULY, 1889. S
Ift6 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
this species presents a black variety, all the West Cliff examples are of the
form that has patches of red on the elytra, like the Aphodlua playiatus on
the continent of Europe. — T. D. A. Cockerell; West CUff, Custer Co.,
Colorado, May 19, 1889.
Cannibalism of Arctia cata. — A short time ago I took several larvae
of Abraxas grossidarlata and also a larva of Arctia caia, and I put them
together in one cage. This morning I saw that the larva of A. caia had
attacked one of the grossulariata. Examining it more closely I found
that it was eating the grossulariata. There was plenty of food in the
cage, so that that was no reason why it should turn cannibal. — Huoa
Jackson; Houghton, 9, The Drive, Brighton, June 5, 1889.
OcNERiA dispar. — I havo bred Ocneria dispar for many years from the
egg. In the open air they proved a failure, — every caterpillar died. I next
tried them en a high kitchen-shelf, a couple of yards to the right of the
fire-place, feeding the larvae on whitethorn. My plan, which I follow in all
hatching operations, was to place the eggs in a small Liebig's Extract of
Meat jar, covering with a piece of muslin, and fastening the latter with an
elastic-band. I then placed on the top of the jar a small square of glass,
and lifted it occasionally to admit air. The glass prevented the food from
drying. As soon as possible the larvae were transferred to a good-sized
flower-pot covered with muslin, but without the glass, and, when the size
of the caterpillars allowed, a covering of net was substituted for the muslin.
The food, after dispensing with the glass, required to be renewed two or
three times a day. The loose withered leaves were allowed to remain in the
pot, and upon these the pupae formed without web or cocoon. The moths
emerged in about a fortnight, pupa after pupa to the very last one ; and I
well remember what a lively lot the males always were. The specimens in
my cabinet measure as follows: — Males, nearly 2 inches from tip to tip ;
females, nearly 2^ inches. I cannot remember ever breeding a single
cripple. — J. Arkle; 2, George Street, Chester, June 3, 1889.
Aglta tau. — I encountered this insect under somewhat different
circumstances to those described by Mr. Swinton (Entom. 139), while at
Wiesbaden, last year. There, undoubtedly, Aglia tau preferred the shade
of the trees in the extensive elevated woods of the district. They began to
appear precisely with the unfolding of the beech leaves, in the spring. I
observed them first on the 2nd of May. They continued abundant
throughout the month, the males flying in the heat of the day, darting in
and out among the trees in search of the females, and were by no means
easy to net ; one rarely saw them on the wing except during sunshine. The
females I took on two or three occasions, flying just before dusk. I
also took several of these at rest on beech trunks during the day, and once
a pair in copula in the same situation. The females laid freely in captivity.
The eggs are large, reddish brown, and somewhat oval in shape, with a
slightly corrugated surface. The larvae hatching from these are very
beautiful, being pale green, with a few long branched spines of a pink
colour. All mine accidentally perished at this stage, but I met with the
full-grown larva in August crawling down the beech trunks ; it is then
quite different, being dull green, with no spines, but covered with short
bristles, which give it a roughened appearance, and tapering towards the
head and tail. I searched, but unsuccessfully, for the pupa about the roots
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 187
of trees the following October.— R. M. Prideaux ; Woburn Place, W.C.,
June, 1889.
AcRONYCTA ALNi NEAR YoRK. — Whilst entomologlsing at Askham Bog,
near York, on the 13th instant, I netted a fine imago of Acronycta alni.
It was hovering above my head among birch. — E. (i. Potter; 19, Price
Street, York, June J 7, 1889.
Caradrina quadripunctata, hybernating. — With regard to Mr.
Blagg's note on C. quadripunctata {cubtcularis), ante, p. 1 62, it has opened
up a question about which, I suppose, few lepidopterists could give a
satisfactory answer, viz.y How does this species pass the winter ? My
experience is that it is in the imago state. It can be obtained throughout
the winter in the stacks of hop-bine, so frequent in Kent, and occasionally
from thatch. An Aberdeen lepidopterist wrote to me only this winter
about finding an imago in January or February, and asked me whether it
was unusual. I had no hesitation in answering in the negative. The
specimens obtained in the winter montlis are in equally good condition with
those obtained in the summer, and it suggests itself whether the larvae from
the summer brood feed up and emerge normally in late autumn and then
hybernate; certain it is that a part of the brood must generally do so. I
see Merrin's * Calendar' gives the date of the imago as May to October.
Facts would lead one to substitute May to May, for I believe that good
specimens can be obtained every month in the year. — J. W. Tutt ;
Eayleigh Villa, Westcombe Park, S.E.
Agrotis ctNERKA. — Ou the 6th of June I took a fine male specimen of
Agrotis cinerea from a lamp-post near here; and on the evening of the 9th
I took a fine variety of the same insect, with the outer half of the wings
dark, from a lamp-post at Polegate. — H. G. Place ; 53, Buckingham
Eoad, Brighton, June 13, 1889.
Food of Nyssia zonaria. — In 1882 I had a few larvae of Ni/ssla
zonaria given to me, with instructions to feed them on yarrow {Ackillea
millefolium). Accordingly I procured some well-seasoned leaves of this
plant, with which the larvae were supplied, but to my sorrow they refused
to feed upon it, and in the course of a week pined away and died.
Was it the journey that sickened them? or was it improper food? With
regard to the food-plant, the following may be of interest. Whilst collecting
on the Conway sand-hills, near the Penmaenmwr rocks, on June 18th, 1885,
I discovered the larvae of N. zonaria in abundance, feeding upon bird's-foot
trefoil {Lotus corniculatus). To make sure that they were feeding upon this
plant, some turf was cut, which contained both yarrow and trefoil. Upon
this the larvae were placed, and the result was that they ate every leaf of
the latter, but left the yarrow standing untouched. The larvae were then
supplied entirely with bird's-foot trefoil, upon which they throve most
remarkably. I should add that the plants selected for food were obtained
from the coast, or from well-exposed situations ; coarse, rank foliage was
never given them. I believe N. zonaria will also feed upon Centaurea
nigra, but I have never tried it. — R. Newstead ; Curator, Grosvenor
Museum, Chester, May, 1889.
Hypsipetes ruberata in Aberdeenshire. — My wife took a very fine
dark form of this moth at rest on the staircase of our house on May 20th,
188 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
1889, and I netted a few nayself in the first week of June, flying at birch
trees. I have never heard of its being recorded from Aberdeen before. —
L. G. EssoN ; 46, North Charlotte Street, Aberdeen, N.B. [This species
usually frequents sallow or willow, and flies late at night. — Ed.]
Pseudo-melanism. — Dr. T. A. Chapman first drew ray attention to the
fact that certain species of Noctuse appear to be melanic when worn.
Acronycta psi, apart from the fact that there are dark varieties, exhibits
this apparently melanic tendency, specimens of the pale form appearing
much darker when they begin to be worn. Leuccmia conigera and Tanio-
campa miniosa exhibit this peculiarity in a very marked degree : Oporina
croceagoy also, to a less extent. I have noticed the same tendency in
Mamestra sordida, Hecatera serena, and Aplecta nebulosa. It would be
interesting to know what other species exhibit this tendency. — J. W. Tutt;
Westcombe Park, S.E.
Extraction of Moth from Pupa. — Last year I had about a dozen
pupse of Dicranura vinula, and in May most of them had emerged ; but one,
though it had already made a small perforation in the cocoon, seemed from
some cause unable to make its escape. Having waited for a day, and seeing
that the insect still remained the same, I carefully peeled off a small portion
of the cocoon, taking especial care not to injure the enclosed insect. The
imago then crawled out, but its wings never expanded, although there is no
doubt but that the experiment was made at the right time. It seems that
assisting moths to emerge is more likely to result in cripples than to prove
successful.— H. D. Sykes; "The Cedars," Enfield, May 13, 1889.
[There would seem to be as much evidence that the moth was imperfect
originally, and that this caused non-emergence, as that the assistance was
the cause of crippling. Perhaps the pupa was kept too dry. — Ed.]
The Yellow tinge of some newly-emerged Moths. — Mr. F. W.
Paple has some interesting remarks in the December No. of * Science Gossip,'
1 888, relative to the yellow tinge of newly-emerged examples of Leucoma
solids, which he attributes to " the fluids contained in the wings not being
completely absorbed." In this connection I may mention that I bred some
specimens of Gnophcelavermiculata from larvae found here on Mertensia, and
on July 4th took note of a freshly-emerged example. The white portions
of the wings were decidedly tinged with yellow, tending to primrose, while
the white lateral marks on the body were without any of the yellow tinge.
Probably this yellow tinge is observable in other white Bombycid moths on
emergence, but it seems not to have been generally noticed. — T. D. A.
CocKERELL ; Wcst Cliff, Colorado.
The destruction of Lepidopterous LARViE by Summer Frosts. —
With regard to this question (Entom. 164), I should have imagined that
larvae accustomed to a warm temperature generally, would be liable to be
destroyed by a sudden fall to the freezing-point, in the same way that plants
of differ kinds suffer. Some of the imagines perish from the same causes.
Newman observes of the males of Cidaria miata, •' it is presumed he perishes
with the early frosts." KoUar on * Insects Injurious to Gardeners,' &c.,
observes in the chapter, *' Means of Defence against Noxious Insects " : —
** Late frosts are also very beneficial, as they entirely destroy many insects
in their larva state. I had an opportunity, early in the summer of 1833,
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 189
of observing great devastations on the fir trees in the neighbourhood of
Vienna by a species of sawfly {Tenthredo rufa, Khig.) .... Fortunately,
in the month of May, a moderate frost set in, and thousands of the larvae
were seen hanging to the twigs, scorched." Kirby and Spence, it will be
remembered, has the following, on " the subject of Hybernation ": — " Many
insects, though able to sustain a degree of cold sufficient to induce torpidity,
would be destroyed by the freezing temperature, to avoid which they pene-
trate into the ground, or hide themselves under non-conducting substances;
and there can be little doubt that it is with this view that so many species,
while pupae, are thus secured from cold by cocoons of silk or other
materials." The case of some hybernating larvae I take to be somewhat
different, according to the editorial remarks : they have without doubt
*' inherited " the power, originally given them, of hybernating from some
peculiar state of their formation. Is it not the case that other hybernating
larvae, those which conceal themselves, are liable to destruction by frosts,
when they have been tempted forth by unusually mild weather very early
in the season ? It is well known how sensitive Lepidoptera are to changes
of temperature. Might not some of their larvae escape the effects of summer
frosts by concealing themselves ; whilst others, which had not taken sufficient
protection, be destroyed? — T. B. Jeffeiiys; Clevedon, June 10, 1889.
Migration of Lepidoptera. — Previous to the Ist of June I had not
seen a single hybernated Vanessa cardui nor one Plusia gamma in Surrey,
where I have collected several times weekly since the season opened. On
that day one V. cardui was captured, but on the 3rd of June V. cardui was
abundant, in fact hundreds were seen, as were P. gamma. Both species
gradually disappeared during the week, and were afterwards only occasionally
to be observed. There had been a steady south-east wind for the three
days before June 1st. — John T. Carrington.
Migration of Dragonflies.— In a note recently received from Mr. H.
Gatke, of Heligoland, he says, " Plave you had any arrival of dragonflies,
Libellula quadripmictata ? Here, on May 21st and 2'2nd, they swarmed by
the million, and continued to the 26th, when the wind became northerly,
and next morning not a single one was to be seen." It will be interesting
to learn if any have been observed on our east coast, or on the light-vessels
in the North Sea. — John Cordeaux; Great Cotes, Ulceby, June 1, 1889.
Spring Insects in Middleskx. — In reference to the month that ends
to-day, the earlier appearance of insects this season as compared with last
will no doubt be remarked on. The earliest date at which I noticed
Neuroptera, Agrionidae, atid Libellula depressa was May 19th, about
Belmont and Canons Wood Park, between Harrow and Stanmore. Up to
May 25tli Diptera were very abundant, and Empis tessellata notably so.
What a number of other common species — as the blue-bottle, dungfly,
daddy long-legs, &c. — fall victims to this insect. The cold and wet of the
last four or tive days h^s materially diminished the number of insects
generally. The genera Eristalis and Syrphus have been well represented ;
Bibio marci and Leptis scolopaceus have likewise been observed, but are not
common. Kespecting Hymenoptera, I have seen very few wasps as yet,
far fewer than last year. The fact that 1 captured fully twenty females
last sprijig, thereby preventing twenty n,ests, may have had something to
do with their comparative rarity at Cricklewood this season. Bombi, again.
190 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I
are not more plentiful this year, though I have not observed them so care-
fully, having got a set of all that I have seen in this neighbourhood. Smaller
genera, Andrena and Osmia, the former of the two being particularly
abundant, have been captured on the blossoms of the pear, plum, &c.
Among Ichneumonidse, Lampronota hellator ? continues, as previously,
common. Our local Rhopalocera are very few in number, and of the
commonest. I have been enabled to add Goiieptenjx rhamni to the local
list. Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Orthoptera, here, are few and far
between. With regard to the Coleoptera, the soil no doubt has a great
deal to do with it. I rarely succeed in augmenting the catalogue of these
groups. This is the first season that 1 have seen tiialis lutarlus at all plentiful.
Many fall into the ponds, and are only extricated with their smoky-coloured
wings too limp and draggled to admit of effective setting out. Panorpa
germanica occurs here, but very sparingly. If I had taken pains with the
Heterocera, I might have drawn up a more numerous list, but I rarely
meddle with the Micros, as I am sure to damage them, either in killing or
setting out. I have added four species of Hymenoptera to the list within
the last week or two. — F. A. Walker ; Dun Mallard, Cricklewood, May 31.
Hesstan Fly. — The first Hessian fly specimens for 1889 came to hand
this morning, in the larval state, and apparently full grown. They were on
the small under shoots of wheat, which plant is just coming into ear. They
were from Revell's Hall, near Hertford, and are sent me by Mr. G. Palmer,
who first noticed the fly in England. — Eleanor A. Oemekod; Torrington
House, St. Albans, June 14, 1889.
Colorado Hymenoptera. — Agama glabella, alluded to Entora. xxi.
301, is by no means an ichneumon, as there stated, but is a species of
Mutillidse, having a superficial resemblance to the ichneumons. Tiie species
is, perhaps, better classed as Photopsis glahrella ; while a second species from
Cottonwood Springs, Pueblo Co., has been identified by Mr. W. H. Ash mead
as P. avipla, Blake. Mr. Ashmead also identified Pollstes variatua, Cress.,
from the same locality; and the '' Slrex" preyed upon by Thalessa (p. 302)
proves to be a Treinex, at first considered a new species [T. hospes), but
now referred by Prof. Riley to a new western race of T. columha, L. The
Mutillidae are quite numerous in Colorado, species of Sphmroplithahna being
very noticeable, running over the ground in dry sunny spots ; while Photopsis
comes very numerously to light, so as to be quite a nuisance. — T. D. A.
Cockerell ; West Cliff, Colorado, May 2, 1889.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — June 6th, 1889. — The Right
Honourable Lord Walsinghara, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair.
Mr. W. M. Christy, of Watergate, Emsworth, was elected a Fellow; and
Mr. W. F. Blandford and Mr. C. Cave were admitted into the Society.
Mr. S. Stevens exhibited a specimen of Acrolepia assectella, Zeller, included
in a lot of Tineidae purchased by him at the sale of the late Mr. A. F.
Sheppard's collection, and determined by Mr. Stainton. He also exhibited,
for comparison, a specimen of A. betidetella. Mr. J. J. Walker, R.N.,
exhibited a collection of Lepidoptera made in 1887 and 1868 in the
SOCIETIES. - 191
immediate vicinity of the Straits of Gibraltar. The collection included
sixty-eight species of butterflies, of which thirty-six were obtained on the
Kock of Gibraltar itself, and the remainder on the European side of the
Straits, and about 160 species of moths. Dr. P. B. Mason exhibited a
number of specimens of a South-European species of Ant — Crematogaster
scutellaris, Oliv. He said that the specimens were all taken in the fernery
of Mr. Baxter, of Burton-on-Trent, and had probably been imported with
cork. Mr. 0. E. Janson exhibited a pair of Neptunides stanleyl, a species
of Cetoniidae, recently received from Central Africa, and described by him
in the February number of the * Entomologist '; also some varieties of
N. polychrous, Thorns., from the Zanzibar district. Dr. N. Manders
exhibited a number of Lepidoptera collected by himself in the Shan States,
Upper Burmah; also a collection of Lepidoptera made by Captain Raikes
in Karenni. Mr. M'Lauhlan exhibited over 400 specimens of Neuroptera,
being a portion of the collection formed in Japan by Mr. H. J. S. Pryer.
They represented nearly all groups (excepting Odonata, now in the hands
of Baron De Selys). Some of the Ascalaphidae, Panorpidae, and espe3ially
Trichoptera, were of great beauty; notably amongst the latter was the
curious moth-hke genus Perissoneiira, M'Lach. Dr. Sharp exhibited the
peculiar cocoons of an Indian moth, Hhodla newara, Moore ; these were
the cocoons possessing a drain at the bottom in order to allow water to
escape, already described in the * Proceedings of the Zoological Society ' for
1888, p. 120, where, however, their great resemblance to the pods of a
plant had not been alluded to. Mr. Enock exhibited, and made remarks
on, specimens of Cecidomyla destructor, bred from American wheat. Mr.
W. Warren exhibited a bred specimen of Retlnia postlcana, Zett., from
Newmarket; also specimens of E upithecla jasloneata and Gelechla confials^
bred by Mr. Gardner, of Hartlepool. Mr. C. 0. Waterhouse exhibited and
explained a number of diagrams illustrative of the external chiracters of
the eyes of insects. A discussion ensued, in which Mr. M*Lachlan,
Mr. Verrall, Lord Walsingham, Mr. Jacoby, Mr. Kirby, and others took
part. Mr. A. G. Butler communicated a paper entitled " Descriptions of
some new Lepidoptera- Heterocera in the collection of the Honble. Walter
de Rothschild." He also contributed a second paper entitled " Synonymic
Notes on the Moths of the earlier genera of Noctuites." Dr. Sharp read a
paper entitled "An Account of Prof. Plateau's Experiments on the Vision
of Insects." Lord Walsingham, Mr. Jacoby, Mr. White, and Mr. Water-
house took part in the discussion which ensued. — H. Goss, Hon, Sec.
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
May ^I2>rd, 1889.— T. R. Billups, F.E.S., President, in the chair. Mr.
Tugwell exhibited Acidalia aversata, bred from a strongly-banded grey
form ; the only examples bred were specimens of a rich ochreous brown
banded form and the var. spoUata. Mr. Tutt, long series of Cidaria
truncata and C. immanatay also Tephrosia crepuscularia and T. hlundularia,
and made some observations on the two last species. Mr. South, long
series of Hypsipetes sordidata^ comprising examples of the species from
various English and Scotch localities, also of Larentla didyinata, and read
notes relative to his exhibit. Mr. White, Hymonoptera collected in the
neighbourhood of Colchester. Mr. Billups, Lithocharis piceus, Actobius
siyiiaticornis, and A. vUlosidus, from Lewisham ; also the ichneumon
Banchus varieyator, bred from Panolis pinij^crda, and Ophion luteuni, bred
192 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
from Dicranura vinula. Mr. Carringtoii contributed notes on collecting at
Horsley, Surrey. Mr. White read a paper, " Observation v^rsws Collecting."
June 13«/fc, 1889. — John T. Carrington, F.L.S., Vicft-President, in the
chair. Mr- Moore exhibited species of Lepidoptera from Antigua. Mr.
Weliman, Macroglossa fuciforinis and Nemeohius luclna; also living larvae
of Halia vauarla, showing variation. Mr. Helps, Selenla tetralunarla.
Mr. Robson, specimens of Sesia forinlcmformis with yellow bands. Mr.
South exhibited specimens of Cldarla trancata and C. immanata from
various localities, and referred to the first named as having been honoured
with no less than eight names, and having been placed in half as many
genera, not including Phalaeua and Geometra, which were rather tribes or
divisions than genera. Seeing how variable the species was, the multiplicity
of trivial names was hardly matter for surprise; few, if any, of the entomo-
logists of the present day were inclined to claim specific rank for the forms
now so generally admitted to be aberrations of C. truncata. As regards
C. immanata, this insect was not so deeply involved in the synonymic web
as that previously considered. Mr. South then proceeded to refer to the
various forms and varieties, and illustrated his remarks by his exhibit.
Mr. Tugwell made some observations on collecting during the present
season. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
Excursion, June 2^nd, 1889. — The first summer excursion of the
season took place under the guidance of Mr. John T. Carrington to Horsley,
Surrey. The party, which numbered upwards of a score, was conveyed in
carriages from the station to Netley Heath, where collecting commenced.
REVIEWS.
Notes and Descriptions of a few Injurious Farm and Fruit Insects of South
Africa. Compiled by Eleanor A. Ormerod, F.R. Met. Soc, &c.
London: Simpkin, Marshall & Co. 1889.
This little work of 110 pages is compiled from material supplied by
Mr. S. D. Bairstow, President of the East Province Nat. Hist. Soc. of
Cape Colony. Many of the species are actually new to science and have
been described especially for this work by Mr. Oliver E. Janson, F.E S.
Altogether, Miss Ormerod has noticed about fifty kinds of injurious insects,
and the pages are profusely illustrated by woodcuts. The work cannot
fail to be of much practical value to the Colony, as the talented authoress
has had under consideration the commoner pests of South Africa. — J. T. C.
A Contribution towards a Catalogue of the Neuropterous Fauna of Ireland'
By James J. F. X. King. Glasgow, Nat. Hist. Soc, 207, Bath
Street. 1889.
Any contribution to a knowledge of the fauna of Ireland should be
welcome, no matter how fragmentary. Doubtless, as Mr. King expresses
in his opening remarks, much remains to be done in working out this
group in Ireland. Encouragement will be found in the fact that although so
little, comparatively, has been effected in this direction by entomologists in
that country, four species at least have been found there, which have not
yet occurred in Great Britain. In a summary of species at the end of the
work there have been noticed a total of 73 genera and 211 species of
Neuroptera as against 129 genera and 350 species recorded in Great
Britain.— J. T. C.
Entomologist, August, 1889.
Plate 7.
FKFroliaiwX.Jd,
CButte,rujotth/.se
Group of Atherix ibis and parasites.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIL] AUGUST, 1889. [No. 315.
NOTE UPON ATHERIX IBIS, Fabricius.
By T. R. Billups, F.E.S.
(Plate 7.)
The very curious group of Diptera figured on plate 7, by
Mr. Frohawk, was found in the neighbourhood of Condover, near
Shrewsbury, by Mrs. Close, of Condover Hall, who sent the mass
of flies to the editor of the ' Field ' newspaper, for identification.*
In due course they were handed to Mr. John T. Carrington, who,
finding some living Hymenoptera among them, kindly sent them
on to me for examination.
This group was found attached to a sallow twig, which was
part of a bush overhanging a lake. It consists entirely of females
of Atherix ibis, one of the family Leptidse, which inhabit fields
and woods near water. A, ibis is a somewhat local insect, that
has been recorded from various localities in England and Scotland,
but is common in many places on the continent of Europe.
When about to deposit her ova, the female A. ibis generally
selects the branch of a tree or bush overhanging water, preferably
a running stream. Upon this twig she deposits her eggs, and
then almost immediately dies. She is followed by others, which
conduct themselves in like manner, to the same spot, and so
form the pear-shaped mass (as illustrated), varying in size to
several inches long, and proportionately wide in diameter. These
females, which often number many hundreds, deposit their eggs
upon each other when the twig has become covered. The larvae
hatch from these ova, and fall into the water below to undergo
their metamorphoses therein.
Curtis, in * British Entomology,' where he figures both male
and female, says that the males may be found in numbers on the
banks of rivers after floods.
* [The block illustrating this plate has been kindly lent to the editor of the
' Entomologist ' by the proprietors of the ' Field.' — J. T. C.j
ENTOM. — AUGUST, 1889, T
194 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
The wings of Atherix ibis are grey, with black irregular spots
the thorax is also black, having two grey dorsal stripes; the
space between the eyes in the female being dirty yellow in colour.
In both sexes the legs are tawny. The abdomen in the male is
tawny, with a black base and tip, and a row of black spots running
down the centre. In the female the abdomen is dark grey, with
lighter transverse bands. In length it measures about half an
inch, and the expanded wings extend rather more than an inch
from tip to. tip.
The habit of dying immediately after ovipositing is apparently
common to the family Leptidse, which fact was illustrated upon
the recent visit of the South London Society to Westerham, in
Kent, on the 20th July this year, when Mr. R. Adkin found one
species upon the trunk of a tree, dead, by the side of its eggs.
As already mentioned, some living insects were observed
among the mass of dead flies. These I found to be of two species
of Hymenoptera, both parasitic upon the eggs of A. ibis. One
species was reared in extraordinary numbers, and most minute in
size, being less than one hundredth part of an inch long. Although
so small they are remakably active, their legs being clearly formed
for running and leaping. These small insects, which look to the
naked eye no longer than specks of dust, are of the genus Teleas,
having elbowed-twelve-jointed antennae inserted near the front of
the head. These antennae are slightly hairy and simple in the
male, but in the female they are terminated by a six -jointed club.
The thorax is short, the abdomen being pedicellate.
Of the second species of these Hymenoptera I only reared
two specimens, which are Ant(Bon alorus. Walker. According to
Professor West wood, the type of this minute genus is Ichneumon
ovulorum, Linn.
I shall be glad to hear from other entomologists who have
made a study of these parasitic Hymenoptera, with a view to
finding out if they have reared more than two parasites from the
larvae or ova of Atherix ibis.
There is, I feel sure, an immense field for investigation
among Hymenoptera parasitic upon ova of insects, of which
there are many species in this country. Their larvae feed upon
the juices contained in the eggs of insects, and they become
full-fed within the shell, emerging as perfect ichneumons. They
seem to attack ova of nearly all orders of insects, especially
Diptera, Lepidoptera, and Hymenoptera; and where they do
occur, they are generally in great numbers.
Description of Plate 7.— Fig. 1. Group of female Atherix ibis.
2. Atherix ibis, life-size. 3. Head and antennae of AntcBon alorus, male.
4. AntcBon alorus, female. 5. Teleas sp., apterous, female. 6. Teleas sp,
male.
20, Swiss Villas, Coplcstone Road, Peckham, S.E., July 22, 1889.
196 i
BRITISH ORTHOPTERA.
By Edward Tngleby Miller.
(Concluded from p. 175.)
AcniDIDM.
= Gryllus-Locusta, L. ; Gryllus, Fab. ; Acridii, Latr. ; Acridiodea,
Wat. ; LocusTiD^, Leach.
Thirteen species. Diurnal insects. The migratory locusts,
which do so much damage in foreign countries, belong to this
family, and several of them have appeared in this country at
various times. These insects are found in fields, sandy heaths,
and marshes ; they stridulate by rubbing the hind legs against
the elytra.
Table of Genera.
I. Prothorax simple.
1. Elytra and wings very short Pkzothtrix.
2. Elytra and wings perfectly developed.
A. Head (seen from above) not more than half as
long as pronotum (Edipoda.
B. Head (seen from above) more than half as long as pronotum.
a. Species larger.
AA. Space between eyes less than their length - Locusta.
BB. Space between eyes not less than their length Pachytylus.
b. Species smaller - - - - - - Stenobothrus.
II. Prothorax produced behind over the abdomen - - Tetrix.
1. Stenobothrus, Fisch.
These insects are our common grasshoppers, which we so
often hear in sunny pastures. Most of the species are very
variable in colour.
I. Antennae not thickened at the apex (Rhammatocerus).
1. Elytra of female about half the length of the abdomen ;
of male scarcely as long as the abdomen - - parallelus.
2. Elytra of female about as long as the abdomen ; of
male longer than the abdomen.
A. Outer carinas on thorax comparatively straight - elegans.
B. Outer carinas on thorax curved.
a. Elytra distinctly spotted rufipes.
h. Elytra not spotted.
AA. A white streak on costal margin of each elytron lineatus.
BB. Elytra without a white streak - - - viridulus.
c. Outer carinas on thorax angular .... bicolor.
II. Antennas thickened at the apex (Gomphocerus).
1. Anterior tibiae of male thickened .... sibiricus.
2. Anterior tibiae simple in both sexes.
A. Elytra and femora distinctly spotted - - • biguttatus.
B. Elytra and femora scarcely, if at all, spotted - - rufus.
1. S. elegansy Charp., 1825. = tricarinata^ Steph. — Not
common; it occurs in marshes in the East of England.
2. S. parallelus, Zett., 1821. =pratorum, Fieb. — A very
distinct species, easily recognised by the shortness of the
T 3
100 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
elytra. Very abundant in fields from July to September.
Fig. 8.
3. S. lineatus, Panz., 1796. = megacephalum, Steph. ;
tenelluSy Stoll. ; Jischei, Eversm. ; nigro-maculatum, Schaeff. ;
stigmaticuSy Fieb. — This insect often has a white spot on the
elytra, but it is a green species, and cannot be confounded with
S, rufipesy which is never of that colour. Not common ; occur-
ring in fields and meadows during August and September.
4. S, viridulusy L., 1761. = albo-marginaturriy DeGeer, 2 ;
rufo-marginatumy DeGeer, $ ; nigro-terminatumy DeGeer, ^ ;
rubicunda (Schaeff.), Gmel. — Occurs in sandy places from June
to September.
5. S. bicolovy Charp., 1825. = vittatay Steph. ; modestum,
Seidl. ; murinay Fieb. — Very common and extremely variable in
colour. Found in fields from July to September.
6. S, rufipesy Zett., 1821. — This species may be distinguished
from S, bicolor (which resembles it in very often having the
elytra spotted) by the posterior tibiae, which in the male of this
species are reddish with the extreme base and apex dark, and in
the female dark, with the portion just below the base pale ;
whereas in S, bicolor they are unicolorous in both sexes. Not
uncommon in the South of England ; found in fields and meadows
during June and July.
7. S, biguttatusj Charp. =pullay Fisch. ; biguttulus, Panz.
(nee L.) ; rufusy Zett., var. ; elegansy Steph., var. ? ; ericetorius,
Steph., var. ?; calidoniensisy Stoll. ; maculatusy Thunb. — Variable
in colour. Common on sandy heaths from July to September.
8. S, rufuSy L., 1766. = clavicorney DeGeer, var. maculatus,
Thunb. — This species is figured in Stephens's * Illustrations of
British Entomology,' vi. pi. 28, fig. 6. The antennae are more
thickened at the apex than in S. biguttatus, Kather local, occur-
ring in the South of England during July and August.
9. S. sibiricus, L., 1766. = clavimanus. — This insect is
figured in Cuvier's *Kegne Animal,' pi. 86, fig. 3. Stephens
says it has been taken on the hills near Netley.
2. Pezotetrix, Burm., 1839.
1. P,pedestrisy L., 1761. = apterusy DeGeer. — I have never
seen this species, which is said by Stephens to be found occa-
sionally at the end of July within the metropolitan district. A
specimen was taken by Mr. Billups at Bookham, in Surrey, on
the 26th of October, 1886.
3. Stetheophyma, Fisch.
= Mecostethus, Fieb.
1. S. grossay L., 1766. = germanicuSy Stoll. ; rubripesy
DeGeer.— Want of information has compelled me to omit this
BRITISH ORTHOPTERA. 197
insect from the table of genera ; it is said to occur in fields, but
is probably not a native of this country.
4. LocusTA, L., 1748.
= ScHisTocERA, Stol. ; AcEiDiuM, auct.
Distinguished from Pachytylus by its long narrow form, and
the comparatively short space between the eyes ; also by the
three transverse furrows on the pronotum. Fig. 9.
1. L. peregrina, Oliv., 1807. = rufescens, Thunb. ; flavi-
ventre, Burm.— Figured in Cuvier's ' Eegne Animal,' pi. 86, fig. 1.
This magnificent species occurred in various parts of England
in October, 1869, but has not been recorded since ; it is a native
of Asia and Africa.
5. Pachytylus, Fieb., 1852.
I. Wings green migratorius.
II. Wings yellowish brown - - - flavipes.
III. Wings red, with a dark band - - stridulus,
1. P. migratorius, L., 1793. = migratorioides, Keiche. ; ? ciner-
ascens, Fab. — This fine species is figured in Donovan's * British
Insects,' viii. pi. 270, and in Cuvier's * Animal Kingdom '
(Griffith), XV. pi. 130, fig. 1; it occurs occasionally in this
country from August to October in fields, but is not a native.
P, cinerascens is a variety with the pronotum of equal breadth
throughout.
2. P. Jlavipes, Don. (Gmel.). — Easily distinguished from
P. migratorius by having a distinct yellow stripe on the elytra
and three longitudinal carinas on the pronotum (P. migratorius
has only one). Occurs in marshes.
3. P. stridulus, L., 1761. = rubripenne, DeGeer; ^uligi-
nosum, Oliv. — I have not seen this species ; ? indigenous.
6. (Edipoda, Burm., 1825.
1. (E. ccerulescens, L., 1764. = cyanoptera, Ramb.; sebetium,
Costa, var. /3 ; miniatus, Pallas ; germanicum, Latr. ; fasciatus
(aihrens), Ger. ; obscurus, Petagne ; fabricii, Fieb., var. c. — Dis-
tinguished by its prominent eyes, blue wings (which have a dark
band near the hind margin), and the shape of the head. Said
to occur in fields. Fig. 10.
7. Tetrix, Charp., 1841.
= AcRYDiUM, Curtis.
These remarkable insects are easily known by the prothor^jj
projecting over the abdomen ; they are the smallest of our
Acrididse, and occur in fields, heaths, and sandy places.
I. Prothorax extending considerably beyond apex of abdomen 1. subulata.
II. Prothorax extending about as far as apex of abdomen - 2. hiyunctata'
1. jT. subulata, L., 1761. =pallescens, Zett., var. ; undu-
latum, Sow. ; bipunctatum, Panz. ; bimaculatiim, Herbst ; margi'
198 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
4
natum, Zett., var. ; humerale, Zett., var. ; dorsale, Zett., var. ;
meridionalis, Ramb., var. — Both this species and the next are
extremely variable, and some authors have described many of
the varieties as different species ; but there are only two, which
are easily distinguished by the comparative length of the pro-
thorax and abdomen. Common ; it occurs from April to October
in fields.
2. T. hipunctatay L., 1761. = obscura, Hagenb. ; nigricans,
Sow. ; lateraUy Zett., var. ; vittatuvfiy Zett., var. ; binotatum,
Zett., var. ; zonatumy Zett., var. ; obscurum, Zett., var. ; ochra-
cemn, Zett., var. ; hieroglyphicum, Zett., var. ; scriptum, Zett ,
var. ; hilare, Zett., var. ; variegatum, Zett., var. ; ephippiu7n,
Zett., var. ; carbonarium, Zett., var. ; pinnula, Curt., var. ;
scutellatum, DeGeer, var. — Comparatively shorter and broader
than T. subulata ; it occurs from May to September in fields.
[On page 175 in the first part of my article, Decticus griseus
was in error printed as ''very local and rare "; it should have
been " local, but not rare."]
Dulwich Village, Surrey, May, 1889.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 178.)
Class IV.— Variation in the Preparatory Stages.*
a. Larvce,
Contrary to what might have been expected, larvae vary greatly
without producing any corresponding variations in the perfect
insects arising from them ; while, on the other hand, the larvae
of an insect which is exceedingly variable in the perfect state may
be very constant in colouring, or if there are variations they may
have no relation to those hereafter to be observed in the imago.
It is, therefore, broadly speaking, impossible to associate the
variations seen in the different stages of insect growth together,
and larval variations must be treated, at least for the present, as
larval variations alone. In considering these variations, the first
thing that strikes us is the frequency of simple dichroism, usually
exhibited in green and brown forms, and the apparent spontaneity
of this variation without direct reference to external conditions
or hereditary influences. On further enquiry, however, we find
some striking cases in which the variation appears to be phyto-
phagic, and others in which it is of local distribution. The study
* For lack of information about the larvas in other orders, I am obliged to
confine my remarks in this section entirely to Lepidoptera.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 199
of larval variation, like that of the earlier stages of larvae, is yet
entirely in its infancy, and it is not likely that progress will be
made until the matter is worked up in some systematic way. I
think, myself, although I fear many will entirely disagree with
me, that variations in all the preparatory stages ought to be duly
registered in our catalogues and treated of in our systematic works
under names indicating their peculiarities. Thus : — Dilophonota
ello var. larvae viridis will mean the green variety of the larva of
this moth, while Papilio asterias var. pupae viridis is the green
form of the pupa of the black *' swallow-tail." For brevity, " var.
larvae " and " var. pupae " might be abbreviated to " 1." and " p."
It will, no doubt, be urged against this proposition that such an
arrangement would enormously increase our already lengthy
catalogues, rendering the study of Entomology more complex
than ever before ; but in reply it can only be said that, after all,
we are not responsible for the number of the forms that Nature
in her bounty has provided, and that, as a matter of fact, Ento-
mology is a far more complex study than is generally supposed ;
and it is the business of the true naturalist to examine- and to
classify all its numerous phenomena, rather than to pass them by
with a shrug because they appear so intricately blended together.
I doubt whether it is yet possible to give any full analysis of the
variations in lepidopterous larvae, but the following summary of
the principal of those which have come under my notice may be
found useful.
(1.) Phytophagic variations. — a. Boarmia dejectaria^ larva
light pea-green on Melictylus, dark brown on Metrosideros, and
bluish grey on Solanum ; B. panagrata, IsLYYa. dull olive-green on
Piper, brownish on Aristotelia, and presenting a third variety on
Myrtus (G. V. Hudson, Entom. xx. 195). These Boarmia larvae,
found in New Zealand, resemble in colour their respective food-
plants, b. Spilosoma lubricipeda, larvae fed on Aconitum were
almost black (G. S. Gregson, Young Nat., 1886, p. 192). c. Samia
cecropia, the lateral tubercles of the larva often display a beautiful
pearl colour, in the case of those feeding on Prunus domestica
(T. G. Gentry, Canad. Ent., 1877, p. 49). d. Lyccena comyntas,
larvae fed on Desmodium marilandicum were emerald-green with
yellow points, while those fed on clover were russet varying to
vinous, interspersed with green (W. H. Edwards, Canad. Ent.,
1876, p. 205). In many cases of phytophagic variation in larvae,
as also in perfect insects, it is quite possible that the juices of the
food-plant may have an immediate effect in producing the colours
we see. The dark colour of the elytra of certain beetles, for
instance, has been attributed to tannin, and tannin was even
found in the tissues of the species in question. Nevertheless, it
seems to be established beyond a question that some larvae, and
especially newly-formed pupae, have a chameleon-like power of
200 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
approximating their colour to that of their surroundings. Larvae
of Catocala nupta found wild on bark were dark, but others kept
in flannel became light ; larvae of Biston hirtaria kept in earthen-
ware pans were red- brown, while those found on lime leaves were
green. A green one turned red-brown in process of preservation
as soon as heated (H. M. Golding-Bird, Entom. xi. 109). It has
even been stated that certain larvae are able to change their
colour in the course of a few moments, but I have not found any
satisfactory evidence that this is the case. It would appear,
rather, that the acquisition of a colour like that of the
surroundings is a gradual process, and quite involuntary on the
part of the larva. In Buckler's admirable work on the larvae of
butterflies, a very interesting case is recorded in which larvae of
Vanessa cardui found on Malva developed hairs. In the United
States the larvae of this butterfly are said sometimes to occur on
sunflower and hollyhock, but I have not heard whether these differ
in any way from the thistle-feeding form. V. cardui larvae found
here (Wet Mountain Valley, Colorado, 8000 feet alt.) on Cnicus
ochrocentrus, Gray, do not differ markedly from the usual foi-m ;
but I liave only found them on the thistles.
(2.) Seasonal variation. — Such variation as there may be of a
seasonal character exhibited by larvae is probably more due to the
nature of the food-plant than to the direct influence of tempera-
ture, &c., upon the larvae. Mr. W. H. Edwards (Can. Ent., 1878,
p. 6) remarks that the summer larvae of Lyccena pseudargiolus,
feeding on Cimicifuga, are white, and of the colour of their food ;
whereas in the autumn, feeding on a yellow flower, they are dusky
and green. Lepidopterists in England are very familiar with the
varieties of the larva of Smerinthus populi, which are more or less
spotted with red, and there can be no doubt that these occur more
abundantly at certain times and places than at others, although
the laws governing these occurrences seem to be unknown.
S. myops, an American species, presents a similar variation in its
larva ; and according to G. W. Peck (Can. Ent., 1876, p. 239), the
larvae showing red blotches are more prevalent in the late brood.
(3.) Sexual variation. — Secondary sexual characters in larvae
seem to be unknown, as might be expected. The larvae of
Thyreus abbotii vary from dirty yellowish to reddish brown, and
those larvae with uniform brown mottling were supposed to be
females. But C. P. Whitney (Can. Ent., 1876, p. 76) bred some
males from the supposed male larvae, and the idea of colour
indicating sex in this instance has now been given up. When
larvae have insufficient food they are smaller than usual, and it is
said that such larvae produce a preponderance of males, but this
is of course the direct result of environment. In Attacus the
sexes can sometimes be distinguished in the larval state by a dark
blotch on the under side of the last segment that bears stigmata.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECl?S. 20l
If truly a sexual character, this is doubtless a primary one, and
Mr. E. B. Poulton has suggested that it represents the blind
termination of the ducts of the sexual glands.
(4.) Geographical variatiort. — The typical larva of Ceratomia
quadricornis, according to VV. V.Andrews (Can. Ent., 1876, p. 40),
is green, while a more exceptional form is deep brown. But at
Kochester, in New York State, the brown variety is the prevalent
one, and the green, so-called, type the exception (Can. Ent., 1876,
p. 120). In Britain, the typical larva of Vanessa atalanta is grey-
green, while black and also dingy white forms occur. But at
Coalburgh, in America, Mr. W. H. Edwards found that nearly all
the larvae of atalanta were black in the last stage, with the lateral
stripe usually macular, and greenish yellow. A small percentage
was yellowish green, and a few were mottled black and yellow,
but the dingy white form was not to be found (Can. Ent., 1882).
Other such cases have been recorded, but it is to be noted that
generally the variation is rather in the proportions in which
certain forms occur, than in their actual occurrence. In cases
where the larva presented any noteworthy difference in different
regions, the perfect insects have also generally been distinguish-
able, and the two forms have been regarded as distinct species.
Such, for instance, are Papilio rutulus and turnus^ and Pieris napi
and oleracea. Possibly, when larvae are further studied, specific
characters based on larval differences will in many cases prove
fallacious, owing to the fact that the larvae are far more variable
and intergrading than has been supposed.
(5.) " Spontaneous " variation. — I apply this term to those
variations which appear to occur without reference to external
conditions, and which are possibly to be traced to some ancestral
tendencies, the cause of which is either now obscured or lost sight
of. Yet in contemplating the frequent colour-changes of larvae,
and especially the light and dark or green and brown forms of
certain species, it is impossible not to think that after all these
peculiar variations of colour may simply be due to the instability
of the colouring-matter, and its readiness to assume new forms
under influences so slight that we have not yet appreciated them.
And, indeed, as stated above, a green larva of Biston turned red-
brown on the application of heat, this being the normal colour of
another variety of the same species. To enumerate all the recorded
" spontaneous " variations of larvae would be a gigantic task, but
the following may serve as examples : — Papilio ajax, larva varies
in ground colour from dark smoky brown to grey, blue-green and
pale green, each form with peculiar markings. Vanessa gonerillat
larva varies considerably (see Entom. xvi. 318). Deilephila
spinifascia, four vars. of larva are described (Ent. Mo. Mag.,
1881, p. 132). Philampelus achejnon, larva varies from green to
pale straw or reddish brown. Sphinx quinquemaculata, larva
20^ THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
varies in ground colour from bright green to dark green, dark
brown, blackish green, or even black. Dilophonota ello, larva
varies from green to brown. Spilosoma luhricipeda^ larva;
a. pallescens, whitish, with grey hairs; b. rufescens^ yellowish,
with red-brown hairs ; the grey variety exists in the proportion
of four to one red (E. Birchall, Entom. xi. 77). Hyphantria
cunea, Prof. Eiley (Bull. 10, U. S. Dept. Agr., Ent. Div., 1887)
figures varieties of the larva of this destructive species, and says,
" Close observations have failed to show that different food
produces changes in the coloration; in fact, nearly all the
various colour-varieties may be found upon the same tree ; the
fall generation is, however, on the whole, darker, with browner
hairs, than the spring generation." Cucullia chamomillcB, Mr.
Tugwell has recorded varieties ranging from white to pink.
Catocala polygama, four forms of larva are described by W.
Saunders (Can. Ent., 1876, p. 74). Eupithecia ; the remarkable
variation in the larvae of this genus can be seen by reference to
Newman's 'British Moths,' pp. 120-153. Finally, it is to be
noted that sometimes very diiferent-looking larvae will produce
nearly similar moths, a phenomenon observed in Acronycta and
Datana. Mr. A. K. Grote has some interesting remarks on this
subject, * Can. Ent.,' 1877, p. 209, where he says, " There is proof
in the excessive variation in the larvae of a genus where the
adults are remarkably uniform in colour and ornamentation,
that the larva submits to independent and wide modification
from the circumstances of its environment."
Erkata, &c. — P. 55, line 18 from top, for " Entom. x." read
" Entom. XX." Cirrhcedia x. obscura (p. 55) and Acronycta t.fasciata{p. 99)
appear to be practically identical with the varieties unicolor, Stgr., and
virga, Tutt, respectively. Mr. W. H. Edwards informs me that the black
form of Lyccena comyntas (p. 128) is not in the male, the black male
pseudargiolus being the only such case known to him. Dr. John Hamilton
finds that the dark forms of Ips fasciatus (p. 129) are not confined to the
vernal brood, as was supposed.*
(To be continued.)
DEILEPHILA GALII, with REMARKS ON FORCING PUP^.
By J. Arkle.
" By all means force all your galii pupae." Such was the
unanimous advice which followed my inquiries on the point. To
the fortunate possessor of a hothouse this is easy enough ; but
to collectors like myself, who are less enviously placed, the
* Dr. Hamilton writes, " Ips fasciatus varies in colour, from all black on the
elytra, to nearly all yellow. About half a dozen of the forms have received names.
.... All hatched from the same batch of eggs, perhaps " {in litL, April 24, 1889).
DEILEPHILA GALlI. ^03
matter, after all, is one that presents little difficulty. I am
indebted to Mr. McRae, of Bournemouth, for the following plan,
which I have tried ; and as that gentleman kindly gives me per-
mission to publish it, I feel I cannot do better than give it in
his own words. *' Procure," he says, '* a large flower-pot saucer,
filling it with alternate layers of coarse sand, or gravel, and
moss, placing the pupae on the top, and then covering them with
a layer of moss. Saturate the whole with tepid water, and over
the whole place a bell-glass. Then place the apparatus in front
of the kitchen fire, and inside the fender. Place a few twigs on
the top of the outside layer of moss, to enable the insects to
crawl up and to dry their wings, otherwise all will be crippled, as
the glass is too smooth for climbing. Emergence may be
expected to take place in about three weeks. The temperature
will often rise to at least 100° F., and, provided the whole is
kept sufficiently moist, and shaded from direct radiation by
placing a piece of thick brown paper in front of the bell-glass,
this heat will not injure the pupse ; on the contrary, it accelerates
development. By planting a piece of board behind the incubator
to break the draught of cool air from the door, I often had the
bell-glass so hot that I could not place my hand against it. The
essential principle of forcing or accelerating emergence is heatf
and pupse will stand almost any amount provided they are kept
moist," " I do not find," continues Mr. McRae, " that the fire
going out at night injures the development of the pupse in the
least. There is no such thing as a uniform temperature in
Nature, and the range between the maximum and minimum in
twenty-four hours, at midsummer, is so considerable that I
concluded I need not trouble myself about attempting to keep
up a regular and fixed temperature."
This plan has been long known and practised, so Mr. McRae
informs me, by the older entomologists, and he adds that it was
communicated to him, some twenty years ago, by the late Mr.
Edward Newman.
My captures of D. galii larvae ended last season on the
13th of September. Cold and frosty weather set in shortly after,
with the result that one of the caterpillars failed to pupate.
Still I found myself in possession of twelve healthy-looking
pupse. Some of my correspondents began the forcing process
immediately after pupation, and, judging from their results, they
were by far the most successful. I, on the contrary, kept mine
simply under cover. Tliey were left in the breeding-cage exactly
as they had been formed, — slightly below the surface of the sea-
sand, but covered by the usual open-below sandy web or shield,
and exposed only to the natural dampness of the sand.
On January 1st I examined the pupse and found five dead and
mouldy, so I at once began the use of the saucer, bell-glass, i&c.
S04 1?HE ENTOMOLOGIST.
On the 7th I added three pupae of Smerinthus tilicB to the seven
Deilephila galii, placing the apparatus on a kitchen shelf, where
the maximum temperature was 70°. The first galii appeared on
February loth. On and about the 17th the weather was very
warm for the season, and two more fine galii emerged at mid-day
on that date. In spite of the succeeding cold, the first S. tilice
appeared on the 34th. Although the cold weather continued, I
began to be surprised at the non-appearance of moths between
the last-mentioned date and March 7th, and upon again examining
the pupae I found two more galiif dead and covered with mould
or white fungus. I then commenced to carry out fully Mr.
McRae's instructions, taking care to keep the saucer on a level
with the lower part of the fire-grate. The fourth galii developed
on the 8th, and the fifth and last on the 26th of the month. In
the meantime the second S, tilice emerged on the 8th, and the
third on the 21st March.*
These remarks would possess, perhaps, greater completeness
were evidence added from collectors who decided to keep their
pupse till July or August, waiting for possible emergence through
natural influences. Had my stock of pupse suffered less, I
intended reserving a few for this experiment. I must therefore
rest in the hope that the experience of others may, in time, be
forthcoming. I need hardly add that a thorough knowledge of
the habits of this insect, and its conduct when exposed to a
climate very different to that of the Continent, must go far
towards the settlement of what has been, perhaps, too long sur-
rounded by doubt and controversy.
2, George Street, Chester, June 10, 1889.
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTU^ OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 182.)
Luperinaj Bdv., cespitis, Fab.
The type of this species is described by Fabricius in his
* Mantissa,' p. 156, No. 148, as: — *' Noctua cristata, alis incum-
bentibus fuscis : strigis tribus undatis albidis nigrae innatis,
posticis albis." '* Media. Caput et thorax fusca, immaculata.
Alse anticse fuscae nitidulse strigis tribus undatis pallidis, unica
ante medium, duabus pone medium, quae interne terminantur
striga atra. In medio maculae ordinarise annulo albo. Posticse
* Of five larvse of D. galii sent me last autumn by a correspondent at Liverpool,
only three attained the proper stage. These three pupse were kept indoors, but no
attempt was made to force the imagines. On the 26th of July a male specimen
emerged, and a female on the 28th. — K. S.
VARIETIES OF NOCTU^ IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 205
albfie margine interdum fuscescente." Hiibner figures (428)
cespitis as ** brown with a reddish tinge ; a pale abbreviated, fol-
lowed by a complete basal, streak, outlined in black ; stigmata
outlined in yellowish ; a pale wavy line beyond the reniform,
edged externally with black ; another pale transverse line parallel
to hind margin. Hind wings dark grey, base paler, a pale line
parallel to hind margin." There appears to be a little variation
in size. I have some specimens from South Wales much larger than
some from Lancashire and Sussex. There is also a slight sexual
variation, the hind wings of the female being darker than those
of the male. The hind wings of the male vary in colour, as
noticed by Newman in his * British Moths,' pp. 297, 298 :— " The
hind wings of the male are very pale, almost white, sometimes with
one, sometimes with two darker bars, parallel with the hind mar-
gin : in some specimens I find scarcely any trace of these bars."
Var. conjinis, St. ? — In Humphrey and Westwood's * British Moths
(vol. i. p. Ill) we read : — " Mr. Stephens in his ' Catalogue ' regarded as
a doubtful variety of this species a unique specimen obtained from the
Marshamian collection, which in his * Illustrations ' he described as distinct,
under the name of Chareas conjinis, which differs from the foregoing
(cespitis) in the paler colour and narrowness of the fore wings, nearly uni-
formly coloured hind wings, and slightly pectinated antennae."
Luperina, Bdv., testacea, Hb.
The type of this most variable species is figured by Hiibner
in his * Schmetterlinge, &c.,' fig. 139. It has the " anterior wings
of a very deep (for this species) brown, with a dark outer margin,
and clouded with darker around and under the stigmata. The
mark, on which Haworth named his varieties, not complete. Hind
wings white, lunule clearly marked, with a clouded hind margin."
Hiibner's type has a central band almost as in Newman's * British
Moths,* p. 296, fig. 1, but has the outer margin darker, and a
shade on the outer margin of the inferior wings. This common
species varies very much throughout Britain. I have specimens
of a clear whitish grey colour, with scarcely a trace of typical
markings (var. ohsoleta), and other extreme forms almost black
(var. nigrescens). The specimens from the coast districts of
Lancashire, and the neighbourhood of Deal and Sligo, some-
times show a great tendency to melanism. The markings also
are very variable. Some specimens have a distinct, dark, central
band, others have no trace of it. On the hind wings, too, our
specimens rarely have the lunule well-marked. In Britain the
specimens are not generally brown, although a certain percentage
are ; grey is the prevailing colour, differing greatly, however, in
intensity in different specimens. The Hartlepool specimens are,
as a rule, much browner than those I have from any other
locality. One specimen from this locality, captured by Mr.
Kobson, has the nervures of the anterior wings much dusted with
^06 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
white, giving it a peculiar appearance. I have also seen very
brown specimens from Barnsley. Haworth named three forms
of this species, and Guenee described two others besides the
type. There is but little doubt that the guen^ei of Newman's
* British Moths,' p. 297, is only an extreme variety of this species.
Haworth's three varieties are all based on the character of the
mark, which joins the transverse lines, and which is situated
directly under the stigmata. The form in which this mark is
absent he calls lunato-strigata^ from the lunar mark in connection
with the outer striga being the principal character ; the form in
which this mark is a simple hook he calls uncaf and in that in
which it forms an %-like mark he calls ;)(;-?ioiaia. The following,
therefore, is an attempt to tabulate the named varieties : —
1. Var. obsoleta. — Pale greyish white, with no darker markings
whatever.
2. Y?LY. gueneei. — Pale greyish white, some of the markings
indistinct.
3. Var. cinerea. — Ashy grey, with distinct markings.
4. Var. nigrescens.—Blsickish. grey, with indistinct markings.
6. The type. — Brownish or brownish grey, with well-developed
central band.
6. Var. lunatO'Strigata, — Greyish, tinged with reddish or
"brown ; striga beyond reniform composed of lunules, but no
mark under stigmata.
7. Var. unca. — Greyish, tinged with red or brown ; longitudinal
hook-shaped mark under stigmata.
8. Var. x-notata. — Like uncay but the longitudinal mark
%-shaped.
oc. var. obsoleta, mihi. — Of a pale ochreous-grey colour, with all the
Unea, markings and stigmata still paler. This is an extreme pale uni-
colorous form, and seems excessively rare. I have specimens taken in
Deal, and Mr. Percy Russ has sent it to me from Sligo ; I have also a
specimen closely resembling this obsolete form from Mr. Robson, at
Hartlepool ; and Mr. Porritt, writing to me some time since, states, " A
pale yellowish form occurs near Huddersfield " (in litt.).
p. var. gueneei, Dbdy. — There does not seem to be the slightest doubt
that this is anything but a variety of testacea of an extremely pale ground
colour, as in var. obsoleta, but differing from that variety in having most of
the characteristic markings of testacea rather more distinctly marked, owing
to the paler ground colour ; otherwise there appears to be no difference —
certainly no specific difference — between the variety and testacea. The
original description of Mr. Doubleday is transcribed verbatim into Newman's
* British Moths ' (p. 297), together with notes on its occurrence. Mr.
Doubleday writes that Guenee stated it to be his var. a (* Noctuelles,'
vol. v., p. 182). If properly worked, I believe testacea would in many
districts furnish a fair proportion of gueneei. Staudinger, in his List,
says of it, ** Al. ant. unicolor, nigro alboque irroratis." Mr. Vine, of
Brighton, sent me a specimen of the genus Luperina to look at a short
time since, about which he wrote : — " I beat out a lAiperina from a black-
i
VARIETIES OF NOCTU-aS IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 207
thorn bush in Abbott's Wood, which I think is guemei.'" It is, I think,
undoubtedly this variety, but it is exceedingly small* (scarcely larger than
Miana strigilis), very pale grey, with a few very indistinct black costal
markings, all the markings of testacea faintly marked, the three stigmata
traceable although indistinct. Hind wings pale grey. The history of the
original gueneei may be found in the ' Entomologist,' vol. xviii., p. 54.
7. var. cinerea, mihi. — I have given this name to Guenee's var. j3., a
not uncommon form in Britain. Guenee thus describes it : — " Superior
wings of an ashy-grey, with a slight reddish tinge. The transverse lines
indistinct, the basal one having the points at the lower part very pointed.
The terminal space edged by a series of blackish streaks, which are placed
between the nervures. Inferior wings very pure white, with an indistinct
shade. Locality, the Eastern Pyrenees." " This is very different to our
testacea, but M. de Graslin, who has reared it from the larva, and who is
better able to recognize any variation in all its stages than myself, considers
it a simple variety " (* Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 283). This grey form is
probably the most common one in Britain ; I have it from Sligo, Lancashire,
Hartlepool, Aberdeen, Strood, Deal, London, and other localities.
^. var. nigreseens, mihi. — Anterior wings blackish grey, varying in
intensity. The markings too vary, some having them darker than the
ground colour, while others have them so nearly of the same hue as to
make the specimens look almost unicolorous. I have specimens in my
cabinet from Sligo, Aberdeen, Fleetwood, and Strood. A black specimen
is also recorded (Entom. vol. iv., p. 305) as being captured at St. Ives,
Hunts ; and Mr. Robson informs me that it occurs at Hartlepool. Mr. C.
G. Barrett, * Ent. Mo. Mag.' vol. xxii., p. 124, writing of this species at
Belfast, says, " Several of the L. testacea were nearly black " ; whilst at
p. 188 of the same volume, we read that Mr. Porritt exhibited at the
London Society's meeting a melanic specimen from Glasgow.
s. var, lunato-strigata, Haw. — Haworth's type of this variety is described
by him as follows : — " Noctua. Alis rufescentibus nigro nebulosis, strigis
duabus fasciaque marginali fuscis." " PrsBcedenti vix difFert nisi magni-
tudine minore, et coloribus saturatioribus, sed rarissime variat " (' Lepidoptera
Britannica,' p. 194, No. 97). This form, without the mark under the
stigmata, is not uncommon in most localities.
f. var. uncaf Haw. — Haworth's type of this variety is described as
follows : — " Alis pallide rufescentibus strigis duabus fasciaque marginali
fuscescentibus." " Alae anticae subnebulosse, striga undata fracta ante
medium : tunc stigmata ordinaria fusco pallidoque imperfecte marginata :
tunc striga secunda extus arcuata, ex lunuHs confertis nigris pallido extus
adnatis composita; et priore fascia connexa perlineolam nigram unciferara.
Margo posticus undatim subfuscus apice pallido. Cilia rufo-cinerea maculis
cinereo-fuscis. Posticae albae striga in ipso margine subinterrupta fusca,
ciliis rufescentibus " (' Lepidoptera Britannica,' p. 194, No. 96). This form,
with a simple curved or hooked lineola, joining the transverse lines and
extending under the stigmata, is one of our most common varieties.
n. var. ;)^-?iotofa. Haw. Haworth's description of this variety is : —
** Alis rufescentibus macula oblonga nigra utrinque emarginata in medio,
strigaque arcuata pone medium et lunulis nigris." " Prsecedenti valde
* It is worthy of note that Mr. Gregson, • Entomologist,' vol. iv., p. 51, writes
of this species, "I possess specimens from less than 1 inch to 1 inch 4 lines in
expansion."
208 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
1
affinis (lunato-strigata), at magis rufescens. Antennae hirto-pectinatae ut in
ilia, at macula media nigra diversa ast. AlaB posticae albae, apice strigaque
in ipso margine fulvis." Another not uncommon form, with the mark
under the stigmata somewhat ;)(^-shaped ; this is due to the neatness with
which the two transverse strigse approach each other under the stigmata.
Mamestra, Och,
With regard to the genus Mamestra, most of the species have
two extreme forms of variation, — one, pale brownish grey ; the
other, black, with almost all intermediate forms. Sordida {anceps)
seems to be the extreme ochreous type of the genus, per8icari(B
the extreme black one. Based on variation, the position offurva
seems somewhat anomalous, and it seems to me that this species
should hardly be placed in this restricted genus at all. With
regard to the other species, abjecta has two extreme forms,
so has albicolon (Guenee's ' Noctuelles,' vol. v., pp. 194 and
196), but we do not apparently get the darkest forms of
the latter species in Britain, though there is a great deal of
variation in our specimens, and brassiccB has also two extreme
forms. With regard to another phase of variation in this genus,
a careful selection of varieties shows that the albicolon mark,
supposed to be characteristic of one species, is really well-
developed in aberrant members of all the other species, the only
species in which it is not traceable being in persicarice, but my
series of the latter does not contain specimens of those varieties
in which the reniform is more or less obsolete, and it is in such
I should expect to find it.
Mamestraj Och., abjecta, Hb.
The type of this species is represented by Hiibner's fig. 539,
* Schmet. von Europa,' which may be described as having —
"Anterior wings of deep, but clear, brownish (almost reddish)
grey, an abbreviated basal transverse line and a complete one in
contact with the inner edge of orbicular, both double ; a short
dark longitudinal streak under base of median nervure ; orbicular
distinct, reniform outlined in white ; an oblique line from costa to
median nervure between stigmata ; a wavy transverse line just
beyond reniform, foUowed by four short longitudinal wedge-
shaped spots. The dark longitudinal mark under stigmata in
Newman's figure (* British Moths,' p. 298) is absent. The hind
wings dark grey on outer edge, with pale base and distinct
lunule." Staudinger says " forma, al. ant. fere unicolor magis
nigris." I rather fail to follow how Staudinger can call Hiibner's
figure " almost unicolorous " ; it certainly is much more variegated
than many specimens we get, as the above description clearly
shows, but apparently much less so than the ordinary continental
form which he has named variegata. The most unicolorous
forms that I have seen are (1) a fine steely grey form from the
VARIETIES OF NOCTURE IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 209
coast of Lancashire, var. friholus ; (2) a fine black form from
North Kent, var. nigro-distincta ; and (3) an ochreous grey form,
var. unicolor. Some of my specimens much resemble Hiibner's
type (although I have never seen a British specimen exactly
like it), others are like Newman's figure, besides the unicolorous
forms. There is really very little doubt that this species is in
reality polymorphic, closely resembling its near allies, the genus
Apamea, in this respect. It would be impossible to classify
the different forms except in a most general way. Guenee does
so by classifying them into those with ground colour " grey-
brown," and those with ground colour "grey-black." He
writes : — " This species offers, like albicolon, two varieties : one
of a grey-brown and one of a grey-black. The first is the type
of Hiibner. The markings are rarely so well marked as in the
figure of that author." Guenee then divides the form with a
black ground colour into two varieties, the friholus of Boisduval,
an almost unicolorous blackish form, and var. b, a black form
with the markings more distinct. The lunulina of Haworth
agrees pretty correctly with Hiibner's type. His summarised
description is : — ** Noctua alis fuscis strigis lunularum pallid-
arum " (' Lepidoptera Britannica,' p. 192, No. 92). We thus get
the following forms : —
1. Anterior wings much variegated with black and white
markings, = var. variegata, Stdg.
2. Brownish-grey ground colour, with distinct markings,
= ahjecta, Hb.
3. Ochreous or brownish grey, with no markings, = var.
unicolor.
4. Blackish grey, with distinct markings, = var. nigro-
distincta.
6. Deep greyish black, with indistinct markings, = var.
fribolus, Bdv., = nigricanSf Freyer.
a. var. variegata, Stdgr. — Staudinger's description of this variety is as
follows: — " Al. ant. thoraceque albido nigroque variis." I do not think
many of our specimens have much white about them. The most variegated
British specimen I have seen belongs to Mr. Robson, and was captured near
Hartlepool. This is much irrorated with whitish scales, and variegated
with black; I have one from Shoeburyness less strongly marked. I would
include all grey or brown, irrorated and variegated specimens under this
name.
13. var. unicolor, mihi. — Anterior wings of a brownish grey colour, with
an ochreous tinge, and with no distinct markings. This is our more
general unicolorous form, and is much more frequent than the blackish
grey unicolorous variety. On the east coast it is the form more often met
with than any other. I have it from Strood, the neighbourhood of Hull,
Shoeburyness ; and a series that I have looked over, taken by Mr. Robson
at Hartlepool, belong principally to this form.
y. var. nigro-distincta, mihi. — This is Guenee's var. B., which lie
ENTOM. — AUGUST, 1889. U
210 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
describes as follows : — " Similarly (to y&t. fribolus) of a greyish black. All
the markings clearly written. Inferior wings with the outer margin
more deeply marked, and a more distinct lunule " (' Noctuelles,' vol. v.,
p. 194). Guenee treats this only as a North American variety, giving the
State of New York and Canada as localities, I have specimens of this form
only from Greenwich and the neighbourhood of Cliffe (Kent) ; but although
those from the latter locality are well marked, they scarcely appear so,
owing to the intense depth of the ground colour.
^. var. fribolus, Bdr. — This is the nigricam of Freyer. Guenee's
description is : — *' Superior wings of a deep greyish black." Same localities
as type. I would include all unicolorous, greyish black forms under this
name. I have specimens from Shoeburyness, Deal, near Cliffe, and Fleet-
wood. There appears to be no doubt that the steel-grey Lancashire
specimens must be included under this varietal name.
(To be continued.)
ZYGMNA PIL08ELLM IN WALES.
By Charles Oldham.
In the second week of June, when visiting the locality where
I took this species in 1887, as recorded by Mr. Samuels in the
* Entomologist ' for August of that year, I found it on the sunny
slopes above the cliffs by hundreds, flying just above the ground
in the bright sunshine in its characteristic fashion, and frequently
settling on the grass blades. So plentiful was it that a friend and
I were able to capture about fifty specimens in a few minutes,
without a net, merely picking them from the grass with our
hands. The insects were, however, limited to certain patches of
cliff, perhaps not twenty yards in length, where they swarmed ;
and between these favoured spots you might walk for several
hundred yards without seeing a single moth. This restriction
appeared to have no relation to the distribution of the food-plant
(bird's-foot trefoil), which was in flower everywhere.
The insects belong to the hairy-bodied variety nuhigena (Led.),
which Kirby says (' European Butterflies and Moths ') " is the
ordinary minos of British collectors," and they are identical with
examples I have from an Irish locality.
Ashton-on-Mersey, July 12, 1889.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
EucHLOE CARDAMiNES, DWARF FORM. — On May 2j^nd last, whilst insect-
hunting in Epping Forest, I took a very small male of this species hovering
over the flowers of the wood parsley {Anthriscus sylvestris). The insect is
barely l^ inch in expanse. — James A. Stmes ; 4, Cricketfield Road,
Clapton, July 17, 1889.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 211
Vanessa cardui in Java. — I have recently seen a considerable number
of these butterflies at and near Lindanglaya, about forty miles from here.
Judging from memory they are exactly the same as in England, and
certainly haunt similar places, namely, open stony roads. They first occur
at about 1500 feet above the sea-level, and I noticed them up to about
4000 feet. There the road entered the forest, else doubtless they would
have occurred still higher. In Bombay, some years ago, I used to see a
great many ; there they occur close to the sea, and at that level. I know
F. cardui is a very widely distributed species ; but is it usual to find it so
near the equator as Java ? — T. E. Sansom ; Koningsplein, Batavia.
Ltc^na ICARUS, HERMAPHRODITE.— On Juuo 22nd I was with Mr. T.
Brown, collecting on his farm at Keyingham, South-east Yorkshire, when
he caught a specimen of L. icarus with the right wings blue, as of the
males, and the left wings brown and spotted, like the females. — J. W.
Boult; 17, Finsbury Grove, Fountain Road, Hull, July 6, 1889.
PoLTOMMATUS PHLCEAS var. scHMiDTii. — At a meeting of the North
Kent Entomological Society, on June 20th, a splendid specimen of the
above variety was exhibited by Mr. W. G. Dawson, which had the whole
of the copper colour replaced by a beautiful white silvery sheen. The
insect was captured a few days previously on Plumstead Common. — H. F.
Webb ; 3, Gunning Street, Plumstead.
Rhopalocera in Kent. — I captured a magnificent specimen of Colias
edusa on the wing, on June 9th, in the chalk-pit at Kemsing, near Seven-
oaks, and have heard of two being seen since. I have never taken one
before July, though I have been a collector for many years. In the Kem-
sing district I captured, from May 12th to June 12th, twenty-four different
species of butterflies, and a large number of moths— chiefly Geometridse.
They were mostly out much earlier than usual. — Cecil G. Stokoe ; The
Rectory, Lutterworth, June 28, 1889.
Deilephila galii in Cheshire. — I have been informed of the capture
this year of two fine specimens of D. galii, in this neighbourhood. They
appeared to "be fresh from the chrysalis. — J. Arklb ; 2, George Street,
Chester, July 9, 1889. '
Deilephila galii in Kent. — Last year I found in this neighbourhood
two caterpillars of D. galii and one of C. elpenor. The moths have now
emerged, and are without defect. — W. North Buckmaster ; West Cliff
Road, Ramsgate, June, 1889.
Sesia andreniformis at Dover. — It will interest the readers of
* The Entomologist ' to know that I had the pleasure of taking a fine male
Sesia andreniformis on July 10th, and another male on July 14th; but I
had the misfortune of missing a female on July 14th. Mr. S. Webb was
kind enough to identify them for me. — W. Davis ; 27, Winchelsea Street,
Dover, July 16, 1889.
Sesia ichneumoniformis in Gloucestershire. — On Wednesday,
July 17th, while walking along the Gloucester and Berkeley Canal, I saw
a male and female of this rather uncommon insect in copula, settled on
the bank. I had only a pocket net with me, but managed to secure them.
I placed them both in a box covered with muslin, with pieces of sponge
212 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
dipped in syrup, and exposed them on a window-ledge ; but much to my
disappointment I did not get any ova. I have never taken this insect
before in Gloucestershire. — M. Stanger Higgs ; The Mill House, Upton
St. Leonard's, Gloucester. [The better way would have been to have
placed the female in a covered flower-pot containing growing plants of
Lotus corniculatus, in the root-stem of which the larvae feed. — J. T. C]
Arctia uRTiCiE JN BRIGHTON. — On the evening of May 26th I took a
fresh specimen of ^. urticcB on a lamp-post in the Preston Road. The only
locality mentioned for it in ' The List of Macro-Lepidoptera of East
Sussex ' is Lewes Marshes. — Henry G. Place ; 53, Buckingham Road,
Brighton.
Stauropus fagi in Forest of Dean. — On June 12th I found a
newly-emerged male Stauropus fagi on an oak in the Forest of Dean. I
mention the fact as I have not seen its capture recorded in this locality
before. — N. F. Searancke ; Mitcheldean.
Caradrina quadripdncta. — I should think Mr. J. W. Tutt is quite
correct (Entom. 187) in his conjecture as to this insect appearing all the
year round. On referring to my diaries I find I have taken the insect every
month of various years, but find it the rarest in April. In the winter
months, say from November to March, it is commonly taken in perfectly
fresh condition, in the stables here, by the groom, and brought to me as
" something new this time." — A. E. Hall ; Norbury, Sheffield, July, 1889.
Geometra vernaria, var. — I have taken a variety of G. vernaria^
pale salmon-colour, with the green tint showing in a dash on the two
under wings only. — G. M. A. Hewett; 3, St. Swithin Street, London.
[Probably the result of moisture acting on the fugitive green colour. — Ed.]
Trtfurcula pallidella. — It is ten years since I took a male specimen
of this rarity. Yesterday I was fortunate to take a fine female at Dutton.
What a queer looking insect ! The cilia are more like bristles than feathers;
they look like a lot of short hairs. This sex is of a more bronze colour
than the male. — J. B. Hodgkinson ; Ashton-on-Ribble.
Sugar Unproductive. — I regret to say sugaring has been very un-
productive here all this month, and from the beginning of June, doubtless
owing to the cold which always seems to follow sunset. — Albert J.
Hodges ; Elgin Cottage, Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight, July 13, 1 889.
Further Notes on the Lepidoptera of Wimbledon. — Having at
one period of my life spent many hours in the pursuit of insects on and
near Wimbledon Common, I venture to add a few names to the interesting
list of species captured by Mr. Whittle (Entom. 150). I am looking back
to a much earlier date, probably, than that to which Mr. Whittle is
referring, and some species I used to take have very likely disappeared, or
become much scarcer. Longer ago still, in the days of the earlier entomo-
logists, it is enough to make one's mouth water to read of the things they
used to take in Wimbledon Park and Coombe Wood, both adjacent localities
to the Common : the former of these has long been cut up for building,
and the latter seems now about to follow suit. However, while Wimbledon
Common is preserved as an open space, nnd allowed to retain — in part at
NOTES, CAI*TURi5S, ETC. SI 3
least — its native wildness, it will be the home of some good insects. I am
sorry that I cannot give the exact dates, but my note-books have been
destroyed ; the time would be between 1867 and 1872. Argynnis
euphrosyne and selene : the former of these was observable on the Common
most years, breeding, no doubt, in the wood close by ; of the latter species
I got batttered specimens in 1868, — probably it had a habitat also in the
Wood, but it may have since died out, and the other also. Vanessa cardui
occurred in lanes near the Common, sparingly, in 1868 and 1869; only
the autumn brood was seen. Hesperia malvce, tolerably abundant some
seasons in marshy places, but appeared on the wing for a very brief period.
Macroglossa stellatarum, occasionally seen on the Putney side of Wimbledon
Common ; larvse were formerly not uncommon along the margin of the
Thames, feeding on Galium. Sesia formiccBformis was formerly taken
amongst willows. Dieranura furcula, a few larvae on the black poplar in
August and September. Trichiura cratagi, once taken ; it has also been
captured by other collectors occasionally. Gastropacha quercifolia, some
specimens taken on the rough ground south of the Butts, several years,
and shown me subsequently, but I never captured it. Liparis chrysorrhcea :
imago and larvse in hedges, 1867. Euplexia lucipara : larvse beaten from
various plants. Cerigo cytherea, occasionally found on trunks of trees.
TcBniocmnpa munda used to be found in the Park, also on the Common
amongst low plants, but somewhat unaccountably it became scarce.
Cucullia chamomill(B, some specimens on the palings to the east of the
Common ; I searched in vain for the larvse, at the suitable time, on its
usual food-plant. Xanthia cerago, beaten in small numbers during the
autumn, out of mixed hedges. Euclidia mi, occasionally flying by day.
Ennomos angularia : larvse on various shrubs. Hemerophila abruptaria,
at rest on fences. Boarmia consortaria, taken once by a friend in a riding
of Coombe Wood. Tephrosia punctulata, not unfrequent some seasons on
the Common, and in the adjacent wood. Pseudoterpna cytisaria, few in
marshy places near the Butts. lodis lactearia ; imago and larvse most
years. Ephyra pendularia, by beating along the edge of the wood ; less
common than others of the family that occur here. Asthena luteata,
a few specimens in 1870. Acidalia bisetata, not unfrequent on palings.
Strenia clatlirata, usually abundant. Anisopteryx CBScularia: larvae not
uncommon on sloe. Phibalapteryx lignata, near Coombe Wood, occa-
sional. Cidaria fulvata, very plentiful on the Common some seasons, but
confined to a small extent of ground. Eubolia mensuraria, frequent on
the east side of the Common. Anaitis plagiata, a few specimens taken in
April or May ; not observed in the autumn. — J. E. S. Cliffokd ; 4, Laurel
Villas, Old Road, Gravesend, June 15, 1889.
FiKST APPEARANCE OF Sexes OF Lepidoptera. — In many books I
have noticed that male insects are always credited with appearing before
the females, and even in the last work I perused on " Darwinism " it was
again asserted that the males were the first to appear. Now as far as
Lepidoptera are concerned, of which I only can speak with certainty, the
females in almost every case precede the males by a day or two in my
breeding-cages ; and as I breed some thousands of imagines every year, and
always notice the females emerge the first, and yet always read in books
that the males emerge before the females, I should be very glad to have
another entomologist's experience in that matter. Of course insects in
^li 1?HJ3 ENTOMOLOGIST.
1
general are treated of in the one case, and Lepidoptera only in mine. The
only reason I can assign for the females emerging first is, that they require
a certain period to elapse before coition with the males, and hence appear
before the males are ready for copulation ; but that is only conjecture.— A.
E. Hall; Norbury, Sheffield, July, 1889.
CiciNDELA GERMANicA, Linn., IN DORSETSHIRE. — I beg to Tccord the
occurrence of this rare and local beetle lately in Dorsetshire. It appeared
to be confined to a very small spot (between Bridport and Lyme Regis). I
had no time to search closely for it, but picked up four fine specimens as I
passed quickly over the ground, on which there were others also running
about. It did not attempt to fly, though the sun was shining brightly.
The Rev. W. W. Fowler (' Coleoptera of the British Islands ') mentions it
as recorded in Dorset by Dawson, but gives no more precise locality, and
says that " Black Gang Chine (Isle of Wight) appears to be the only
locality in which it is now taken." I have felt it necessary, for obvious
reasons, to refrain from giving any clue to the exact spot, but shall be very
happy to communicate it to any bond fide amateur coleopterist who maybe
in that neighbourhood and desire to search for it. — (Rev.) 0. Pickard-
Cambridge; Bloxworth Rectory, July 16, 1889.
Note on Ephippium thoracicum. — Donovan figured this fly in 1813,
from a specimen taken in Coombe Wood on June 4th, 1812, by G. Milne,
F.L.S., and goes on to say : — " Musca ephippium is considered to be a scarce
species in this country. It is known to have been taken occasionally by
the old collectors about thirty years ago, or rather more, in the woods about
Highgate, which, in consequence of the recent improvements in that vicinity
of the metropolis, are now demolished. It has occurred likewise in the
woods of Kent. Swainsou met with three specimens, at the same time,
sticking against the trunks of trees : this happened about twenty years
ago, and it was then esteemed a rare circumstance. The red thorax
reminds me much of the solitary ant, Mutilla europcea. The larva fre-
quents rotten wood." I possess three specimens, which my father purchased
from the collection of the late Thomas Desvignes when it came under the
hammer in 1868. — C. W. Dale ; Glanville's Wootton.
Sehirus dubius, Scop., at Horsley, Surrey. — A solitary specimen
of this very rare and beautiful Hemipteron, of the family Cydinidae, was
taken while at rest on a dead stem of marjoram by Mr. Carrington, while
entomologizing in a rough place south of the Sheep Lees, at Horsley, on the
23rd of May last. I am indebted to Mr. Carrington, who not only very
generously presented me with the specimen, but kindly conducted me and
several friends over the same ground, on the occasion of the Field Excursion
of the South London Entomological and Natural History Society, to Horsley,
on the 22nd of last June, and, although we swept vigorously and searched
diligently for some considerable time, we were doomed to disappointment, for
no other specimen could be found. This being entirely a new locaHty for
SeJdrus dubius, I think it is worth recording, its only hitherto known
localities being Pangbourne (Wollaston), Portland (Dale), and the Isle of
Wight (Mr. Edward Saunders). — T. R. Billups.
dl5
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — July 2>rd, 1889. — The Right
Honourable Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair.
The Rev. W. A. Hamilton (Calcutta), and Mr. H. W. Vivian (Glenafon,
Taiback, South Wales), were elected Fellows of the Society. A letter was
read from Mr. E. J. Atkinson, Chairman of the Trustees of the Indian
Museum, Calcutta, in which assistance was asked from British entomolo-
gists in working out various orders of Indian insects. The following
motion, which had previously been unanimously passed at the meeting of
the Council, was read to the Society : — " That papers containing descrip-
tions of isolated species widely remote in classification or distribution, are,
as a rule, undesirable for publication, as tending to create unnecessary
difficulties for faunistic or monographic workers." Mr. M'Lachlan, Mr.
Jacoby, Mr. Elwes, Dr. Sharp and others took part in the discussion which
followed. Mr. J. W. Slater exhibited a doubtful specimen of Arctia
mendica, L., which appeared as if it might prove to be a hybrid between
that species and A. lubricipeda, L. Mr. M'Lachlan, on behalf of Prof.
Klapalek, of Prague, who was present as a visitor, exhibited preparations
representing the life-history of Agriotypus armatus. Walk., showing the
curious appendages of the case. Prof. Klapalek, in answer to questions,
described the transformations in detail. A discussion followed, in which
Mr. M'Lachlan and Lord Walsingham took part. Mr. H. J. Elwes
exhibited a specimen of an undescribed Chrysophanus, taken in the Shan
States, Upper Burmah, by Dr. Manders, which was very remarkable on
account of the low elevation and latitude at which it was found ; its only
very near ally appeared to be Polyommatus li, Oberthiir, from Western
Szechuen, but there was no species of the genus known in the Eastern
Himalayas or anywhere in the Eastern tropics. Mr. G. T. Porritt exhibited
a remarkable series of Arctia mendica^ L., bred from a small batch of eggs
found on the same ground at Grimescar, Huddersfield, as the batch from
which the series he had previously exhibited before the Society was bred.
This year he had bred forty-five specimens, none of which were of the
ordinary form of the species : as in the former case, the eggs were found
perfectly wild, and the result this year was even more surprising than
before. Mr. R. W. Lloyd exhibited specimens of Harpalus cupreus, Steph.,
and Cathormiocerus socius, Boh., recently taken at Sandown, Isle of Wight.
Mr. 0. E. Janson exhibited a fine male example of Theodosia hotvitti,
Castelnau, a genus of Cetoniidae resembling some of the Dynastidse in the
remarkable armature of the head and thorax. The specimen had recently
been received from N.W. Borneo. Mr. W. White exhibited specimens of
Heterogynis paradoxa, Ramb., and stated that this insect represented an
extreme case of degeneration, the mature female being only slightly more
developed than the larva, the prologs being quite atrophied. Lord Wal-
singham made some remarks on the subject. Mr. W. Warren exhibited
bred specimens of Tortrix piceana, L. Mr. T. R. Billups exhibited a fine
series of the very rare British beetle, Medon {lAthocharis) piceus, Kr., taken
from a heap of weeds and vegetable refuse in the neighbourhood of Lewisham
on May 19th ; and specimens of Actobius signaticornis, Rey, and A. villo-
sulus, Steph., taken in company with the above. Mr. Billups also exhibited
specimens of Eulophus daynicornis, Kirby, belonging to the Chalcididse,
bred from pupae found by Mr. Adkin attached to the leaves of lime-trees at
dl6 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Oxshott, Surrey, but the host was unknown. Mr. W. F. Kirby read a paper'
entitled " Descriptions of new species of Scoliides in the collection of the
British Museum, with occasional reference to species already known." Mr.
J. B. Bridgman communicated a paper entitled " Further additions to the
Rev. T. A. Marshall's Catalogue of British Ichneumonidse." Mr. J. S.
Baly communicated a paper " On new species of Diabrotlca from South
America. — W. W. Fowler, Hon. Sec.
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
June 27th, 1889.— T. R. i3illups, F.E.S., President, in the chair. Mr.
Joy exhibited Bankia argentula from Cambridge. Mr. Wellman, Fenthina
pruniana, var. pullana. Mr. Dennis, a variety of Argynnis selene, the
black markings of the fore wings forming a broken band across the wings,
from Ashdown Forest. Mr. Adkin, Lobophora halterata, bred from larv89
taken in W. Yorkshire, where it appears to be abundant. Mr. Tugwell
said this was not by any means an uncommon species ; he had found it
in Berkshire, at Tilgate Forest, and near Hailsham ; the larva was
peculiarly an aspen feeder. Mr. Strong, Scodiona belgiaria, a variety of
Bupalus piniaria, and larvae of Liparis monacha, from the New Forest.
Mr. Waller, a fawn-coloured variety of Argynnis euphrosyne. Mr. Frohawk,
some British spiders and their nests. Mr. Billups, Eulophus daniicornis,
bred from pupae attached to the leaves of lime-trees from Oxshott: a
specimen of Scfdrus dubius, taken by Mr. Carrington at Horsley, Surrey,
this being a new locality for the species ; also a series of Corymbites quercm,
var. ochropterus, taken at Armagh, Ireland, by the Rev. W. F. Johnson.
Mr. Billups also showed galls on the dead stems of nettle, and the parasite
{Torymus abdominalis) bred from the same ; the galls were found in the
neighbourhood of Westerham during May, by Mr. Carrington.
July llth, 1889. — The President in the chair. Mr. Weir exhibited a
specimen of Pararge egeria, taken by Dr. Percy Rendall at Puerto Ventura,
one of the Canaries : it was apparently the var. xiphia, Fab. Mr. West,
of Streatham, specimens of Cidaria dotata, with dark-banded var. taken in
his own garden. Mr. J. A. Clark, specimens of Retinia rednella ; and
Mr. Tugwell made remarks upon its curious habit of feeding and making
its cocoon in resinous matter. Mr. Turner, a remarkable albino decolora-
tion of Melanippe fluctuata. Mr. Adkin, Spilosoma mendica, var. rustica,
bred from selected parents, the offspring largely following their respective
parents ; also larva and pupa of Gonepteryx rhamni. Mr. N. E. Warne,
Ccenonympha typhon from Cumberland : it was remarked that, like most
English specimens, it differed on the under side from the unicolorous
Scotch forms. A discussion ensued on melanism, Messrs. Weir, Tugwell,
and Slater taking part. Mr. Weir, leaves of Urtica dioica, with a number
of dead flies attached, which were surrounded by a fungus : Mr. Billups
considered they had died from an internal parasite. Mr. Billups, clusters
of flies. Anthrax ibis, with parasites ; also Orgilus obscurator, bred from
larvae feeding on sallow ; also Apanteles ru/icrus, in cocoon, with remains
of its host, Diloba caruleocephala, and made remarks on the variety of its
hosts ; besides the above, Leucania littoralis, Spilosoma menthastri, Leucania
pallens, Collix sparsata and Agrotis prcBcox were mentioned. Mr. Tugwell
exhibited stems of Salix repens, with what appeared to be galls closely
resembling the berries of Vaccinium.^B.. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
Entomologist 1889.
lateVlU
HoT-a.ce Kniqliz ad
xgax. ad. tlsA .
Varieties in the Genus Vanessa.
West Ne^vman 5. Co . chi
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIL] SEPTEMBEE, 1889. [No. 316.
NOTES ON SOME ABERRATIONS IN THE GENUS
VANESSA.
By Richard South, F.E.S.
(Plate VIII.)
Vanessa c- album, Linn., var., PI. VIIL, figs. 5 and 6.
In this curious aberration, which is from Berlin, the normal
fulvous colour is suifused with fuscous. On the primaries the
costal black spots are confluent, and the two central ones are
hardly indicated ; the normal maculation of the secondaries gives
place to an irregular-shaped black central patch. The under
surface is blackish brown, variegated with tawny along the costa,
at the apex and inner angle of primaries, and on the margins
of secondaries; the central spot is wedge-shaped and acutely
pointed.
Another similar variety, from Switzerland, has the first costal
spot of primaries normal, whilst the second is broadly produced
outwardly and unites with the third at its lower end, thus
enclosing a small patch of the ground colour ; the two central
spots are dilated externally and unite with the marginal border.
Below, the central spot of secondaries is wedge-shaped and
sharply pointed, but it has a deep indentation on its upper edge.
Both specimens are in Mr, Leech's collection.
Vanessa urticce, Linn., var., PL VIIL, fig. 1.
„ „ var. ichnusoides, De Selys, PI. VIII, fig. 2.
„ „ var. connexay Butl., PI. VIIL, fig. 3.
Except that the primaries are crossed by a yellowish fascia, there
is perhaps nothing very remarkable about the specimen represented
by fig. 1 on the Plate. It is however interesting, because, although
of German origin, it exhibits one of the chief characters of the
Indian V. ladakensis, Moore. This yellowish band, which is the
ENTOM. — SEPT. 1889. X
218 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
character referred to, is found indicated more or less clearly in
several specimens among the magnificent series of V. urticce from
Europe in Mr. Leech's collection, and I have seen traces of it in
British examples of the species.
Fig. 3 represents the Japanese form of V. urticce : this is
known as V. connexa, Butl., and is regarded by some entomolo-
gists as a distinct species.
Var. polaris, Stand., from Lapland, appears to be a form
intermediate between connexa and the type.
Vars. turcica. Stand., and ichnusa, Bon., from the Balkan
Mountains, and Corsica and Sardinia respectively, are well-known
local forms of F. urticce. The former has no yellow patch near
the inner angle, and the two black spots are very small ; whilst
the last-named variety has neither yellow patch nor black spots
above, and the wings are less angulated. Both forms are, how-
ever, subject to modification.
IchnusoideSf De Selys, Men. Liege, ii. (1845), re-described
and figured by Lambrichs, Ann. Ent. Belg. xxi. p. 9, PI. I. fig. 5,
is a form of V. urticce which, as regards the primaries, appears
to have some of the characters both of polaris and ichnusa ; but
it will be seen, on referring to fig. 3, PI. VIII., that the second-
aries are curiously aberrant. The specimen now figured is from
Berlin, and is in Mr. Leech's collection : it is not, however,
exactly identical with the example figured by Lambrichs, as in
that specimen the costal spots of primaries appear to be confluent.
Under the name of atrebatensis, Boisduval figures another modi-
fication of var. ichnusoides : this has the two costal spots nearest
apex of primaries confluent, the yellow normally between first
and second spots only faintly indicated, and the whole insect is
much suffused with blackish.
From. var. ichnusa on the one hand to var. connexa on the
other is a far cry ; and if we had no knowledge of such interme-
diate forms as ichnusoideSy turcica and polaris we might fairly
consider the extreme forms distinct species : as it is, there does
not appear to be any valid reason for regarding them otherwise
than as local forms of F. urticce.
Vanessa io, Linn., vars., PI. VIII., figs. 7, 8.
A curious form of this species is represented by two
examples selected from several similar specimens in Mr. Leech's
collection. Figs. 7 and 8 show the extremes between which this
form fluctuates. In the large series of V. io, which comprises
the specimens now figured, are individuals showing various modi-
fications of the "eyed-spot"on secondaries; the gradations between
the complete ocellus of the type and the aberration (fig. 8) are
well illustrated. These specimens, together with very many
aberrations of other species to which reference may be made at
a future date, were in an extensive collection of Palsearctic
BOME ABERRATIONS IN THE GENUS VANESSA. 219
Lepidoptera made by a well-known German entomologist, and
recently purchased by Mr. Leech. It has been ascertained that
the examples Mr. Leech has, and a number of others like fig. 7,
were bred by a boy in Germany who had secured a batch of
larvae, none of the imagines produced being quite typical.
A variety of F. io, bred from a larva found near Lea Bridge,
now in the collection of Mr. Bond, and figured in Entom.vi.p. 105,
is of the same form as that now figured (fig. 7), but the white
spots on primaries are more clearly defined.
Goossens records (Bull. Soc. Ent. France [5], v., cxlix.), a
variety of F. io which from his description appears to be very
similar to fig. 7, and this is probably ab. dyojphthalmica^ Garbini
(Bull. Soc. Pad. i. 19, 20), or var. exoculata, Weymes (J. B. Ver.
Elberf. v. 58), but I have not had an opportunity of seeing the
descriptions of either of these.
Mr. Marsh, from larvae obtained at Grange, bred two speci-
mens of F. io which were semi-transparent, due to absence of the
normal reddish-brown scales. In my earliest days of collecting
I reared a whole brood of such varieties, and turned them all
adrift because they did not come up to my idea of what the
" peacock butterfly " should be. I need hardly say that in those
days I had no knowledge whatever of variation, and but little of
typical forms. Coleman was then the only book on Entomology
in my possession, or which I even knew of. I may add that I
have the work now, and the date is 1863.
Var. ioides, Ochs. Schmett. Eur. 1. i. p. 109 (1807). This is
only a dwarfed form which occasionally occurs in nature, but not
confined to any particular country or district. Bernard considers
that this form is produced from larvae which have fed on the
flowers instead of the leaves of nettles (Ent. Nachr. ix. pp. 26,
27), but Sequers is of opinion that the small size of ioides is the
result of a starved condition of the larva, and this agrees with
my own observations, for I have often produced the form by
simply putting larvae, after their final moult, on short commons.
As far as I know small examples of most species may be obtained
by adopting the same plan.
Var. sardoa, Staud., is larger in size and more fulvous in
colour than the type ; it occurs in Sardinia.
Vanessa antiopa, Linn., var. hygicea, Heyd. (= Untneriit Fitch,
PI. VIIL, fig. 4, modification.
In his ' Butterflies of New England ' Maynard gives a figure
of this aberration, and makes some observations on it and the
type which it may be of interest to quote here. He says: —
" This species is, as a rule, quite uniform in coloration : spring
specimens which have hybernated are, however, much paler, and
sometimes a summer specimen is quite light on the border. The
X 2
220 THE ENTOMOLOGIST
width of the border usually varies but little, yet occasionally
there is a form in which the band broadens out, especially on the
secondaries, and encroaches upon the spaces usually occupied by
the dark band, which is entirely absent, as also are the bluish
spots. On the primaries the dark band is present, but the bluish
spots are missing, and the ground colour inside the band is much
more reddish than in typical specimens. This is the form known
as lintnerif a specimen of which is figured on Plate II., fig. 186.
Known from all other butterflies by the dark colour and yellow
border. This species occurs throughout New England. The
peculiar form of this species which I have figured is usually
produced from insects which are typical, and about one in five
hundred is said to assume these peculiar colours, which is
probably due to the law of reversion. The specimen figured was
slightly deformed.'*
Scudder, in his splendid work, ' The Butterflies of the Eastern
United States and Canada,' now in course of publication, says
that the first example of hygicea which came under his notice was
in the collection of Mr. T. L. Mead, and had been taken in
Albany. He describes it as follows : — " The upper surface ....
(excepting the mottled costal border of the fore wings) is uniformly
maroon, as far as the outer of the two yellow costal bars of the
norm, and nearly as far as the inner edge of the blue spots of the
norm; beyond this the whole outer portion is of the normal
yellow, grizzled with brown, as in the upper part of the fore wing
normally; there is no inner costal striga on the fore wings;
beneath these are similar peculiarities, with only slight traces of
ferruginous on the outer edge." Another specimen, in the
collection of Mr. Denton, taken in Ohio, is said to diff'er from the
one just described " in that the yellowish margin of the hind wing
is very much broader on the right side than on the left, being more
than double the normal width, and having a nearly straight inner
margin, suppressing not only the black band which should border
it on the inner side, but also the blue spots included in this border.
These blue spots are, moreover, wanting in all the other wings,
excepting a few scales in the lower median interspace of all the
wings, and the upper median interspace of the left hind wing."
Quoting Mr. S. L. Elliott, Mr. Scudder goes on to say that " of 380
specimens of one brood twenty-five examples were aberrations : —
* Two of the varieties were lintneri^ from which all the blue had
disappeared; the third had the primaries lintneri, while the
secondaries had the usual blue spots; the fourth had the
secondaries lintnerU while the primaries bore the blue spots. In
the remaining twenty-one the whole upper surface of the wings
had a mottled appearance, showing that the colours had been
disturbed. They retained the blue spots, but the spots were much
smaller than usual,' "
SOME ABERRATIONS IN THE GENUS VANESSA. 221
In Ann. Soc. Linn. Lyon, xvi., Milliere figures a specimen of
Vanessa antiopa of the hygicea form from Moravia: this has the inner
yellow costal spot on primaries intact ; there are also some blue
submarginal spots, but the yellow border extends to and absorbs
the second costal spot ; the secondaries are normal, but the veins
are paler. Another variety from Dalmatia, described by Milliere,
and one referred to by Tarati (Bull. Ent. Ital., xi., pp. 158, 159),
appear to be modifications of hygicea. Mr. William Werner
records this form of F. antiopa from Germany (Entom. xxi. 89) ;
and Mr. William Powley [l, c, p. 109) says that he bred it, with an
example of the type, in 1883 ; but the locality from whence the
larvae were obtained is not indicated. Mr. Leech has several
examples of this variety from Germany. The specimen figured
has been selected because it exhibits a modification not previously
figured. Strecker, in his * Catalogue of American Macro -
Lepidoptera,' notices a specimen, taken in New Jersey, which
has the border on the upper surface of primaries black instead of
yellow; and Seba (vol. iv., t. 32, figs. 5, 6) represents a variety of
F. antiopa, in which there are none of the normal white marks on
the costa of primaries above, and the under surface of all the
wings is of a uniform dark colour, without any ornamentation.
Herbst figures a large specimen with the blue spots of consider-
able size (vii., t. 168).
It would seem that in Canada F. antiopa is generally known
by the common English name of Camberwell beauty; but in
America it is designated the " mourning cloak," which name is,
Mr. Scudder says, without doubt a translation of the German
" trauermantel." With regard to the yellowish border of this
species, Thoreau considers this protective. He says : — '* The
broad buff edge of the Vanessa antiopd's wings harmonizes with
the russet ground it flutters over ; and as it stands concealed in
the winter, with its wings folded above its back, in a cleft in the
rocks, the grey -brown under side of its wings prevents its being
distinguished from the rocks themselves."
Explanation of Plate VIII.
Fig. 1. — Vanessa urticcB, var.
„ 2.— F. urticcB, var. ichnusoides, De Selys, Enum. Lep., p. 31.
„ 3. — V. urticcBy var. connexa, Bull., P. Z. S., 1881, p. 851.
„ 4. — F. antiopa, var. hygicea (modification), Heyd. Verz. Eur., i., p. 1,
t. 1 (1779).
,t 5. — F. calbum, var. fig. 6, under surface.
t» 7. — F. to, var. ? dyophthalmica, Garbini.
» 8. — F. io, var.
222 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
ENTOMOLOGY OF ICELAND: NOTES UPON A VISIT
IN 1889.
By the Rev. F. A. Walker, D.D., F.L.S., &c.
It will be remembered that I recently asked for information
upon the subject of butterflies in Iceland (Entom. 157). As yet
my own evidence is negative, and I can only say I have ridden
200 miles in the south-west district of the island, viz., 75 miles
from Reykjavik via Thingvellir to the Geysir and back (150), and
25 miles from Reykjavik to Krisuvik and back, and have never
seen or heard of a single rhopalocerous insect. Some of the days
occupied in this mode of travel were so fine and hot, that had there
been any butterflies at all in the district I feel sure I should have
seen them, more especially as all my time was not spent in riding,
but I halted two or three days at Thingvellir, and took several
strolls in its valley, during some of the finest weather that we
enjoyed on our expedition. What will probably be regarded as a
stronger evidence of their non-existence is the fact that Mr. Paterson
— a most genial and pleasant Scotchman, who has resided eleven
years at Hafnafjordur, in the capacity of English consul, as well
as merchant— informed me that he had not seen a single butterfly
during the whole of that period.
I am informed, on the reliable testimony of Mr. Jon Thoroddsen,
of Reykjavik, who is occupied on the geological survey of the
island, that he observed a single specimen of Vanessa cardui in
Shore Street, Reykjavik, last summer; he said that he knew it
again from having seen it in Denmark. He is of opinion that it
made its appearance from off one of the Danish steamers or
merchant vessels that run periodically between Reykjavik and
Copenhagen. This seems probable, particularly as no second
specimen is recorded.
In addition to the places in the south-west to which I have
ridden, I have also coasted along the greater part of the island,
and landed, net in hand, at every fjord where the steamer stopped
for a few hours, weather permitting, without seeing any butterfly.
It is my belief that in the passage in which Mr. Symington
speaks (in his 'Iceland and the Faroes by Pen and Pencil,'
published in 1862) of white and blue butterflies, — both flying and
fluttering kinds, in the neighbourhood of the Bruara River, which
we crossed en route to the Geysir,— that he must have meant
moths, and the Geometridse in particular, so abundant there, of
which the ground colour is white, with a bluish or greyish crooked
band across the fore wings.
Mr. Steincke — who passes part of the year in Akureyri and
part in Copenhagen, and who is now on board our steamer, the
* Thyra,' as I write, bound for the latter place — informed me that
there were a great number of beetles to be found in the North of
ENTOMOLOGY OF ICELAND. 323
Iceland, but only ten species. Also that June was the best time
for Lepidoptera, — moths presumably. I have seen several
Noctu8B and Geometridse, collected by him and a relative, as they
have been in the habit of supplying the museum at Copenhagen,
and also Danish and German private gentlemen, with insects and
eggs for some years past. But Mr. Steincke had no butterflies,
neither did he contribute evidence of any having been seen.
My friend Dr. Valentine Knaggs, who visited Krisuvik a few
days previous to myself, when the weather happened to be very
fine and hot, told me that he saw a specimen of one of the larger
Fritillaries there, which, having no net, he could not capture. I
simply state the fact as recorded on his authority, and do not
venture to suggest the possibility of a mistake on his part, as his
father's knowledge of Entomology has doubtless rendered him
perfectly familiar with the appearance of Argynnis papJiia,
A, aglaia, and A. adippe. He also stated the occurrence of
many very large Noctuae there.
As though to make up for the total absence of diurnal Lepi-
doptera, the quantity of certain species of moths is something
astonishing. I do not recollect ever having seen Geometridte so
abundant elsewhere, — rising in a cloud from the scrub vegetation
when the dwarf willow or birch was lashed by the riding-whip of our
guide, on the grassy slopes of the mountains, and likewise on the
meadows adjoining the homestead ; everywhere most numerous.
There are no bright-coloured insects in Iceland. The moths
are generally either marked with grey or dusky, like the lichen-
covered boulders of lava, which the moths so closely resemble,
and on the surface of which, therefore, they often effectually
conceal themselves from view. The flower, par excellence, that
the Noctuae aff'ect is Thymus serpyllum, which is common every-
where in Iceland, the one plant that flourishes closest to the
boiling springs of the Great Geysir and its brethren. I may add
that the best localities apparently for Noctuse in the island are
the vicinity of hot and sulphurous springs, whether at Geysir,
Krisuvik, or Laug (near Keykjavik), as though they revelled in
the warm air and soil. Noctua conflua occurs very commonly,
and the colour of its upper wings is much varied in different
specimens. Of Larentia casiatay which appeared in full force at
Thingvellir on July 1 4th, — of which species not a single specimen
was visible when I left that place for Geysir on July 11th, — the
melauic, as well as the paler, form is met with, as in Scotland.
I do not recall having noticed any facts of value as regards
geographical distribution. The insects along the north coast,
and also the eastern coast, of Iceland seem to me to be precisely
the same as those on the western, only that those on the western
shore are far more numerous as regards individuals, probably
also in species.
^M THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I landed at about fifteen different fjords for the purpose of
investigation, but only for a few hours on each occasion, when it
was a chance whether in that brief interval I could light on the
best locality in the neighbourhood, losing time, moreover, by
having to wait till the steamer's boat was ready to be sent to
shore, having to return to the steamer for one's meals, and
sometimes, as -the steamer's stay was short, having necessarily to
remain near the landing-place.
What has struck me forcibly is the succession of different
Geometridse in point of time, the average duration of any one
species in abundance and good condition being from ten days to
a fortnight. Diptera would appear to take the place of Hyme-
noptera, the latter tribe being only represented by Bomhus
terrestris, which occurs very sparingly ; and one or two small
Ichneumonidse, also rare. Whereas among the Diptera may be
mentioned, first and foremost, Scatophaga stercoraria and Calli-
phora erythrocephalaf the latter species occurring everywhere in
appalling numbers, — on the Angelica islandica ; on the piles of
fish drying on the moor, walls, or boulders at Reykjavik ; on a
mass of whale-blubber festering in the sun; as well as every-
where else.
I am not aware that any other British entomologist has gone
round the coast of Iceland on behalf of science, therefore the name
of every species in a list of my captures shall be appended hereto,
and when and where obtained. I will, however, first describe the
character of the country, and my manner of visiting it.
On July 21st I rode out in the evening from Reykjavik to
Hafnafiord en route for Krisuvik. This small fishing- town stands
on the borders of a quiet and very pretty bay, where there are
several fishing-boats riding at anchor. The houses of Hafnafiord
are painted grey and red, as at Reykjavik, and there is a good
road from the capital here. Also, as at Reykjavik, the inhabitants
are actively employed in piling up and drying fish.
On July 33nd, had a call from Mr. Paterson, the English
consul here, and a very pleasant personage, who spoke of the
Oeysirs and boiling pools at Reyka, a day's journey from
Krisuvik, as well worth prolonging the excursion for the purpose
of inspection. He handed me the keys of the house and store-
house at Krisuvik, once the property of the now extinct Sulphur
Company, and wherein travellers pass the night. It still contains
many of the glass jars, tin vessels, &c., formerly in use for
collecting and cleansing the sulphur ; as well as a bed, hammock,
rugs, coverlets, &c., for the passing visitor. The house is built
entirely of corrugated iron, contains several apartments, and is a
very well constructed and serviceable dwelling. Captured
Calliphora ; and after being joined by my fellow-travellers,
and another guide from Reykjavik, we started, about 6 p.m., with
ENTOMOLOGY OP ICELAND. ^25
our united forces, for Krisuvik. When we had proceeded for
about two hours, and forded a stream, we dismounted from our
ponies on a little grassy islet. The water of the stream here, of
which, however, I did not taste, was reported to be strongly
chalybeate. The only farm, dilapidated and now uninhabited, on
the whole of the way, was next passed. We then skirted the base
of some lava hills on our left, past a wide extending desert of
lava, as far as the eye could reach, only diversified by hillocks
and ridges and jagged peaks, all covered with whitish green moss.
I next noticed a natural bridge of lava close to the road, as though
constructed for the express purpose of spanning a watercourse.
The whole scene was highly picturesque. After some distance —
more than half-way, and a steep ascent and corresponding
descent— we enter on a plain strewn throughout its extent with
small cindery lava, and studded with many boulders that have
fallen from the heights above, unless borne down by the lava at
some unknown period. A great deal of the more level surface of
this plain also is covered with the whitish green moss. The last
portion of the twenty miles from Hafnafiord, wherein not a single
dwelling or human being was passed, proved very lengthy, trying,
and fatiguing from the steep ups and downs, the many brows of
hills to be crossed, as well as a plain covered with moss, that
treacherously conceals holes, or hides the jagged boulders of lava
beneath, or furnishes a superficial crossing, and so tempts one to
tread on the velvety but yielding surface. In traversing the whole
of this difiGicult ground we had to dismount, and the ponies to be
led. Ultimately a farmer was knocked up on the far side of the
plain, who provided some milk for one or two of our party, while
a bottle of lager beer was uncorked for the remainder ; and this
individual undertook to pilot us on his pony over the intervening
slopes by the nearest way to Krisuvik, as we had come a consider-
able distance out of our way. As we alternately ascended and
descended several ridges, I noticed a large quantity of oxide of
iron on the face of the hills in close proximity to the sulphur, and
several solfataras, as well as volcanic lakes, in deeply depressed
situations in this neighbourhood. The aspect of the hill-side in
places resembles an inflamed and blistered sore, to which similitude
the swollen shape, no less than the yellow and white and dark red
hues, contribute. We wound our way across one grassy slope after
another, crossed a stream flowing between deep banks, reached a
meadow full of the hillocks so abundant in all this region, got to
the Company's dwelling-house, and sought in its different apart-
ments a few hours much-needed rest. Decidedly Krisuvik presents
a sight worth seeing, and the scenery at the place and on the way
thither repays one ; but it must be owned that it is an arduous
undertaking; — twenty miles, for the most part over by far the
worst road in Iceland.
(To be continued.)
^26 THB ENTOMOLOGIST.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 178.)
Class v.— Variation of Pupje and Cocoons.
It is now perfectly well established that many cocoons and
exposed pupse of Lepidoptera vary very considerably in colour,
mainly in the direction of resemblance to the tint of their
surroundings. Of these the following may be quoted as in-
stances : —
Pupce.— -Vanessa gonerilla, light and dark varieties (Entom.
xvi. 218) ; F. urticce, light and dark varieties were produced by
Mr. Jenner Weir by modifying the amount of light at the time
of pupating : those in the shade produced the darker forms.
Melitcea harrisii, Scudd., the typical pupa is white, marked and
spotted with black, or brown-black, and orange; a variety is
almost without the black markings, but has the orange (W. H.
Edwards, Canad. Ent. 1877, 168). Lyccena comyntas, pupa from
larva fed on Desmodium marilandicum is emerald -green, with a
yellowish green abdomen, but the pupa from larva fed on clover
is sordid white, with the wing-cases apple -green : both forms
have also some markings (W. H. Edwards, Canad. Ent. 1876,
204). Papilio ajax, L., varies from dead-leaf brown to bright
green; and P. asterias, Fab., from pale green to ochre-yellow
and ash-grey. It has been said that the green pupae of P. asterias
emerge sooner than the dull-coloured ones, but I do not know
whether this would hold good in a large number of cases. Last
year I had a green and a brownish pupa of this species, and the
green one gave a crippled butterfly on October 28th, while the
other remained over until this year. No doubt the heat of the
room brought the green one out thus early, but there was no
apparent reason why it should not similarly affect the brown
variety.
Cocoons, — Samia cecropia, (a) on red currant, silk deep
reddish brown ; {b) on cherry, plum and rose, light brown, tending
to grey ; (c) on Spircea, Symphoricarpos and Prunus serotina,
greyish brown (T. G. Gentry, Canad. Ent. 1877, 49). The
experiments of Mr. E. B. Poulton to prove that the colours of
cocoons are really influenced by the colours of their surroundings
are very well known. Cocoons of Saturnia pavonia were dark
brown when the larvae were placed in a black bag, but white when
they had been freely exposed to light, with white surfaces in the
immediate neighbourhood. Larvae of Eriogaster lanestris exposed
to white surroundings produced cream-coloured cocoons, while
some of the same batch spun dark brown cocoons among the
leaves of the food-plant. Larvae of Halias prasinana exposed to
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 227
white surroundings produced white and very light yellow cocoons.
A larva which spun a white cocoon had previously commenced a
brown one, but on being removed to white surroundings it pro-
duced white silk. Mr. G. F. Mathew has recorded some very
interesting experiments (Trans. Ent. Soc. Lond. 1885, 364),
showing the influence of surroundings on the pupse of species of
Papilio, P. godeffroyi, which had been allowed to pupate on
scarlet or white paper, gave rosy-pink pupae, while those on blue
or yellow paper were green, and those on black paper very dark
green. P. schmeltzi was also experimented upon, but was not so
much affected by the colour of background : this was attributed
to its having a thicker pupa-shell. The newly-changed pupae of
both species were pale green, and it was not until several hours
had elapsed that they assumed the colour produced by their
surroundings. Mr. Mathew ventures an explanation of these
curious phenomena, and says " They are very soft, and are covered
with a thin coating of some viscid substance, which may have
the power of absorbing refracted rays of colour-light as they dry
and harden." This, however, is rather a peculiar h3'pothesis,
since, if the pupae were to *' absorb " the light reaching them and
refracted from the coloured paper, it is to be presumed that they
would not at the same time reflect it, and their colour would
consequently be the complementary one to that of their sur-
roundings, or more probably black.
Hybrids.
The frequency and probability of hybrids in Nature has been
-very freely discussed at difi'erent times, but, owing to the difficulty
of obtaining satisfactory data, without any very decisive result.
Yet it is quite certain that, at any rate under artificial conditions,
hybrids may occur both among plants and animals between genera
that are universally considered distinct, while hybrids between
allied species are frequently found in Nature. The ducks among
birds, and the willows, thistles, and verbascums among plants,
afford excellent instances. This being so, there is no apparent
reason why hybrid insects should not also occur under natural
circumstances, and, as a matter of fact, many such have been
recorded. Hagen (Canad. Ent. 1876, 78) enumerates the fol-
lowing hybrids which he found recorded in European literature :
— Saturnia carpini x spini (larva), '^Sphinx'* vespertilio x
euphorbicB (larva), *^ Sphinx'' vespertilio x hippophaes (larva),
*' Sphinx" euphorhice x galii (imagines, near Berlin), Zygcena
trifolii X filipendulce (imago, England), Colias ediisa x hyale,
Lyccena adonis x alexiSy Hipparchia arcania x hero, Cceno-
nympha pamphilus x iphis, Vanessa w^ticce x atalanta. A. Wailly
(Canad. Ent. 1880, 228) had hybrid larvae of Samia ceanothi x
gloveri, but they died. P. Pu Ploy obtained hybrid Pieris rapce x
338 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
protodice larvae, but these also died before reaching the perfect
state. In ' Proc. South Lond. Ent. Soc' (1886, p. 32) is recorded
a Xanthia, supposed by Mr. South to represent X, fulvago x
Jlavago, Supposed Lyccena bellargus x corydon hybrids are re-
corded in the same volume (p. 61), and in * The Entomologist,*
1887, there is much discussion about a form of Lyccena found
in Kent, referred by Mr. Sabine to L. bellargus x icarus.
With regard to this last form, which appears to occur quite
numerously in certain districts, the theory v?^as proposed by Mr.
South that hybrids between bellargus and icarus were probably
fertile inter se and with the parent species, and so he supposed
that a local variety might have been founded directly upon the
results of hybridization. It is impossible to say that this could
not be the case; and indeed we know that by cuttings, &c.,
florists have been able to propagate hybrids in such abundance
and constancy of form that they have come to be looked upon by
the public as genuine species, — such, for instance, is the beautiful
Clematis jackmanni. Nevertheless, the general laws of variation,
so far as we understand them, seem to point against the proba-
bility of the establishment in Nature of a hybrid race between
two forms so distinct as to be looked upon as species, because
when divergent varieties have become so stereotyped, their hybrids
are nearly always infertile^ while, on the other hand, if they are
still plastic, the tendency of the fertile offspring will be more often
to closely resemble one or the other parent, than to take a position
intermediate between the two, 1 may have occasion to discuss
this question at greater length hereafter, but to enter into much
detail would lead rather beyond the scope of the present paper.
As to the cause of hybridization in Nature, it may not unfre-
quently be due to a scarcity of one sex of a species. For instance,
Hagen relates that Tetrao urogallus x tetrix hybrids occur always
when, by excessive hunting, the males of Urogallus (capercaillie)
are killed in such numbers that the females are obliged to resort
to the males of the other species (black grouse). In discussing
the Lyccena so-called hybrids, it was held by some that the fact
of the species not flying continuously together, but only over-
lapping, so to speak, was rather against the probability of
hybridization. To me, it seems quite the other way.
The males of many butterflies emerge about a week before
the females, and for the time being must want for mates. Suppose,
to illustrate the point, that we have two butterflies, a and b,
which are double-brooded, each brood being on the wing one
month. The males of each species emerge a week before the
females, so that for the first week of the month during which the
species is flying we have only males, and by the fourth week the
males are about over, and the females largely preponderate.
A begins to emerge on the 1st of June, b about the S6th of the
VARIETIES OP VOOTVM IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 229
same month, and each has its two broods, with three weeks*
interval between each. Thus we get —
June. July.
Istweek. 2d week. 3rd week. 4th week. 1st week. 2d week. 3rd week. 4th week.
A... ^ S 2 ^ 2 2 — — — ^ &C
B... — — — ^ (^'Ja'? 2 — &C.
From this it is readily seen that we have males of b flying
with females of A during the last week of June, each without its
proper mate, while again, at the end of July, some late females
of B might be found with early males of the second brood of a.
What circumstances could be more favourable for the production
of hybrids ? I have no knowledge whether this is actually the
case with any of the species of Lyccena that have been under
discussion, but I wish to show that, on general grounds, the fact
of two butterflies overlapping in their periods of emergence is
more favourable for hybridization than if they flew quite
synchronously.
(To be concluded.)
Correction. — Maynard's reference (p. 5) to black females of L. pseud-
argiolus probably originated in the original error of referring the black
males to the female sex. There is no satisfactory evidence of a black female
of pseudargiolus.
I
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTU^ OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 210.)
Mamestra, Och., sordida, Bork.
The type of this species is thus described in Borkhausen's
* Naturegeschichte der Europaischen Schmetterlinge,' p. 239 : —
" It is as large and nearly the shape of Noctua hrassicce. The
fore wings mottled, with a mixture of earth-grey and pale dirty
brown; markings extremely indistinct and pale. In some specimens
three pale transverse lines can be distinguished : the one at the
base is very pale ; the second has particularly strong zigzag marks
near the inner margin; the third forms a slight semicircle.
They are all paler than the ground colour, but edged with darker.
On the inner side of the third line is a row of brownish moon-
shaped spots, which turn their hollow sides inwards. Close to the
hind margin is a pale zigzag line, which forms in the middle a
small Latin W. The ordinary markings between the second and
third transverse lines are very faintly marked ; the claviform is
indistinctly surrounded with whitish grey, and scarcely visible ;
230 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
the reniform is strongly marked with blackish grey, outlined with
whitish, and with a grey centre ; the orbicular is pale brownish ;
the costa has some dark spots, and near the apex are a few
yellowish spots. Hind wings whitish grey, shaded with black at
the outer margin ; veins darker ; transverse line sometimes trace-
able. This Noctiia varies considerably in the amount of light and
dark shading of the wings ; in some specimens the colour of the
wings is very dark, and frequently black is mixed with the
ground colour."
This is another variable species, the ground colour ex-
tending from a pale unicolorous ochreous-grey, with scarcely
any markings (var. renardii), to a bright reddish ochreous
(var. ochracea), through a dark grey form much suffused with
red (var. anceps), to a form entirely made up of a dark, dirty-
grey ground colour, much suffused with darker greyish brown
(the type). The dark red suffused forms (var. anceps) and
the dark earth-grey and brown (the type) forms are much
more common in Kent than any others, the pale ochreous
and reddish ochreous forms being rare. The var. renardii of
Boisduval is an extreme development of the pale ochreous form.
Of the general variation of this species, Gruenee writes, "It
varies much, but all its modifications are too unimportant and
unstable to constitute distinct races" ('Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 195).
There would thus appear to be four fairly distinct forms : —
1. A pale unicolorous grey form, = var. renardii, Bdv.
2. A reddish ochreous form, = var. ochracea,
3. A dark grey, mottled with reddish ochreous, form,
= var. anceps, Hb,
4. A grey, mottled with dirty brown, form, = sordida, Bork.
a. var. renardii, Bdv. — This is a very pale unicolorous variety of
sordida, with the markings in its extreme forms ahiiost entirely absent, but
leading up by intermediate forms into the other varieties. Guenee, in his
' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 195, thus writes of this variety : — " This is certainly
only a very pale variety of anceps. All the markings have disappeared, and
the upper wings are entirely of a whitish ochreous colour, with the
exception of the terminal space, where there remain traces of greyish
colour. The lower wings and the underside are of a pale shining whitish,
without markings. North of France." This variety apparently occurs but
rarely in England. I have taken it at Sandwich, Deal, and Strood, but
have never met with it in any other locality, although I have received it
from Brighton. It occurs in both sexes, and the hind wings show a large
amount of difference in the quantity of grey shading, some having a distinct
dark marginal band ; others agreeing with the above description, and being
without any very definite trace of it.
/3. var. ochracea, mihi. — This is a very pretty variety. It is of a very
pale yellowish ochreous ground colour, strongly tinged with red (I have one
specimen entirely reddish ochreous), with the stigmata and transverse lines
very pale grey. As in var. renardii there is scarcely any of the dirty grey
colour present in the type, except on the outer margin. The variety occurs
VARIETIES OF NOCTU-E IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. ^31
in both sexes. I have captured it at Deal and Strood, and received it from
Cambridge, but it is apparently a rare form.
y. var. anceps, Hb. — The anceps of Hiibner is an extreme development
of the last variety, with the ground colour dark brown instead of pale ochreous,
but much mottled with reddish, as in that form. Hiibner figures it in his
* Schmetterlinge,' &c., 484, the following being the description made of it : —
" Anterior wings ochreous-brown, tinged with reddish ; an abbreviated trans-
verse line followed by a complete basal line ; claviform outlined in blackish,
the reniform and orbicular in whitish ; directly beyond reniform, a double line
internally edged with black ; a pale wavy line close to hind margin, with a
W-shaped mark in its centre. Hind wings dark grey, with pale base ; two
pale transverse lines pass through the dark grey margin." I would include
under this varietal name all dark brownish forms mottled with red. This
is the most abundant form occurring in Kent, being much more abundant
than the type, which is of a greyish colour, marked with dirty brown. The
anceps of Hiibner is the usual form found in London.
Mamestra, Och. , furva, Hb.
The type of this species is represented by Hiibner's fig. 407,
which I have described as follows : — " Anterior wings reddish
brown, with an abbreviated, followed by a complete basal,
streak, both of which are ochreous and very pale in colour;
stigmata outlined with yellowish, a dark transverse line passes
between the stigmata from costa to inner margin, two pale wavy
ochreous lines between the reniform and hind margin. Hind wings
grey, dark on the outer edge, with a pale line running through
the darker part." My own note is this :— *' This is not a good
figure of furva as we know it, and presents a strong superficial
resemblance to L. cespitis, but the transverse lines are different
to those of that species, and agree exactly with those of furva."
Guenee mentions two varieties, both from Russia; and Freyerhas
figured another. Herr Hoffmann, in the * Stettin Entomologische
Zeitung,' writes of the Shetland furva: — "Kleiner und dunkler
als Stiicke aus den Schweizer Alpen." Guenee's description {vide
var. ochracea) of furva would answer very well for specimens I
have from Ayton (Berwickshire) and Paisley, except that the
ground colour is not yellowish brown ; but those from Aberdeen,
Pitcaple, and Sligo are much darker. My Paisley specimens are
of the ground colour of Hiibner's type, whilst the German, Swiss,
and French specimens are paler. Our Aberdeen and Sligo forms
apparently belong to var. infernalis and var. s'llvicolaj which only
appear to be slight modifications of freyeri. Taking Hiibner's
brown form as the type, — Guenee's /ttrva is a lighter, freyeri and
infernalis darker, and silvicola an extreme melanic form.
». var. ochracea, mihi. — Guenee, in his * Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 197,
describes furva as : — " Anterior wings yellowish brown, with the three first
lines very distinct, wavy, geminated, and outlined with yellowish in the
middle ; the angulated line composed of lunules in contact, a series of very
small yellowish dots between it and the subterminal, which is very distinct,
333 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
yellowish, wavy, broken in the centre and marked with an M, and preceded
by three or four black wedge-shaped marks. The three stigmata clear, the
outline of the reniforra yellowish, the claviform short, black, often indistinct.
Fringe spotted. Inferior wings greyish yellow, with a broad dark border,
cut near the anal angle by a short clear line, and a large dark lunule."
I do not think we get so pale a variety of furva as this in Britain.
Mr. N. F. Dobree writes : — " I have specimens from Turkestan, and these
agree pretty closely with the var. ochracea " [in litt.).
/3. var.freyeri, Frey. — The type of this variety is figured by Freyer in
his ' Neuere Beitrage,' &c., pi. 159. It has the " Anterior wings of a more
blackish ground colour," But Guenee, in his * Noctuelles,' vol. v., pp. 197,
198, writes, " I have seen a specimen sent from Germany under this name,
which does not differ in tint from the OYdinary furva." My own description
of freyeri is as follows : — " Anterior wings blackish grey, with seven short
black costal streaks, with pale (almost white) transverse basal line ; orbicular
and reniform outlined in white, a pale wavy line directly beyond the reniform,
followed by a transverse row of pale ochreous dots, and a pale wavy line
(white), edged internally with blackish wedge-shaped marks (in contact)
parallel to the hind margin. Hind wings pale grey, outer margin dark
grey, lunule and nervures still darker."
y. var. infernalist Ev. — " Eversman, 'Bull. Mosc.,' 1842, =/wn;a,
' Fauna Ural.,' p. 247," is the reference given by Guenee for this variety.
He also describes it as: — "Differs but little horn furva. It is a little
darker. The spaces in the stigmata are marked in brown. The discoidal
line of the under sides of the inferior wings is a little more wavy, clearer,
and appears a little on the upper side ; but these differences are very slight,
and perhaps not constant. Localities : Casan, Orembourg, and Ural "
(* Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 198). The specimens I have from Aberdeen would
apparently belong to this variety.
^. var. silvicola, Ev. — Guenee, also on p. 198, describes another Russian
variety as " Superior wings still darker, almost black, with the stigmata and
lines more or less absorbed by the ground colour. Inferior wings of a
blacker shade. Thorax and anal tuft not mixed with yellow scales.
Locality : Woods of the Ural." The specimens I have from Sligo would
appear to belong to this variety.
Mamestraj Och., albicoloiif Sepp.
The type of this species is figured by Sepp in his 'Beschouwing
der Wonderen Gods,' &c., II., pi. 1, figs. 1-9 ; and is described by
Guenee, in his * Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 196, as : — ** Anterior wings
of a blackish grey, on which stands out strongly the little white
broken C, which borders the lower and outer edge of the reniform.
None of the other markings are very distinct." Guenee also adds :
— "I have never found the type in our country (France), where
the following variety {brunnea) is found occasionally." I have
taken this dark type at Deal, and have also received it from Mr.
Baxter, where it was taken in the neighbourhood of Fleetwood ;
but generally our British specimens are the grey albicolon of
Stephens. Mr. N. F. Dobree, however, writes : — " I have taken
albicolon through a series of years on the sandhills at the mouth
of the Humber, and there the dark form predominates " (in litL),
NOTES, OAPTUBES, ETC. 283
Hiibner also figures a dark brown form, which Guenee says
*' occurs occasionally in France." There is a little variation
in the character of the pale line, which is parallel to the hind
margin ; in some the line is fairly complete, in others it forms a
row of white dots, while in others they are distinctly yellow.
There is also a considerable amount of variation in the colour of
the hind wings, this variation not being sexual ; in some speci-
mens the hind wings are entirely dark grey, in some pale grey,
and in others pale grey with a dark hind marginal band. One
of my Deal specimens has a transverse row of white dots between
the discoidal spot and the subterminal line, and it is dusted with
white along the nervures.
a. var. hrunnea, mihi. — This is Guenee's var. a, which he refers to
Hiibner's fig. 543. The note I made of Hiibner's figure is as follows : —
" Anterior wings dark brown, but all the markings very distinct." Guenee's
description of the variety is as follows : — " Anterior wings yellowish brown,
more or less pricked out in blackish, with the subterminal line of a yellowish
white, broken up, but well marked, and the ordinary lines more distinct
than in the type. Inferior wings paler, and tinged with the yellow of the
upper wings " (' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 196).
/S. var. cinerascens, mihi. — This is the English form, which is
much greyer than the continental specimens. It is Guenee's second
var., which he calls albicoloii, St., and he takes as his type Stephens's
* Illustrations,' &c., vol. ii., p. 184, and pi. xxiv., fig. 3. He describes
it, ' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 196, as : — " Anterior wings ashy grey, strongly
sprinkled with black atoms, with all the markings very distinct. The
subterminal line as in var. a. The two stigmata paler and clearer. The
reniform almost entirely surrounded with white. The black terminal
points triangular, and well marked." The only locality Guenee gives is
" England." As a rule, our English specimens have not the wedge-shaped
spots so distinctly marked. Of this grey (British) variety, Mr. Robson has
a strongly-marked specimen, which almost resembles Guenee's var. /?. It
is of a pale ochreous grey ground colour, with the black transverse basal
lines very strongly marked, and the space between the strigae directly before
and beyond the reniform filled in with darker, so that it resembles a narrow
band. I have seen no other specimens like it.
(To be continued.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Argynnis aglata, var.— Whilst collecting one day during the month
of July, in Carmarthenshire, T noticed a beautiful aberration of Argynnis
aglata, which I unfortunately missed capturing through its escaping from
under the net. On the upper side of the right lower wing, near the base,
was a beautiful golden metallic spot, the corresponding marking on the left
wing being paler in colour than the general ground colour, so that it, like
the metallic spot, was quite noticeable. I might add that the insect was a
male specimen, evidently not long emerged. — T. B. Jefferys ; Cirencester,
August 6, 1889.
ENTOM. — SEPT. 1889. Y
234 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Deilephila galii in Yorkshire. — On the 12th instant a fine male
specimen of the above insect was brought to me. It was taken at rest
in a garden in this neighbourhood. I think this is the first time that
D. galii has been taken here. — Walter Copley ; Clough Terrace, Sowerby
Bridge, August 24, 1889.
Sesia ichneumontformis in Gloucestershire. — I was successful in
taking two specimens of 8. ichneumoniformis, one male and one female, at
rest on blades of grass in an old quarry on the side of Stinchcombe Hill,
near Dursley, on July 22nd. — T. G. Mason ; 8, Lansdowne Road, Higher
Crurapsall, Manchester, August 14, 1889.
Zeuzera pyrina. — Records of the capture of Z. pyrina (cesculi) are
not very frequent : this may be because the insect is so common that its
capture is not thought worth recording, or because it is not very often taken.
I have for some years been under the impression that in London the
species was common. My past record is as follows ; — 1881, July 14th : a
worn female found on the ground in the garden of the house I used to live
in. 1883, July 15th : a worn female brought to me, found in a neigh-
bouring street. 1886, June 30th : a male found at Hackney. July 8th :
a male found under a lamp just outside this house. 1887, July 10th : two
females emerged from a lilac in my garden. 1888, August 20th : one
female emerged from the same tree. 1889, June 28th : a male taken under
the lamp already mentioned. In addition to these I have occasionally seen
males lying dead inside the windows of public-houses. My captures so far
had been sporadic, and had not furnished any very definite indication of
the kind of place in which to look for the moth, and of the trees which in
London it chiefly affected. On July 5th of the present year the care-
taker of an open space in this neighbourhood showed me a male and two
females, which he had picked up the previous day under a drooping ash.
I found a good many empty pupa-cases sticking out from the tree, and, on
exploring the ground thoroughly, was pleased to find a good many infected
trees. Between that date and the 15 th I secured about forty specimens,
most of them having only just finished drying their wings. The proportion
between the sexes was very striking, there being only seven males to
thirty-three females. Why this should be I know not, unless it be that
the larva of the male, being possibly smaller than that of the female, is
able to pupate in the smaller branches at the upper part of the tree, whilst
the larger female larva is obliged to work its way down to the larger part
of the tree to find room. The moths were found at all heights on the
trees, from a few feet above the level of the ground up to about twenty feet,
and empty pupa-cases were seen sticking out here and there as high as my
light could reach. The enclosure, which is about 2J acres in extent
contains lime, balsam and black poplar, willow, alder, and ash trees, but
with the exception of one of the alders, the ash trees were the only ones
that were infected, and every one of these was more or less so. I have
since looked pretty carefully at the trees in the neighbourhood, and have
discovered several infected ash trees and one sycamore. The normal hour
of emergence is clearly about 3 to 4 p.m. One specimen was still drying
its wings at 5 p.m., and many specimens were found at that hour close to
fresh pupa-cases, where none had been at mid-day. The time of year at
which the insect should be looked for in normal years appears to be the
last week in June and the first fortnight in July. A peculiar feature in
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 235
connection with the species is the rapidity with which rigor mortis passes
off. As a rule I find it best to leave insects in the killing bottle for more
than forty-eight hours, but Zeuzera pyrina sets most readily within twenty-
four hours of death, and again stiffens if left longer. Another peculiar
feature is the eagerness with which the females, which have only just
emerged, deposit eggs as soon as they are placed in a box or killing-bottle.
I hope that these notes may enable other London entomologists to hunt
for this species with success next year. — Feancis John Buckell, M.B. ;
32, Canonbury Square, N., July, 1889.
AcRONYCTA ALNi. — I have a larva of this moth, which I found
feeding on the horse-chestnut. Is not this uncommon for its food-
plant? It appears to commence feeding near the midrib of the leaf,
and then eats out the centre of the leaf. — T. B. Jefferys ; Cirencester,
August 6, 1889.
LuPERiNA TESTACEA, VAR. ? GUENEEi. — It may be interesting to state,
in relation to Mr. Tutt's remarks for last month upon this insect (Entom.
205), that, among the scores of L. testacea I have taken at our Chester
gas-lamps, I only numbered one var. gueneei. — J. Arkle ; 2, George St.,
Chester.
Caradrina ambigua in the Isle of Wight. — On looking through Mr.
A. J. Hodges' collection of Lepidoptera yesterday, I found two fine speci-
mens (male and female) of C. ambigua, taken last year in the neighbourhood
of Yarmouth. I also captured a worn specimen in the same locality
myself this year. This makes three British localities, the previous
captures having been made by Mr. Vine at Brighton, and by myself at
Deal.— J. W. Tdtt ; August 22, 1889.
Agrotts lucernea in Kincardineshire, — During July and August
this year I took A. lucernea abundantly in Kincardineshire near the coast,
but it was very local. I never heard of them being taken here before. —
L. G. Esson; 46, North Charlotte Street, Aberdeen, N.B.
NocTUA soERiNA IN Glen Artney, Perth. — I am pleased to be able
to record this at sugar, on August 7th, in a small wood between Dalran-
noch and Blairmue, on the Aberuchill estate, Perthshire. The specimen
is slightly paler, but otherwise identical with Rannoch examples. The
Glen Artney locality is, I suppose, twenty or twenty-five miles south
of Rannoch as the crow flies. Sugaring, the few nights I attempted it in
Scotland, was far more productive than my essays in that direction at
Brockenhurst, Hants, in the middle of June. I was struck with some
beautiful varieties of Xylophasia monoglypha (polyodon), and also of
Cahjmnia trapezina, which occurred in multitudes. A fine Triphcsna
fimbria also was captured, Noctua conflua, and many others. — J. Cosmo
Melvill ; Great Marlborough Street, Manchester.
Calymnia pyralina. — On August 16th I had the pleasure of seeing
the whole family circle of Calymnia out at sugar, a sight, I should think,
not often seen ; there was, I regret to say, only one representative of
C. pyralina^ but she paid the penalty of her unwonted publicity. I also
took, on the same night, two Noctua stigmatica {rhomboidea), an insect
which has, in this locality, been sufficiently common this year. I observe
236 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
that some books mention that it is to be found in this county. — Ei. J.
White ; Frogmore Lodge, St. Alban's, Herts.
Natural pairing of Amphidasys betularia and var. doobleday-
ARiA. — It may be remembered that, last season, I took a female type
A. betularia and black male in copula, from an oak in Delamere Forest.
Their progeny show 85 per cent, to be black ; the rest are ordinary types.
— J. Arkle ; 2, George Street, Chester.
Crambus furcatellus in Sutherlandshire. — On July 20th, last
year (1888), when ascending Ben Hope, a conspicuous mountain in North
Sutherlandshire, in company with Mr. Frederick Hanbury, we carried no
entomological impedimenta, our principal object being to study the botany
of this remarkable and isolated height (3048 ft.). I was enabled, however,
to box a few specimens of a Crambus, which was Hying about plentifully at
about 2000 feet elevation, it appears to be a variety of C. furcatellaSf
differing from specimens I have from Snowdonin the fringe of the upper
wings being pearly white instead of grey ; posterior wings dark grey,
radiately streaked with whitish grey ; fringes silvery white. I am not
sure whether this moth has been hitherto recorded from Scotland.
On the same mountain was a small form of Scoparia alpinalis, and
Emmelesia adcequata was frequent among the heather and cotton-grass.
— J. Cosmo Melvill; Great Marlborough Street, Manchester, August
21, 1889.
Tortrix piceana in New Forest. —I have pleasure in recording the
capture of T. piceana, by Mr. Charles Gulliver, in Ranmor Enclosure,
Brockenhurst. This is the more gratifying as he had devoted a great
deal of time in searching for the larvae, but without success. Those who
wish specimens of this rarity will do well to apply to him at once, as he
has only a few specimens. — Samdel James Capper : Huyton Park, near
Liverpool, August 8, 1889.
Catoptria expallidana, &c., in the Isle of Wight. — I was fortunate
in taking a nice series of this very local species in the neighbourhood of
Yarmouth at the end of July. Macro-Lepidoptera collecting generally, espe-
cially for Noctuae, was almost a failure, although several local Geometrae
were found. Micros, however, kept me busy setting during the time I was in
the island, many good local species occurring in fairly large numbers. On the
last two evenings of my stay (Aug. 11th and 12th), Noctuae, although they
would not come to the " sugared " trees prepared for their benefit by my
friend Mr. A. J. Hodges, came in considerable numbers to the sugared (and
unsugared) flowers of Eupatoriuui cannabinum, which were in splendid
masses ; among others, Mamesira abjecta (worn), Caradrina ambigua (worn),
and Hadena suasa (in fine condition, probably a second brood) occurred.
Besides Noctuae, an occasional specimen of Calligenia miniata, Lithosia
griseola, L. lurideola, Epione apiciaria, Cidaria silaceata, Scoparia cembrcBt
Botys asinaliSf CEdematophorus lithodactylus, Rhodojihcea advenetla, and
various Depressariae put in an appearance. Unfortunately I was compelled
to leave the island just as the larger things were becoming more lively. —
J. W. Tutt ; Westcombe Park, S.E.
A fortnight in Cambridge Fens, &c. — On June 22nd, accom-
panied by two friends, I started for Wicken, where we took up our
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 237
quarters for two weeks. The weather was very fine the whole time, not
having even a drop of rain ; the heavy dews that prevailed and the
continual east wind rendered the evenings comparatively unproductive,
particularly for sugaring, — still, notwithstanding this drawback, we worked
hard, and succeeded in getting several good insects at light, after often
staying out all night with our fen-lamp. The following is a list of the
most important captures : — Macrogaster castanecB (6, 1 female), Pterostoma
palpina (2), Notodonta ziczac {^\ Fygmra pigra (6, bred), Acronycta stri-
gosa (1), A. rumicis (2), Arsilonche albovenosa (1), Xylophasia hepatica (1).
Neuria reticulata {\0), Mamestra albicolon (5), Agrotis vestigialis (several),
Dianthcecia carpophaga (5), D. irregularis [Q), Hecatera serena (3), Plusia
festnccB (2), Heliothis dipsacea (2), Acontia luctuosa (1), Aventia flexula (1),
Geometra papilionaria (3), Acidalia rubiginata (10), Cidaria sagittata (2;,
Lithostege griseata (2), Chesias rufata (1) ; also a long series each of Leu-
cania impudens, Agrophila trabealis, Bankia argentula, Toccocampa pastinum,
Epione apiciaria, Hyria muricata, Acidalia immutata, Timandra amatariaj
Larentia didymata, Eupithecia scabiosata, Collix sparsata, Lobophora sex-
alisata, Scotosia vetulata, S. rhamnata, Cidaria dotata, &c. — J. M. x\dye ;
Somerford Grange, Christchurch, August 14, 1889.
Hybrid Lepidoptera. — In addition to the species of Lepidoptera
which have been known to hybridize, mentioned by Mr. Cockerell in his
papers upon the " Variation of Insects " (p. 227), he appears to have over-
looked the not uncommon hybrid Smerinthus ocellatus x populi (Entom. v.
450 ; vi. 147 ; vii. 21). The late Fredk. Bond exhibited a hybrid Clostera
curtula X reclusa before the Entom. Soc. Lend., Nov. 17th, 1873. — Edward
A. Fitch ; Brick House, Maldon, Essex.
Parasites on Butterfly. — I caught a fine specimen of Melanargia
galatea at Lulworth, about the first week in August, covered with about
a dozen parasites, I understand of the genus Trychodactylus. Perhaps
your correspondents may have noticed if insects are more generally affected
by parasites this year, or otherwise.— Ed. Philip Belben ; Bickleigh,
Bournemouth West.
CiciNDELA SYLVATiCA, L., IN Hants. — On August 7th I observed
several specimens of this local species flying in the bright sunshine during
the Review at Aldershot, doubtless driven up by the military movements.
Not having a net with me, it was no use attempting to chase them, but while
returning to North Camp Railway-station I managed to catch two with my
hand, one of which, however, bit so furiously that it compelled me to
relinquish it. This is probably the first time that the species has been
recorded from the locality of Aldershot. — G. A. Lewcock; 73, Oxford
Road, Islington, N.
SiREX GiGAS. — A fine specimen of this sawfly was captured at Bowes
Park, flying in a garden, by my nephew, a very young collector, who
brought it to me to be pinned out. — T. Robinson ; Claysfield Terrace,
Winchmore Hill, N., August 13, 1889.
SiREX GiGAs in Irkland. — A Specimen of this sawfly was taken here
on August 7th.— J. B. S. MacSwaine; Slandford House, Foxrock,
Co. DubUn.
^38 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Atherix ibis in Shropshire. — While wading and fishing in one of
the Shropshire brooks, in June last, I found a cluster of the flies A. ibis
attached to a dead willow branch overhanging the stream, which at that
point was flowing slowly.— -C. R. Blathwatt, West Ashby Vicarage.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — August 7th, 1889. — The Right
Honourable Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair.
The Rev. John Walley, of Wuhu, China, was elected a Fellow: Professor
Charles V. Riley, of Washington, United States, was elected an Honorary
Fellow in place of the late Dr. Signoret, of Paris ; and Colonel Swinhoe
and the Rev. F. D. Morrice were admitted into the Society. Mr. Walter
F. Blandford exhibited a specimen of CardiopJiorus cinereus, Herbst,
taken at Tenby, and remarked that the species had rarely, if ever
previously, been found in the United Kingdom. Mr. C. 0. Waterhouse
said he believed that there was a specimen in the collection of his late
father, and also another specimen in the collection of the British Museum.
Mr. Waterhouse stated that the British Museum had just received from
the Kev. Arthur Elwin, of Hangchow, China, a luminous larva, about 1^
in. long and 3^ lines broad, which he believed to be one of the Larapyridae.
Lord Walsingham exhibited specimens of Conchylis degreyana, M'Lach.,
bred from seed-heads of Plantago lanceolata at Merton, Norfolk; also
a specimen of Tineidse allied to the genus Solenobia, probably belonging to
Dissoctena, Stand., but differing somewhat in the structure of the antennaB.
Lord Walsingham remarked that the specimen was taken by himself at
Merton on the 31st July last, and that the species was apparently
undescribed. Mr. Meyer-Darcis exhibited a collection of Coleoptera,
comprising specimens of a species of Loethnis from Turkestan ; Julodis
globithorax, Stev., from the Caucasus; a new species of Julodis from
Kurdistan ; Cardiaspis mouhoutii, Saunders, from Sikkim ; Carabus
smaragdinus, Fisch., from Siberia ; Julodis ampliata, Mars., from Aintab,
Asia Minor, and a variety of the same from Kurdistan; and Julodis
luteogramma, Mars., from Syria, and a variety of the same from Kurdistan.
Mr. H. Goss read extracts from letters from Mr. R. W. Fereday, of New
Zealand, and Sir John Hall, K.C.M.G., relating to a number of Lepidoptera
recently collected at sea, about half way between the River Plate and Rio,
at a distance of over 250 miles from land, in about 30° S. lat. and 46° W.
longitude. It was stated that the ship was surrounded by swarms of
moths. Mr. J. J. Walker, R.N., observed that he had seen a large number
of insects at sea about 150 miles off" the coast of Brazil, and he referred to
other records of the capture of insects at sea in Darwin's ' Voyage of the
Beagle,' and Dr. Coppinger's • Cruise of the Alert.' The discussion was
continued by Dr. Sharp, Lord Walsingham, Mr. White, Mr. Kirby, and
others. Mr. E. Meyrick read a paper, entitled "On some Lepidoptera
from New Guinea," and exhibited the species therein described. He
stated that the specimens were derived from two sources, viz. (1), a portion
of the collection received by the Society from Baron Ferdinand von Miiller,
F.R.S., and collected by Mr. Sayer when accompanying the Australian
Geographical Society's Exploring Expedition ; and (2), a number of speci-
mens collected by Mr. Kowald near Port Moresby, and obtained from him
SOCIETIES. 239
by Lord Walsingham. Mr. Blandford read a letter from Mr. Wroughton,
of Poona, Deputy Conservator of Forests, asking for assistance in working
out certain Indian Hymenoptera and Diptera in the collections of the
Bombay Natural History Society. Lord Walsingham, Colonel Swinhoe, and
Mr. Moore made some remarks on the subject. — H. Goss, Hon. Secretary.
South London Entomological and Natueal Histoby Society. —
July ^Uh, 1889.— T. R. Billups, F.E.S., President, in the chair. Mr.
R. South exhibited a fawn-coloured var. of Argynnis adippe, the black spots
being represented by hyaline spots ; also two vars. of A. euphrosyne ; the
var. of A. adippe and one of those of A. euphrosyne were received from a
correspondent in Kent. Mr. West, specimens of Apamea ophiogramma
taken in his garden at Streatham. Mr. R. Adkin, examples of Selenia
lunaria, Bupalus piniaria, Amphidasys hetulariat and Odonopera bidentata,
bred from larvae and pupae received from Forres. Mr. Frohawk, pupse of
Gonopteryx rhamni, and called attention to their resemblance to young
birds ; also living larvae of Nemeobius lucina. Mr. Wellman, bred series of
Sesia tipuliformis, 8. myopiformis, S. formiciformis, and 8. musciformis ;
the last-named bred from pupae from the Isle of Man. Mr. Auld, three
specimens of Callimorpha hera, var. lutescens, bred from ova obtained from
a female of that variety taken in Devon, 1888. Mr. J. T. Williams, an
example of Arctia caia, the red colour of the inferior wings being replaced
by orange. Mr. T. R. Billups, six out of the seven species of social wasps
indigenous to this country, viz., Vespa crabro, V. vulgaris, V. germanicay
V. rufa, V. sylvestris, and V. norvegica, and read notes relative to his
exhibit. Remarks were made by several members on the failure this year
of sugar to attract moths, and a discussion as to the cause of this ensued.
August Sth, 1889. — The President in the chair. Mr. Dawson exhibited
a specimen of Deilephila Uvornica, taken in the neighbourhood of Ply-
mouth, 1888; a melanic form of TcBuiocampa incerta, taken at Plumstead ;
two vars. of Folyommatu^ phlceas, one being the var. schmidtii, taken at
Plumstead. Mr. Carrington said he only knew of three or four examples
of this var. having been taken during the last ten or fifteen years. Mr.
Tugwell remarked that he did not altogether agree with Mr. Carrington
that schmidtii was so rare ; he thought that in nearly all the principal
collections there were forms approaching this variety. Mr. Dennis
showed forms of Bryophila perla, including several yellow specimens, and
one having the superior wings almost entirely suffused with black. Mr.
R. Adkin, a specimen of Ch<2rocampa porcellus, bred from a larva found
last year, and which was put in a box without any earth, and had spun a
cocoon some way from the bottom of the box within which it pupated.
Mr. Joy, a var. of Epinephele hyperanthes, having the spots on the under
side unusually large. Mr. Turner, a larva of Dicranura vinula affected by
some disease which Mr. Tugwell said seemed to be the result of a fungoid
nature. Mr. Billups, a female example of Bracon roberti, taken in his garden
at Peckham ; also series of Ascogaster varipes (both sexes) and A. instabilis,
and read notes ; also galls on Salix herbacece, and their maker Mematus
herbacem. The Secretary, on behalf of Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell, two galls,
found at West Cliff, Colorado, on the wild rose, viz., Rhodites bicolor, and
the fly bred from the other Mr. Cockerell proposed to call Rhodites
roscefolii, n.STp. A communication was also read from Mr. Cockerell on
" Bees and Poppy Flowers." — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
FREDERICK BOND.
Born, February 22nd, 1811.
Died, August lOth, 1889.
AGED SEVENTY-EIGHT YEAKS.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXII.] OCTOBEE, 1889. [No. 817.
INVESTIGATION OF VARIATION.
By the Editor.
During the past few years great strides have been made
towards a better knowledge of the range of variation in insects.
A decade ago the number of students of this interesting subject
could be counted by units ; their ranks now include many, in all
parts of the world. It is highly satisfactory to find that latterly
there has arisen such an appreciation ; and much has recently been
done towards a discovery of the causes of variation of colour and
shape of animals, beyond the generally accepted one of " adaptation
to the environment." This is, of course, satisfactory so far as it
goes; but as yet the whole knowledge on the subject is very
small, in comparison with that which has still to be attained.
Every credit is due to those who have done much towards
unravelling the tangle, but that much is little ; and, after all, it
is only individual effort. Individual action, although of the first
necessity, rarely brings forth results commensurate with the
individual labour bestowed upon a little known subject. The total
material available to one person, unless in very exceptional cases,
is rarely sufl&ciently exhaustive to enable exact facts to be attained.
Again, the publication of such facts must be intermittent and in
various channels, which may after lapse of time become over-
looked, so causing unnecessary labour in going over already
trodden paths. To publish such facts in large form is expensive,
when properly illustrated, and generally a tax upon the author,
the demand for his book being confined to the limited number
who take an active interest in his work. Thus his chances of
disseminating his hard-won knowledge are fettered. Further, his
facts published, after all his trouble and expense, may not be the
best facts which he possesses, or best arranged for the advance-
ment of knowledge. Some one else may have other facts, which,
if incorporated, would greatly enhance the value of the work.
ENTOM. — OCTOBER, 1889. 2
242 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Only men of leisure and means can hope in this wise to succeed.
The professional naturalists, who gain their whole knowledge in
museums, are either partially occupied in studying variation,
or fail because they have only the dried specimens to deal with,
and are without much knowledge of the surroundings in which the
animals lived.
The answer to all this is in properly regulated co-operation
of the workers. In this number of the * Entomologist,' Mr. T. D.
A. Cockerell concludes his very excellent series of papers on
*' Variation of Insects." In his last paragraph he invites opinion
upon the establishment of a committee in London, for the
collection and editing of all possible material upon the subject
of variation of insects. This is a good suggestion, so far as it
goes, but it is imperfect. His mode of election would not, it is
to be feared, come out well, and be too irresponsible. Properly
carried forward, the work of the proposed committee would be
very heavy and most onerous. Experience of such committees
is, that they get along pretty well for a time and then get lax, or
collapse altogether, from the fact that what is everyone's business
is that of no individual.
The right course seems to be to establish a properly con-
stituted association of those who work actively, and others who
take a passive interest in the subject. The former, as in all
societies, will naturally be elected to the management of the
aifairs. This association should not confine itself to the study
of variation of any particular group of animals, because the
causes which operate upon one, probably do more or less upon
another. The council might, however, nominate from the whole
body of members, including themselves, sectional committees
to deal with the various orders, with one general committee
to revise the whole. Honorary work is good, where it is
impossible to afford other. It is very unlikely, however, that
assistance of that character can be obtained for the actual
drudgery of searching throughout the voluminous literature of
all countries, in the past, as well as that current. Such will have
to be paid for, which, with publication and other expenses, would
require a considerable income. Now, can such a society be
established? Are there a sufficient number of students of
variation to support such an association ?
The whole scheme is well worthy of consideration, and
should be threshed out. Any of our readers who would care to
send their opinions for publication, or their names, to the editor
of the * Entomologist,' with the object of preliminary consideration,
will be communicated with, and, if possible, a meeting arranged
for discussing what can be done. The entomologists might found
the society, and afterwards invite students in other orders to
join. It might be called the " Society for Investigation of
3
i
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 243
Variation," or any other name ; the shorter the better. It should
be international in its operations,
John T. Carrington.
London, September 21, 1889.
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
(Concluded from p. 229.)
The phases of variation, briefly described in the previous
parts of this paper, will probably be found to include most of
those to which insects, and especially Lepidoptera, are liable. At
present, and in the limited space of a magazine article, it is
impossible to treat the subject in any degree of completeness, so
I trust that omissions of many important and well-known varieties
from the list will be forgiven. Under colour-varieties, those
occurring in the Coleoptera are well deserving of lengthy treat-
ment, such as the variations in the metallic colours of the
Carabidse, the markings of the Coccinellidse, the colours in
Donacia, &c. Mr. T. H. Hall has kindly sent me some very
interesting notes on the variation in British Coleoptera, from
which I select the following, as illustrating the principal phases
of variation to be noted : —
^^ Pterostichus, — It is very noticeable that many species of this
genus vary from black to brown or testaceous ; the light specimens
seem chiefly to occur, in my experience, under stones, &c., in
winter. I put them down as immature. Harpalus ceneus, F.
{proteus, Payk.). — Varies from a brilliant metallic shining green
insect to one quite dull and brown, with the slightest sheen of
green on its elytra ; the dull variety seems somewhat local, and
occurs in singles; some specimens are rich bright coppery
colour; the variation is in colour of elytra, the thorax, &c., being
green, but varying in brightness. Coccinella variabilis, F. — A
strikingly variable species ; there is a dark and variable variety,
with yellow spots; there appears to be a uniformly parallel
variation of thorax and elytra. C, ll-punctata, L., and (7.
7 -punctata, L. — Vary in size and definition of spots on elytra;
the light coloured ones have smaller spots than the dark ones.
Typliceus vulgaris (= typhceus, L.). — Is very variable in size and
appearance ; out of a number found in one locality no two are
alike ; the female varies in rugosity of front of thorax ; in the
females the thorax is produced into horns of variable size ; there
is a variety of male and female which is brown instead of black.
Callidium violaceum, L. — Amongst many specimens found at
Wormwood Scrubs, London, the males, which are of much
z3
244 THE ENTOMOLOGIST. ^
smaller size than the females, are purplish metallic in colour,
and the females bluish or violet. This may be a local variety of a
male imported in the timber posts, in which I found it. Donacia
sericea, L. — Is most variable ; I have not a pair alike in colour oj
both sexes; cannot remember seeing a pair in which male and
female were alike in tint, coupled. I have pairs as follows : —
1. <^ , violet, paired with $ , coppery.
2. ^ , black „ $ , coppery.
3. ^ , bright green „ $ , brassy.
4. ^ , deep purple „ j , bright green.
In Rhyncophora, the various species of Polydrosus, Strophosomus,
Hyperaf &c., vary greatly from dark to light specimens." — (T. H.
Hall, in litt, July 23, 1889.)
Calosoma wilcoxi, an American species, presents an interesting
variety, as I learn from Dr. John Hamilton. The type is a very
green insect, with the margin of the thorax and elytra golden ;
but Dr. Hamilton found a specimen in which the green was
replaced by purple-black, and the golden by purple-blue.
With regard to the Hymenoptera, Mr. Ashmead has kindly
written me as follows : — *' The dimorphic forms in the Cynipidae
are nearly always paler than the sexual forms, i.e., honey-yellow,
brownish yellow, or reddish- brown ; the sexual form usually
being black or brown. Cynipids, placed in the genera Biorhiza
and AcraspiSf comprise only females of some unknown sexual
form, so that it must be the females that depart from the
original type, and not the males. The female cynipid certainly
cannot represent the ancient type, i.e., the agamic form cannot,
as it is a degraded form, and necessarily must be the result of
some change in environment — either climatological or food-
supply. As far as my observations go, it is usually the female
hymenopter that is the most variable, and the male the most
persistent, although my observations are too meagre to generalise
upon."— (W. H. Ashmead, in litL, April 21, 1889.) These
observations are exceedingly interesting, as bearing upon the
question whether the male or female is usually the oldest type in
insects.
In previous parts of this paper, I have referred to the so-called
"hermaphrodite" insects (Entom. 26), and objected to the term
hermaphrodite as used in this sense. Mr. Jenner Weir has
written in reply to some of my objections : — "I quite agree with
you that, properly speaking, the word hermaphrodite should be
more restricted in its meaning ; but you must recollect that it
means a union in one individual of the attributes of Venus
(Aphrodite) and Hermes (Mercury) ; not, therefore, as you say.
Si functional bisexual animal." Nevertheless, the term is commonly
used in zoology to mean a functionally bisexual animal, as, for
example, a snail (Helix) ; and if we are to call the apparently
bisexual Lepidoptera hermaphrodites, we must have a new term
ON THE VARIATION OF INSECTS. 245
for the truly bisexual forms, an arrangement which will scarcely
be conceded by zoologists. It remains, then, to find a suitable
term for our pseudhermaphrodite insects. Mr. Jenner Weir (in
litt.) has alluded to them as ** biformed." I would suggest,
however, that the term " biformed " be used for varieties com-
bining two forms of one sex, as I have described under " g "
(Entom. 6), and that the pseudhermaphrodites be known as
** inter sexual " forms.
Dr. John Hamilton (in litt,, July 27, 1889) has sent me some
very interesting remarks on variation in size in Coleoptera, as
follows: — "Assimilation power has certainly much to do with it,
where the supply of food is unlimited; as, for example, I am
rearing Balaninus, and I find the same species varying in size
from '15 inch to '33 inch, bred from very large acorns, where all
the larvae in an acorn (from one to five) went into the ground
before the whole acorn was consumed. And, again, in raising
Longicorns and other beetles from wood, where all the larvae
have apparently an ample supply, it must be individual difference
in power of assimilation that produces such great differences in
size as often occur. But this will not altogether account for
racial differences, or differences of a geographical character ; as,
for example, Prionocyphon discoideus, Say, is '20 inch in length,
and all the examples found in some locality will be about that
size, but in a neighbouring locality, not perceptibly different, all
found will not exceed *15 inch. Again, Uloma punctulata, as
found here (Allegheny, Pa.), is about one-fourth longer and
wider than the specimens from Florida and Georgia."
And now, in conclusion, I would appeal to all entomologists
to take careful note of the varieties they meet with from time to
time, and especially the conditions under which they exist. If I
may make a suggestion in the matter, it is that a small committee
be appointed in London to receive and edit descriptions and
reports of varieties from all parts, and prepare a summary of
them for publication in the * Entomologist.' At present the
records are scattered, and most of the finds remain unpublished ;
but how interesting it would be if we could have careful reports
compiled from hundreds of records, such as "Melanism in 1888,"
" Comparison of size of northern and southern insects " ; and so
on through the whole imaginable series. The benefit to science
from such an arrangement would be immense, and it would be
easy to do it. Let the readers of the ' Entomologist ' nominate
their committee, and let the committee get about their work
without delay. A month lost can never be regained. "What does
the editor say ?
West Cliff, Colorado, U. S. A.
246
ENTOMOLOGY OF ICELAND: NOTES UPON A VISIT
IN 1889.
Br THE Rev. F. A. Walker, D.D., F.L.S., &c.
(Continued from p. 225.)
On July 23rd I visited the " Phlegrsei campi " after breakfast.
Here may be seen three or four solfataras at intervals of about
200 yards, and a rocky cauldron of ever- seething, slopping,
bubbling and boiling grey mud, resembling lead paint. There
are more solfataras on the other side of the hill. This mud
cauldron is said to be thirty feet deep ; and it is a characteristic
of all the hot and steaming pools in this formation, here and
elsewhere, to be of great depth, often ninety feet and upwards.
There are, likewise, rounded beds of sulphur, mud, and ferruginous
deposit, which will not bear the weight of anyone attempting to
traverse their heated crust. The rivulets from the hot pools
wend their way through deep banks down the valley, leaving
oxide of iron on the stones in the bed of the stream and on their
margin in their course. My friends started in advance of me about
noon to ride as quickly as might be on their return journey to
Reykjavik, guided by the farmer who had escorted us on the
preceding evening as far as Hafnafiord. I followed them a little
after 2 o'clock, but a perfect storln of wind and rain set in, and
continued all day, accompanied by hail on the top of the hills,
where wind ensued of such force as to cause us to swerve on our
ponies. We took the near but very steep road on the hill, with a
slope of loose lava, like a colossal ash-pit, of 100 feet or upwards
on our left and 50 feet on our right, and after a deep descent
passed by a volcanic lake on our left. This route brought us
back into the homeward road by a somewhat shorter cut. During
this expedition I gathered some leaves of an alpine plant, the
Ruhus chamcemoruSy or cloudberry, which I had not seen for many
a long year. Thoroughly wet through, chilled, and shivering we
reached Hafnafiord late in the evening; and, after remaining
some time there to rest and take refreshment, arrived at Ile3^kjavik
after midnight.
Early on the morning of July 29th we anchored off
Patrekstjordur (lat. 65° 35', N., long. 23° 57', W.), on the west
coast of Iceland. This is a very neat little place, but consisting
only of a few scattered houses along the shore, and immediately
at the base of steep and lofty hills, whose slides of lava-shale
extend almost to the beach. After landing here I spent an hour
or so in collecting Coleoptera, of which I found several under
stones in a field adjoining the beach.
On resuming our voyage the same morning, at 11 o'clock, we
pass table-shaped hills, of which the upper portion consists of i
ENTOMOLOGY OF ICELAND. 247
rocky ridges, and the lower of slopes of shale, frequently variegated
by strips of greensward, alternating with red tufa, which is in its
turn succeeded by loose grey basalt. The same description of
scenery continues for a considerable distance ; and on the tops
of the hills, as previously, frequent patches of snow occur. Of
course its total disappearance, or the contrary, varies according
to the warmth of the summer season in diifferent years. This
summer, and the last one also, are considered to be very fine
ones for Iceland. Arnarflordur (lat. 65° 41', N., long. 23° 35',
W.) was next reached, or, more strictly speaking, Bildudalur, as
this is the name of the head of the bay in the said fjord in which
our vessel anchored, from the establishment of a thriving Icelandic
merchant there ; in fact, his dwelling, factory, cottages, and
homestead constitute the whole of the place. As his wife was one
of our passengers up to this point, he came off to the steamer in
his boat not long after our arrival. I observed very few Coleoptera
under stones at Arnarfjordur. Geometridse, on the other hand,
proved plentiful on either side of a wall that divided the sloping
meadows here, as well as along the banks of a watercourse from
the hills. I caught probably three or four species, but the large
majority belonged to one kind.
The plateau of Glama glacier meets our view far ahead as we
approach Dyrafjord (lat. 65° 53', N., long. 23° 28', W.) on July
29th. The summits of the snow-streaked hills adjacent to the
shore terminate in more pointed peaks, and have generally a more
alpine appearance. The houses of Dyrafjord are scattered along
the line of coast, and are chiefly of wood, painted brown, with
roofs of shingle. I went ashore in the evening, and found
Geometridse very abundant.
On July 30th we reached Isafjordur (lat. 66° 6', N., long.
23° 7', W.), after visiting several other places. The clouds hung
low upon the mountains next morning. The heights that environ
the head of this fjord sweep more gradually to the shore than is
by any means always the case in these regions, and terminate in
grassy slopes, on which cattle were feeding, Geometridse are
decidedly scarce here, at least on the particular mountain slope
that I visited when I went ashore that morning, probably owing
to the dearth of flowers in that spot, for the day turned out a
beautiful one, warm and sunny.
Mr. Hugo Ruben, from Copenhagen, one of our fellow-
passengers, was the companion of my walk this morning, and
kindly assisted me in collecting a few Coleoptera. The scarcity
of flowers — very few besides gentians, wild thyme, and cotton-
grass — was very noticeable at Isafjordur, owing no doubt to its
northerly position.
Reykialjordur (lat. 65° 58' N., long. 21° 27' W.). I came on
deck at 6 a.m. on August 1st, just as we were passing Cape North,
348 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
the north-west point of Iceland, at the distance of a mile and a
half from the shore, and within the arctic circle. The cliffs of
Cape North are not very lofty, but precipitous, and going down
sheer into the sea, completely flat-topped, and with clouds
brooding low upon their summits. These heights are mostly of
a grey tint, with red and brown patches here and there, without
fissures, ravines, or projecting points, but presenting a uniform
wall of rock, with ledges of greensward seawards. A short
distance eastward, where the greensward dips into a hollow, and
the cliffs are lower in consequence, there are two places where
two waterfalls respectively leap over the brink into the sea,
descending from the Dranga glacier. A thick fog over the sea
prevailed for a considerable time this morning, but the weather
became clearer after mid -day, about which time we entered
Beykiafjordur, whose inhabitants are said to be the poorest in all
Iceland when the ice-floes prevent them from betaking themselves
to their lucrative fishing-grounds, and great hunger and distress
prevail ; but they are correspondingly thriving when they can
pursue their ordinary avocation, so completely does their
subsistence depend on their fisheries. Reykiafjordur is small
and narrow compared with other arms of the sea, and its village
similarly consists of very few houses. A few Coleoptera are to
be obtained by searching under stones; but though there are
decidedly some flowers and more varied kinds of plants than at
Isafjordur, I saw no GeometridsB whatever, and only one Cramhus
and one Phrygania. My own idea is that we have passed the limit
where most species occur, and are now too far north to meet with
many. The said limit I should be inclined to place between
Innuundafjordur and Isafjordur, possibly somewhere about fifty
miles south of the arctic circle. Some inmates of a house, where
we were invited to sit down, and given a draught of good milk
shortly before our return to the steamer, attributed the absence
of insects to the day not being a sunny one, and stated that there
had been several moths. Part of yesterday at Isafjordur, however,
turned out very fine and warm during my walk, yet I did not see
half a dozen Geometridse ; and of course certain species must
have their limit somewhere, as in our own land, — a limit traceable
to climate, and not always depending on the food-plant (as though
the insect cannot continue to exist apart from the food-plant, yet
the food-plant may be found without the insect). I gathered a
species of grass new to me this morning. At Reykiafjordur may
be seen many barrels and vats for holding the whale-oil, also
large sections of whalebone from the animal's palate, and large
masses of blubber drying in the sun, round which several specimens
of Calliphora vomitoria were buzzing, and others lying lifeless on
their backs on the surface of the blubber, either from their wings
and legs having become clogged with the oil (and this is the most
ENTOMOLOGY OF ICELAND. 24d
probable supposition), or from the ammonia in the flesh of the
whale being too strong, even for what are ordinarily regarded as
scavenger-flies.
Fog-horn sounding early on the morning of August 2nd, and
a smart shower of rain, at Skagestrand (lat. 65° 50', N., long.
20° 18', W.), at which place the hills recede from the coast, are
smaller in dimensions, and consisting of far more gradual and
easy means of ascent, being for the most part grassy slopes, as
far as I can judge from the steamer. The clouds are still resting
on their summit. Skagestrand apparently only consists of a
dozen or so farms or cottages, scattered here and there over a
level green plain adjacent to the sea, and in front of the hills.
As it was a damp and foggy morning, and our stay here only a
short one, I did not land. About 9 a.m. we are again on our
way towards Saudakrog (Saudakrok in Icelandic) (lat. 65° 45', N.,
long. 19° 38', W.), but continue to proceed very slowly in conse-
quence of the fog. Drangey, so famous as the place of residence of
the hero Grettir and his brother, and their death at the hands of
their foes, is a rocky mound of an island, with precipitous cliff's
on every side, seemingly impregnable, had not the ladder, according
to the Saga, been left in position against the rocks, whereby his
enemies scaled the place. It is now uninhabited, but is productive
as regards the number of sea-birds in it, and the fish around. A
little further away the large island of Malmey is passed, where
Malmey, an outlawed bishop, who had been driven by his enemies
from the land, resided ; and his retainers, in retaliation, killed
them at Holar, his old episcopal seat of residence, about a.d. 1300,
being as fierce as his enemies themselves in those wild times.
The cliffs of Drangey are whitened all over in many places with
the guano of sea-birds, and in close proximity to them stands a
pointed, insulated rock, known as the " Old Man " ; it is said
there was another in its vicinity, termed the " Old Woman,"
which has long since fallen into the sea. Saudakrok presents a
very neat appearance, and extends along the sea-beach, with
gradually sloping cliffs, or, more strictly speaking, steep banks,
with their surface everywhere strewn with shale and loose stones.
On landing, I strolled up the bed of a dry watercourse, where I
collected some of the stones, being struck with the variety of
their colour and markings. Arrived at the moor above, I found
it covered with stones, grassy hillocks, and an abundance of the
plants of Dryas octopetala, by this time all gone to seed ; captured
one Noctua on 'Thymus serpyllum, and obtained some Coleoptera
under stones ; also some Calliphora, then in a semi-torpid state,
that had crept there for shelter from the damp weather. Three
Geometridse also seen,
(To be continued.)
250
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTU^ OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 233.)
Mamestra, Och., hrassiccB, L.
The type of this excessively abundant and widely-distributed
species is described by Linnaeus, in the * Systema Naturae,' 10th
edition, p. 516, No. Ill, as follows: — "Noctua spirilinguis
cristata alis depressis cinereo nebulosis: unco nigro supra
maculam priorem." In the 12th edition, p. 852, No. 163, he
adds, *' Stigmata alse ordinaria punctis albis notata et margo
inferior punctis 3 albis." It must be noted that no mention is
made in the Linnsean description of a subterminal line, and
mention is made of three white dots on inner margin. My
specimens have one or two of these dots present, not three,
and I have specimens in which the subterminal striga is
practically obsolete ; the " uncus " is well seen around the
claviform, and there are traces in some specimens of another
around the lower part of the orbicular. It would appear
that we rarely get specimens satisfying the Linnsean description
of the type, our specimens being principally referable to var.
alhicolon, St. Guenee, in his * Noctuelles,' vol. v., pp. 198, 199,
says of the variation of this species : — '* It varies a little both
in colour and markings, but I have never seen a distinct race.
Albidilinea of Haworth has the reniform and subterminal line
well marked in white; Albicolon of Stephens is, on the contrary,
of mixed colours, with the claviform obliterated; lastly, the
figure d of Engramelle has a yellow ochreous tint. These last
specimens are generally smaller than the type." Regarding this
ochreous form, Mr. Dobree has specimens, a description of which
he has kindly given me {vide var. ochracea). In England we
appear to get three fairly distinct forms : — (1) Ashy grey, mottled
with darker on the costal margin and with ochreous on the inner
(the ochreous often with a reddish tinge), with distinct stigmata
and subterminal line, = var. albicolon^ St. (2) An almost uni-
colorous blackish grey form, with all markings and lines, except
reniform, almost obsolete, = var. unicolor. (3) An intensely
black form, with very distinct white subterminal line and
reniform, = var. albidilinea, Hiibner figures (88) the pale form
under the name of brassiccB. Mr. Gregson, * Entomologist,' iv.,
p. 52, writes : — " Of this constant and abundant species I dare
not say how many I have carefully secured, and the results are
before me: — One very small perfect specimen; one of a smooth
rich brown colour and without markings, a large specimen ; and
two large females having full white stigma, and a rich, distinct,
wavy, light striga near the outer edge. These are very striking
VARIETIES Oi' NOCTU^ IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 261
insects." I have a very small specimen, but have never seen one
that could be called really brown, so that Mr. Gregson's specimen
must have been a very unusual form. Taking the mottled grey
insect as the type, we have the following forms : —
1. Ashy grey, mottled with darker, no ochreous colouring, white
reniform, subterrainal line more or less obsolete, = brassicce.
2. Grey, mottled with ochreous, distinct stigmata and sub-
terminal line, = var. alhicolon, St.
3. Ochreous grey, mottled with darker, white reniform, sub-
terminal line present, = var. ochracea,
4. Unicolorous blackish grey, white reniform, obsolete sub-
terminal line, = var. unicolor,
5. Very black, white reniform, white subterminal line, = var.
albidilinea, Haw.
a. var. ochracea, mihi. — This is the fig. d of Engramelle, 456.
Hiibner's figure (88) may be described as: — "Anterior wings pale
ochreous, with darker fuscous shades; all the characteristic lines and
markings of brassiccB of a pale whitish ochreous. Hind wings grey, margin
darker than base, lunule distinct." None of our British specimens appear
to be referable to this variety. Mr. Dobree, however, writes : — "I have
specimens from Amurland, where it is very common. These are of quite a
pale, warm ochreous ground colour, with typical faint markings. Keniform
white, and more compact than in British specimens, and outlined with
black. Orbicular, the same as ground colour, with strong black outline,
and beneath the orbicular a conspicuous semicircular black mark facing
inwards ; the subterminal line almost obsolete " {in litt.).
/3. var. alhicolon, St. — This would appear to be the more common form
of brassiccB in the southern part of England, being mottled with ochreous
and dark fuscous, and with distinct stigmata and transverse lines outlined
in pale ochreous. Stephens' albicolon, however, had an "obliterated
claviform," which is not usually the case with the mottled variety.
y. var. unicolor j mihi. — Anterior wings dull blackish grey, with the
subterminal line almost obsolete, the markings, blending with the dark
ground colour, give it a very unicolorous appearance. The outer edge of
the reniform white, as in the type. My specimens are labelled Nottingham
and Westcombe Park, but I dare say it is found occasionally wherever the
type or var. albicolon is abundant.
^. var. albidilinea, Haw. — Haworth's description of alhidilinea is as
follows: — "Alis anticis nigricantibus, striga postica alte bidentata
albicante."
tibus ordi
exacte ut
believe, rare. I have only one of this intensely black form with distinct white
markings. My specimen was bred from pupae, sent me by Mr. Mottershaw,
of Nottingham. Mr. Robson, in the 'Young Naturalist,' vol. ix., p. 103,
referring to Mr. Gregson's specimens, mentioned above, describes them,
and I have very little doubt they belong to this variety. I have seen
a specimen of Mr. Robson's belonging to this variety, but the sub-
terminal line is more ochreous than white. I would include all black
specimens with strongly-marked reniform and subterminal line under this
varietal name.
J26S TflE ENTOMOLOGIST.
8. var. andalusica, Stdgr. — Dr. Staudinger has a variety in his
VCatalog' under this name, which he describes as, " dilutior, magis
unicolor." I thought that probably this variety might refer to my var.
ochracea, as this short description is so vague that it is impossible to tell
from it to what form Dr. Staudinger refers. Mr. Dobree, however, in
answer to a query, writes : — " Andalusica is certainly not the Amur type.
It is merely the pale form so constantly occurring in all continental, as
opposed to British, Lepidoptera, the ground colour of the Amur type (vide
above) is ochreous, but that of Andalusica is grey " (in litt.).
Mamestraj Och., pei'sicarice, L.
This species, as far as my knowledge extends, appears to be
very constant in Britain. I find a slight variation in the amount
of ochreous colour in the white discoidal, some variation in the
extent of the orbicular being obsolete, and rather more in
the character of the subterminal line. I have some in which
this latter is obsolete, others in which it is represented by a
more or less complete series of ochreous dots, and one only
in which it is quite complete. On the Continent, however, it
appears to be more variable, at any rate, so far as the discoidal
is concerned ; in some specimens it is ochreous, and in others
only of the ground colour. The former is, according to Guenee,
the accipitrina of Esper, the latter the unicolor of Staudinger,
although, as mentioned below, Dr. Staudinger considers accipitrina
a distinct species. The type of this species is described by
Linnaeus, * Fauna Suecicse,' pp. 319, 320, No. 1208, as : — " Noctua
spirilinguis cristata, alls fusco-nebulosis : macula reniformi albo
papilla lunariflavescente." "Alse superiores fusco nigricantes, venis
nebulosse, margine postico quasi dentato atomis albis. Inferiores
antice pallidse, postice fuscescentes margine albido. Subtus
omnes glaucescentes : fascia lata, obsoleta et puncto nigro. Anus
ferrugineus " ; and in the * Systema Naturae,' p. 847, we read,
** Alarum superiorum margo posticus albo-dentatus." Our speci-
mens have an ochreous subterminal line, not " white."
a. var. accipitrina, Esp.(?) — Of this variety there are specimens in the
Doubleday collection (continental), with " the reniform ochreous, and the
whole insect much less strongly marked." Guenee says of it : — " Accipitrinaj
Esp., pi. 129, fig. 4, appears, after what he himself states in his text, to be
a purely accidental and very singular variety of persicarice" Dr. Staudinger,
in his * Catalogue,' says : — " Accipitrina of Esper is another species, the
var. accipitrina of collections is not Esper's accipitrina" He then suggests
for the accipitrina of continental cabinets the varietal name of unicolor.
p. var. unicolor, Stdgr. — Of this variety, Staudinger says in his
* Catalog,' " Al. ant. absque macula alba." Mr. Dobree writes: — "I have
specimens of this variety in my collection. It seems to be a common
continental variety " (in litt.).
Apamea, Och.
The genus Apamea brings us face to face with the great
difficulty of dealing with our Noctua varieties, for in this genus
VARIETIES OF NOCTUiE IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 353
we have the first of those protean species where the ground
colour varies through several shades of colour, and where the
markings are so variable, and yet recurring with such frequency
in the various forms, that it is no wonder our early lepidopterists
thought they had many distinct species. Taking the first two
species, hasilinea and pahulatricula, we have two of the most
constant species in the genus, hasilinea being ordinarily charac-
terised by no special markings, but being generally of an almost
unicolorous hue with transverse lines, while pahulatricula is
characterised by a strongly-developed black longitudinal mark
directly under the stigmata. The two forms — represented by
these species — give a basis on which the development of the
variation in the other species appear to proceed, viz., (I) an
unicolorous form with transverse lines, and (2) a more variegated
form with a dark longitudinal streak under the stigmata.
The species of this genus may be looked upon as having the
anterior wings divided into three parts, — the basal area, the
median area, and the outer area. The first and last of these have
transverse lines crossing them, the second contains the stigmata,
and under this, in some species, is a very dark longitudinal
t-^ • shaped mark (a modification of the claviform). These may
be looked upon as the great characters of the variable members
of the genus, the variation consisting principally of the develop-
ment (in some cases to a very high degree) or non-development
of this particular mark. Thus, in the variable species gemina, we
find all the different phases of variation to consist of two types :
one, in which the transverse lines are developed, and the species
has a particularly reticulated appearance ; the other, in which
the HH-shaped mark is highly developed, the transverse lines
more or less suppressed, and the median space more or less
intensified in its upper half in colour. But just as hasilinea and
pahulatricula exhibit single forms of a different type, and geminay
on the other hand, exhibits these types blended into one with
intermediate forms, so we have in unanimis an almost purely
dimorphic species, where one form is reticulated and the other
with the HH-shaped mark, and yet there is no extreme develop-
ment of either form, as in gemina. We now come to another
constant member of the group, — ophiogramma, — with its charac-
teristic dark costal mark, and then we reach, what appears to me,
to be the most aberrant* member of the group, leucostigma, where
the transverse lines are reduced to a minimum, where the
HH mark is rarely developed, but where we get a perfectly new
form of variation, — a dark unicolorous form with no markings
whatever, except the variable yellow or white reniform stigma.
And then comes didyma {oculea), one of the most protean species
* This is an Apamea, undoubtedly, from its markings, but the shape of the
wings is different to the other members of the group. It appears to have close
characters with Uydroecia.
264 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
in the whole group, and it is almost impossible in this species
either to classify or tabulate the numerous forms, for not only
have we every possible variety that can be compounded of the
basilinea- and pabulatricula-like forms, but these are combined
with ophiogramma-like forms with a result that defies classifi-
cation : we have in grey, ochreous, and red colour the transverse
lined or reticulated form ; we have in each colour the i-H-marked
form; we have in each colour an ophiogramma-mBxked form
(dark costa), blended with the other forms of variation into
every possible intermediate form; and, lastly, we have the
unicolorous leucostigma-like forms in grey, red, and black.
Apamea, Och., basilinea, Fab.
This species is very constant in its markings for a member of
such a variable genus, but the ground colour varies from a pale
whitish ochreous, with transverse lines and stigmata still paler,
to a deep, almost unicolorous, reddish brown form, some speci-
mens being of the pale or a darker ground colour, with the
median area reddish, the other parts of the wings being also
suffused. This intermediate form would appear to be the type
from the description of Fabricius, which is as follows : — " Noctua
cristata alis deflexis fuscis griseis undatis, lineola baseos atra,
thoracis crista bifida." " Color variat ferrugineis griseisque,
distincta lineola parva flexuosa atra baseos. Antennae albidae."
Guenee (' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 206) mentions an allied species
under the name oi finitima, which Mr. Dobree assures me is only
a climatic variety of basilinea. It would appear that this species
is subject to a good deal of colour variation, according to its
geographical range, as the Huddersfield and Hartlepool speci-
mens are generally somewhat different in ground colour to the
South of England forms.
a. var. pallida, mihi. — Ground colour of the anterior wings pale
ochreous grey, not "fuscous," with still paler transverse lines, and no
ferruginous or reddish clouds, otherwise like the type. The palest form I
have seen of this species came from Mr. Russ, and was captured at Sligo.
6. var. unicolor, mihi. — The ground colour of a dark reddish brown,
with a slight purpUsh tint ; the orbicular scarcely traceable ; the reniform
indistinct, but outlined in a slightly paler hue than the ground colour ;
the subterminal line just traceable. Hind wings very dark grey, nervures
dusky, lunule indistinct. Captured in Westcombe Park, June, 1886.
Mr. Porritt writes : — " Reddish brown forms occur not uncommonly at
Huddersfield, quite different to the southern clay-coloured specimens " (in
litt.); and again he writes (* Transactions of Yorkshire Naturalists' Union,'
part vi., p. 76), "I have taken some very beautiful strongly-coloured
specimens at Huddersfield"; so that what would appear to be a very
unusual form in the London district is closely aUied to the ordinary one at
Huddersfield.
y. var. nebulosa, Vieweg. — Vieweg,i n his * Tabellarisches Verzeichniss,
&c., pi. i., fig- 6, figures a variety under this name. It has " The anterior
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 266
wings pale ochreous grey, with the costal area reddish, the red colour
extending half-way across the wing from the base to the reniform, and then
going off to a point at the costa; the characteristic basal streak of baailinea
is present, and there is a double black basal line; claviform and reniform
outlined in black, but orbicular indistinct; lower half of reniform dark.
Hind wings dark grey, with paler base and darker nervures." Vieweg's
diagnosis, p. 55, No. 84, is : — " Cristata, alis deflexis cano fuscoque variis,
litura baseos marginisque tenuioris nigris." In his further description in
German we find : — " The lower part of the outer reniform filled up with
blackish shading. Besides the black streak on the fold there stands close
to the inner margin, about the middle of the wing, a small narrow spot of
the same colour, which forms a chief mark by which this moth may be
recognised."
^. var. cinerascens, mihi. — Anterior wings of a dull ashy grey, with no
trace of the ferruginous markings of the type; the subterminal line of a
paler shade of the ground colour; the double basal lines and stigmata of
the ground colour, outlined in brown ; the reniform internally edged with
paler. Hind wings of the same dull colour as the anterior. I have seen
no specimens like these, except from Hartlepool. Mr. Robson sent me six
specimens, of which three were typical, and three of this dull, almost
unicolorous, form. Probably this variety is widely distributed in the most
northern parts of Britain.
s. Jinitlma, Gn. — Guenee (as mentioned above) considers this as a
distinct species, and writes : — " This replaces, in the United States, our
basilinea, which it closely resembles. It is of the same size ; the ground
colour of the superior wings less reddish, and more white; the median
space is, on the contrary, more strongly marked with reddish brown,
especially on the upper part ; the median lines are more strongly marked
in black, as well as the claviform, which is very distinct." Mr. Dobree, to
whom I am so greatly indebted for information, writes : — " The Hadena
Jinitlma of North America is only a climatic variety of basilinea. The chief
differences are that the general colour is of a pronounced vinous tinge ; in
some the space between the median lines is darker, so as to make a distinct
band across the wing, which includes the stigmata ; in others, the dusky
line, from the stigmata to the inner margin, is more pronounced than in
the generality of Enghsh specimens. In support of my belief, I have
collected numerous specimens from English localities, and in some few of
them, especially from Yorkshire and Newcastle, both the vinous tinge, as
well as the distinct band of the North American insect, is quite perceptible "
(in litt.),
(To be continued.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Leucophasia stnapis. — I have captured many specimens of this
species during June. Melanarge galatea was to be had in the district, but
seems confined to a very small area. — (Mrs.) M. Cbaske ; Nevvacott,
Bridgerule, Holsworthy, Devon, August 26, 1889.
CoLiAS EDUSA. — This butterfly has not been uncommon during the
past year, and several records have from time to tira&been received of its
capture ; among them are the following : —
256 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Essex. — I observed several, jsome of which I caught, at the end of
August and early in Septembeit, in clover-fields in several localities in
South-east Essex. — John T. cArrington.
Surrey. — I have to record thje capture of C. edusa on Eiddlesdown on
the 6th of this month. I have fceen looking out for more, but have failed
to see any up to this date. I thQ>ught perhaps we might be going to have
a busy season with them by this one being so near London. — C. J.
BoDEN ; 228, Bermondsey Street^, London, S.E., September 23, 1889.
Isle of Wight (Ventiior). — Wlhile at Ventnor I had the pleasure of
taking five males and one female ofl' the above, August 13th, 14th and 19th ;
no doubt I should have taken morel if the weather had not been so rough.
W. E. Butler; Chatham Street, Beading, September 13, 1889.
Berkshire. — Since returning to Reading I have taken three males, and
know of about fifteen being taken here. As I have not taken it here for
some years, I thought it would loe of interest to some of our brother
entomologists, — W. E. Butler; Clhatham Street, Reading, Sept. 13, 1889.
Gloucestershire. — On Tuesday, .Sept. 10th, Mr. A. C. Renwick, of
Churchdown, saw several specimen\s of the above insects, hovering over
ragwort on the railway line and in '.the fields adjoining, about two miles
from Gloucester; he succeeded in '.taking one male; he had previously
taken another. On Thursday, the )'-2th, Mr. S. W. Lane, of Brunswick
Square, Gloucester, took a fine female whilst out shooting ; as he had not
his net he was only able to secure one.> There are several reported captures,
but the above are the only ones Which I am able to authenticate. —
M. Stanger Htggs ; The Mill Houise, Upton St. Leonards, Gloucester-
shire, j
Devonshire. — During the second 'tweek in September a few specimens
turned up in South Devon. — (Rev.) J.| E. Tarbat ; Whitley, Reading.
South Wales. — At a meeting of (the Penarth Entomological Society,
held on Tuesday, Sept. 10th, among other specimens exhibited were
between twenty and thirty Colias edusa, these having been caught in this
district since the beginning of August. Altogether about fifty have been
captured thus far. It may interest your readers to know that C. edusa
appears to abound about here for the first time for ten or twelve years,
Vanessa cardui has been very abundant also this year. Flusia gamma has
not been nearly so plentiful as last year. Sugaring has been very little
use, and, generally speaking, insects .have not been plentiful. — G. A.
Birkenhead, Hon. Sec; Downs View,, Penarth, near Cardiff, September
13, 1889.
Durham. — On September 2nd I s£iw a specimen of C. edusa near
Durham. I am told it is some years since any have been observed in this
county. — H.J. Carpenter; Observatory, Durham.
CoLiAS HYALE NEAR Readtng. — Early in September I saw a specimen
of Colias hyale near this town. — (Kev.) J". E. Tarbat ; Whitley, Reading.
Limenitis SIBYLLA VAR. — Whilst cafituring some specimens of Limen-
itis Sibylla in the New Forest this summer, I caught a variety which had
the white entirely absent and was uniform black-brown, the underside
consequently had not white, but was of brown turning to bluish grey near
the body. — W. W. Wall ; Spring Bank, Shirley Warren, Shirley, Hants,
July, 1889.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. iJ57
Apatura jris. — I took this year a specimen of Apatura iris, settling
on a clod of earth. At the time there was no apparent reason for its
choice of alighting place, but resting on the spot two days subsequently, a
most offensive smell became evident, which, on inspection, proved to arise
from the decomposing remains of a snake, partly hidden by grass, a few
inches away from the clod. — John T. Wikkworth; ^2, Wallwood Street,
Burdett Road, E., August 9, 1889.
Vanessa antiopa in Essex. — I captured on September 4th, in a
garden in Wallwood Road, Leytonstone, a fine specimen of Vanessa
antiopa.—G. C. Frindell; 20, Wellesley Road, Leytonstone.
Vanessa antiopa at CRoyDON. — On the 14th September a friend
came over and said he had seen a black butterfly bordered with yellow. I
took my net at once and found it was sitting on a conservatory. It was
high up, but I made a hit at it and missed ; my friend saw where it flew
to and we secured it. There were two or three plum-trees about and some
fallen fruit. — Sydney C. Hovenden ; Oaklands, Haling Park Road,
Croydon, September 17, 1889.
Vanessa antiopa in Susskx. — My brother captured a specimen of
V. antiopa here last week. This is the second specimen we have taken, as
I caught one in August last year, near the same spot. — F. A. Mullens,
Jun., Westfield Place, Battle, August 31, 1889.
Epinephele hyperanthes yar. arete. — While working the same
ground (S. W. Berks) where last year I took five specimens of the var.
arete of Epinephele hyperanthes (as recorded in the * Entomologist '), I
have this year captured three more of the same variety. In a subsequent
issue (Entom. xxii. 20), Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell suggested that experiences
of others might prove that the damp summer of 1888 had much to
answer for in modifying the normal markings of our butterflies. While
admitting the possibiUty of last year's developments perpetuating their
peculiarities, yet, to my mind, my latest captures rather point to a strain
of this variety existing. — John T. Winkworth ; 22, Wallwood Street,
Burdett Road, E., August 9, 1889.
Polyommatus phlceas var. schmidtii. — Yesterday, on Dartford
Heath, I captured a specimen of Polyommatus phlceas, having the usual
copper colour replaced by almost pure white. Unfortunately it is damaged,
as I had nothing but my hat to effect its capture. — Clement T. Youens ;
Tower Cottage, Dartford, Kent, August 26, 1889.
Spring Rhopalooera on the Riviera. — Mr. Norris s article, ** On the
Spring Butterflies at Hyeres (Entom. 182), should be useful to intending
visitors to the Riviera. A list of a few additional species I have found in
Cannes and the neighbourhood, which Mr. Norris does not appear to have
met with at Hyeres, may serve as a supplement to his notes. Down to
Pieris daplidice our lists agree, the var. bellidice (?) I have once met with.
Euchlo'e helia var. ausonia, is common in May. Aberrations of Leucophasia
sinapis 1 have sought for in vain. Thecla spini and T. w-album (one
specimen), I have caught in the neighbourhood of Cannes, in the first days
of June. Several of the former were flying round an oak-tree on a hot
moor at mid-d;iy. Thestor ballus does not belong to the Cannes fauna,
ENTOM. — OCTOBEE, 1889. ^A
S58 ■ THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
LyccBua hcetica and L. telicanus are by no means common at Cannes. Both
fly on warm sunny days about the beginning of December. In 1885 L.
telicanus was to be seen hovering about in the woods, and for a few days
there were a great many to be seen ; they all disappeared, however, about
a week after their first appearance. There is a second brood later in the
year, I believe, but certainly not before July. L. orion {battus): one
specimen taken on the 13th May, 1884. L. icarinus : occasionally met
with in May. L. corydon : excessively common in Cannes ; rather larger
than the northern type, as is also L. adonis. Of the former I have
captured one specimen of the rare aberration semi-brunnea (Mill), on the
19th May. L. dorylas : three males on the 1st of June, 1886, inland, in
a torrent-bed in the same locality as L. sebrus. L. minima (one specimen)
and L. semi-argiis. L. melanops: common wherever Dorycinum suffructi-
cosum, its food-plant, grows. Nemeobius lucina and Libythea celtis are
both blanks on the Cannes list. My Charaxes jasius have generally
emerged during the second week of June, so that the first half of May is
unusually early, even for bred specimens. Apatura ilia ab. clytie, I have
never seen at Cannes. Vanessa egea occurred more frequently this year
than usually. It is very common at Mentone in March. I have found
larvae of 7. urticcB in abundance, both on nettle and hop. They did not
reach the perfect state till late in the season. Melanargia galatea var.
procida : local, and a little later than syllius. Argynnis dia : very common
this year at Cannes. Epinephele pasiphae, I have not met with. Spilo-
thyrus althcece and S. lavaterce : rare. Syrichthus orbifer I do not think we
take, but on the other hand, S. alveus (var. fritillum), is abundant and S.
carthami is occasionally met with. Three other skippers are also found,
especially on roadsides ; they are Pamphila thaumas and P. lineota, and a
third which I take for P. actaon, though larger than the British type.
All the other insects mentioned by Mr. Norris are common to both
Cannes and Hyeres. During the summer Satyrus circe, hermione, briseis,
statilinus and arethusa, and Epinephele ida, are common. The apollo and
many species of Erebia and Polyommatus, are common on the hills, as is
also LyccBna arion and some others of the genus. A Russian species, L.
ccelestina, was re-discovered some years ago at St. Martin Lantosque, where
also the scarce Papilio alexanor is found. Argynnis pales is also found
near Cannes. — J. C. Warburg ; 8, Porchester Terrace, W.
Sphinx convolvuli. — The following notices of the capture this season
of Sphinx convolvuli have been received : —
Middlesex. — I observed recently in the Regent's Park Gardens, a large
hawk-moth, — I think S. convolvuli, without doubt, — hovering over plants
of scented white tobacco. — W. H. Tuck; 47, Cathcart Road, South
Kensington, September, 1889.
Berkshire. — A very fresh specimen of this insect was brought to me on
August 31st, which had been found resting on a garden railing in Reading.
Two years ago the moth appeared somewhat plentifully in the neighbour-
hood.—(Rev.) J. E. Tarbat ; Whitley, Reading.
Hants. — I have in my possession a large female specimen of this
insect, which was found at rest by day on Sept. 10th ; it is in fine con-
dition and seems of a darker colour than usual. — J. M. Adye ; Somerford
Grange, Christchurch, September 17.
Oxfordshire. — On August 26th last, at 8 p.m., I took, hovering over
scented tobacco plants, a specimen of 8. convolvuli. — H. T. Bliss ;
Chipping Norton, Oxon.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 259
Glamorganshire. — It was my fortune to capture a good specimen of
Sphinx convolvuli on the night of September 11th, about half-past eleven,
hovering over the flowers of a balsam I have growing in my garden. I
hear my friend Mr. Allen, of Porthkerry, about seven miles from here,
caught two S. convolvuli about a fortnight since, hovering near some sweet-
scented tobacco plants. — G. A. Birkenhead ; Downs View, Penarth, near
Cardiff.
Lancashire. — On August 24th I had a large Sphinx convolvuli brought
to me by a friend. It was caught by his gardener, settled on the wall of
one of iiis greenhouses in his garden at Didsbury, near Manchester. The
same night another was seen, and again on the 25th, both times flying
over the flowers of the white tobacco plant. On the 26th I went with the
hope of catching it and succeeded. — T. G. Mason ; 8, Landsdowne Road,
Higher Crumpsall, Manchester, September 16.
Aberdeenshire. — A fine specimen of Sphinx convolvuli was taken here
on August 27th, 1889. There are always one or two taken here every
year. — L. G. Esson; 46, North Charlotte Street, Aberdeen, N.B.
Sphingid/E in Kent. — On August 22nd I captured a fine female
specimen of Sphinx convolvuli^ hovering over the flowers of Nicotiana
ajinis (tobacco-plant). I took a second specimen at the same place on the
31st, a male, in fairly good condition. I might also mention that I was
fortunate in finding a larva of Chcerocampa porcellus and also one of
Acherontia atropos in this neighbourhood ; both of them have retired
underground to effect their transformation. — Thomas Willson ; Dudley
House, Ramsgate, September 4, 1889.
Arctta caia. — I have bred over 700 imagines of A. caia without
obtaining a single striking variety. One had hindwings nearly all yellow,
and several had all the black spots banded into bars. These larvae were
fed on white parts only of lettuce and cabbage. — W. H. Tunley; 41,
Chichester Road, Landport, September 16, 1889.
Malformed Liparts dispar. — I have bred a good many males of
Liparis dispar with a rounded piece taken out of one or both hind wings;
is this common? — W. H. Tunley; 41, Chichester Road, Landport,
September 17, 1889.
[In Entom. vol. xi., p. 170, is a reference to this peculiar mal-
formation which is figured in the coloured plate, to which the reference
belongs. It is there stated that " Mr. Enock bred in 1887 upwards of
eight hundred males and females of this species, and nearly all had the
underwings notched as seen in the illustration." In his papers upon
" Variation of Insects," Mr. Cockerell (Entom. 149) remarks upon this
form.— J. T. C]
Stauropus fagi in Wilts. — Mr. Searancke's note in the last number
of 'The Entomologist' (Entom. 212) has reminded me of another locality
for S. fagi, which I believe is very little known to entomologists, viz.,
Groveley Wood, near Salisbury. I took three S. fagi there in 1887, on
the 2nd, 4th, and 13th of July, and a friend of mine took another. I had
very little opportunity of working the wood, but I believe if thoroughly
worked it would yield some good species. — Leonard S. Sellon ; Davos-
Platz, Switzerland.
260 TltE ENTOMOLOGIS-f.
DiCRANURA viNULA. — Whilst searching for larvse on some willow trees
in this district, on the 20th of July, I found four nearly full-grown larvas
and, at the same time, several ova of Dicranura vinula on the same tree.
The four larvse pupated during the first week of August, but the larvae
reared from the eggs are still feeding and have not yet moulted for the last
time. I see that Stainton gives July and August as the times of appear-
ance of the larva of this species, but the larvae which I found on the 20th
July must have hatched about the 1st or 2nd week in June. I may add
that I found a larva on poplar on the 19th June, which had moulted for
the second time. I also found (in 1888) several vinula larvae, still quite
young, as late as the 19th of September. — H. D. Sykes ; The Cedars,
Brigadier Hill, Enfield, August 26, 1889.
AcRONYCTA LEPORTNA IN PERTHSHIRE. — I have to rccord the capture
of several fine larvae (some nearly full-fed) of Acronycta leporina, taken near
Tummell Bridge, Perthshire, last month. I had believed leporina to have
been a southern insect. — Mrs. Cross ; The Vicarage, Apple by, Doncaster,
September 11, 1889.
AcRONYCTA ALNi (larva) IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE. — Whilst out shooting
on August 7th I captured a very fine larva of this rare species. It was
crawling on my neck, so I am unable to say what its food-plant could have
been. There were only fruit trees in the field where I found it. There is
no mistaking its identity, as the habits and appearance of the larva are so
characteristic. Its length is 33 ram. at rest, and the spines on the second
segment are 5 mm. long. I can find no record of larvae of A. alni having
been taken in Gloucestershire before. — M. Stanger Higgs ; The Mill
House, Upton St. Leonards, Gloucestershire.
Stilbia anomala in Lancashire. — While mothing here one after-
noon in August, I disturbed a nice female S. anomala, which is the first
I have taken or seen here. — H. Murray; Lowbauk Villa, Carnforth,
September 14, 1889.
Triph-ena orbona in Hants. — I have the pleasure to record the
capture of a good specimen of Triphcena orbona (subsequa) near Lynd-
hurst, Hants, on the 1st of August last. My brother and I were walking
amongst some heather about a mile from Lyndhurst, on the south side of
the road from that town to the Lyndhurst Road Railway Station, when the
insect flew by and was captured by my brother. I am sorry to say,
however, that the moth is no longer in my possession. I had taken it last
Saturday week to the Natural History Museum, South Kensington, to
compare with specimens there, in order to make sure of the species, and
was careless enough, in returning from the Museum, to leave the box
containing it (with other species) on the rack in the railway-carriage. I
have made every enquiry through the railway authorities and at Scotland
Yard, but up to to-day have heard nothing of the box. — Henry A. Hill ;
132, Haverstock Hill, London, N.W., September 25, 1889.
Catocala fraxini in Hants. — I captured at Porchester, by sugaring,
on September 3rd, a specimen of C. fraxini, and also another on the
following night. They are both in good condition. — M. J. Stares;
Porchester, Fareham, Hants, September 9, 1889.
NOTtIS, CAPTURES, £tC. 361
Catocala sponsa and C. fraxixt at Winchelsea. — I caught the
above on the nights of Aug. 20th and 2-2nd respectively, at sugar, the
former during, and the latter immediately after, a strong W.S.W. wind. I
believe they are both new to the local list. — D. W. Carr ; Holbrooke,
Derby, September 3, 1889.
CiDAiUA reticulata, LONG IN PUPA. — I havc provcd to my satisfaction
that C. reticulata stays more than one season in the pupa state. I have
bred it this year from rubbish I collected two years ago. I have always
suspected this. I have also bred Eupithecia venosata this year from larvae
I took in the Isle of Man in June, 1887. — H. Murray ; Lowbank Villa,
Carnforth, September 14, 1889.
Notes from the New Forest. — I went down to Lyndhurst on
August 2nd last, but bad weather setting in, I returned immediately. On
the 15th I started once more and put up at Lyndhurst Road. During the
fortnight that I stayed in the Forest there was a good deal of rain off and
on, but the weather improved considerably towards the latter part of my
stay. It was evidently a bad season there for Lepidoptera, for very few
were to be seen on the wing, and I collected in nearly every part of the
Forest. Of the Diurni, Pararge egerla was very abundant in some of the
woods, and Gonepteryx rhamni was also plentiful and in fine condition.
Instead of the countless numbers of Argynnis paphia that I noticed in
Boldre Wood last year, this time only a few tattered individuals were to
be seen now and again. I took Satyrus semele in a number of different
localities, and the specimens were very good. The only other butterflies
that I saw were Pieris hrassicce, P. rapes, P. napi, Vanessa urticce, V. io,
P. megcBra, Epinephele ianira, and E. tithonus. Sugar was a com-
plete failure, for after going out night after night and trying a great many
different spots, my total " bag " only amounted to one Thyatira batis, one
Xylophasia monoglypha (polyodon), one Agrotis suffasa, three Amphipyra
pyramidea and two Mania maura, although on one occasion my brother,
myself, and a friend got almost " bagged " ourselves by a troop of about
eight or nine forest ponies, which, with piercing neighs, came full gallop at
our light, and had it not been for the friendly protection afforded by the
trunk of a large oak, behind which we jumped, after shutting off the
lantern, I expect that it might have been our last " sugaring " expedition.
I was not altogether surprised at this scarcity of insects, after the very
rainy cold weather of July and the severe gales at the commencement
of August. T met with two different collectors at Lyndhurst, and on
questioning them I found that their experience agreed entirely with mine
as to the bad season. — W. H. Blaber ; Groombridge, Sussex, September
16, 1889.
Forest of Dean. — The Forest of Dean, for various reasons, does not
seem to be a favourite hunting-ground for collectors. The ground is hilly
and uneven, and hard to work. The trees are mostly of young growth,
and too close together, and are nearly all oak. The soil is poor, and
vegetation is, for the most part, limited to a coarse kind of grass with a
sprinkling of bracken. There are, however, many places, especially near
the edge of the Forest, where the trees are of large growth, and there are
many beech, firs, holly and ash, with a few sycamore and birch mingled
with the oak. Some of the clearings also are covered with furze, heath,
262 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
wild thyme, brambles, and other flowers. These spots may easily be
missed by anyone not familiar with the ground, but when worked steadily
and persistently may be made to yield many good things. For the larva-
hunter there is no lack of sport. Nearly every year, towards the end of
May, whole districts, sometimes the entire Forest, instead of being clothed
with bright green leaves, have a scorched brown appearance, nearly every
leaf being devoured, some trees being even killed outright by the depre-
dations of the innumerable larvsB. Few, however, of these myriads
survive. Flocks of young starlings, rooks and jackdaws adjourn to the
Forest from all the country round, and fatten on their tender bodies,
searching both ground and trees, so that after these birds are gone scarcely a
larva is to be found. Cuckoos also abound, and "horse-ants," as they are
locally called, come in for their share, cHmbing the trees to look for their
victims. Sometimes, however, the aggressor gets the worst of it, the larva,
if caught by the tail-end, being enabled to turn and eject its protective
fluid over the ant's head, causing it instantly to let go, and ultimately to
die. The following are from a list of over 300 species taken in the Forest.
This list, I have no doubt, is capable of being largely added to: — Argynnis
paphia, in one small enclosure only, where the dog-violet grows. A,
adippe, rare. A. selene, frequent. Vanessa c-albwn, common. V. poly-
chloros, frequent. V. cardui, frequent. Apatura iris, rare. Thecla w-
album, very local, but abundant where it occurs. Colias edusa, one
specimen only. Smerinthus tilim, frequent. Chcerocampa porcellus, rare.
Psilura monacha, rare. Pericallia syringaria, rare. Nyssia hispidaria,
frequent. Amphidasys stratarla, common. Emmelesia affi,nata and E.
alchemillata, both common. Lobophora halterata, frequent. Bupalus
piniaria, frequent. Melanthia hastata, rare. Stauropus fagi, rare.
Notodonta trepidata, frequent. Asphalia ridens, frequent. Acronycta
leporina, rare. TriphcBna Jimbria, rare. Tceniocampa munda, very
common, in pupa-digging more than fifty per cent, were the pupae of this
moth. Aplecta prasina, frequent. Amphipyra pyramidea, common.
Phytometra viridaria, frequent. Hemerophila abruptaria, rare. — N. T.
Searancke ; Mitcheldean, near Gloucester, August 23, 1889.
Sugar Unproductive. — T. can corroborate Mr. Hodges' note (Entora.
212) about the unproductiveness of sugar in June last. Both my brother
and J '* sugared " nightly for the first three weeks in that month, with
most deplorable results ; together we certainly did not take more than a
dozen specimens. I do not agree with Mr. Hodges' hypothesis " owing to
the cold." I think the better explanation is that it is owing to the super-
abundance of honeydew on the foliage, and I have come to the conclusion
that very little good can be done until there has been sufficient rain to
wash it ofiF, as was the case last June. — C. E. Stott ; Lostock, Boltou-le-
Moors, August 19, 1889.
Parasites on Lepidoptera. — My experience shows these parasites
(Entom. 237) to have been common during the season. On the evening of
July 23rd, for example, I took a Caradrina quadripunctata [cubicularis) off
a Chester gas-lamp. At first I took the moth to be a variety, as the upper
wings, — upper wings only, — were mottled with red. This I discovered to
be due to red parasites, similar in appearance to the ordinary cheese-mite.
The insect, with parasites, is now in the Entomological Collection for the
District, Grosvenor Museum, Chester. — J. Arkle ; 2, George Street,
Chester.
SOCIETIES. 363
Parasites on Moth. — On June 26th I netted a specimen of Noctua
augur, with the fore-wings almost covered with red parasites, giving the
moth a very curious appearance. — W. E. Butler; Chatham Street,
Reading, September 13, 1889.
BoMBUs TERRESTRis IN LoNDON. — I have observcd this aut umn a
number of Bombus terrestris, revelling in the sunflowers in the Embank-
ment Gardens, near Charing Cross. Where could they have come from ?
Do they breed in the gardens? — W. H. Tuck; 47, Cathcart Road, South
Kensington, September, 1889.
Erratum. — On p. 234, 31st line in Zeuzera pyrina, read " sight " for
"light."
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — September 4:th 1889. — Capt.
H. J. Elwes, F.L.S., Vice-President, in the chair. Prof. C. H. Fernald,
of Amherst, Mass., U.S.A., and Mr. C. J. Fryer, of Emscote Road,
Warwick, were elected Fellows ; and Prof. C. V. Riley, of Washington,
U.S.A., and Dr. A. S. Packard, of Providence, Rhode Island, U.S.A., were
admitted into the Society. Mr. George T. Baker exhibited two remarkably
dark specimens of Acronycta ligustri taken near Llangollen. Mr. P. B.
Mason exhibited and remarked on a collection of Lepidoptera which he had
recently made in Iceland. The following species, amongst others, were
represented, viz. : — Crymodes exulis, Tryphcena pronuba, Noctua confluay
Plusia gamma, Larentla casiata, Melanippe sociata, Coremia munitata,
Phycisfusca, and Crambus pascuellus. The Rev. Dr. Walker also exhibited
a number of Lepidoptera, Diptera, and Hymenoptera, recently collected by
himself in Iceland. The collection included the following, viz. : — Crymodes
exulis, Noctua conflua, Larentla ccesiata, Coremia munitata, Culex pipiens,
Scatophaga stercoraria, Calliphora erythrocephala, Heliophilus grcenlandica,
Bombus terrestris, &c. Mr. W. White exhibited, on behalf of Mr. G. C.
Griffiths, a specimen of Nephroma hlppia, Fab., var. gcea, Feld., which he
believed to be hermaphrodite. He also exhibited, for comparison, a female
of the same species. A discussion on hermaphroditism ensued, in which
Mr. Distant, Capt. Elwes, Mr. M'Lachlan, and Mr. Baker took part.
Dr. Sharp exhibited specimens of Cychramus luteus and fungicola Auct.,
and stated that they are the sexes of one species, C. luteus being the
male, C.fungicola the female. In working through the Central American
Cychramini, he had found that in some genera the males differed greatly
from the females in size and sculpture; but this was not a constant
character, for in some species, while certain males scarcely differed from
the females in these respects, others were so different that they would
scarcely be recognised as belonging to the same species. Mr. Edward A.
Butler exhibited specimens of Platymetopius undatus, Deg., from Ewhurst,
Surrey. He remarked that the species was recorded as having been once
previously taken near Plymouth by the late Mr. John Scott. Mr. G. T.
Baker read a paper entitled, " On the distribution of the Charlonia group
of the genus Anthocharis.'' Mr. Baker stated that the species, six in
number, of this small division of the genus Anthocharis formed a very
natural and closely aUied group, presenting many points of interest, both
^64 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
in their relationship to each other and in their geographical distribution,
which extended from the Canaries on the west to the valley of the Indus
on the east. The author's theories as to the causes of the present distri-
bution of the group, which were based on geological data, were discussed
by Capt. Elwes, Mr. M'Lachlan, Mr. Distant, and Mr. Stainton. The
Chairman read a paper entitled, " On the genus Argynnis," which gave rise
to a discussion in which Mr. Distant, Mr. Jenner Weir, and Prof. Riley
took part. — H. Goss, Hon. Secretary.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
— August ^2nd, 1889. J. T. Carrington, Vice-President, in the chair.
Mr. Wellman exhibited a number of Abraxas grossulariata, showing
considerable variation, and Scoparia angustea, from Folkestone. Mr.
Skinner, a bleached example of Epinephele ianira, taken at Box Hill.
Mr. Carrington, on behalf of Mr. Lewcock, some 300 specimens of
Coleoptera taken during the season, being some of the larger aquatic
species, a few Donaciae, Malacoderma, Heteromera, &c., mainly from
Chattenden, Epping, Woking, and Farnham.
September 12th, 1889. — T. R. Billups, President, in the chair. Mr.
Jenner Weir exhibited desquamated upper wings of the male of Argynnis
paphia, in order to show that the apparent thickening of the median
nervules and sub-median nervure, in that sex of the species, was due to
the dense covering of broad scales, bent over and concealing some very
narrow, clavate, black scales or androcouia ; these appeared to be of a
different substance to the ordinary scales of the wings, so that when, by
the Waterhouse process, he had denuded the wings of the ordinary scales,
the androconia remained intact, and were removed by the use of the
camel's-hair brush, considerable friction being necessary. Mr. Weir
remarked that he had been induced to bring this matter before the Society,
because he found that some British entomologists appeared to think that,
in the restricted genus Argynnis, there was a real dilatation of some of the
median nervules, and occasionally of the sub-median nervure, but a
reference to Mr. Scudder's work on the * Butterflies of the Eastern United
States and Canada,' and to the ' Exotische Schmetterlinge von Dr.
Staudinger und Dr. Schatz,' would show that neither the American nor
German entomologists named had fallen into such an error. Mr. Weir
exhibited some specimens of Vanessa urticm bred from larvae taken at
Lewes ; these, although bred from one locality, showed great variation in
the amount of yellow on the fore wings : in one instance that colour
formed almost a band across the wings, and in one of the specimens the
costa was unusually dark, and the red of the lower wings very much
reduced in extent. Mr. Wellman, Bryophila muralis, Lobophora poly-
commata, and dark forms of Gnophos obscurarla, from Folkestone. Mr.
Croker, O. obscuraria from the New Forest, and a variety of Tcemocampa
gothica, closely approaching var. gothacina, taken at West Wickham. Mr.
Fenn mentioned that he had taken a similar variety at Lewisham. Mr.
Auld, a long series of Cidaria truncata, bred from a female captured in the
New Forest. Mr. Turner, a pink variety of Hypsipetes sordidata, also dark
forms of Boarmia gemmaria from Ashdown Forest, and specimens of
Cabera rotundaria. A discussion ensued as to whether this was a distinct
species or only a variety of C. pusaria. — H. W. Barker, Hon, Sec.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIL] NOVEMBEE, 1889. [No. 318.
FREDERICK BOND: IN MEMORIAM.
Frederick Bond was born at Exmouth on the 22nd February,
1811, being the third son of William Bond, a Captain in His
Majesty's 77th Foot, whose widow married a brother-officer of
the same surname, Captain Benjamin Bond, of Mount Pleasant,
Kingsbury, Middlesex. He was educated at Brighton, and was
intended for the medical profession ; but the dissecting-room was
distasteful to him, and being blessed with a competency sufficient
for his modest requirements, he was left free to indulge his
propensity for sport and natural history, and became an adept
alike with gun, rod, and net. He was also devotedly fond of
flowers and ferns, and, particularly in his later years, would
spend hours in attending to his garden and greenhouse. But his
chief occupations were shooting, fishing, and collecting insects ;
and being endowed with great power of observation, he amassed
a vast store of knowledge respecting the habits of our native
birds and insects, principally of Lepidoptera. Primarily he was
an ornithologist, and his collection of British birds and their eggs
was remarkable. But his ornithological virtues will doubtless be
chronicled elsewhere. It is of the entomologist that we have here
to speak, and in his character of British Lepidopterist to take a
last farewell of our departed friend.
At the age of fifteen, or thereabouts, Frederick Bond began to
collect insects, and down to the time of his death he missed no
opportunity of adding to his cabinet. He cared little or nothing
for foreign insects, and his British collection was confined to the
Order Lepidoptera. It is not too much to say that it is one of
the best collections of the present day. It is simply splendid,
and especially rich in curious varieties; whilst its interest is
enhanced by the fact that so large a proportion of the whole were
captured or bred by himself.
ENTOM. — NOV, 1889. 2 B
206 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
With the exception of two or three years' residence
Cambridge, about five and twentj^ years ago, Mr. Bond lived all
his life in or near London, — at Kingsbury until 1855, afterwards
in Cavendish Road, St. John's Wood, and Adelaide Road, Haver-
stock Hill ; whilst the last sixteen or seventeen years of his life
were spent at Staines. He was elected a member of the Ento-
mological Society in 1841, and joined the Zoological Society in
1854. At the meetings of the former he was for many years a
regular attendant and exhibitor, though latterly, owing to his
retirement to Staines and his increasing deafness, the Society has ^™
missed his genial presence. 1M
I am not aware that he ever travelled beyond the seas ; but i
his shooting and collecting excursions were frequent, and extended
to all parts of the Island. During his long career he captured so
many rarities that it is impossible to enumerate the species.
Conspicuous among them was the lost Noctua suhrosea ; and in
his early days he both captured and bred the extinct Lyccena
dispar. He used to tell how a Mr. Henderson transported larvae
of L. dispar from their native haunt in the fens to some water-
docks which grew in a small pond in his garden at Milton, near
Peterborough ; and I believe it was at this spot that Mr. Bond
last saw I/, dispar on the wing.
It was one of his sayings that a naturalist ought to have three
lives : seventy years to collect, seventy to study his collection, and
seventy to impart his knowledge to others. For the last dozen
years he gave his services as assistant editor (for Lepidoptera) of
this magazine, and none will be more ready than the editor and his
colleagues to acknowledge the value of the aid he rendered. But
our friend had no literary proclivities ; he was no great student
of books, and he seldom took up his pen when he could avoid it.
His published articles consist only of a few short notes, scattered
over the various Natural History journals of the last sixty years ;
the earliest appearing in * Loudon's Magazine' in 1830, and the
last in *The Zoologist' for June, 1889. The following list
includes all his notes on entomological subjects that I have been
able to discover : —
1. Note on the occurrence of rare British Insects. Zool. 1843, p. 125.
2. Note on the cure of " grease " in insects. Zool. 1843, p. 175.
3. Note on the occurrence of Colias edusa and C. hyale in Northampton-
shire. Zool. 1844, p. 397.
4. Note on the capture oi Polyommatus arion. Zool. 1845, p. 803.
5. Flowers attractive to Moths. Zool. 1846, p. 1341.
6. Occurrence of Sphinx convolvuli near Kingsbury, Middlesex. Zool.
1846, p. 1510.
7. Occurrence of the Locust at Kingsbury, Middlesex. Zool. 1846,
p. 1518.
8. Occurrence of the Locust at Duxford and Fulbourue. Zool. 1846,
p. 1521.
1
FREDERICK BOND. 267
9. Capture of Vanessa antiopa near Kingsbury, Middlesex. Zool. 1847,
p. 1791.
10. Capture of Lepidoptera near Yaxley in Huntingdonshire, from the
12th to the QOth of August. Zool. 1847, p. 1881.
11. Occurrence of the Locust near York. Zool. 1847, p. 1900.
1'2. Capture of Buprestis mauritanica in Plaistow Marshes. Zool. 1848,
p. 1999.
13. Occurrence of the Locust in Cambridgeshire. Zool. 1848, p. 2000.
14. Colias edusa and C. hyale. Zool. 1849, p. 2613.
15. Captures of Lepidoptera at Hornsey, Wicken, and Burwell fens
between June the 8th and July 1st, 1850. Zool. 1851, p. 3012.
16. Occurrence of Vanessa, antiopa near London. Zool. 1852, p. 3715.
17. Occurrence of Deilephila lineata. Zool. 1860, p. 7107.
18. Occurrence of Sesia spheciformis in Sussex. Zool. 1860, p. 7249.
19. Acidalia rubricata at Brandon in Suffolk. Entom. ii. 70 (1864).
20. Capture of Acidalia rubricata, &c. Ent. Mo. Mag. i. 96 (1864).
21. Capture oi Agrophila sulphuralisy with notice of its habits. Ent. Mo.
Mag. i. 214.
22. Rhyssa persuasoria. Ent. Mo. Mag. i. 278.
23. A new locality for Gelechia pinguinella. Ent. -Mo. Mag. ii. 136 (1866).
24. A new locality for Endromis versicolor. Ent. Mo. Mag. iv. 12 (1867).
25. Lasiocampa quercus versus callunce. Ent. Mo. Mag. iv. 35.
26. Occurrence of a Fumea (F. crassiorella, Bruand) new to Britain.
Ent. Mo. Mag. iv. 113 ; Entom. iii. 368.
27. Dianthcecia conspersa as an Irish species. Entom. iv. 121 (1868).
28. Deilephila galii in Herefordshire. Entom. v. 168 (1870).
29. Deilephila livornica in Dorsetshire. Ent. Mo. Mag. vii. 40 (1870).
30. Deilephila galii in Herefordshire. Ent. Mo. Mag. vii. 86.
31. Ephyra pendularia, yaw Entom. ix. 217 (1876).
32. Variety of Saturnia carpini. Entom. x. 1 (1877).
33. Danais archippus in Sussex. Entom. x. 73.
34. Cidaria fulvata, var, Entom. x. 120.
35. Note on Polyommatus dispar. Entom. xiii. 139 (1880).
36. Zomaspilis marginaria. Entom. xiii. 169.
37. Notes on the season. Entom. xiv. 184 (1881).
Add to this meagre list the fact that the entomological notes
he has left (now in the possession of his godson, Mr. Thurnall),
are scarcely in a form to be made available for public use ; and we
cannot but regret that so large a stock of entomological lore lies
buried in the grave of Frederick Bond.
But though averse to writing, he delighted to recount his
experiences, and the pleasure he took in giving information to
others was a distinguishing trait in his character ; to the close of
his life, he was never too tired or too ill to show his treasures,
to answer any number of questions, to name any quantity of
species for a youngster, and generally to give the benefit of his
practical knowledge to every one who sought his aid. On his
favourite subjects he was brim-full of information ; and I never
knew a man with whom it was such a pleasure to have a chat
about butterflies or moths. Take a few specimens to him,
2b2
268 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
" Now, Mr. Bond, what's that ? where do you think it came
from ? and what does it feed upon ? " Nothing more was
required ; he would pour out all he knew, take you to his cabinet
and show you a perfect series or perhaps a finer variety of the
same insect, then pass from species to species, tell you where and
when he captured this or bred that, interspersing the whole with
quaint anecdote and homely story, — his eyes twinkling, and his
rugged features beaming all over with merriment, — until the
visitor forgot the lapse of time and found himself late by an
hour or two for his next appointment. Such at least was my
own experience when I first went to see him at home. My
earliest recollections of Mr. Bond go back for well-nigh forty
years, to the time when the Entomological Society was located
in Old Bond Street, and to the days when he was in the habit of
visiting his old friend and connexion, Mr. F. Barlow, at Cam-
bridge. But it must be about thirty years since I first saw his
collections. In company with Alfred F. Sealy, I went to
Cavendish Road ; we were unexpected, but the Master was at
home, and the result was that, between his cases of birds, his
drawers of insects, and his fund of anecdote, a spring morning
had turned to evening twilight before we had finished our gossip.
It was never my lot to have a day's collecting with Mr. Bond.
But those who have worked with him in the field speak with one
voice of the vigour and perseverance with which he pursued his
object, and of his unflagging cheerfulness, even under the most
depressing circumstances.
He was a collector, — of the old school, and of an insular type,
if you will, — but a collector pure and simple, who was more at
home in the field than in the library, who always kept his eyes
open, and learnt from Nature herself many of her lessons that
had escaped the observation of others. His liberality to his
brother-collectors was unbounded; and the sound advice and
encouragement he so freely gave, especially to beginners, has
probably done more to advance the science of Entomology than
if he had written a hundred books.
His simplicity of mind, his unselfishness, his constant cheer-
fulness, and his unvarying kindness, endeared Frederick Bond to
all who knew him. Either as man or entomologist, where shall
we find his like ?
At the ripe age of seventy- eight, his peaceful and uneventful
career has ended. He lived and died a bachelor, a widowed
half-sister having ministered to his domestic comforts for the last
thirty-eight years of his life. His death took place on the 10th
August, 1889.
The accompanying photograph was taken in 1882, and fairly
recalls his features. Already, however, a generation of entomo-
logists has grown up, to whom he can scarcely have been
NOTE ON THE CLASSIFICATION OP CICADA. 269
personally known. He has left no writings to perpetuate his
name, and future ages will know him onl}^ through his eponyms,
the British Noctuid, Tapinostola Bondi, and the Indian Longi-
corn, Xynenon Bondi, But by his surviving friends his memory
will be cherished ; and to those who knew him best, his long and
happy life will be the sweetest retrospect.
J. W. Dunning.
NOTE ON THE CLASSIFICATION OF CICADiE.
By G. B. Buckton, F.R.S., &c.
As Entomological science progresses, the families of Rhyn-
chota call for more attention in this country than has been
hitherto bestowed upon them. Good workers, like Messrs.
Douglas and Scott, in their * Monograph on the Hemiptera-
Heteroptera,' and Mr. James Edwards in his ' Synopsis of British
Cicadinse,' have published valuable matter relating to this order
of insects. Still no illustrated work on the last-named sub-
family exists, though the group offers considerable interest both
in the varied forms and colours of the species, their life-histories,
and, from a literary point of view, in the curious mythic notions
connected with some species ; which have been spun from the
imaginations of not a few ancient classic poets.
To assist in the identification of the British species, generally
recognized by the name of Cicadse or Cicadidse, I have a
monograph in preparation, which will appear towards the
commencement of the next year, giving coloured representations
of all the British species, — upwards of two hundred, — which have
come under my notice.
Zoological classification must primarily depend on the com-
parison of species with species, which involves a kind of
uncertainty as to what characters shall be used to form a system
that lays claim to be in any sense a natural one. Thus,
much will depend on the opinion of the systematist, and the
acumen he shows in fixing on those characters which are really
specific.
Probably many will hesitate to accept the words of Fabricius
as to generic names, "Optima nomina quse omnino nil signi-
ficant." Yet it will be admitted, that in forming the main heads
of classification, the use of highly distinctive names may some-
times occasion inconsistency.
Latreille divided the Cicadse or Cigalles into *'les Chan-
teuses " and " les Muettes," and quite lately, Mr. W. L. Distant
has divided the Indian Cicadidse he describes into two groups,
which practically separates the singing from the silent genera.
The insects comprised in the latter division must be numerous in
S70
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
1
the temperate regions of the Himalayas ; but to them he does not
appear yet to have given a name.
The author of the present note invites a suggestion from
students of the Hemiptera, for some suitable name to be given to
the large number of Trimerous insects which do not stridulate,
and which are neither Aphides nor Coccidse, nor members of any
of the families usually comprehended in the Hemiptera-Homo-
ptera. Burmeister, Fieber, Sahlberg, Walker and Edwards,
have all shown a connection between the extremes of Cicadetta
and Typhlocyba, for these writers group the genera under the
head Cicadina. An equivalent of " les Muettes " of Latreille,
which will range with the Stridulantia of Burmeister, is wanted.
Tentatively the term "Silentia" is offered, and for the whole
family the term ** Tettigiidse," which will range with Aphididse
and Coccidse.
Such a scheme would perhaps meet the views of those who
consider that the possession of sounding organs with opercular
scales in the males alone, is of sufficient import to sharply divide
our only known British species from the Cercopidae and Jassidse,
which have them not.
The annexed sketch, which is partially filled in, will show the
position taken by the Cicadse amongst other E-hynchota.
The word Cicadse is here used as a plural to the English
word Cicada.
Sketch-plan for the British Cicada.
I
<
H
O
w
P5
Family
SUBrAM.
Tkibe
SUBTRIBE
Genus
P stridulantia
f Tibicinse
[ Cicadinre
Cicadetta
. Membracinoi
Centrotidae
1 Centrotus
IGargara
TettigiidflB .
" "
Issus
Fulgorinae
[
Delphacida)
Tettigometra
. Asiraca
Liburnia
^ Silentia
Cercopinaa
. Triecphora
Aphrophora
Ulopidae
Ulopa
Ledridas
Ledra
fBythoscopidffi
j Pediopsia
I Idiocerus
^ Jassinro
Acocephalidae
Typhlocybidse
1 Athysanus
1 Deltocephalua
. Eupteryx
Zygina
Aphidinee
Aphididee
LachninsB
, Chermesinse
Coccidae
&Q.
Weycombe, Haslemere,
271
LUPERINA TESTACEA Var. NICKERLII, Freyer.
By Richard South, F.E.S.
Mr. Baxter, of St. Anne's-on-the-Sea, Lancashire, has most
kindly sent me a Luperina which he thought might be referable
to L. testacea var. guen^ei, Doubl. It was taken close to the
T^rater's edge on the 1st of August, and no example of tj^pical
wstacea was seen by Mr. Baxter until the 10th of that month.
In some respects the specimen agrees with Doubleday's descrip-
tion of gueneei, but it appears to be a form of testacea inter-
nediate between gueneei and nickerlii.
The variety nickerlii, previously only recorded with cer-
tainty from Bohemia, though also reported to occur in the
South of France, is usually regarded as a distinct species.
Dr. Staudinger, however, considers it as probably a Darwinian
ipecies, and as it certainly is now linked up with gueneei by this
Lancashire specimen, the logical conclusion would appear to be
:hat if gueneei is a variety of testacea, nickerlii cannot be a
distinct species.
By the courtesy of Mr. Leech, I have had an opportunity of
examining three specimens of nickerlii from Bohemia, and the
following description is taken from the most distinctly marked
example : —
Forewing grey, tinged with ochreous, apex paler ; orbicular and
reniform stigmata broadly outlined in white ; central area tra-
versed by two whitish lines, the first is wavy with a sharp inward
projection before reaching the inner margin, and bordered
externally with black; the second edged inwardly with black
commences as a white spot on the costa, unites with a larger
white spot on the subcostal nerve, and then curves gently round
the reniform, beneath which its course is inclined inwards to a
black longitudinal bar connecting it with first line, from whence
it proceeds vertically to the inner margin, emitting a short out-
ward projection on the submedian nervure ; between the base and
first line is a short black bar just above inner margin; the sub-
marginal line is pale, indented, and edged internally with
dusky ; two white spots on costa between second central and
submarginal lines and one towards base ; a series of small black
lunules on outer margin. Fringes grey, spotted with paler at
the extremities of the nervules. Secondaries silky white, with
the faintest possible trace of a dark line before the fringes.
Expanse 1 inch 4 lines.
In one of the other specimens referred to, the submarginal
line is indicated by the dark internal shading only, whilst in the
third the longitudinal bar is not present, and the submarginal
line is followed by a darker band, as is often seen in testacea.
273 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
The ground colour of the Lancashire specimen is pale grey ;
the whitish transverse lines do not show clearly, but the black
edging is very distinct, as also are the white spots on costa. The
central lines approximate above the inner margin, but the longi-
tudinal connecting bar is only faintly outlined ; and there is a
black dash between the lines on the inner margin. Fringes pure
white. I may add that another specimen, received from Mr.
Baxter, is in most respects of the ordinary testacea form, but has
the central line connected by a black bar along inner margin, and
there is no trace of the usual longitudinal discal bar.
15th October, 1889.
INVESTIGATION OF VARIATION.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
Mr. Carrington has hit at the root of the difficulty of
forming a *' Variation Investigation Society " in the one word, — ■
" funds." Given sufficient " funds," anything might be done.
I think that almost all entomologists are agreed on the value
of the study of Variation. It is the one purely scientific view of|
our subject that all entomologists can work at, with all due'
respect to those who would teach us that every entomologist
ought to be the happy possessor of a chemical and a physiological
laboratory, and that the biological view is the " be-all " and " end-
all" of our subject. The rapid strides which individual work has
brought about in our ideas of variation are beyond question, and
there are very few lepidopterists (at least), who are not interested
in this phase of the subject.
Mr. Carrington asks two pertinent questions, the first of
which appears to depend on the second. Are there a sufficient
number of students to support such an association ? Of students
in the strict sense I would answer, — No. Of those interested,
and thus indirectly students, I would most decidedly answer, —
Yes. But the latter must be subdivided into two distinct
sections, viz»j those who know that when a scientific work has to
be carried out, it costs something, and, secondly, those who do
not appear to have grasped this principle. I would have put it
differently, and suggested that the second class must know that
there is a cost, but that they do not care to pay, although they
do not mind being the recipients of that knowledge which others
have dearly bought; but I think "Evil is wrought from want of
thought," and not from want of sympathy. Entomologists have
never supported their literary men. Our best entomological
works have nearly all been brought out at a positive loss. Until
the general entomologist recognises the fact that he ought to
subscribe to a scientific work which is really wanted, nothing
ENTOMOLOGY OF ICELAND. JJTS
worthy of the name of pure science can be done. Assuming
what Mr. Carrington knows regarding the matter, I am not sur-
prised at his doubts. The failure to get sufficient subscribers for
a * General Index to the Entomologist,' which is most urgently
needed, is a proof that the individual does not see that he ought
to help, indirectly, those who make use of a work of this kind and
give the public the benefit of their work. If all who were
indirectly interested in this subject had subscribed, every reader
of our entomological journals would have sent in his name,
instead of finding an excuse not to do so.
To return to the subject. I have not the remotest doubt that
if all those who are interested in " Variation " would subscribe,
and subscribe regularly, something might be done; but at
present I am inclined to doubt whether many of the much-
interested parties would '*pay for their whistle." I would
propose that if anyone would subscribe towards such an associa-
tion, they should send in their names to Mr. Carrington. It is
of no use for a few to do so, — everyone should do so, and a
comparatively small subscription would produce a large result
from a large number of members. Would 500 readers of the
* Entomologist ' subscribe 2s. 6d. per year, or 250 subscribe
6s. ? If so, a Council might at once be formed and the work
taken in hand, and I have but very little doubt a satisfactory
volume on the subject might be annually sent to subscribers, for
their money.
ENTOMOLOGY OF ICELAND: NOTES UPON A VISIT
IN 1889.
By the Rev. F. A. Walker, D.D., F.L.S., &c.
(Continued from p. 249.)
SiGLUFJORDUR, August 3rd (lat. 66° 9' N., long. 18° 83' W.).
Siglufjordur, like Saudakrok, is situate on the beach, but is a far
smaller place, apparently only consisting of from fifteen to
twenty houses, and with far steeper hills in the background.
There are a few cottages also at the opposite side of this branch
of the fjord, and at the end of the said branch, at no great
distance, the surrounding hills are permeated by watercourses
descending from the ridges of snow near their summits and like-
wise fissured by ravines. It is more northerly than any place
that we stopped at in the whole course of our voyage, and is said
to be the most snowy bay in the country. Steam- whistle sounded
as a signal that the people may now bring their merchandise on
board. I took the opportunity of going ashore during the com-
paratively short time the steamer stopped here. Noticed one or
two Crambi, caught one Phrygania and three Calliphora. These
Diptera, along with Sarcophaga mortuorum were settled on a mass of
2t4 tHfi Et^TOMOLOGIST.
whale-blubber on the greensward. Two paths over the hills here
lead respectively to Akureyri by different routes, in circuitous
crooks and turns, the course of one of the said two paths going
as far round as Skagafjord.
Akureyri (lat. 65° 40' N., long, 18^ 4' W.). August 3rd.
Akureyri, termed Ofjord in Danish, is situate more than thirty
miles from the entrance of the spacious E3gafjordur, far to the
south, and nearly at its innermost extremity, and beyond these
thirty miles of sea thirty miles of valley succeed, and then
fifteen miles of desert. We enter the fjord about 1 p.m. Its
western cliffs, near to which we are coasting, are for a while
barren, indented by perpendicular fissures, and descending sheer
into the sea, and down lower receding behind a dip of the land
or a sloping valley of greensward, which is permeated by a water-
course that trickles down. Akureyri, as seen from the water,
appears to consist of two distinct hamlets ; it is, however,
possible that further inland other houses, unseen from the
steamer, may form a connecting link. A terrrible odour reaches
us as we stand on deck, from the shark-oil factory, notwithstanding
that it is situate a considerable distance from where our steamer is
anchored. More vegetables, and potatoes in particular, as far as
I can judge, are grown on the adjacent slopes here than in any
other place that I have yet visited in Iceland. Pouring rain set
in before we left the steamer and continued all the time we were
on shore and lasted through the evening, while a dense mist
enveloped the surrounding hills from our view, so that the only
capture I effected was that of one Phrygania, and Mr. Jomhur-
sson's little boy gave me a Noctua when I called at his house.
August 4th. There was more rain early this morning. By
the time I went on shore, however, it had almost stopped, and I
walked up to the top of the moor, accompanied by three of Mr.
Jomhursson's children. Credphilus maxillosus, Carabidse, and
other Coleoptera, under stones ; three or four Geometridse seen.
Calliphora abundant on the windows of the church, which is a
very neat edifice, with galleries on either side and at the west
end, and a picture of the Crucifixion over the communion-table.
Large numbers of Calliphora also lying dead on the window-sills
and the floor. The cemetery or churchyard is situate at the top
of the moor, which is covered with the seed-vessels of Dryas
octopetala. Viola tricolor, a flower I had not seen before in
Iceland, is abundant on the slopes here, and also along the coast-
road to Oddeyri, distant perhaps one English mile, and where
the shark-oil factory is situate, a short distance from the other
part of the parish of Akureyri, whence I took boat for the
steamer, which had moved in the interval for a short space to
that end of the bay. The above-mentioned coast-road is closely
hemmed in between the waves on one side and a grassy slope on
the other, and almost covered in one or two places by the water.
fiNTOMOLOGt O^ ICfELA^fD. ^76
Vopnafjord (lat. 65° 42' N., long. 14° 50' W.). August 6th.
"We passed Langanes, the N.E. point of Iceland, shortly before
breakfast this morning. The east coast here consists of a low-
rocky cliff, almost as uniform as a wall for a considerable distance
in point of elevation, and trends rapidly to the southward after
passing the aforesaid headland, so that we are now steaming
along at a distance from the shore. The adjacent hills in the
rear are grassy slopes, far lower on the northern than on the
southern side, where the heights are terminated by rocky crags,
on which cloud-wreaths are resting, and some patches of snow
still remain.
Seydisfjord (lat. 68° 17' N., long. 13° 58' W.). August 7th.
Seydisfjord is a marvel of natural beauty. I went ashore shortly
after 6 a.m. An amphitheatre of hills (and this is a highly
appropriate term, for there are successive rocky terraces between
the grassy slopes), surrounds the calm' blue waters of the fjord,
which closely resembles a placid azure lake in the bosom of the
mountains. On the adjacent sunlit slopes both cattle and ponies
are grazing. The whole place reminds me of what I have
experienced in Switzerland, plus the disagreeable adjunct to
every Icelandic fjord, — the bones and insides of fish steam every-
where,— not that this is so great and noticeable a disfigurement
here as in several of the fjords that we have previously visited.
Several slender waterfalls leap down the ravine, as though their
threads of silver were all eager to reach the sunny verdant grass
and glancing water below, and to escape from their native cradles,
the long extinct craters on the summit of the hills, with their
sides lined with patches and beds of snow. These colossal
basins of ebony, with rims of white which the sun only touches
sufficiently to make their gloom and desolation evident, seem to
frown on the fair pastoral scene beneath, and to say, " Make the
most of your three months' summer, before the mountains are
once more concealed beneath a snowy mantle, and the fj ord enclosed
and shut up with chains of ice beneath the winter's gloom."
Calliphora settled on two heads of catfish rotting in the sun ; Sar-
cophaga mortvorum and Carabi, three Phryganias, one Geometra,
two Calliphora caught ; Crambi also noticed. Flowers : Erio-
phorus campanula, Parnassia palustris, two species of gentian.
Eskefjord (lat. 65° 5' N., long. 14° 1' W.). August 7th.
The coast scenery near the mouth of Seydisfjord, and also when
we reach the open sea once more, crag and cliff and watercourse
and crater, with deep indentations and winding valleys, continue
very bold and fine. I obtained here Sarcophaga mortuorum and
Calliphora^ two of Geometra, two of Coleoptera, Bombus terrestris,
white variety of gentian, yellow-flowering Andromeda, on the
neighbouring slopes close by the waterfall.
(To be concluded.)
^t6 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
CONTEIBUTTONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTUiE OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. TuTT, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 255.)
Apameat Och., pahulatricula, Brahm, {connexa, Bork.).
The type of this species is described by Brahm, * Insekten-
kalender fur Sammler und CEkonomen,' as : — *' Grey Noctua, with
orange-coloured crests." '* Head and palpi grey; antennae ash-
coloured; eyes black -brown; crest grey, and has in front a faint
brown transverse line, on each side a black brown streak, in the
middle an erect orange-coloured crest; body grey, with a few
ash-coloured ridges (comb-shaped) on the back. Fore wings
grey, with a short brownish black line at the base of the wing.
The orbicular and reniform stand in a light brown ground;
before and beyond the stigmata is an undulating transverse line,
which come so near together that they almost join and form the
apex of an almost right-angled triangle, but instead of really
joining they separate suddenly and turn back arch-like ; the
space to the inner margin filled out with blackish brown, crossed
by a pale grey longitudinal line, which also passes through both
transverse lines ; on the inner margin stand a few pale brownish
tooth-shaped markings turned towards the inside, and close to
the edge a row of blackish brown triangular spots. Hind wings
ashy grey." This description agrees almost precisely with the
specimens captured in Yorkshire, and sent out by Messrs.
Harrison and Young in considerable numbers ; but Mr. Young
writes : — *' In fresh specimens the crest is rosy. The hind wings,
too, are dark smoke colour, nearly black, but both the rosy crest
and dark hind wings soon fade " (in litL), There appears
to be no variation worth speaking of; occasionally the shading
on the costa is stronger, and hence makes the central area
(enclosing the orbicular) more band-like ; the width of the black
i-H - mark varies, and thus causes a difference in the width of
this central band in its lower part ; the pale line (really on the
nervure), mentioned above as crossing the lower part of the
band, is often indistinct ; and the row of black triangular spots
(really the teeth of the wavy subterminal line) are very poorly
developed in British specimens. Hubner figures this species
under the name of elota, with the central band and base of wings
ochreous. Our specimens possess the slightest possible ochreous
tinge in the centre of the banded area, but I have never seen any
real characteristic development in this direction.
Var. elota, Hb. — Hubner, as mentioned above, figures in his ' Schmet-
terlinge,' &c., a form of this species with the markings much as in the
figure of Newman's * British Moths,' but with the central and basal areas
of the anterior wings ochreous, and the costal and outer margins white.
VARIETIES OF NOCTUJE IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 377
Apamea, Och., unanimiSf Hb.
This is an almost constant dimorphic species, one of the
forms resembling somewhat the reddish variety, rufescens, of
gemina, the other having the same ground colour, but having
the peculiar claviform nn-like development seen in the var.
intermedia of gemina ; but the smaller size of this species, the
well-developed, white-outlined reniform, narrower wings, and
other minor characters serve at once to distinguish it ; the dark
transverse shade from the costa to the inner margin, extending
between the stigmata, and so noticeable in some other genera, is
very distinct in some specimens. Why Newman wrote that this
species was larger than gemina (* British Moths,' p. 305), I
cannot understand, as his description would not lead one to
suppose that he was in doubt about the species. I have one very
dark specimen labelled " Shoeburyness," and two others from
Cambridge, with the central area inclining to a banded character
(as in pahulatricula). There is a certain amount of sexual
variation, the females being, as a rule, somewhat smaller and
darker than the males. Guenee says of this species, " It varies
rarely, and is, in this respect, very different to its congeners "
(' Noctuelles,* vol. v., p. 209). Hiibner's figure 556 (which is a
very poor one) represents the type, and is of a dull brownish
colour, with typical transverse markings. The figure represents
a small female. It has " the anterior wings dull brown, with an
abbreviated, followed by a complete basal line ; the orbicular
small and faintly outlined ; reniform outlined in white ; a pale
angulated line directly beyond reniform; another pale line
parallel to hind margin; extreme hind margin slaty grey.
Hind wings dark grey, base paler, lunule darker." Freyer, in
his *Neuere Beitraege,' &c., vol. iv., pi. 371, figures both
sexes of this species. His fig. i represents a " male, of a pale
greyish brown ground colour, quite grey at base, with a short
dark basal streak under the base of the median nervure, a
fine double black basal transverse line, followed by a distinct
orbicular and large reniform, both outlined in pale ; the
claviform is distinct and dark brown ; a double line runs from
base of reniform to inner margin; a transverse row of small
white dots, followed by a wavy line, near hind margin ; median
area mottled with brown, outer area very dark grey. Hind
wings pale grey, with a distinct lunule and darker hind margin."
His fig. 2 is a female, " marked like fig. 1, but a little darker in
ground colour. Hind wings darker grey." Haworth's secalina^
var. /S (' Lepidoptera Britannica,' p. 210), would appear to be the
darker form of this species, his a representing the type, his /3
representing the form with the HH-like mark under the stigmata.
We have, therefore, only to deal with two forms : —
1. Without an »-H-like mark and without a partially-developed
central band, = unanimis.
278 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
2. With an hh -like mark and darker central area, == var.
secalina, Haw.
Var. secalina, Haw. — Ground colour of anterior wings dark umber-brown,
with the transverse lines as in the type. The claviform developed into
an hH-Hke mark, which reaches from the transverse line before, almost, or
quite, to that beyond the stigmata ; the central area between these transverse
lines, and above and below this dark mark, darker than the ground colour,
forming an incomplete band from the costa to the inner margin. Hind
wings grey-brown (as in type), with a distinct discoidal spot. The
description of Haworth's secalina, var. /3, is as follows : — " Alis anticis
lineola longa nigra in medio fasciae ut in sequente, stigmate antico oblongo
magis antrorsum inclinante ; posticis fuscis, ciliis rufo-cinereis " (* Lepi-
doptera Britannica ' pp. 210, 211).
(To be continued.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
DoRiTis APOLLO AT DovER. — During our recent visit to Dover one of
my sons was collecting along the edge of the cliff, some distance beyond
the Convict Prison, when he was startled by the sudden appearance of one
of these fine insects. It flew from the bank (which hereabouts closely abuts
on the path) across the path to the edge of the cliff, where it hovered for
several seconds, and then slowly sailed downwards out of sight. Owing to
the precarious nature of the ground my son was unable to take a step
forward to secure it (which otherwise he could easily have done), but he had
a splendid view of the insect. On his return he informed me of the
occurrence, minutely describing the specimen, mentioning its colour, the
rounded wings, and red oceUi. Naturally he waited long in the hope that
it might reappear, but it was not to be : and we visited the spot afterwards
several times, but without avail. Whence the insect came, and how it
arrived there, I of course cannot say ; I merely record its occurrence. The
date was the 28th of August last. I greatly regretted having that morning
gone in another direction ; had we been together, perchance we might have
secured it. — E. Sabine ; The Villas, Erith, October, 1889.
CoLiAs EDUSA IN 1889. — lu addition to the records of last month we
have received the following : —
Kent. — I may mention that I saw a male taken at Folkestone, and
know of many others that were captured there by visitors during August.
I also saw a fine specimen of the var. helice that had been taken there by
Mr. Austen of that town. — J. R. Wellman ; 8, Medora Road, Brixton
Hill, Oct. 4, 1889. — I am able to add that my brother and I saw several
specimens of this species in clover and lucerne fields near Broadstairs,
Kent, in August last. We captured two good males, but did not take
any females. — Henry A. Hill; 132, Haverstock Hill, London, N.W.,
Oct. 3, 1889.
Cambridgeshire. — On the 31st August, whilst out hawking near Great
Chesterford, in Cambridgeshire, I saw eight Colias edusa, seven on a piece
of waste ground, and one in a stubble-field near some lucerne. As 1 had
not my net I was only able to take one. — Harold Mann; Houghton,
9, The Drive, Brighton, Oct. 4, 1889.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. S79
Cheshire. — A single specimen was taken by a boy near the city last
August, and I have several records from Shotwick and neighbourhood. —
R. Newstead ; Chester.
Aberdeen. — I may mention the capture of a fine specimen of Colias
edusa by myself on Sept. Uth, 1889, in a garden at Denmore, near Aber-
deen. I never heard of it so far north before. — W. Catto ; Cote Town,
Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, N.B.
Variation in Vanessa antiopa. — In his paper on the " Aberrations in
the Genus Vanessa" in the September number of the ' Entomologist,'
Mr. South describes several varieties of Vanessa antiopa. Another form of
this species occurs heie, in which the rich brown of the upper surface of
the wings is replaced with dull smoky black ; the usual blue spots are
faintly represented on the primaries, and a few blue scales only on the
secondaries ; the yellow border, of normal width, is much obscured with
smoky black, especially on the primaries ; under surface not strikingly dis-
similar from the normal form, except that the border is darker. Mayuard's
statement that the form hygima occurs in about the proportion of one
hygicea to five hundred of the normal form does not hold good here. The
number of blue spots on the primaries sometimes varies. I once raised a
whole brood of this species, some of which had but a single blue spot on the
primaries, others lacked but one ; and the remainder possessed a varying
number between these extremes. Cases like this, where a whole brood of
some species shows considerable variation from the normal form, present a
very favourable opportunity to study the causes of variation in insects.
Such instances are by no means rare ; two such are mentioned in Mr.
South 's article, where broods of Vanessa io all emerged as varieties. If
this were due to inheritance, a portion only of the brood would vary, and
the cause is certainly to be looked for in some other direction. Where a
large number of insects are confined in the same breeding-cage they are
exposed to very much the same external conditions, and it is not remarkable
that when one varies, all, or nearly all, will vary. When only one, or a
very few, vary, and when all were exposed to the same conditions (light,
heat, moisture, food, &c.), I think we will have to fall back on " spontaneous "
variation or reversion. — Frank M. Jones ; Wilmington, Delaware, U.S.A.,
Sept. 23, 1889.
Epinephele ianira, var. — At the meeting of the North Kent Ento-
mological Society, on Sept. 12th, Messrs. AUbuary and E. Knight exhibited
a beautiful var. of E. ianira, which they captured on the south-east coast in
August. The body, legs, and antennae are white, and the wings are
creamy white, with a pink tinge in the centre. Unfortunately two of the
wings are slightly torn ; otherwise the insect is in splendid condition. —
H. J. Webb ; 3, Gunning Street, Plumstead.
PoLYOMMATUS PHL(EAS var. scHMiDTii. —While at Folkestone in August
I was pleased to find that my friend Mr. Giles's (of that town) younger son
Frank had been so fortunate as to take, at the foot of one of the hills, a very
fresh and perlect specimen of the silver variety of Polyommatus phlceas,
and on my return home I saw another of the same variety, taken, I believe,
somewhere in the neighbourhood of Croydon by a Master Long, of
Streatham, but this was unfortunately not in such good condition as the
one seen at Folkestone.— J. K. Wellman ; 8, Medora Road, Brixton Hill,
S.W., Oct. 4, 1889.
280 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Rhopalooera in Monmouthshire. — On the 10th of August last I
took two splendid specimens of Vanessa c-album at Tintern, in a clearing
in a wood on the way from the village to the Devil's Pulpit. The place is
just opposite the Abbey. I also took about twenty specimens of Pararge
egeria, which was extremely plentiful. All of them were in very good
condition. On August 19th I returned to Tintern for a day, having been
to Cardifif, Swansea, and other places in South Wales in the meantime, and,
visiting the same wood, I took another beautiful specimen of F. c-album.
I also saw another very rubbed one. P. egeria was more plentiful than
before, but there were very few good specimens to be got. Argynnis paphia
was also plentiful on the blackberry-bushes, but it had evidently been out
some time, as none of the specimens I captured were worth their carriage
to the hotel. In the same place I also took Epinephele hyperanthes,
Pararge megcera (extremely plentiful on one bank), Lyccena icarus, Plusia
gamma, and a few other day-flying moths, besides all the commoner butter-
flies. Gonepteryx rhamni was fairly plentiful, also at Chepstowe. On
August 20th I returned to Hertford. On August 22nd, as I was out
hunting, I saw a single specimen of Colias edusa, but was unable to take
it, as it was flying very fast and up a sharp hill. Sugaring has been of
very little use here during August or the first half of September, the only
insect I have taken at all worth having being Catocala nupta. — S. P.
Andrews; 25, Castle Street, Hertford, Herts.
Sphinx convolvuli. — The following additional records of the capture
this season of this species have been received: —
Devon.— This hawk-moth appears to be common this year. In 1887
seven were captured in one garden, and one pitched on some flowers which
I held in my hand in broad daylight. In 1888 I captured several in my
garden, and saw many more ; and this year I have never failed to see one
when watching for them, but although the wild bindweed is found almost
everywhere in the hedges, I have never been able to discover traces of the
caterpillar of this moth. — Marcus L. Bridger, K.N. ; Walton Leigh, Sal-
combe, S. Devon.
Leicester. — I took a specimen of S. convolvuli at rest on a gravestone in
Leicester Cemetery on the 13th of September last. — C. B. Headley;
2, Stoneygate Road, Leicester.
Hants. — Two specimens were taken at petunia flowers in the Isle of
Wight on Sept. llth and 12th.
Derbyshire. — In August last a Sphinx convolvuli was found asleep in a
conservatory here. — R. C. Bindley; Mickleover Vicarage, near Derby,
Oct. 16, 1889.
Deilephila galti, Parasites on. — The larvae of this insect was so
abundant last year that doubtless a goodly number of your readers have
reared the perfect insect, or been disappointed by breeding parasites. It
would, I think, be of interest to learn what hymenopterous and dipterous
parasites have been bred from these pupse. At present I only know two
species, Ichneumonidae, bred from them. The Rev. R. Peek, of Swefling,
near Saxmundham, had fourteen pupae from Aldborough, two of which were
ichneumoned. From one he bred a specimen of Tragus lictorius, a very
large and handsome species ; from the other two Amblyteles proteus, Christ.
These are both well-known parasites on the Sphingidae, but I am not aware
that D. gain has been recorded as one of their hosts, at least in this
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 281
country. Both these species are figured in Wood's * Insects at Home/ the
former under the name of Tragus atropos, the latter as Ichneumon proteus.
— (Rev.) E. N. Bloomfield ; Guestling Rectory, Hastings, Oct. 10, 1889.
Chcerocampa celerio at Hartlepool. — On the 1st October I had
brought to me a very good specimen of the above insect. It was taken on
the framework of a greenhouse by a little boy. It is only very slightly
rubbed at the tips of the fore wings. — A. Woods ; Alderson Street, West
Hartlepool, Oct. 17, 1889.
DicRANURA viNDLA. — Apropos Mr. Styles' note (Entora. 260), the
following data of two broods, extracted from last year's diary, may be of
some interest: — First brood: Ova laid, May 25th; hatched, June 12th ;
pupated, August 2nd. Second brood: Ova laid, June 28th; hatched,
July 15th ; pupated, Sept. 25th. The ova of the first brood were obtained
from a female taken in copula on Blackpool sand-hills, and from this batch
we bred a very nice variety, the zigzag markings on the fore wings being
replaced by two irregular lines. We had a rather curious experience with
the second brood. The female was bred from a larva of the previous year,
and to obtain a male we "assembled." Although laying her full quota of
eggs, only about a dozen hatched, the remainder proving abortive. — C. E.
Stott; Lostock, Bolton-le-Moors, Oct. 7, 1889.
Stilbia anomala in Wales. — While mothing at Barmouth, near
Dolgelly, in N. Wales, last August, I took two specimens of S. anomala ;
I also caught a specimen when there two years ago. I have not seen that
place mentioned before as a locality for S. anomala. — C. S. Holdsworth ;
32, Croxted Road, West Dulwich, London, Oct. 6, 1889.
Laphygma exigua in Hampshire. — Whilst looking at some insects
the other day belonging to my friend Mr. Druitt I observed two specimens
of the above species, and in order to make sure of their identity I have
shown them to Mr. Richard South and others, who at once identified them
as Laphygma exigua : one is in beautiful condition, the other not quite so
good. Both specimens were taken by Mr. Druitt at Christchurch, whilst
sugaring in September, 1888.— J. M. Adye ; Oct. 12, 1889.
Violet Colour in Heltophobos hispida. — Neither Newman nor
Stainton say anything of a violet tinge in the coloration of this species, and
very recently it has been stated that the specimens from Torquay and Port-
land do not " show the typical violet coloration." As I have never to my
knowledge seen Torquay examples of hispida^ I must accept the dictum
of those who have, but last year I was shown six specimens from Portland,
and my impression was and is that they exhibited a violet shade, especially
in the stigmata and pale central transverse markings. This year Mr.
Nelson M. Richardson, of Weymouth, has been good enough to send me a
nice series of Portland specimens, and in these I notice a decided tinge of
violet, not so strong perhaps as shown in Hiibner's figure, but nevertheless
as well developed as in most of the continental specimens I have seen.
Mr. Richardson has also very kindly sent me for examination two extreme
aberrations illustrative of the opposite limits in the range of variation of
this species in the Portland locality, and these specimens, together with his
most instructive remarks thereon, throw light on that which had previously
ENTOM. — NOV. 1889. 2o
283 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
^
mystified me greatly. I now apprehend that, although decidedly a variable
insect, H. hispida is not the protean species I had been led to suppose it
was, and that beyond a greater or lesser amount of pigment in coloration,
and more or less intense markings, there is really no exceptional departure
from typical lines, such, for instance, as possessing ** a bifurcate transverse
median line, extending under orbicular to the reniform and the central part
of the basal iiervures." — Richard South ; 12, Abbey Gardens, St. John's
Wood, N.W.
Catocala fraxini in Kent. — Having noticed the announcement of
one or two captures of Catocala fraxini this year, I think it may interest
you to know that when sugaring in a garden on the banks of the Medway
below Rochester on Sept. 1st and 2nd last year, one specimen came to sugar
on each night, I should think probably the same insect on each occasion.
Being a novice in Entomology, both nights being very dark, not having a
box large enough, its shyness, and my natural excitement, it may be
excusable that under the circumstances I was not clever enough to capture
it. I searched the garden and walls early the following morning, but
without success, and have not ceased to bewail my fate, as I do not suppose
I shall have such a chance again. When I heard, during the second week
of last month, that C. fraxini had been taken in other parts, I went to the
Medway and sugared energetically, but not a moth of any kind, rare or
common, came to the call. — Mark H. Winkley; 9, Glen Eldon Road,
Coventry Park, Streatham, S.W., Oct. 1, 1889.
Ennomos autumnaria. — On Monday, 9th September last, whilst
spending a day at Hayling Island, I took a female specimen of Ennomos
autumnaria at rest on the gate-post of a private house within a short
distance of the sea-shore. By a curious coincidence, on the following
Monday morning, 16th September, I took a male specimen of the same
species on a lamp-post in Portsmouth town. The insects, which I have
carefully compared with the two specimens in the Doubleday collection, are
of 2J and If inches expanse respectively. — C. B. Smith; 58 Rectory
Road, Stoke Newington, N., Oct. 10, 1889.
Emmelesia unifasciata, Deferred Emergence. — I was not aware
that this species remained in the pupa-state for more than one year, but
have found that such is the fact. In 1887 my kind friend Mr. Sheldon, of
Addiscombe, handed me some pupa3, which all but about six emerged as
imagines in 1888 ; but from these, six moths put in an appearance this year.
Again, last season (1888) I obtained larvae of E. unifasciata, which in due
course changed into pupae, and the perfect insects emerged in July last,
with the exception of six or eight, which are still healthy-looking pupae,
and will, I suppose, remain over until next season. — J. R. Wellman ;
8, Medora Road, Brixton Hill, S.W., Oct. 4, 1889.
Lepidoptera of two Dorset Chalk-hills. — Almost everyone is
acquainted with the fact that Dorsetshire is rich in British and Roman
remains, notably the splendid Roman encampments, every hill almost
being capped with extensive earthworks ; the entrenchments on some
being to the present day more than thirty feet deep. Upwards of twenty
such hill-fortresses are known upon the north and south downs of the
county, and in the vicinity of most are usually to be seen the remains of
^1
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 283
barrows, and other places of ancient burial ; I say remains, because nearly
all have been despoiled of their contents, such as urns, bronze-daggers,
sword-blades, &c. It is upon the sites of these ancient earthworks that
many Lepidoptera may be found. Upon two of the northern hills, viz.,
Hambledon and Hod, which are divided from nearly all the others by the
River Stour, I have worked for Lepidoptera, especially Diurni, for the last
seven years, with a fair amount of success. I may, however, mention that
I have never met with a collector there, so imagine the district to be devoid
of entomologists. The hills are easily reached from all parts of the county,
booking by the Somerset and Dorset Railway to Shillingstone, and from
thence, a pleasant walk of about two miles, to the top of Hambledon, which
is about 800 feet high. Then one makes way towards the southern slopes,
when operations can be commenced by netting the following : — Melanargia
galathea, Pararge egeria, Epinephele hyperanthes, and var. arete (common),
Hesperia sylvanus, H. thaumas, H. comma, the latter very abundantly ; I
have never seen it in such profusion anywhere else. Amongst hazels, &c.,
Thecla ruhi, occasionally Argynnis papJiia, A. euphrosyne, A. selene.
Amongst the moths I have taken several Toxocampa pastinum and Zygcena
trifolii ; also some common species which I will mention shortly, but I do
not think there is much to be done upon this hill. No doubt the best
locality is upon Hod Hill, which is separated from Hambledon by a narrow
valley, and is in full view of the collecting-ground just described. Ascend
until the second entrenchment is reached, forming a miniature valley. It
is along here the species are most numerous, and where I have taken the
following : — Colias edusa (several), Gonepteryx rhamni, Satyrus semele
(abundant), Vanessa io, V. atalanta, V. urticcb, V. cardui and larvae,
Syrichthus malvce, Nisoniodes tages, Lyccena icarus, L. minima (only four),
L. corydon, L. hellargus (two last very abundantly), Zygcena JilipendulcB,
Ino statices, Botys flavalis, Pyrausta purpuralis, Ennychia nigrata smd an
allied species with bars straight; Chcerocampa porcellus and Netneophila
plantaginis are very common, males flying freely during sunshine, and often
to their cost, as I have watched the swifts [Cypselus apus) feeding upon
them, even two or three sometimes being caught at a sweep by one of
these birds. I have not observed them treat butterflies in a similar
manner. Species found upon both hills are : — Pieris napi, P. rapce,
P. brasslccB, Euchloe cardamines, Ccenonympha pamphilus, Potyommatus
phlosas, Pararge megcera, Epinephele ianira, E. tithonus, Argynnis aglaia,
&c. By the above notes it will be seen that several species found upon Hod
do not occur upon Hambledon, and vice versa. The list is small, but no
doubt it could be enlarged ; still thirty-three out of our limited number
of butterflies are to be found on these two hills. In conclusion I may
mention that I visited Hod in the first week of September last, and took
several of the second brood of Lyccena hellargus ; of L. corydon I captured
seven perfectly fresh males and two females, and saw several others on the
wing, but worn ; L. icarus and L. astrarche were fairly common. — I. H.
Fowler ; Grove Road, Wimborne, Oct. 1, 1889.
Lepidoptera of the New Forest. — I was at Lyndhurst from July
31st to August 6th last, and consequently I read Mr. Blaber's ** Notes
from the New Forest " (Entora. 261) with a good deal of interest. To the
list of butterflies given by Mr. Blaberl am able to add a few other common
species which I came across during my visit, namely, Lycana icarus and
L. agestis (both in bad condition), Hesperia thawnas and H. sylvanus
^Si THE ENfOMOLOGHST.
(fairly good), and one or two worn-out Melanargia galatea. I also saw ci
couple of very dilapidated Limenitis sibylla, and a few worn specimens of
Argynnis adippe turned up. A. paphia was pretty common, but in very
bad condition. I can fully corroborate Mr. Blaber's statement as to the
failure of sugar : the only insect which came to my sugar was a specimen
of Catocala promissa, which I unfortunately failed to secure. I may add
that I took several male and two female specimens of Selidosema ericetaria
(plumaria), but they (like most of the other Lepidoptera which I saw) were
not in good condition. — Henry A. Hill; 132, Haverstock Hill, London,
N.W., Oct. 3, 1889.
Fungus parasitic on Insects. — My son writes from Paraparaumu,
New Zealand (North Island), under date March 16th, 1889, as follows : —
•* I have obtained a veritable entomological curiosity for you from the
mountain ranges on the west coast of this island, facing Cook Straits. It
consists of a dark olive-green caterpillar, about three inches long, which,
when full-fed, drops or descends from the trees, ostensibly to enter the
ground for the purpose of pupation, but which process seems to be arrested
by some unknown or mysterious cause, and instead of becoming a pupa, a
twig-like plant, sometimes forked, about four or five inches in length,
grows, apparently indififerently, either from its head or tail. The Maories
pointed the caterpillars out to me, and informed me that they had received
£1 for a pair a short time ago from a gentleman who was returning to
Europe, and wanted them as a curiosity." No doubt the plant-like
appendage to this larva is of fungoid origin. — Geo. J. Grapes ; Berkeley
Villa, Charlwood Eoad, Putney, Sept. 13, 1889.
[Mr. Grapes has been good enough to send for examination the speci-
mens described by his son. They prove to be a well-known fungus,
Torrubia robertsii, which attacks certain larvae in New Zealand. We have
some of the allied fungi of small size in this country. In the * Entomo-
logist' for June, 1878 (vol. xi. 121) the British species is figured, and is
accompanied by an interesting article by Dr. Buchanan White, who
mentions the species sent by Mr. Grapes. — J. T. C]
Cecidomyia ltchnidis (Heyd.). — I have met with the larvae of a Cecid
during the autumn months frequenting the upper flower-knops and capsules
of the Lychriis dioica. I may remark that the stigmatous flowers of the
Lychnis were affected by the larvae, which were in fair quantity. Kaltenbach
speaks of the larva as occurring at Frankfort-on-the-Maine in similar woolly,
deformed knops, and says that the gnats appeared in July. With me they
did not emerge till September. Like so many of our Cecid larvae, they
are of a pale yellowish red when matured. The gnat is yellow. The wings
are sparingly covered with dark pile, and show the characteristic nervures.
I bred fully a dozen, both males and females. — Peter Inchbald ; Grosvenor
Terrace, Hornsea, Oct. 11, 1889.
Cantharis vesicatoria at Wimborne. — I caught a perfect specimen
of Cantharis vesicatoria upon an oak-leaf last June ; it is about the size of
an ordinary male " Spanish fly." Is this a rare beetle in England ? — I. H.
Fowler ; Grove Road, Wimborne, Oct. 1, 1889.
Information Wanted. — Will any readers of the * Entomologist '
kindly give me particulars as to the geographical range in Britain of the
SdClETlE'g. ?i86
typical forms and varieties of the following species : — Celcena haivorthii,
Grammesia trigrammica (trilinea), and Apamea fibrosa ? The information
is wanted in connection with the series of papers on varieties of Noctuse
now appearing in the * Entomologist.' I am already indebted to a large
number of lepidopterists for useful communications, but I would point out
that T get twice the number of communications after the species has been
dealt with in the * Entomologist ' than before. If those interested would
write me a short note on any variation they may have observed in any
species about a month or two before such species would be noticed, I could
embody their information, and make it generally useful. At present I
should be glad of any information regarding Mianas and Caradrinidae, a
little later of the Agrotidse, and so on. Apparently unimportant phases of
variation should be mentioned. — J. W. Tutt.
Ereatum. — On page 243, line 4 from bottom, read " males " instead of
"females."— T.H.Hall.
SOCIETIES.
Ektomological Society of London. — October ^nd, 1889. — The
Right Hon. Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair.
Mr. Arnold Umfreville-Henn, of Heaton Chapel Rectory, near Stockport,
was elected a Fellow. Mr. F. P. Pascoe exhibited a number of species of
insects of all orders, collected by himself during the past summer at
Brindisi, and in Greece and the Ionian Islands. Mr. J. W. Douglas sent
for exhibition specimens of Lygus viscicola, Puton, a species new to Britain,
taken at Hereford, in September last, exclusively from mistletoe, by Dr. T.
A. Chapman. Mr. R. M'Lachlan exhibited nearly one hundred specimens
of Trichoptera recently collected in Iceland by Mr. P. B. Mason. Only
six species were represented, and of these five had been previously recorded
from the island. He remarked on the great amount of variation existing
in some of the species. Mr. E. B. Poulton exhibited a mounted specimen
of the yellow powder from the cocoon of Clisiocampa neustria under a power
magnifying 188 diameters. The powder was thus seen to consist of
crystals so minute that the form could only just be made out. He said the
powder was present in a crystalline form in the malpighian tubules, and
was discharged from the anus of the larva. A discussion ensued as to the
functions of the malpighian tubes, &c., in which Mr. Staintou, Lord
Walsingham, Mr. M. Jacoby, Mr. P. B. Mason, Mr. M*Lachlan, and Dr.
Sharp took part. Mr. Poulton also exhibited some photographs of living
larvae of Hemeropliilla abruptaria, showing different depths of colour which
had been induced by experiment ; specimens of the larvae preserved in
spirit were also shown, together with water-colour representations of two
varieties. He said that, as in other experiments of the kind, the larvae had
been rendered very pale by being surrounded by green leaves and stems
only, whereas they became extremely dark when numbers of dark twigs
were intermingled with the leaves of the food-plant. All were bred from
eggs laid by the same female. Mr. F. Merrifield said that Dr. Chapman
had recently obtained similar results from experiments on the larvae of
Ennomos alniaria. The Rev. Dr. Walker exhibited, and read notes on, a
number of Coleoptera, Neuroptera, Hyraenoptera, and Diptera, which
formed the second instalment of the collection he had recently made in Iceland.
286 THE ENl'OMOLOGlST.
Mr. R. South exhibited a specimen of Luperina testacea, bred from a pupa
found at the root of a species of Silene at Eastbourne ; also a specimen of
Luperina nicJcerlii, Freyer, caught in Lancashire last August. He also ex-
hibited, and read notes on, a long series of Boarmia repandata, the offspring
of parents bred from larvaB collected in North Devon. Mr. Poulton, Mr.
Merrifield, and Lord Walsingham took part in the discussion which ensued.
Mr. J. J. Walker, R.N., exhibited a number of Coleoptera collected during
the past summer in Cobham Park, Kent. Thirty-three species were repre-
sented, amongst which were the following, viz., Eros minutus, Philonthus
fuscus, Homalota hepatica, AbrcBus granulum, Anisotoma grandis, Agarico-
phagus cephalotes, Thalycra sericea, Cryptophagus rujicornis, Platytarsus
setulosuSf &c. He also exhibited a living larva of Helops ccsruleus. Mr.
Jacoby exhibited a curious phytophagous beetle found by Mr. J. H. Leech
in the Corea. He stated that he was unable to determine the genus, as
was also Mr. J. S. Baly, to whom he had submitted the specimen. Mr. R.
Adkin exhibited specimens of Retinia resinella, received by him from
Forres. Lord Walsingham remarked that he had never seen the species in
Scotland, but that it was not uncommon in Germany, and he had found it
at Hamburgh. Mr. W. Dannatt exhibited a male specimen of Papilio
antimachus, Drury, from Lukolela, a missionary station about 500 miles
from the mouth of the Congo. He stated that the species, although very
rare, had a wide range, as three other specimens of it had been received
from the Stanley Falls, which were more than 800 miles further up the
Congo. Lord Walsingham exhibited preserved specimens of the larva and
imago of Cidaria reticulata, from the Lake District, sent to him by
Mr. Hodgkinson. Mr. W. White stated that as some doubt had been
expressed at the last meeting as to whether the specimen of Nephroma
hippia, Fab., var. gcsa, Feld., which he then exhibited, was hermaphrodite,
he had, with Mr. Griffith's permission, handed the specimen to Mr. G. T.
Baker for dissection. Mr. J. Jenner Weir exhibited fore wings of the
males of Argynnis paphia, A. adippe, and A. atlantis, denuded of the
scales, in order to show that there was no dilatation or thickening of the
median nervules and submedian nervure in that sex of these species ; but
that the apparent dilatation was produced by a dense mass of scales crowded
together on each side of the nervules. He also read a short paper on the
subject entitled, *' Notes on the nervules of the fore wings in the males of
Argynnis paphia and other species of the genus." — H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—September ^mh, 1889. T. R. Billups. Esq., F.E.S., President, in the
chair. Mr. J. T. Williams exhibited Cucullia absynthii, from Portland.
Mr. Wellraan, Plusia chryson and Dasydia obfuscaria. Mr. Jager, Lepi-
doptera from the Lake District and the Isle of Man ; among those from
the last-named place were some interesting forms of Polyommatus phlceas,
and a small dark form of Pieris napi, which species Mr. Carrington said
was usually dark in that locality. Mr. Carpenter, Gnophos obscuraria, and
varieties of Bryophila muralis, from Folkestone. Mr. Tugwell, a long
series of varieties of Peronea hastiana, bred from larvae collected at Braemar,
Aberdeen. Mr. Ince, Lepidoptera from Switzerland. Mr. Adkin, a series
of Bypermecia angustana, bred from larvae found feeding in shoots of
sallow collected in Co. Derry, Ireland. The specimens showed considerable
variation, some having the ground colour of the primaries silvery, and the
SOCIETIES. 287
usual reddish brown central fascia and costal patch intensified ; while in
others the colour of these markings was almost entirely replaced by dull
grey. And from the same locality, Pcedisca semifuscana, which also
showed variation both in the colours and markings of the specimens. Mr.
Jenner Weir, chrysalids of Pieris napi, to show that, although their colour
was very much affected by the environment of the caterpillar at the time of
their metamorphoses, yet in no way did their colour approximate that of
their surroundings; they were all the produce of one female of the species :
those that had changed to chrysalids in an ordinary breeding-case with
perforated zinc sides were of a dull cream-colour with black spots, and those
that had metamorphosed in a tin gentle-box, with the usual perforations at
the top, were of a beautiful ap[)le-green with black spots ; they had all been
reared from eggs and fed up in a breeding-cage, and those that had become
chrysalids in the gentle-box had been placed there a few days before. A
discussion ensued, Messrs. Carrington, Tugwell, White, South, Auld, and
Weir taking part. Mr. Turner exhibited a varied series of Triphcena
pronuba, and said that he was in doubt as to which was the var. innuba, but
that the variation of the species was similar to that of T. comes. Mr.
Billups, on behalf of Mr. Tearoe exhibited Apanteles jucundus, from. Deal.
October 10th, 1889. — The President in the chair. Mr. Weir remarked
that at the last meeting he exhibited chrysalids of Pieris napi, when it was
thought by some of the members that the apple-green specimens would, if
placed in a strong light, lose their colour. He now exhibited the same
chrysalids, which had been exposed for weeks to the direct rays of the sun
without the sHghtest fading in the green colour. Mr. Wellman, light
forms of Gnophos obscuraria, from Lewes, and it was stated that this light
form was only to be met with in that locahty ; but Mr. Tutt remarked that
he had taken one example at Folkestone. Mr. South, referring to
Mr. Turner's query as to Triphana pronuba and its var. innuba, stated
that in the variety the wings and thorax were concolorous. He also
exhibited a variety of Luperina testacea, and a specimen of L. nickerlii,
Frr., the latter received from Mr. Baxter, of St. Anne's-on-Sea, Lancashire ;
also a long series of Triphcena comes, and read notes on the marking of the
secondary wings. Mr. Carpenter, Pterostoma palpina, from Essex, and
Neuronia popular is, taken at Streatham. Mr. Oldham, several species of
Lepidoptera from the Cheshire Mosses. Mr. R. Adkin, examples oiEllopia
prosapiaria and Boarmia abietaria, and referring to the view held by soma
entomologists that larvae fed upon one particular plant would not readily
take to another, said that the larvae of the last-named species were obtained
from fir, and at first fed upon fir and yew, but, upon some birch being
put into the cage, they immediately left the other two plants and fed exclu-
sively upon it. Messrs. Carrington, Tugwell, Weir, Cooper, South, J. A.
Clark, and others made observations relative to this subject. Mr. Adye,
Sphinx convolvuli, taken at Christchurch. Mr. C. A. Briggs, an albino
form of Epinephele tithonus. Mr. Cooper, a bred series of Deilephila galii,
and stated that he had not been able to find any larvae of this species
during the autumn ; Mr. Tugwell said this agreed with his experience.
Mr. T. R. Billups, a hving specimen of Gryllotalpa vulgaris, from Poole,
and contributed notes. Other exhibits were made by Messrs. Turner,
Step, Frohawk, A. E. Cook, and Fremlin.— H. W. Barker, Hon, Sec.
288 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
REVIEW.
The Butterflies of the Eastern United States and Canada^ with special
reference to New England. By Samuel Hubbard Soddder. Three
volumes. Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S.A.
A provisional review of this work was given in the * Entomologist ' for
last year (pp. 327-28), on the publication of the first number ; the com-
pletion thereof, by the appearance of the twelfth and concluding part,
affords a convenient opportunity again to revert to it. It would be difficult
to over-estimate the great scientific value of Mr. Scudder's magnum opus,
and all who study it would agree with him that it is ** the most exhaustive
faunistic work on any insects of any part of the world." These words,
however, but feebly convey the great merit of the three volumes ; to the
biologist, and more particularly to the evolutionist, the manner in which
the early stages of the species are dealt with affords material for judging
of the relations of the groups of butterflies comprised in the work to each
other. For instance, there are three plates of the eggs and an equal
number of the micropyles of the eggs, and four of the caterpillars at birth,
three of the caterpillars' heads at different stages, and four of the mature
caterpillars ; then the chrysalids are figured in three plates, and miscellaneous
structural details, mostly of the early stages, are figured in two more plates.
Besides all this, the neuration of the wings is shown in five plates, and the
male abdominal appendages in five more. Great importance is attached by
Mr. Scudder to the " scale-patches and folds of the wing-membrane found
in the male butterfly," and to the " androconia or scales peculiar to the male
sex." The letterpress on these subjects is extensive, and the details of
such peculiarities are given in no less than nine excellent plates, many of
the figures being highly magnified. Altogether there are eighty-nine
plates and three coloured maps, besides portraits of distinguished early
American entomologists.
The great charm of the work consists in the manner in which all the
dry details are enlivened by the interpolation of an *' Excursus " ; of
these enjoyable essays there are seventy-six scattered through the two
first volumes.
The limits of this review preclude the possibility of giving even an
outline of the subjects dealt with in these instructive excursi, which are of
a most varied character ; they deal with butterflies in almost every aspect
in which they can be studied, for instance, their ancestry, sexual diversity,
ornamentation, geographical distribution, origin of varieties, melanism,
albinism, &c.
In a work which has been so admirably performed, it is invidious,
perhaps, to draw attention to any shortcoming; but the European student
will regret that the author did not see fit to carry out what had once been
his purpose, " to make extended comparisons of the species described with
their nearest allies outside the region concerned."
The work may be safely commended as full of instruction to all classes
of entomologists. — J. J. W.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIL] DECEMBEE, 1889. [No. 319.
PARARGE MEGjERA.
Pabaege meg^ka.
The very singular specimen of Pararge inegcerai depicted
above, was captured by the late Colonel Cox, of Fordwich, Kent,
probably near his residence, as the species used to swarm in the
neighbourhood formerly, though now it is less common.
In this example the second nervure of the median vein in each
wing is wanting, and, as I have noticed in other insects, when this
is the case an additional or enlarged ocellus takes its place towards
the hind margin. The spur, which usually runs from the central
bar towards the end of the inner margin in the male, seems more
to follow the facies of that of the female, and thus forms a band
across the fore wing. The usual ocellus is double, with a small
dot above. In the secondaries the second and third ocelli unite,
and their usual central white dots join into a line, one-twelfth of
an inch long. Beneath, the upper wings show respectively six
and five ocelli or dots, and the hind wings five and six. The
specimen is a male.
In the same cabinet is another specimen without any of the
usual tawny colouring near the thorax, the whole of the first
two-thirds of the wing being the same colour as the transverse
markings.
Sydney Webb.
Maidstone House, Dover, October, 1889.
ENTOM,— DEC. 1889. 2 D
290 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
NOTE ON PARASITES OF ATHERIX IBIS, Fabr.
My attention has been called recently to the interesting
contribution, by Mr. T. E. Billups, on the habits and parasites
of Atherix ibis, published (p. 193) in August number of the
* Entomologist.'
I was particularly interested in his descriptions of the two
hymenopterous parasites reared from it, and write now to correct
the generic position assigned them.
Mr. Billups is certainly in error in his generic determinations
of these parasites. Figures 5 and 6 do not belong to the genus
Teleas, but to the genus Trichogramma in the family Chalcididae,
sub-family Trichogramminse. I have reared various species of
this genus in America from lepidopterous, hemipterous, and
homopterous eggs; also from Coccids. Teleas, although an
egg-parasite, is widely different, and belongs to the family
Proctotrupidse, sub-family Platygasterinse. The genus is known
at once by having a distinct marginal vein and an oblique stigmal
vein, while the hind wings are wider, and the antennae differently
shaped.
Figures 3 and 4 do not represent male and female of a species
of AntceoUy but are male and female of a species of Megaspilus in
the family Proctotrupidse, sub-family Ceraphroninse. I have
reared species of this genus from Aphids and dipterous puparia.
Antaon is a Proctotrupid genus in the sub-family Dryininse, and
shows but a superficial resemblance to Megaspilus. It is at once
distinguished from it by its more highly developed venation, the
front wings having two basal or brachial cells. The genus is
probably parasitic on homopterous insects, like an allied genus
Gonatopus,
W. H. ASHMEAD.
U. S. Dept. of Agriculture, Washington, D.C., Aug. 14, 1889.
[It is pleasing to find that the * Entomologist ' is so critically
read by members of the U. S. Dept. of Agriculture, Washington,
and I am obliged to your correspondent, Mr. W. H. Ashmead, for
calling my attention to the error respecting the genus Teleas
(Entom. 194), which most possibly is incorrectly named; but, as
regards Nos. 3 and 4, I sin in very good company, the insects
having been submitted to the Kev. T. A. Marshall, and by him
determined as Antceon alorus. — T. E. B.]
Description of Trichogramma. Plate 7, figs. 5, 6.
When I drew the figures, illustrated on plate 7 of this volume
of the 'Entomologist,' I took careful descriptions of the living
insects under consideration. Appended are my notes : —
NOTES FROM THE NORTH-WEST COUNTIES. 291
Fig. 5 — Male, apterous. Antennae nine-jointed, not including
the basal short joint, to which the first long elbowed joint is
united; second joint wider, about half the length of first, and
pear-shaped ; third joint the smallest, very small and collar-like;
fourth and fifth of equal size and round, same thickness as the
first ; the remaining four united as one, forming a club. Head
wider than either the thorax or abdomen, closely and firmly set
on the thorax. Wings quite rudimentary, merely scale-like, and
visible only under high microscopic power. Abdomen slightly
wider than the thorax; anal segment furnished with bristles.
Legs very muscular, well adapted for leaping. Colour pale
ochreous, excepting the abdomen, which is dark brown, inclining
to black. Size, the merest speck, only just visible to the naked
eye, one hundredth part of an inch being somewhere near
the size.
Fig. 6. — Female. Antennae same as male. Head round, and
much smaller than that of the male, and slightly wider than the
thorax. Wings : primaries ample and rounded, costal vein only
running along the costa, turning before reaching the middle of
the costal margin, and then running towards the middle of the
wing; the very minute scale-like hairs are arranged in a series
of lines, giving a vein-like appearance ; fringes long. Secondaries
long and narrow, without veins, only one row of scales down the
centre ; fringes longer than those of the primaries. Legs
muscular. Colour: antennae and legs pale ochreous; head,
thorax, and abdomen shining black; costal vein very pale
brown; scales on the wings dusky. Size, considerably larger
than the male.
Many pairs emerged (from the mass of dead flies, Atherix
ibis, and their ova) on several consecutive mornings, but they
lived only for a few hours. I watched them copulating several
times, which process lasts for not more than fifteen seconds.
The males are very active, the females more sluggish, when
touched, leaping for about half an inch, apparently not using
the wings.
F. W. Frohawk.
Balham, S.W., 1889.
NOTES FROM THE NORTH-WEST COUNTIES.
By J. Arkle.
With a preceding season like last year's — marked as it was
by extraordinary rainfall, low temperature, and early frost— it
could hardly be expected that 1889 could be very prolific in
Lepidoptera. At any rate my anticipations for this district were
not high, and I find their verification to be at least on the same
footing as the notes of disappointment which reach me from far
3d 2
292 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
off as well as near correspondents. Still, though hunting has
been marred by rain, tempest, and scarcity of quarry, it has been
my good fortune to meet, during the season, with extraordinary
insects, as well as with entomological matters of interest.
Beginning with Delamere Forest, in Cheshire, the comparative
scarcity of Nyssia hispidariay in the early spring, looked like an
index to what had apparently been the generally observed
character of the year. But later on, at the end of May, three
specimens of Orthosia suspecta — taken at rest on oak-trunks —
amply compensated me for the rarity of N. hispidaria, especially
as 0. suspecta figures hitherto unrecorded for the Chester Natural
History Society's District,
One or two visits followed during the month of June, — a
month which stands out in pleasant recollection as being perfect
in warmth and sunshine,— still, the greenwood was so deserted
by lepidopterous, and I may add by coleopterous, insects, that I
determined to take up an abode near its shades, for a few days,
as a thorough test. Here and there one comes across a few
scattered houses, where the inmates tell graphic stories of nightly
" mosquito " miseries. Forewarned, I therefore chose my lodging
outside the wood, and on high and open ground, with every
desired result. This visit began on the 11th of July, and from
this date the weather completely broke down. Days of rain and
lack of sunshine followed each other, until I packed up and
returned on the 14th. My captures were — a larva of Eugonia
erosaria, taken on the trunk of an oak, and now a fine imago ; one
Geometra papilionaria ; a dozen or more Pseudoterpna pruinata
(cytisaria), which, by the way, only showed in a few cases the
ochreous colour supposed to be due to emergence in wet weather ;
a series of Cramhus margaritellus (a plentiful insect, and in fine
condition) ; Tortrix sorhianay T, ministranay Penthina pruniana,
Phycis carhonariella {fusca), Depressaria yeatiana, and a couple
of Coenonympha typhon. The scarcity of the latter insect is, I
fear, in some measure due to over-collecting since its habitat
became so generally known.
My other Delamere captures may be briefly summed up in
the following list : — June 22. Nemeophila russula, plentiful and
fresh from the chrysalis, and early by a fortnight or three weeks ;
Cymatophora duplarisy a few ; a couple of Eucosmia undulata :
Lomaspilis marginata in plenty, by a row of willows ; Lyccena
cegon, fairly numerous ; but the well-known forms, such as Aplecta
nehulosa, Drepana falcataria, Ellopia prosapiariay Macaria litu-
rata, Melanippe montanatay M. sociatay Thera variatay Cabera
jmsariay and Metrocampa margaritariay were extraordinarily rare.
Among butterflies the common Whites — usually so conspicuous
among the greenness — I failed to notice at all. Coenonympha
pamphilus and Polyommatus phloeas even appeared to be less
NOTES FROM THE NORTH-WEST COUNTIES. 298
numerous than in previous years. Here, as well as elsewhere
in the district, Plusia gamma was in such numbers as to be a
frequent nuisance to the/^oUector, although its usual colleague,
Vanessa cardui, had been comparatively scarce.
On August 17th I beat from alder a larva of Drepana falca-
taria and a dozen or more caterpillars of Hadena adusta, as well
as an imago of Peronea aspersana from bog myrtle (sweetgale).
Larvae of Hadena pisi were also plentiful on this shrub.
My last visit to the Forest was on the 5th of October, when I
found an Agriopis aprilina drying its wings on an oak ; a few
more H. adusta larvae ; and I beat a score of N. russula cater-
pillars off the sweetgale. I tried, by warmth and fresh food, —
plantain for H. adusta and lettuce for N. russula, — to overcome
the disposition of these creatures to hybernate, but the instinct
was too strong : H. adusta persistently turned in to winter
quarters, — each forming a hybernaculum in the soil, — and N,
russula betook themselves to the gauze covering of their flower-
pot, where, for the last fortnight, they have remained motion-
less in an inverted position. Three captures, on October 5th, of
the richly coloured Peronea mixtana, and one of the ochreous
Lemnatophila phryganella, complete this representative list.
A few notes for Chester may now follow those of Delamere.
In the early spring the sallows in the immediate neighbourhood
showed a marked falling ojBf among the common members of the
Tceniocampa family. T. gothica and T. stahilis were most fre-
quently seen ; the others were barely represented. In Caughall
Lane, an unfrequented bridle-road about four miles from the
city, — with a wide stretch of sloe, hazel, sallow, and brier
wilderness on each side, — I came across a number of night-
feeding larvae on the evening of May 4th. From these I bred
fine specimens of Boarmia repandata, Noctua augur, Triphcena
interjecta, and T. orhona. This night- searching for larvae of
Lepidoptera is very interesting work, and remunerative also.
One seldom gets T. interjecta fine when caught as a moth. During
the night I netted, flying over the grass, a moth I have been
thoroughly puzzled with. It has, up to the present, remained
unidentified.
The neighbourhood of Chester has, deservedly I think, a bad
reputation for *' sugaring." I tried the process frequently in
June, but, as usual, without success. On the 18th of May, at
Huntingdon Wood, — another of our *' localities," and situated
about a couple of miles away, — I took, flying over a sedgy ditch,
a number of Apamea unanimis. The moth confines itself to this
spot, the probable reason being the presence of its food-plant.
Acidalia remutata and Emmelesia decolorata were also among my
captures on this occasion. On the evening of July 2nd, in the
Nurseries of Messrs. Dickson and Co., I netted a number of
294 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Platyptilia gonodactyla, flying over the flowers of a species of
yarrow.
Why there should have heen something hke a general expect-
ation— not by any means confined to this district — that we were
going to have an *' Edusa year," I am unable to say. Our last
Edusa advent occurred in 1877, when the butterfly was freely
taken in June and September. But, as if in defiance of all
attempts at fixing another " year " for 1887, — that is, after a
mathematical ten years, — the insect ever after refused to show
itself. However, strangely enough, I am able to report a capture
of, at any rate, one specimen — on the usual sunny, flowery kind
of bank the insect loves so well — close to Chester. But more
about Colias anon.
A more wretched autumn for collecting I do not remember
than the present one. The only method practicable, as far as
rain and east winds will permit, is that of working the gas-lamps
after dark ; but even lamp moths have been far from plentiful.
I took about the usual numbers of Eugonia alniaria {tiliaria)
and Anchocelis lunosa, but A, pistacina, Luperina testacea, L,
cespitis, Orthosia lota, Hydroecia inicacea, and Neuronia popularis
have been few indeed. As I write, Himera pennaria and Hijbernia
defoliaria are to be seen occasionally on the gas-lamps. In June
I took two or three specimens of Phibalapteryo^ vittata (lignata),
and, in the early autumn, amongst other Micros, a long series of
the pretty Paraponyx stratiotana, all from the lamps.
I will now take the reader back to a beautiful day in spring,
when, dashing along by rail into North Wales, I continued a long
series of attempts at an acquaintance with Agrotis ashivorthii.
It will be understood this is a moth of which it may metaphor-
ically be said that too much should not be told in Gath or
pubUshed in Askelon. In the same carriage I met a stranger, —
a hale, but aged, Welsh minister, who must have been close upon
three score years and ten, — and little did I imagine he possessed
the key to my puzzle. As the train ran through the green fields
and pleasant sunshine we chatted together, as well as my
ignorance of Welsh and his limited English would permit, but
without touching upon Entomology. By-and-bye we left the
train at a wayside station, and bade each other good morning.
For the next few hours I worked hard among the slate and lime-
stone mountains, but without success. Just as I was about to
give up the task for the day, I was surprised at an unexpected
sight again of my reverend friend ; and, as I thought some
explanation might be opportune, I remarked that I was searching
for the larvae, after hybernation, of a certain insect. To my
further surprise he at once quoted the species, but added that my
endeavours could be of no avail. He then very kindly directed
me to a house, across the valley, where I should find a farmer
who had, in his day, collected numbers of ashworthii larvae.
NOTES FROM THE NORTH-WEST COUNTIES. 2^5
Away I started, and, in climbing up towards the dwelling, I
fortunately met a young fellow who turned out to be the farmer's
son. With the view of saving time I broached the ashworthii
question, and he ultimately guided me to the haunts of this local
insect. These were simply beetling limestone cliffs, inaccessible
to all but a native. With a challenge to " Come on," he at once
began the ascent of one. Thinking he only meant climbing up
a yard or two I followed, but, with a discretion commensurate
with the weight of years, I soon felt a strong wish to descend,
and was thoroughly satisfied at accomplishing it. Higher and
higher went my friend, until I cordially wished all ashworthii at
the bottom of the sea. I begged him to come down, but he
coolly replied that the only safe way was to return by an easier
path from the top. I have no wish to dwell upon the next hour
or so, but, to my great relief, he reappeared walking coolly
towards me on my own level. He had two ashworthii larvae, but
— bleeding hands as well ! The caterpillars he had ferreted out
from the crevices in the cliff, where, being night-feeders, they
secrete themselves by day. The conversation which ensued — all
about this rare moth, its collectors, and its dealers — would make
a book. By-and-bye my young friend introduced me to an
individual who finds a harvest during the season in which the
larvEe of this beautiful insect feed. From him I obtained ten
caterpillars, and at the close of the day I possessed thirteen,
only one of which I took personally, — all the others, as the
reader will have guessed, being simply cash transactions. I
cannot close these remarks without bearing testimony to the
accurate description of the insect given by the late Mr. Newman
in his * British Moths.' On one point alone does my experience
differ from it, viz.^ that all my eleven images (two larvae died)
emerged between June 26th and July 3rd, instead of August ;
but this may be accounted for by the fact — explained no doubt
by the splendid June— that all insects have been, more or less,
unusually early this season. I found my caterpillars very easy
to rear, and, as Newman observes, to revel on sallow.
My record for Wallasey is soon told. I had promised a
correspondent some Tceniocampa opima eggs, and accordingly
reached the sandhills on May 18th. Two gentlemen from Bolton
joined me in a careful search on the dead ragwort stems, but it
was evident these had all been examined long before. At last
one of my companions discovered a small batch on an overlooked
thistle, and he very kindly shared the eggs with me. The only
insects we saw were Mesotype virgata (lineolata) and Herbula
cespitalis.
Three times during August did I make a careful examination
for Deilephila galii larvae. Like other entomologists who have,
this year, sought there for the caterpillars, I did not come across
a single trace.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
On July 25th I started for a week's collecting in North Lanca-
shire, and across the Kiver Kent into Westmoreland. Kain, as
usual, with a scarcity of insects, were the great drawbacks. At
Heysham Moss, near Morecambe, I found Coenonyvipha typhon
all but over, and Hyria muricata (auroraria) and Acidalia fumata
entirely so. My captures were four C. typhon, a long and fine
series of Carsia paludata v. imhutata, half-a-dozen fresh Anarta
myrtilli, and at Hest Bank, a beautiful specimen of Larentia
salicata. The larvae of Vanessa cardui, V. atalanta, and V. io —
usually so conspicuous here at this time of the year — were
entirely absent, owing, I was informed, to the early season. At
Witherslack we joined our old friend Mr. H. Murray, whose
extraordinary powers of getting across country I observed, as
usual, with mixed feelings. Crossing the estuary of the Kent,
we proceeded on our way along the embankment which keeps
the swollen waters of that river from the surrounding fields.
This bank is everything the entomologist can wish for, — sunny,
and well clothed with plants and flowers. The day, however,
was dull, and our low expectations were such that when a yellow
insect started up it was put down as a disturbed Bumia luteolata
(cratcegata). By-and-bye another got up ; a dash was made for
it, but, in reality, it was allowed to escape. After a mile or so
we got off the embankment, and took a lot of the pretty Cramhus
inquinatellus and C. geniculeus, as we disturbed them from a
growth of St. John's wort. The chief insect of our search was
Sciaphilus penziana, — a thoroughly good insect, — and I was so
fortunate as to bring away nearly a dozen of this beautiful
species. Other captures were Boarmia repandata, Acidalia ornata,
Anaitis plagiata and C. paludata. Our return lay along the
embankment I have just referred to. The sun had brightened
out, and, flying over the flowers, we again saw one of those
mysterious yellow insects which had baffled us in the morning.
Unmistakably it was a butterfly. Our three nets were at once
in operation, and finally the insect fell to Mr. Murray. It was a
fresh and perfect Colias hyale. Here, also, the idea prevailed
that the season would be famous for an appearance in force of
Colias edusa. It has, since my visit, been verified to some extent
by several captures of the butterfly. Another common visitor
has been Sphinx convolvuli.
Morecambe was, as usual, full of visitors. A great attraction
there is the Winter Palace, on the balcony of which, high up, is
a large electric lamp. Noticing, one evening, a large number of
moths about this lamp, I got permission to take as many as I
could. I therefore took up a position on the balcony, — with a
glass partition separating me from the crash of the band, and
with the sea stretching away into the darkness in front. To the
surprise of many observers, of all ages and both sexes, who
NOTES FROM TflE NORTH-WEST COUNTIES. 297
evidently looked upon my evolutions with doubt, I took a repre-
sentative number of insects. They were, however, only Acidalia
dimidiata (scutulata), Xylophasiamonoglyphalipolyodon), Triphcsna
pronuha, and, of course, Plusia gamma.
After my return to Chester, and a rest of a day or two, I
started again, on August 5th, for Welsh ground. I had accepted
a kind invitation from Mr. W. J. Kerr, of Tan-y-Bwlch, Merio-
neth, to become his guest for a few days. Tan-y-Bwlch (which,
in order to satisfy the legitimate curiosity of English readers,
I will say is pronounced like Tan-e-Bulk) is situated midway,
with a distance of something like ten miles on either side, as the
crow flies, between Snowdon on the north and the classical
Harlech on the south, and about the same number of miles from
the sea. The locality is a well-wooded and lovely vale, shut in
by lofty slate or limestone mountains. I arrived vid Llangollen
and Bala, on the 5th, in a severe thunderstorm. "After a storm
cometh a calm," which, at least, must always be relatively true,
so, although the evening was still wet, my host — who had pre-
viously sent a man to sugar some well-known trees — and I turned
out after insects. Our rendezvous was a sloping bank, just
inside an oak wood, and covered with heath and other plants in
full bloom. The weather did not prevent us taking Cidaria
prunata (rihesaria), Noctua xanthographa (the red form), and the
ubiquitous P. gamma, at the heath blossoms. At sugar, however,
we were only favoured with visits from X. monoglypJia.
The next day showed the weather had not materially improved.
In spite of almost continuous rain I hunted round the sheltered
faces of the rocks near. The only insect I met with was the
solitary wasp, Odynerus spinipes, — commonly enough,— but in
every case hidden away in its mud cells from the tempestuous
weather. Empty cocoons of Bomhyx quercm, and of a gregarious
member of the Zygaenidae, completed what, under favourable
weather, would have been a long list from rock-hunting. Sugar,
in the evening, was again a failure, except for the usual visits of
-X. monoglypha.
On the 7th rain fell in the first half of the day. The sun
broke out in the afternoon, when I was taken to the borders of
one of the numerous oak woods to see Thecla quercus, Argynnis
adippe, and A. paphia on the wing. On a bank open to the sun,
but sheltered by oaks, and covered with fern, flowers and bramble,
the two last-named insects were to be seen in plenty feeding on
the flowers of knapweed {Centaurea nigra), and sailing up to rest
again on the oaks above. I netted a few, but they were all more
or less damaged by the stormy weather. T. quercus was in
tantalizing scores, but not one could we coax within reach. A
splendid specimen rose one day from the muddy road, but I
missed it. Our captures this day included Eugonia erosaria, —
298 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
one specimen drying its wings on a grass stem; Phytometra
viridaria (cenea); Larentia olivata, a very common insect, and
obtained by beating ; B. repandata, and the lovely black-and-
white Ennychia octomaculata. I was puzzled here, at first, with
the local form of B. repandata. I had just seen the darker,
well-marked Delamere form, and the still darker indistinct species
of Westmoreland and North Lancashire ; but this approached
more in appearance the light markings of the Buckinghamshire
Tephrosia crepuscularia.
The following day was as fine and sunny as could be desired.
Mr. Kerr and I set off, after breakfast, for a tramp through the
mountains in the direction of Harlech, on the coast. On the
hills in August is not the best time for Lepidoptera ; but we
came across an occasional Lyccena icarus, and the irrepressible
P. gamma, whose pretentious flight made us wish the pursuit it
beguiled us into — in the hot sun — had been directed in a better
cause. Aphomia sociellaf Cramhus tristelluSy C. margaritellus in
ivory and gold, and C. inquinatellus, we were able to add to our
list of Micros. Two mountain lakes — Upper and Lower Tecwyn
— we now passed. The waters of both were as clear as crystal,
delicious and refreshing. On the banks of the Upper Lake —
that nearest the sea — we halted a few minutes to look at the
interesting scene. Around us the auriferous rocks had been dis-
turbed in various places in the late " discoveries " of gold. Many
of the stones lying about — in fact, most of them — showed traces
of the precious metal, but only as if a brush had lightly touched
them with the thinnest possible solution. The workings were
therefore deserted. This lake lay in a mountain gorge, at the
end of which, through a V-shaped opening just above the lake,
we could see, in the clear perspective, the blue waters of Cardigan
Bay. Around us rose cliffs to a dizzy height, and, against one
of these, sailed a solitary cormorant— the only exception in this
picture of still life. Shortly after we were once more in the low-
lands, and following the well-shaded line of a clear trout-stream,
by which we lunched, in the direction of Harlech Castle. All
along we met with A. adippe, A. paphia, Hesperia sylvanus, and,
in addition, a few very worn specimens of A, aglaia. T, quercus
was again in plenty, high up around the oaks, whilst Pararge
megcera and Satyrus semele winged their way over humbler haunts
nearer ground. And so, through " these delightful pleasant
groves," we arrived, after some fifteen miles of tough tramp, at
the estuary of the unpronounceable river which flows into the
head of Cardigan Bay. This estuary is guarded by an embank-
ment which is a well-known haunt of Colias edusa and C. hyale,
but it was now too late in the day, and we saw none. We
therefore crossed by the railway- bridge to the hotel at Mynfford
Junction. Here, according to arrangement, we were met by a
groom, and we were soon trotting back, in time for dinner, along
ENTOMOLOGY 01* ICELAND. ^99
a splendid road, and as fast as a well-appointed trap and thorough-
bred could reasonably take us.
Our valuable auxiliary at sugaring, an elderly servitor, had
been once again busy with the brush on some trees by a
willowed stream, and so we turned out, after dark, to see what
sport awaited us. To his quiet disgust there was nothing but a
few bat-like Mania maura and the intrepid X. monoglypha.
I have often seen Snowdon, and stood on its summit, but I
never had such a grand, clear view of the noble mountain as we
enjoyed that day. This fact, with a sudden fall of the mercury
in the evening, prepared us for another break in the weather
next day. In the afternoon it cleared up, when, near the famous
Black Falls, I beat, from oak and birch, larvae of D. falcatariay
CymatopJwra or, Notodonta chaonia, N. trimacula v. dodonea, and
Amphidasys strataria (prodromaria) .
I will now quote, from Mr. Kerr's private collection, a few
representative insects, which will show the rich entomological
character of this neighbourhood: — Argynnis selene, A. euphro-
syne, Melitcea aurinea, Lyccena cegon, Nemeobius lucina, Sphinx
convolvidi (a series of over a dozen taken this September at
flowers of Nicotiana affinis, specially grown for the purpose),
Choerocampa celerio (one fine specimen, which flew into the
house), C.porcellus (a long series netted at honeysuckle bloom),
C. elpenor (a long series taken at rhododendron flowers on the
lawn), Macroglossa bombyliformis (another long series, netted
also, if I remember rightly, at the same flowers), Sesia myopi-
formis, Ino statices, N. russula (a beautiful variety of Arctia caia,
in which the colours were substituted for each other), Pterostoma
palpina, Thyatira derasa, T. bails, Acronycta leporina, A. ligustri,
Agrotis ashivorthii (unidentified, I think, until I saw it), Pkisia
interrogationis, Hydrelia unca (a common insect), Euclidia gly-
phica, Brephos parthenias, Angerona prunaria (common), and
Melanthia albicillata (also common).
The following day, August 10th, was a wet one, and ended a
most enjoyable visit. I started for home, and my kind host for
the moors.
2, George Street, Chester, October 28, 1889.
ENTOMOLOGY of ICELAND: NOTES upon a VISIT in 1889.
By the Rev. F. A. Walker, D.D., F.L.S., &c.
(Concluded from p. 275.)
List of Insects taken in Iceland.
Coleoptera.
OtiorhyncJms. Abundant. Reykjavik, Flatey Island, Isafjord,
Saudakrok, Stykkisholm, Arnafjord, Reykjafjord, and elsewhere.
SOO Tfiie ENTOMOLOGIST.
Creopliilus inaxillosm. Eeykjavik (lane in outskirts of Keykjavik,
above cjorn or the lake in rear of the cathedral). Akureyri.
Plati/sna [Pterostichus) vitreum. Keykjavik, Stykkisholm, Isa^ord,
Akureyri, Patreksfjord, Eeykjafjord, and from other fjords.
Colymbetes. Reykjavik (under stones by margin of lake, about a
mile west of Reykjavik).
Calathus melanocephalus. Reykjavik, Flatey Island, Patreks^ord,
Saudakrok, and from other fjords.
Amara, Reykjavik, Saudakrog, and from other fjords.
Nebria hrevicollis. Reykjavik, Stykkisholm, Akureyri, Seydisfjord,
and from other fjords.
Bradycetlm. Saudakrok.
Elate)', near Cryptohypnus. One. Isai^*ord.
Byrrhus. Reykjofjord, Eskefjord.
StaphyliniiSy Philonthits, or Quedius. One. Reykjafjord.
Chrysomela staphylcsa. One. Akureyri.
ElateridcB. From one of the fjords.
Notiophiliis. From one of the fjords.
Aphodim. Reykjavik.
Almost all the Coleoptera above mentioned were found under
stones, with the exception of Creophilus maxillosus and Byrrhus
taken flying.
Lepidoptera.
Crymodes exulw. Reykjavik, Thingvellir. Common. One speci-
men of very dark type, Krisuvik.
Agrotis cursoria. Four. Akureyri.
Agrotis ? Possibly new. Akureyri and Dyrafjord.
Plmia gamma. Reykjavik.
P. interrogationis (two specimens). Thingvellir.
Noctua conflua. Reykjavik, Thingvellir. Abundant. Markings
of forewings very variable.
CharcBos graminis. Reykjavik, Hafnafjord, Patreks^ord.
Hadena akureyriensis, suggestive of pisi.
Larentia ccesiata. Very abundant. Thingvellir.
Coremia munitata. Reykjavik, Thingvellir. Very abundant.
Markings of forewings very variable.
C. propinquata, var. vainsmyriensis ? Vatnsmyri Moor. Reykjavik.
Cidaria truncata (rmsata). Reykjavik, Arnefjord, Dyrafjord,
Onundafjord.
C. russata, var. cjomensis. Meadows by cjorn (or lake) in rear of
cathedral, Reykjavik.
C. immavata. Abundant. Reykjavik, Arnefjord, Dyrafjord, Onun-
dafjord, Isafjord.
C. marmorata. Abundant. Reykjavik, Arnefjord, Dyrafjord,
Onundafjord, Isafjord, Akureyri, Eskefjord.
Pempeliafusca, Common. Thingvellir.
Aphelia osseana. Abundant. Thingvellir, Engey.
Trichoptera.
Limnephilus picturatus. Also common. Very prettily marked
Reykjavik, Thingvellir, Seydisfjord, Isafjord, Engey.
ENTOMOLOGY OP ICELAND. 301
L. ^riseus. The commonest species and subject to variation in
size and marking. Reykjavik, Thingvellir, Siglafjord, Eskefjord,
Ofjord (or Akureyri), Isafjord, Engey.
Grammotaulius atomarim. One specimen. Reykjavik.
Hymenoptera.
Bomhus hortorum, Reykjavik, Thingvellir, Eskefjord.
Ichneumon albicinctus (female). Engey.
Pimpla sodalis. Thingvellir.
P. sodalis? (possibly female).
Diptei'a.
Helophilus pmdulm. Reykjavik, Engey, Thingvellir, Eskefjord.
Scatophaga stercoraria. Reykjavik, Thingvellir, et passim,
Culex pipiens. Reykjavik Hotel, Reykjavik, Thingvellir.
Homalomyia canicularis. Akureyri.
Calliphora erythrocephala. Reykjavik, Engey, Thingvellir, Hafna-
fjord, Krisuvik, Reykafjord, Akareyri, Vopnafjord, et passim,
C, greenlandica. Reykjavik, Hafnaflord, Krisuvik, Akureyri,
Vopnafjord.
C, vomitoria. Generally common.
Sarcophaga mortuorum. Reykjavik, Hafnafjord, Krisuvik, Sauda-
krok, Siglufjord, Akureyri, Vopnafjord, Seydisfjord, Eskefjord.
SccBva pyrastri (black var.). Akureyri.
Simulia reptans. Near Geysir.
Musca azurea, Akureyri.
M. domestica. Reykjavik, &c.
Sphcerophoria scripta. Thingvellir.
Drymeia hamata. Thingvellir.
Syrphus nitidulus. Thingvellir.
8, ribesii. Thingvellir.
8. arcuatm. Thingvellir.
Platychirus albimanus. Thingvellir, Reyjavik.
Limnophila arctica. Thingvellir.
L. arctica yslv, fuscipennis near (unless n. sp.). Thingvellir.
The Otiorhynchus above-mentioned among the Coleoptera,
should be divided into two species, of which 0. monticola is by
far the commonest, being widely distributed, and occurring at
nearly every fjord. 0. maurus is met with at Reykjavik and
Thingvellir.
The Nebria hrevicollis above recorded should by rights be
Nebria gyllenhali, the same species as Staudinger mentions
having found in Iceland. Nebria gyllenhali is smaller than N,
brevicollis, which latter species I captured at Thorshavn, Faroe
Isles.
I found Calathus melanocephalus at Revkjavik to consist
mostly of Staudinger 's var. nubigena with the black or blackish
thorax, very few of the typical form with the red thorax. The
303 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Flatey Island ones are black, so too those from Thinp(vellir, and
those from Onundafjord. The specimen from Patreksfjord is
intermediate, the Saudakrok one has the typical red thorax.
Some of the specimens of Pterostichus are brownish, others
jet black ; but the difference in colouring does not constitute
them two species.
I am indebted to Messrs. South, Kirby, and Mason for assist-
ance in identifying some of the more obscure of my captures.
Dun Mallard, Cricklewood, N.W.
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTU^ OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
Br J. W. TuTT. F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 278.)
Aparneay Och., gemina^ Hb.
The type of this species is represented by Hiibner's fig. 48Ji,
of which I made the following description : — " Anterior wings
blackish grey, with a pale basal line ; stigmata faintly outlined,
and followed by a pale transverse line, a row of white dots,
and a pale toothed line. Posterior wings dark grey, with paler
base and dark lunule." Dr. Staudinger writes of the type,
" forma obscura magis." This particular form is the one repre-
sented in Newman's * British Moths,' fig. 2, p. 304. It will be
seen that very few of our British specimens would answer to the
above description, which represents quite a melanic form of the
more mottled type. Our specimens of this latter form are
generally brownish grey or brown, although I have specimens,
taken by the Aberdeen collectors, and others taken by Mr. Percy
Russ of Sligo, and Mr. Newman of Darlington, which are either
altogether greyish black or otherwise very dark, and closely
resemble the type. The species is variable within certain limits,
and extends from the more unicolorous type in blackish grey
and brownish, through specimens of the same coloration,
but with a distinct line under the stigmata, to an extreme
variety with all the median space and costal area very dark, and
the outer and inner margins pale grey, and bearing a strong
superficial resemblance to Hadena genistce in some specimens.
The first (mottled) form follows the group,* of which I consider
hasilinea the type, having the short longitudinal basal line and
paler transverse lines; the latter (dark central area) forms an
extreme development, which I consider typical* in pabulatriculay
having the development of the dark »-i-like mark under the
* Vide introductory notes to genus Apamea,
VARIETIES OP NOCTU-aS IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 303
stigmata, and the central area banded, although there is a
complete gradation of intermediate forms. There would thus
appear to be two varieties in the unicolorous form,— (1) grey,
inclining to blackish, with no brown or very little brown;
(2) grey, much suffused with brown, and sometimes entirely
reddish brown. In both of these, differences in intensity of
colour, and in the development of the tranverse lines, occur.
The form most closely allied to these is that in which the dark
HH -like mark* is developed under the stigmata (var. intermedia),
and as the space above is generally shaded it gives the specimens
a rather banded appearance, as in Newman's 'British Moths,*
p. 304, fig. 1, although generally more strongly marked. Of this
variety there are two shades of colour, grey and reddish brown.
Var. intermedia is distinctly intermediate between the type and
the next (var. remissa, Hb.), where the black HH-like mark is
extended into a large blackish or brownish patch, extending
upwards to the costa between the reniform and orbicular, and
connected with another dark patch developed between the two
short, longitudinal, basal streaks, and with the space outside the
subterminal line of the same dark shade, especially in its central
area and at the anal angle ; the inner margin of the wing very
clear, and almost immaculate. This extreme form is apparently the
remissa of Hiibner and of Treitschke. Of this variety Staudinger
writes, " dilutior, variegata." Var. remissa, Tr., and var. inter-
media appear to be united by Guenee to form his var. a, " La
BrouilUe " of Engramelle (' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 208), of the
general variation of which Guenee writes:— "It is possible that
this may be distinct from gemina.'' " This Apamea differs from
didyma by its generally darker colour, its anterior wings generally
a little narrower, and above all by a black streak which unites
the two transverse lines below the submedian nervure, leaving
between this line and the inner margin a space generally paler
than the ground colour. Certain subvarieties have all the sub-
terminal space equally clear, and thus somewhat resemble Hadena
genistcB, These are known in collections as submissa.^* This
latter is a very rare development, and appears to be the remissa
of Hiibner, a slightly more extreme development of the
remissa of Treitschke. The only very extreme specimen I
have, in a very long series, came from Mr. Finlay, of Morpeth.
The remissa of Haworth (* Lepidoptera Britannica,' p. 189,
No. 79) is apparently the same as remissa, Tr., to which
many of our British specimens are referable, while the var. /S of
his remissa appears to refer to Hiibner's rather more extreme
form. The oblonga of Haworth is simply a slight modi-
fication of var. intermedia, being a grey form with the costal
area, containing the grey stigmata, brownish, the t-H-mark
developed, the subterminal line whitish ; the dark fuscous type
304 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Haworth calls ohscura. Mr. Porritt writes, concerning the
general variation of this species, — *' The pale variegated variety,
as well as the dark forms, occur at Huddersfield " (in litt.) ; and
Mr. Gregson, ' Entomologist,' vol. iv., p. 52, writes, '* This does
not vary so much here (Liverpool) as in the South (of England).
My best varieties of it were given to me by Mr. Doubleday.
One is a very genistce-like specimen." Mr. W. Keid, of Pitcaple
(Aberdeen), writing of the Scotch specimens, says : — " The type,
together with var. rufescens and var. intermedia (both -grisea and
'rufa)y are all to be obtained in more or less abundance in this
district. I once captured a very fine var. remissa^ which agreed
well with Guenee's description. It had a very light ground
colour, with distinct, dark — almost black — markings. It bore a
very strong superficial resemblance to H. genista'' (in litt.).
Tabulating the principal varieties we get : —
1. A dark greyish black mottled form, without the »-H-like
mark, = gemina, Hb.
2. A reddish or brownish grey mottled form, without the
HH - like mark, = var. rufescens.
3. A grey form, with an nn-like mark under stigmata, = var,
intermedia -grisea.
4. A reddish or brownish grey form, with an i-H-like mark
under stigmata, = var. intermedia-rufa,
5. A grey form, with dark blotch between stigmata from
i-i - like mark to costa, dark outer margin, = var. remissa, Hb.
». var. rufescensy mihi. — Ground colour reddish or brownish grey, with
the transverse Hnes as in the darker type. As in the type, there is no
special development of the claviform or of the darker central area, which
become so noticeable in the following varieties. Many of the specimens
belonging to the mottled form, taken in the South of England, have a more
or less reddish or brownish ground colour. I believe this variety occurs in
most localities in all parts of the British Islands where var. intermedia and
var. remissa occur.
p. var. intermedia, mihi. — Under the head of intermedia we get two
sub varieties ; one grey in colour, the other reddish brown. These I have
called : — (1) intermedia-grisea. — Ground colour grey or greyish brown, with
the claviform developed into an M-like mark, which joins the median
transverse lines, the space between the stigmata being darker than the
ground colour, and thus having a somewhat banded appearance. (2). inter-
media-rufa.— This is like intermedia-grisea, but has the ground colour
brownish or reddish grey, with the same characteristic markings as in
that variety. This would appear to be the '* La Brouillee " of Engramelle.
Guenee writes of it: — "It is distinguished above all by a black mark,
which unites the two median transverse lines above the subraedian nervure,
leaving between it and the internal border {i. e., below the M-like mark) a
space generally paler than the ground colour " (' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 208).
These varieties appear to occur in almost all parts of the British Isles. I
have them from Sligo, from Aberdeen, and many other Scotch and English
localities.
VARIETIES OP NOCTUiE IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 305
y. var. oblonga, Haw. — Haworth describes a variety of gemina under the
name of oblonga, treating it as a distinct species. He writes : — ** Alis
cinereis nebulosis, costa maculaquae oblonga fuscis, strigaque alba postica
undulatissima." "Alee anticae longitudinaliter semifuscae, in qua parte
puncta costalia, apex, et stigmata ordinaria, cinerascentia. Altera pars
alffl etiam cinerascit, macula majuscula postica cuneiformi fusca, et alia in
medio oblonga marginem tenuiorem versus. Alae posticae albicantes,
fimbria fusca; csetera ut in variis sequentibus " (* Lepidoptera Britannica,*
pp. 188, 189). This is very Httle different to some forms of intermedia, but
seems to have a darker costal area, in which are situated the paler stigmata.
^. var. remissa, Hb. — About the synonymy of this variety there
seems to have been some doubt, although Hiibner, Haworth, and
Treitschke appear to have described rather more or less extreme forms
of the same variety under the same name. Dr. Staudinger, however,
calls the variety reniissa, Tr. (why Treitschke I do not know, except
that Hiibner 's rather more extreme form is more rarely obtained), and
says of it, "dilutior, variegata." Hiibner's figure 423 may be described as
having " a pale basal patch, with two short black basal streaks, while the
transverse basal line is followed by a large blackish patch extending from
the costa, not quite to the inner margin, in which is placed the pale
orbicular and the inner half of the pale reniform ; the inner margin and
space beyond the reniform is pale, with a paler line parallel to the hind
margin. Hind wings grey, with the base paler." Haworth's remissa is
described much in the same way. He writes : — "Alis pallide fuscescentibus
nebulosis, lineolis duabus basi, arcuque medio, crassissimo nigricantibus."
" Praecedenti (oblonga) affinis costa pallidiore strigaque postica minus
dentata, et fere evanescente; macula oblonga nigra superne alte fusco
adnata et inde stigmata subcinerea arcuatim includente. Posticae alae
fuscescentes." He also adds that there is a form of this variety, " charac-
teribus pallidioribus, at magis distinctis " (* Lepidoptera Britannica,' p. 189,
No, 79). Guenee writes of Hiibner's remissa: — "Superior wings a little
more rounded, having the subterminal space, the two ordinary stigmata,
a part of the basal space, the iimer margin, and an apical patch of a pale
greyish ochreous colour, which contrasts very strongly with the almost black
colour of the median space." Guenee only gives " North America " as a
locaUty for this variety, but adds directly after: — " I have not seen an example
agreeing exactly with Hiibner's figure; our European specimens agree
more or less with the var. a {i. e., var. intermedia), of which this variety is
only an extreme form. It is, therefore, very possible that it occurs with
us, and very probably the specimen which served as Hiibner's type was not
exotic " (' Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 208). This variety in its extreme form is
not common in Britain, but at the same time it is not very rare, and I
should most certainly consider Hiibner's type an European one. The
greater number of our specimens are referable either to the type var.
rufescem or var. intermedia.
(To be continued.)
ENTOM. — NOV. 1889. 2e
30$( THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
The late Frederick Bond. — I have read with much interest the
memoir of our dear old friend, in your magazine of this month, so ably
written by Mr. J. W. Dunning. Being probably one, if not the oldest of
his entomological friends, a few recollections of him in our early days may
not be out of place as a supplement. I made the acquaintance of
Frederick Bond at the natural history sales that took place at the Auction
Rooms, King Street, Covent Garden, just fifty years ago, and he kindly
invited me down to Mount Pleasant, Kingsbury, where he was residing
with his step-father, Capt. Bond. I was a frequent visitor after that,
generally staying from Saturday to Monday, and used to enjoy my visits
very much. We took occasionally little entomological excursions together,
in the neighbourhood and elsewhere. At that time he might be called a
general lover and collector of all natural history subjects. Nothing came
amiss to him in animal life ; but his greatest interest was shown for birds
and beetles, foreign as well as British. Frequently we used to meet by
appointment on Hampstead Heath, to search after Pacilus dimidiatus,
which was then not uncommon there, and to the lane where the beautiful
Tychius 6-punctatus was discovered on vetch by our old friend Frederick
Smith. My collecting British Lepidoptera induced him to take that order
up, and a series of Colias hyale which I gave him in 1842, specimens
captured by me near Arundel that year, encouraged him to go on, and
resulted in his getting together one of the finest collections of British
Lepidoptera in this country, his collection, like my own, being very rich
in varieties. I always found him a kind and genial companion, and ever
ready to impart information, and shall remember with pleasure to the end
of my days the many delightful hours that I spent in his society. —
Samuel Stevens; Loanda, Beulah Hill, Upper Norwood, Nov. 2, 1889.
Vanessa antiopa in Hants. — While sketching on Friday, November
8th, which happened to be a peculiarly warm day for the time of year,
I saw a Vanessa antiopa. It flew quite close to me, almost into my face,
and I had no doubt of its identity, though I made no attempt to catch it. —
L. F. Mahindin ; Liss, Hants.
Epinephele tithonus, var. — While staying at Perranporth, on the
north coast of Cornwall, the last week in August, I caught a variety of
Epinephele tithonus, which has, under the large black spot in the corners
of the upper wings, two smaller ones. It is a female specimen, and, I am
sorry to say, rather damaged. — H. J. Dixon; 7, Leamington Park Villas,
Acton, October 21, 1889.
Deilephila galii. Parasites on. — On reading the paragraph from
the Rev. Mr. Bloomfield (Entom. 280), I placed myself in coramuuication
with the author, also with J. B. Bridgman, and having compared notes and
insects, have arrived at the conclusion that the parasite is Troyus exaltorius,
Panz., and not T. lutorius as was intended. I hope to refer to the
difi'erence between T. exaltorim and T. lutorius in the next volume. —
G. G. Bignell; Stonehouse, November 20, 1889.
Thyatira batis var. mexicana, Hy. Edw.— In looking over some vols,
of ' Papilio,' I came across (vol. iv, Jan. 1884, pp. 16, 17), the description
of a new variety of T. batis named as above, which I quote, as it is
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 307
omitted from Mr. Tutt's valuable paper (Entom. xxi. p. 46), and is
presumably unknown to British lepidopterists. It " differs from the
European form by its larger size, much darker ground-colour of the wings,
both primaries and secondaries, and by the pinkish spots having a larger
and darker internal shade. The ground-colour of the primaries is rich
dark olive-brown ; the secondaries the same colour, with fainter median
band, and a little lighter shade at the base. Exp. wings 44 mm." This
moth was taken in Mexico by Mr. Wm. Schaus, Jr. — T. D. A. Cockerell ;
January 8th, 1889.
Heltophobus htsptdus. — I have just most carefully looked through a
series of Heliophobus hispidus, consisting of thirty-two specimens. Of
these, twenty specimens have been captured in Portland during the last
sixteen months ; the remaining twelve were captured near Torquay some
twelve months earlier. They are all in fine condition and very perfect.
In them there is not the slightest trace of a violet tinge, and Hiibner's
figure is characterised by a strong violet colour. Would Mr. South suggest
that the " tinge of slaty grey," mentioned by Mr. N. M. Richardson (Entom.
136), is the violet of Hiibner's figure ? Mr. Richardson, who has (I believe)
taken very considerable numbers of this species, cannot see any trace of violet
in the Portland specimens. Major Partridge and Lieutenant Brown have, I
believe, never taken *' violet-coloured " examples. Mr. Tutt asserts that
the species at Portland is not like Hiibner's figure, and I agree with him :
and yet Mr. South judges from the same specimens and finds such a
colour. There is, of course, an explanation, viz., that Mr. Richardson
has caught this year what he could never get before, i.e., violet-coloured
specimens ; and if so, it would be most interesting for Mr. Richardson to
tell us about them. — Wilfred Carrick: 67, Avondale Square, Old Kent
Road, London S.E., November 6, 1889.
Parasites on Moths. — From the recent notices on this subject
(Entom. 237, 262, 263), these occurrences would appear to have been more
than usually frequent during the present season; and it may be worth
while to record two further instances which have been brought under my
notice by Mr. Ernest W. H. Blagg, of Cheadle, Staffordshire. In September
last, he kindly submitted to me two specimens, Caradrina quadripuncta,
and Amphipyra tragopogonis, taken by him at sugar, the wings of which
were quite reddened by the presence of numerous Acari with which they
were covered, and which proved upon examination to be mature specimens
of Cheyletus venustissimus (Koch). As the Cheyleti are predatory Acari
and apt to fall foul of one another whenever occasion offers, the reason for
their thus congregating in such close quarters would form an interesting
subject for investigation. Does 0. quadripuncta pupate in localities where
Cheyleti generally abound, such as granaries, stables or chaff-houses ; and
in what way and at what time is it likely to become infested by these
Acari? It is a somewhat singular circumstance that the Cheyleti
appear to be attached by the anal orifice to the scales upon the moths'
wings, thus remaining fixed firmly, although all the legs are free. — E.
BosTOCK ; Stone, Staffordshire, October 23, 1889.
Sugar unproductive. — I would like to state, with regard to Mr. Stott's
suggestion (Entom. 262) as to the excess of honeydew secreted, and not
the sudden fall of temperature at sunset alluded to, being the cause of the
3 08 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
unproductiveness of sugar this season, that during the greater part of the
time to which I referred I was working on the Downs at an elevation of
about 500 feet, where the vegetation was necessarily stunted and the
absence of trees complete. Not only was there the marked absence of
moths upon sugar and blossoms, but very little was to be seen on the
wing. At the same time I have no doubt that those working in woods and
ordinary collecting-ground find the honey dew every year, until washed off
by heavy rain, an important factor in their non-success in working sugar
or flowers. — Albert J. Hodges ; 2, Highbury Place, London, N.
New views on the suborder Homoptera. — In the * Entomologist '
(p. 269), Mr. G. B. Buckton has contributed his views as to a new
classification of the Homoptera, which he calls ** Cicadse." In the course
of his remarks he writes : — " And quite lately, Mr. W. L. Distant has
divided the Indian Cicadidae he describes into two groups, which practically
separates the singing, from the silent genera. The insects comprised in
the latter division must be numerous in the temperate regions of the
Himalayas ; but to them he does not appear yet to have given a name."
Mr. Buckton is mistaken : in my monograph of the Indian Cicadidae (a family
of Homoptera, not the suborder, which Mr. Buckton apparently considers as
the same thing), I have divided that family into two groups, separable by the
tympana in the males being more or less entirely covered or exposed. I
know of no " silent " Cicadidae. Of the other families of Homoptera, to which
Mr. Buckton says I do not appear to have yet given a name, I can
only say :— Firstly, I do not deal with them in my monograph ; and,
secondly, if I did, those families are not in want of new names. A
reference to Professor Westwood's ' Modern Classification of Insects,' or to
the writings of Puton, Stal, Berg, or other modern authorities on the
Homoptera (even including Walker, whom he mentions as a supporter of
his own views), would materially assist Mr. Buckton with the suborder of
which he has a monograph in preparation. — W. L. Distant.
Fungus Parasitic on Insects. — Referring to my note and the editor's
remarks on this insect (Entom. xxii. 284), I have received a second letter from
my son, giving the following further details : — " The specimens T sent you
are rare. They were obtained on the top of one of t le spurs leading from
the gorge of the Otaki River to the principal ridge of mountains previously
mentioned, near Kapiti Island, and were buried perpendicularly in ordinary
soil, about one inch below the surface, beneath the overhanging branches
of a Rata-tree, — a gigantic vine as large as a full-sized English elm." On
perusing Dr. White's instructive article on " Parasitic Fungi " (Ent. xi.
121, 1878), I notice that the allied British species {Isaria farinosa) attacks
the body of the larva in several parts, whereas the New Zealand species
does so, apparently, only in its extremities. I am not aware of any
advance in the study of the habits of the latter fungus since Dr. White's
article was written, which would unravel the mystery connected with this
parasite's modus operandi in attacking its victim; and should such not
exist, any information on this and kindred points would no doubt be not
only highly instructive, but of much scientific value. It is therefore to be
hoped that some earnest worker in this branch of natural history may be
enabled to investigate the matter to a successful issue. — Geo. J. Grapes ;
Berkeley Villa, 34, Charlwood Road, Putney, S,W., November 5, 1889.
Erratum.— Page 236, line 30, for ** Expallidana " read " parvulana:"
i
S09
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — November 6th, 1889. — Prof*
J. 0. Westwood, M.A., F.L.S., Hon. Life-President, in the chair. Mr-
Richard S. Standen, of Framlingham Earl Hall, Norwich, was elected a
Fellow; and the Rev. C. F. Thornewill, M.A., was admitted into the
Society. Mr. J. W. Douglas sent for exhibition specimens of Anthocoris
visci, Dougl., a new species, taken from misletoe, at Hereford, in the end
of September last, by Dr. T. A. Chapman ; also specimens of Psylla visci,
Curtis, taken by Dr. Chapman from misletoe, at the same time and place.
Mr. R. M'Lachlan exhibited coloured drawings of a specimen of Zygcena
JiUpendulcB, in which the left posterior leg is replaced by a fully-developed
wing, similar to an ordinary hind wing, and with the neuration almost
precisely the same, but less densely clothed with scales. The specimen
was described by Mr. N. M. Richardson in the Ent. Mo. Mag. for June,
1889, and the drawing was executed by Mrs. Richardson. Mr. M'Lachlan
also exhibited a female specimen of the common earwig, Forficula auricu-
laria, with a parasitic Gordius emerging from between the raetathorax and
abdomen. He said that it had been placed in his hands by Mr. A. B.
Farn, by whom it was taken, and that other instances of similar parasitism
by Gordius on earwigs had been recorded. Mr. W. F. Kirby exhibited a
gynandromorphous specimen of Lycana icarus, having the characters of a
male in the right wings and the characters of a female in the left wings,
caught by Mr. T. Brown at Keyingham, Yorkshire, on the 22nd of June
last : also a specimen of a variety of Crabro interruptus, De Geer, found by
Mr. F. Woodbridge in a hole in a log at Uxb ridge. Mr. W. L. Distant
exhibited a male and female specimen of a species belonging to a new
genus of DiscocephalincB, from Guatemala, in which the sexes were totally
♦dissimilar, the female having abbreviated membranes, and being altogether
larger than the male. Dr. D, Sharp stated that he had observed that in
the IpsincB division of Nitidulidm there was present a stridulating organ in
a position in which he had not noticed it in any other Coleoptera — viz., on
the summit of the back of the head. He had found it to exist not only in
the species of'^s and Cryptarcha, but also in other genera of the sub-
family; on the 'ather hand, he could not find any trace of its existence,
except in members of the IpsincB. He exhibited specimens of Ips and
Cryptarcha, mounted to show the organ. Dr. Sharp also exhibited a box
of Ehynchota, chiefly Pentatomidce, in which the specimens were prepared
so as to display the peculiarities of the terminal segment in the male sex.
Mr. R. Adkin exhibited, on behalf of Mr. H. Murray, of Carnforth, a fine
series of Polia xanthomista, var. nigrocincta, from the Isle of Man, and
Cidaria reticulata and Emmelesia taniata from the Lake District. Mr.
W. White exhibited a living larva of Zeuzera cesculi, and called attention
to the chitinous scutum or thoracic segments with several rows of minute
serrations, which evidently assist progression. He stated that the larva
exudes from its mouth, when irritated, a colourless fluid, which he had
tested with litmus-paper and found to be strongly alkaline. Prof. West-
wood made some remarks on the subject. Capt. H. J. Elwes exhibited a
number of insects of various orders, part of the collection formed by the
late Otto Moller, of Darjeeling. Mens. A. Wailly exhibited the cocoon of
an unknown species of Anthenea from Assam ; also a number of cocoons
and images of Anophevenata from Acugua, near the Gold Coast, West
310 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Africa ; specimens of Lasioeampa otus, a South European species, which
was said to have been utilized by the Romans in the manufacture of silk ;
also a quantity of nests containing the eggs of Epeira madagascariensis, a
silk-producing spider from Madagascar, locally known by the name of
" Halabe." He also read extracts from letters received from the Rev. P.
Camboue, of Tananarive, Madagascar, on the subject of this silk-producing
spider. Mr. H. Goss read a communication received by him from Prof.
S. H. Scudder, of Cambridge, Mass. U.S.A., on the subject of his recent
discoveries of some thousands of fossil insects, chiefly Coleoptera, in
Florissant, Western Colorado, and Wyoming. Prof. Westwood remarked
on the extreme rarity of fossil Lepidoptera, and called attention to a recent
paper by Mr. A. G. Butler, in the Proc. Zool. Soc, 1889, in which the
author described a new genus of fossil moths belonging to the Geometrid
family Euschemidce, from a specimen obtained by Mr. A'Court Smith, at
Gurnet Bay, Isle of Wight. Mr. F. P. Pascoe read a paper entitled
" Additional Notes on the genus Hilipus,'' and exhibited a number of new
species belonging to that genus. The Rev. Dr. Walker read a paper
entitled "Notes on the Entomology of Iceland." Mr. Roland Trimen
asked if any butterflies had been found in the island. Dr. Walker said
that neither he nor Mr. P. B. Mason had seen any during their recent
visit to Iceland, nor were any species given in Dr. Staudinger's list. In
reply to a question by Mr. G. C. Champion, Mr. Mason said that during
his recent visit to Iceland he had collected nearly a hundred species of
insects, including about twenty Coleoptera. He added that several of the
species he had taken had not been recorded either by Dr. Staudinger or
Dr. Walker. Capt. Elwes enquired if Mr. J. J. Walker, with his great
experience as a collector in all parts of the world, was aware of any land
except Iceland, outside the Arctic Circle, from which no butterflies had
been recorded. Mr. J. J. Walker replied that the only place in the world
which he had visited, in which butterflies were entirely absent was Pitcairn
Island. — H. Goss, Hon. Secretary.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Sociktt.
— The Annual Exhibition was held at the Bridge House, London Bridge,
S.E., on Wednesday and Thursday, the 30th and 31st of October. Besides
the class Insecta, the exhibits comprised birds, birds'-eggs and nests, fish,
reptiles, Mollusca, and Crustacea; geological and botanical specimens;
paintings, engravings, &c., of natural-history subjects. There was a good
display of microscopic objects and apparatus, no less than thirty exhibitors
showing in the room set apart for them. Among the principal exhibitors
of Insecta were Mr. H. Burns, with nests of living British ants, taken,
among other localities, from Lambeth and Conway Castle, the species being
Formica fusca, Lasius Jiavus (with queen), L. niger ; there was also a
nest from Boulogne. Mr. R. M'Lachlan, with European Neuroptera,
Ascalaphus, Nemoptera, and Perlidse ; also specimens of Orthoptera from
Burmah, Megalodon ensifer, BruUe. Mr. Eland Shaw also exhibited
Orthoptera. Hymenoptera, Hemiptera, and Diptera were shown by
Messrs. T. R. Billups, S. Robinson, and Miss M. Kimber, the latter an
interesting case of Sirex gigas and S. juvencus, with lead piping, showing
the ravages of the larvae of these species. Mr. T. R. Billups put in his
fine collection of British Coleoptera ; Messrs. C. H. Goodman, W. West,
and Rev. W. F. Johnson also exhibited in this order, the latter with rare
and local Irish forms. The principal exhibitors among the Lepidoptera were
' SOCIETIES. 811
Mr. J. H. Leech, with nearly the whole of the known species of the PalsB-
arctic Catocalidae, one of the most attractive features of the Exhibition.
Mr. Murray, series of Polia xanthomista, Cidaria reticulata, and dark
forms of Emmelesia tcBniata, bred during the year. Mr. Austin, varieties
oi Argynnis aglaia and Lycana icarus : also series of Angerona prunaria
and Gnophos obscurariay both showing a wide range of variation. Mr. A.
C. Vine, specimens of Deilephila livoniica, Chcerocampa celerio, Coccyx
scopariana, Lita leucomelanella, and Nepticulafulgens, and an undetermined
Gelechia bred from Genista tinctoria. Mr. R. Adkin, Rhopalocera from his
collection, together with long and variable series of Pieris napif Lyccena
icarus, Epunda lutulenta, and many other species, taken in the north of
Ireland and North Wales ; also a long series of Acidalia marginepunctata
from Sussex, showing great variation. Mr. J. R. Wellraau, four drawers
from his collection, including Sesiidse, and fine and variable series of the
Acidalia and Eupithecia. Mr. J. A. Clark, a series of cases illustrating the
life-history of Cossus ligniperda, with sections of various trees, showing the
destructive powers of the larvae. Mr. G. Elisha, the whole of his collection
of the British Tineae. Mr. G. J. Grapes, larvae of Hepialus virescens from
New Zealand, attacked by fungi. Mr. Machin, Bombyces, amongst which
were a fine variety of Bombyx trifolii and a series of Lasiocampa ilicifolia,
full series of the Drepanulida, Dicranura bicuspis, and black specimens of
Stauropus fagi. Mr. Schooling, yellow specimens of Zygcena JilipendulcB,
and varieties of Triphana fimbria. Mr. R. South, British Tortrices,
comprising, amongst others, long and variable series of Leptogramma
literana, Peronea cristana, P. hastiana, and Teras contaminana. Mr. C. B.
Smith, Eugonia autumnaria, taken this year. Mr. Vaughan, fine varieties
of Rhopalocera and of Arctia caia. Mr. Tutt, series of all the British
species of the genus Xanthia, arranged to show the extreme intermediate
forms of variation ; also a very complete collection of the British Pterophori,
giving locality and dates of capture. Mr. Barren, Argynnis paphia and var.
valezina, with intermediate forms. Mr. Adye, several of the rarer Sphinges.
Mr. West, of Greenwich, two drawers of British Tortrices, containing the
Tortricidae and Penthinidae. Mr. Tugwell, striking varieties of the
Geometridae ; bred specimens of Boletobia fuliginaria, with cocoon, from
Bankside, Rotherhithe; long series of Deilephila galii, varieties of
Arctia mendicaj A. menthastri, and A. lubricipeda from English,
Scotch, and Irish localities. Mr. C. A. Briggs, Scopariidae from
Hebrides, Orkneys, Shetlands, Ireland, Wales, Scilly Isles, &c. Mr. A.
J. Croker, life-histories of British species and varieties of Lycaenidae.
Mr. Albuary, varieties of many species. Exotic Lepidoptera were shown
by Mr. Jenner Weir. Mr. W. Dannatt, Ornithoptera from the East Indies
and Malay Islands, &c. Mr. S. Edwards, Papilionidae from India, North
and South America, &c. Mr. A. H.Jones, European Papilionidae, Pieridae,
and Apaturidae. Mrs. Hutchinson, Miss Adkin, Miss Billups, and Messrs.
H. A. Auld, 0. C. Goldthwaite, T. W. Hall, J. Jager, E. C. Joy, C. Levett,
B. L. Nussey, C. Oldham, C. H.Williams, G. B. Ashmead, H. T. Dobson,
and many others assisted by exhibiting. During each evening, Mr. G. Day
delivered two short lectures, which were illustrated by the Triplexicon
lantern ; and there was a table set apart for the display of fungi by the
Exhibition Committee, assisted by Mr. Step. This Exhibition is the most
successful that the Society has given ; during the two evenings on which it
was open, close upon 2000 visitors having gone through the various rooms.
312 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
October Hith, 1889.— T. R. Billups, Esq., F.E.S., President, in the
chair. Messrs. W. Mansbridge, V". Gerrard, C. H. Collings, H. C.
Pickard-Cambridge, J. T. Wiukworth were elected full members; and
Messrs. C. J. Wainwright and A. Ford as country members. Mr. Wellman
exhibited series of the second brood of Acidalia inarginepunctata. Mr. R.
Adkin, specimens of Retinea resinella, with pupae and cocoons, and read
notes on the life-history of the species. Mr. W. West, Gordius aquaticus,
and contributed notes. Other exhibits were made by Messrs. Tugwell,
J. J. Weir, Ince, Adye, Moore, Fremlin, Auld, Mera, Manger, and by
Mr. Billups, on behalf of the Rev. W. F. Johnson and Mr. G. J. Grapes.
— H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
REVIEWS.
A Monograph of Oriental Cicadidm. By W. L. Distant. PubHshed by
order of the Trustees of the Indian Museum, Calcutta. Part I.
pp. 24, 2 plates. Royal 4to. 1889. London : King & Co., E. W.
Janson. Calcutta : India Museum, and Thacker, Spink & Co. Berlin :
R. Friedlander & Sohn. In parts, five shillings each.
Mr. Distant has long been celebrated for his monographs of certain
groups of Eastern Insects. In this he bids fair to excel those already
issued by him. The fauna of the Cicadidae treated in this work comprises
Continental India, Ceylon, the islands in the Bay of Bengal, Burma, the
Malay Peninsula, the Malayan Archipelago, and China and Japan.
This area was not chosen by the author, but was selected at the request
of the Indian Museum authorities. No monograph has previously been
attempted, and Walker's "species" will now be analysed, and, where
admitted, figured. Most of the Continental museums have placed the
whole of their collections of the family in the hands of the author, who,
with his own unrivalled collection, and those of the Calcutta and British
Museums, has seen all available material.
The author has written in the style of his * Rhopalocera Malayana,' to
which this will form a companion volume. The production of the work is
ahke admirable for its scientific value, the accuracy of drawing of figures
(some being coloured) on the plates, which are by Mr. Horace Knight, and
the general production by Messrs. West, Newman & Co. It will evidently
become a standard work on the Eastern Cicadidae. — J. T. C.
Notes on an extraordinary Race of Arctia mendicay Linn. By George T.
PoRRiTT, F.L.S., &c. 2 pp. 8vo, 1 coloured plate.
This is a reprint of a paper read before the Ent. Soc. Lend., July
3rd, 1889, and will be found useful to those who make special study of
variation in the Lepidoptera. Most of the remarkable forms figured are
now well known to British lepidopterists, but they have not hitherto been
figured for comparison upon one plate. When thus seen, we get a better
estimate of the value of variation, which in this case seems to point to an
immediate formation of a very distinct local race — dark, like some Lepi-
doptera occurring in Lancashire and Yorkshire, if such race has not long
existed near Huddersfield, and been overlooked, which seems improbable.
—J. T. 0.
PBINTED BY WEST, NEWMAN AND CO., HATION GABDEN, LONDON, E.G.
THE
ENTOMOLOGIST
%n IllustrateJr |ournal
OP
GENERAL ENTOMOLOaY.
EDITED BY RICHABD SOUTH, F.E.S.
WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF
H. W. BATES, F.R.S., F.L.S., F.E.S., &c.
T. B. BILLUPS, F.E.S.
W. LUCAS DISTANT, F.E.S,, &c.
EDWARD A. FITCH, F.L.S., F.E.S.
MARTiN JACOB Y, F.E.S.
J. H. LEECH, B.A., F.L.S., F.E.S.
De. D. sharp, F.R.S., F.E.S., &c.
G. H. VERRALL, F.E.S.
W. WARREN, M.A., F.E.S.
J. J. WEIR, F.L.S., F.Z.S., F.E.S.
F. B. WHITE, M.D., F.L.S., F.E.S.
" By mutual confidence and mutual aid
Great deeds are done and great discoveries made.
VOLUME THE TWENTY-THIRD.
LONDON:
WEST, NEWMAN & CO., 54, HATTON GARDEN;
SIMPKIN, MARSHALL, HAMILTON, KENT & CO., Limited.
1890.
"It is interesting to contemplate a tangled bank, clothed with many plants of
many kinds, with birds singing on the bushes, with various insects flitting about,
and with worms crawling through the damp earth, and to reflect that these
elaborately constructed forms, so different from each other, and dependent upon
each other in so complex a manner, have all been produced by laws acting around
us. These laws, taken in the largest sense, being Growth with Keproduction ;
Inheritance which is almost implied by reproduction ; Variability from the indirect
and direct action of the conditions of life, and from use and disuse : a Eatio of
Increase so high as to lead to a Struggle for Life, and as a consequence to Natural
Selection, entailing Divergence of Character and the Extinction of less-improved
forms. Thus, from the war of Nature, from famine and death, the most exalted
object which we are capable of conceiving, namely, the production of the higher
animals, directly follows. There is a grandeur in this view of life, with its several
powers, having been originally breathed by the Creator into a few forms or into
one ; and that, whilst this planet has gone cycling on according to the flxed law of
gravity, from so simple a beginning endless forms most beautiful and most wonderful
have been, and are being evolved." — Darwin.
CONTENTS.
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF CONTEIBUTOKS.
Adkin, Robert, F.E.S., 76, 134, 177,
322
Ad YE, J. M., 383, 884
Alderson, E. G., 258
Allen, J. E. R., 99, 202
Anderson, Joseph, Jun., 66, 260, 291,
384
Arkle, J., 61, 100, 201, 291, 293,
294, 307, 361, 385
Ash, Rev. C. D., 137
Bacon, J. M., 264
Balding, Alfred, 97
Barnard, Geo., 179
Bates, H. W., F.R.S., F.L.S., F.E.S.,
209, 244
Bath, W. H., 70
Batty, J., 344
Beeching, R. a. Dallas, 344
Bennett, W. H., 50
BiDDLE, F. W., 134
Bignell, G. C, F.E.S., 383
Blaber, W. H., 126
Blagg, E. W. H., 320
Bradley, R. C, 171
Briggs, F. J., 264
Brunetti, E., 122
BucKTON, G. B., F.R.S., F.L.S., F.E.S.,
20
BuRNEY, Rev. Henry, 346
Butler, A. G., F.L.S., F.Z.S., F.E.S.,
316
Butler, W. E., 136, 263
Cambridge, Rev. 0. Pickard-, F.E.S.,
65, 101
Carrington, John T., F.L.S., 2, 16
Chamberlain, Neville, 262, 318
Chapman, T. A, M.D., 91, 203, 292
Christy, W. M., F.E.S., 171, 231, 348
Clarke, A. Lionel, 18
Clarke, J., 263, 325
Cockerell, T. D. A., 19, 73, 133, 140,
200, 278, 337, 368
Cooke, Edward, 263
Cooper, J. A., 262
CosTE, F. H. Perry, F.C.S., 99, 128,
155, 167, 181, 217, 234, 247, 283,
309, 338, 370
Crabtree, B. H., 203
Craske, Mrs. M., 16, 201, 291, 292
Dale, C. W., F.E.S., 293, 294
Daltry, Rev. Thos. W., F.L.S., F.E.S.,
16
Distant, W. Lucas, F.E.S., MA.I., 90,
159
DixEY, F. A, MA., M.B., F.E.S., 80
DoBREE, N. F., F.E.S., 136, 344, 347
DoD, C. H. Wolley, 262
Donovan, C, 18
Edwards, Jas., F.E.S., 105
EssoN, L. G., 168, 202, 204
Evans, E. H., 346
Earn, A. B., F.E.S., 202
Farrant, M., 100
Fenn, C, F.E.S., 135, 203
Fowler, J. H., 136, 381
Freer, Richard, 378
Frohawk, F. W., 68, 134
Gardner, "Willoughby, 5, 70
Gerrard, v., F.E.S., 171
GouLTY, W. Howard, 385
Grapes, George J., 137
Hall, A. E., F.E.S., 203, 206, 261,
321
Hart, George, 262
Hawes, F. W., 3
Hewett, William, 19
Hill, Henry A., 168, 203, 206, 261,
319, 344
Hodges, Albert J., 18
HoDGKiNSON, J. B., F.E.S., 119, 138,
323
HoRT, F. A., 262
Howe, Thos., 17
Hudson, G. V., F.E.S., 8, 19, 52, 133,
136, 241
Inge, Chas. E. M., 261
Inchbald, Peter, F.L.S., F.Z.S.,
F.E.S, 16
Jackson, W. H., 345, 379
Jacoby, Martin, F.E.S. , 84, 114, 161,
193, 214, 253
James, R. E., 291
Jefferys, T. B., 69, 132, 135, 204,
345, 384
Johnson, William, 134
Kimber, Miss M., F.E.S., 140
IV
CONTENTS.
Knights, J. E., 319, 384
Leech, J. H., B.A., F.L.S., F.Z.S.,
F.E.S., 26, 81, 109, 187, 223,
288, 292
LivETT, Dr., 384
Lloyd, Alfred, F.C.S., F.E.S., 98
Luff, W., 98
Mathew, Gervase F., E.N., F.L.S.,
F.Z.S., F.E.S., 344, 346, 347
Maxted, Chas., 292
McArthur, H., 259, 293
Meaden, Lewis, 70
Milton, F., 20
Nesbitt, Allan, 262, 383
Newman, T. P., F.Z.S., F.E.S., 1
Newstead, E., F.E.S., 17, 19
Nicholls, Mrs., 78
Nicholson, C, 16, 19, 21, 234
Onslow, Douglas A., 136
Palmer, Bev. Gerard W., 346
Parmiter, Thos., 263
Partridge, Col. Chas. E., 135, 136,
291, 292
Patten, G. L., 69
Pearce, W. T., 16, 17, 18, 111, 201,
227, 291, 319
Pearson, Douglas H., 319
Podmore, G., 16, 18
Prideaux, K. M., 67, 99, 201, 383
PURDEY, W., 346
Beid, Wm., 134
BicHARDsoN, N. M., B.A., 60, 384
See, Harry M., 18, 19
Sellon, Leonard S., 168
Sharp, David, M.B., F.E.S., F.L.S.,
F.Z.S., F.E.S., 197
Slater, J. W., F.E.S., 102
Smith, A., 355
Smith, C. B., 18
Smith, W. W., 137, 305
South, Bichard, F.E.S., 25, 132, 145,
148, 170, 171, 204, 205, 254, 257,
264, 269, 287, 291, 292, 297, 329,
353, 378, 380
Spiller, a. J., 56, 259
Standen, B. S., F.E.S., 5
Stewart, D. H. S., 345
Still, Major John N., 14, 137, 320
St. John, Bev. J. Seymour, B.A., 18, 319
Sykes, H. D., 259, 344
Tugwell, W. H., M.P.S., 254, 320
TuTT, J. W., F.E.S., 12
Verrall, G. H., F.E.S., 150
Wailly, Alfred, 119
Waldegrave, Bt. Hon. Earl, 292
Walker, Bev. F. A., D.D., F.L.S.,
F.E.S., 66, 95, 140, 314, 374
Walker, Samuel, 69, 100
Walpole, T., 67
Warren, W., M.A., F.E.S., 316
Weir, J. Jenner, F.L.S., F.Z.S., F.E.S.,
383
Wells, C. M., 204
White, F. Buchanan, M.D., F.L.S
F.E.S., 65
Whittle, F. G., 57, 99
WiLLLiMS, T. G., 347
WiLLSON, T., 139
Winkle Y, Mark H., 261
WooDBRiDGE, Francis C, 264
Young, John N., 68, 202, 259, 263
I.,
I
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF SUBJECTS.
Acherontia atropos, 139, 168
Acidalia contiguaria near Barmouth,
262 ; emutaria, 321 ; holosericata,
140 ; marginepunctata taken at
Eastbourne, 23, = promutata, 363 ;
rusticata in North of London, 261 ;
straminata, 380 ; strigularia, 289
Acobius signaticornis, 237
Acontia luctuosa, 135
Acosmetia caliginosa, 321
Acrobasis consociella, 336 ; rubroti-
biella, 336 ; sodalella, 336
Acronycta alni, 262, — in September,
344, — larva at Clifton, 383 ; auri-
coma, 289 ; euphorbise from Shet-
land, 351 ; leporina, 140, 289, 378 ;
myricae, 169 ; strigosa, 319
Acrulia inflata, 237
Actidium concolor, 268
Adela cupreUa, 14
Adimonia (Galeruca) griseo-villosa,
n. sp., 165
JEschia pratensis, 362
Afbica — North: Limnas dorippus, 24.
South: Eemarks on coleopterous
fauna, 174
Agathidium globosum, 208
Agrotis agathina, 169 ; ashworthii, 5,
70, = candelarum, Stdgr., 136 ;
candelarum, 5 ; cinerea, 234, 259 ;
cursoria, variation, 145 ; lucernea,
5 ; lunigera, 365 ; nullifera, 64 ;
praecox, 234 ; pyrophila, 5 ; ripae,
289, — bred from larv£e taken in
South Wales, 23; saucia, 5, 100,
140; simulans, 169, 351, — from
Portland, 351, — from Shetland,
351 ; tritici, variation, 145
Amblypodia angulata, n. sp., 44 ; ga-
nessa, var. seminigra, 44
Amphidasys betularia at Yeovil, 263, —
var. doubledayaria in Nottingham-
shire, 319, — at Cannock Chase, 378
Amphisa gerningana, 381
Anchomenus junceus at Brockenhurst,
267
Andrena clarkella at Hastings, 72 ;
nigro-sensB at Dulwich, 72
Angerona prunaria, 137
Anomala (Euchlora) truncata, n. sp.,
244
Anthersea thespis, n. sp., 112
Anthomyidse, 153
Anthomyince, 153
Anthribus albinus, 104
Anticlea cucullata (sinuata) at Chi-
chester, 291 ; nigrofasciaria, 170 ;
sinuata, 348, — larva, 348
Antigastra catalaunalis, Dup., 277
Antipha bipartita, n. sp., 196; (?) elon-
gata,n.sp.,197; flaviventris, n. sp.,
214; nigrofasciata, n. sp., 196;
varipennis, n. sp., 214
Aoria chinensis, n. sp., 114
Apamea leucostigma, variation, 16;
ophiogramma, 16, 140, — feeding on
ribbon-grass, 295, — at Hampstead,
346
Apatura cauta, 190 ; fasciola, n. sp.,
33 ; iris, 68, 102, 230, 346,— young
larvae, 326 ; pallas, n. sp., 190
Aphthona varipes, n. sp., 161
Aplecta occulta, 170
Aporophyla australis, 140; lutulenta,
169 ; nigra, 169
Aporia crataegi, 228 ; procris, n. sp., 191
Apriona rugicollis, Chevrolat, 247
Arctia caia, 134, — pinkish var., 291, —
larvas feeding on Iris pseudacorus,
319, — curious brick-red colour, 327,
— vars., 344; ligustri, 100, 233;
villica, bred in October, 353, — para-
sites, 177 from one larva, 383
Argynnis adippe, 365 ; aglaia, 365, —
wings semitransparent, 23, — var.,
327, — black male from Cannock
Chase, 327, — black var., 350,—
wings suffused with black, 380 ;
females with three distinct shades,
382 ; daphne, 79 ; euphrosyne,
banded var. from Chattenden, 351 ;
latona, 224 ; niobe, 59, — var. eris,
69; paphia, 365, 379,~var. vale-
sina, 68, 320, 379, 382 ; pales, 69,
— var. napsBa, 59; zenobia, n. sp.,
188
Argyra atriceps, 153
Argyrolepia hartmanniana (= bauman-
niana), 257 ; schreberiana, 97
Artaxa montis, n. sp.. Ill
Artemisia abrotanum, substituted food-
plant of Eupithecia extensaria, 295
Ascia dispar, 124, 151
AsopinaB, 159
Aspilates strigillaria, 159
Asteroscopus sphinx (cassinea), 62, 140
Atherix unicolor (= Ptiolina wodzickii),
153
Athous rhombeus, 294
Athyma disjuncta, n. sp., 33; fortuna,
var. diffusa, 34; sydyi, var. late-
fasciata, 34 ; punctata, n. sp., 33
VI
CONTENTS.
Atossa nelcymna, 83, — var. chinensis,
83
Austria — Erebia melas in Austrian
Alps, 350
Aventia flexula, 349
Baly, late Joseph Sugar, 197
Banchus moniliatus, 173
Batocera lineolata, Chevrolat, 247
Beetles, believed new to England, 352 ;
new to midlands, 352
Berkshire — Additions to Newbury list of
Macro-Lepidoptera, 140 ; Stauropus
fagi near Beading, 263 ; Ino geryon
in, 264
Bidessus unistriatus, Schr., 235
Biston hirtaria, var. of larvae, 295
Bizone cruenta, n. sp., 49
Blunder, curious, 102
Boarmia melinata, 64 ; productata, 54 ;
repandata, 321, — var. conversaria,
321
Bombus lapidarius, 267; smithianus,
293 ; terrestris, 267, — in Iceland,
325
Bombyces, silk-producing and other, 119
Bombyx neustria, larvae abundant at
Stokes Bay, 319 ; quercus, var.
callunffi, note on life-history, 259 ;
rubi, parasites, 18, — larvae, 136
Bond, late Mr. F., 97
Books reviewed : —
'Proceedings of the Dorsetshire Na-
tural History and Antiquarian
Field Club,' 24
' The Butterfly, its Life-history and
Attributes,' by John St-udland, 24
'Larva Collecting and Breeding: a
Handbook to the Larvse of the
British Macro-Lepidoptera, and
their Food-plants, both in nature
and confinement ; with Authorities,'
by Kev. J. Seymour St. John, 176
' The Coleopterous Fauna of the
Liverpool District,' by John. W.
Ellis, 176
♦ The Lepidopterous Fauna of Lanca-
shire and Cheshire,' by J. W. Ellis,
268
•A Synonymic Catalogue of Neu-
roptera Odonata, or Dragonflies;
with an Appendix of Fossil Species,'
by W. F. Kirby, 328
Botys mutualis, 141, 173; repandalis,
Schif., 275
Brachyphora nigrovittata, n. sp., 195
Brachytarsus scabiosus, 104
Bread-fruit tree, Siphonophora arto-
carpi affecting, 265
Britain — Hesperia lineola, sp. new to,
3 ; Ichneumon haglundi, Holtngr.,
sp. new to, 143; occurrence of
Plusia moneta in, 254; addition
to Plusiidae of, 287
Briti sh IsLA>rs— Certain speciesof
Lepidoptera occasionally abundant*
177
Bromolocha fontis (crassalis), 363
Bryophila muralis, 100
Bryotropha (Gelechia) obscurella, Hein.,
119, 172 ; umbrosella, 102
Bucculatrix helichrysella, 265; hippo-
castanella, 324
Butterflies, taken and seen near and at
Monmouth in seasons of 1889 and
1890, 346
Cabera rotundaria, 138, — from Sutton
Park, 104
Callerebia albipuncta, n. sp., 31
Callimorpha dominula, 289 ; hera, 224,
351
Calliphora groenlandica, 125 ; vomitoria,
! 125
Calocampa solidaginis, 170
Calodera aethiops, 208 ; umbrosa, 268
Calopteryx virgo, 68, 365
Calosoma chinensis, Kirby, 212 ; thibet-
anum, Fairmaire, 212
Calymnia pyralina, 64
Cambridgeshire — Saperda carcharias
at Cambridge, 262
Campylotes pratti, n. sp., 109
Carabus catenulatus, at Brockenhurst,
267, — abnormal specimen, 350 ;
fiduciarius, Thomson, 210; mecy-
nodes, n. sp., 211 ; prattianus,
n. sp., 210; protenes. Bates, 210;
tientei, Thomson, 210 ; vigilax,
n. sp., 211
Carpocapsa grossana, 226
Cateremna terebrella, 333
Caterpillars, a plague of, 260, 347, — a
myth, 293
Catocala fraxini, 170
Catoptria albersana, 102, 257 ; citrana,
290 ; scopoliana, var. parvulana,
141, 173
Cecidomyia alpina, 152 ; alticola, n. sp.,
281 ; anthophila, 281 ; chrysopsidis,
281; filicina (= pteridis), 152;
floricola, 281; florum, 281; foli-
orum, 152 ; f rater, n. sp., 280 ; ob-
fuscata, Mq., 281; orbitalis, 280;
rigidae, Osten-Sacken, 278 ; salicis,
Fitch, 278 ; salicis-batatas, Walsh,
279 ; salicis-brassicoides Walsh,
278 ; salicis-siliqua, Walsh (var.),
278 ; salicis-strobiloides, 280 ; tubi-
cola, 152
Cecidomyiae, 278
Celaena haworthii, 169
Cerambyx miles, Bo7i., larva, the true
Cossus of the ancients, 235, 236
Ceratitis citriperda, devastating oranges,
235
Ceratopogon bipunctatus, 152 ; femora-
tus, 152 ; varius, 152
CONTENTS.
VU
Cerostoma alpella, 101; lucella, 101;
sequella, 380 ; sylvella, 101
Cerura, pupas, 203 ; bicuspis, 255
Cetonia impavida, 327 ; marmorata,
Fabr., var. cathaica, 245 ; submar-
morea, Burm., 246; viridi-opaca,
Motsch., 246
Chsetoprocta odata, 22
Chalarus holosericeus, 153
Chalcoides picipes(?), Weise, 162
Chalcolema foveicollis, n. sp., 85
Chalcophora, in scrubs of Central
Queensland, 179
Charaeas graminis, 322, 325
Charagia virescens, 20
Chariclea umbra, 170, 225
Chaulodius illigerellus, 101
Chelonia bieti, var. pratti, 111
Chemistry of insect colours, contribu-
tions to, 128, 155, 167, 181, 200,
217, 234, 247, 283, 309, 338, 370
Cheshire — Acherontia atropos near
Frodsham and Manley, 17 ; sallow
season at Chester, 1890, 201;
plague of caterpillars, 260, 293 ;
Bhizotrogus solstitialis at Chester,
294
Chilosia mutabilis, 153
China — New species of Lepidoptera,
26, 81, 109 ; new species of phyto-
phagous Coleoptera received by
Mr. J. H. Leech from Chang-Yang,
84, 114, 161, 193, 214 ; species of
homopterous family Cicadidse, 90 ;
new species of Ehynchota, 159 ;
new species of Ehopalocera, 187 ;
Coleoptera collected by Mr. Pratt
on the Upper Yang-tze and on
_ borders of Tibet, 209, 244
Chironomus biannulatus, 152 ; flexilis,
152 ; fuscipennis, 152 ; nigrimanus,
152 ; nubeculosus, 152
Chlsenius costiger, Chaudoir, 212 ;
nseviger, Morawitz, 212
Choerocampa elpenor, 100 ; celerio, 139,
168, — in Queensland, 137 ; porcel-
lus, 100, 139, 168
Chrysoclysta bimaculella, 352 ; macu-
lella from Wyre Forest, 327
Chrysolophus spectabilis, variation,
137
Chrysomela bella, n. sp., 253 ; serie-
punctata ?, Weise, 116 ; sibirica,
Weise, 116 ; speciosa, 290
ChrysomelidsB rutilans, Woolaston, 296
Chrysonotus bipunctatus, 123
Chrysophanus boldenarum, 53 ; (Poly-
ommatus) dorilis, Hufn., 294 ;
salustius, 64
Chrysotus angulicornis, 153
Cicada leechi, n. sp., 90 ; montana,
Huds., MSS., 5S, — Scop., 296;
sinensis, n. sp., 90
Cicadidae, descriptions of Chinese species
of the homopterous family, 90
Cicindela japanensis, Chaudoir, 209 ;
sumatrensis, Herbst., 209
Cidaria immanata, var. thingvallata,
66; reticulata, 139, 325; siterata,
15
Cirrhcedia xerampelina, 65, 100, 351
Cleora glabraria, 380; lichenaria, 15,
234, 380
Cleorina lefevrei, n. sp., 116
Clerome aerope, n. sp., 31
Clinocera barbatula, 153
Clostera alpina, 79
Cneorane abdominalis, n. sp., 167 ;
apicicornis, n. sp., 166; elegans,
193 ; rufipes, Wei^e, 193
Coccyx scopariana, 324 ; ustomaculana,
362 ; vacciniana, 324
Coenonympha arcania, Linn., 137, 289 ;
dorus, 79
Coenosia pictipennis, 154 ; scrupulosa,
154
Coenosinae, 154
Coleophora fuscocuprella, 139
Coleoptera, 294, 327. 374; at Camber
during 1889, 60; phytophagous,
descriptions of new species received
by Mr. J. H. Leech from Chang-
Yang, China, 84, 114, 161, 193,
214, — two new species from the
East, 253; at Chattenden, 104;
at Kainham, 104; variation in
size, 136 ; at Burnham, Somerset,
174 ; collected by Mr. Pratt on
Upper Yang-tze and on borders of
Tibet, 209, 244 ; from Ludlow,
237 ; in Shetlands, 293
Coleopterous fauna of South Africa,
remarks on, 174; from Bewdley,
268
Colias edusa, 139, — in Hants, 16, — in
Devon, 16, — in Shropshire, 16, — in
Stajffordshire, 16, — in Lancashire,
16 ; hyale, 139
Collecting, in Normandy, two days',
223, — five days', 288; on coast of
Northumberland, 292 ; a long day's,
348 ; in Wales, 361
Colorado — Entomology, 19 ; Vanessa
antiopa from Wet Mountain Valley,
327
Colpodes amoenus, Chaudoir, 213
Conchylis rubricana, Milliere, 265
Conops vitellinus, 126, 161
Coptolabruslongipennis, Chaudoir, 211 ;
principalis, Bates, 211 ; pustulifer,
Lucas, 211
Cordiceps robertsii. New Zealand fungus
attacking Hepialus virensis, 23
Cordyla crassicornis, 152
Coremia munitata, 170, 325
Cosmia paleacea, 69, — = fulvago, 879
Vlll
CONTENTS.
Cossus of the ancients, larva of Ceram-
byx miles, J5on., the true, 235,
236 ; ligniperda, 100
Crabro interruptus, note on, 264
Crambi, Deltoids, and Pyralides, addi-
tions to the British list since 1859,
269, 297, 329
Crambus alpinellus, Hiibn., 297; can-
tiellus, 298 ; contaminellus, Hiibn.,
298, 325; creneeus, 52; flexuo-
sellus, 54 ; heliotes, 54 ; isochylus,
62 ; myelins, Hiibn., 299 ; ocellea,
300; salinellus, 298; verellus,
Zinch., 298
Crepidodera obscuritarsis(?), Motsch.,
162
Crinola flavicollis, n. sp., Ill
Crocallis elinguaria, var. trapezaria,
291
Crymodes exulis, 325, — in Iceland, 349
Cryptocephalus discoidalis, n. sp., 89 ;
festivus, n. sp., 88; flavopictus,
n. sp., 88 ; nasutulus, n. sp., 87 ;
nigrolimbatus, n. sp., 87 ; recti-
pennis, n. sp., 87
Cucullia absinthii near Barmouth, 262,
291, 318
Curtonotus nitens, Futzeys, 212
Cyclopides chinensis, n. sp., 48 ; nanus,
n. sp., 49
Cymatophora octogesima, 100, 289
Cymurdis vaporariorum, 208
Cynomyia mortuorum, 125, 151
Cyriocrates horsfieldii, Hope, 246
Dartmoor, a summer's mothing on, 14
Dasychira pudibunda, early appearance,
171
Dasypolia templi, 135, 169
Dasyuris partheniata, 11
Declana lioccosa, life-history, 241
Deilephila euphorbias, 18, 168, 319;
galii, 100, 139, 168, — bred from
pup© forced during March, 24, —
captured at Stoke Newington, 174 ;
livornica near Manchester, 203
Deiopeia pulchella, 178
Delias patrua, n. sp., 46
Deltoids, Pyralides, and Crambi, addi-
tions to the British list since 1859,
269, 297, 329
Demas coryH, 100, 169, 233
Depressaria purpurea, 102
Devonshire — A summer's mothing on
Dartmoor, 14 ; Colias edusa in 1889,
16 ; Epinephele tithonus, var., 16 ;
insects observed on Lundy Island,
July 13, 1888, 140 ; sallow season,
1890, 201 ; captures at light, 262 ;
Heterogenea (Limacodes) asella,
264; Sirex gigas, 320, — near Ply-
mouth, 264 ; Noctua depuncta,
292 ; Tethea retusa, 292
Diadocidia ferruginosa, 152
Dianthoecia albimacula, 262, 289 ; cap-
sophila, identity, 132, — var. of car-
pophaga, 204 ; carpophaga, identity,
132; compta, 132, 169; cucubali,
169, — in August, 132; irregularis,
346 ; luteago, var. barrettii, 141 ;
nana, Rott. (— conspersa, Esp.),
132
Diaseraia ramburialis, Dup., 277
Dicranomyia dumetorum, 123, 151 ;
ornata, 153
Dicranura bifida, 100, 139, 178 ; furcula,
100, 169
Dicrorampha plumbagana, 293
Diloba ceeruleocephala feeding on cherry
laurel, 263, 292, 345, 383
Dimopsis erosa, 208
Dionychopus rubidus, n. sp.. Ill
Dioryctria splendidella, 332
Dioryctus nigripennis, n. sp., 89 ; vari-
abiUs, n. sp., 114
Diplosis betulina, 152 ; fraxinella, 152
Dipsas comes, n. sp., 41; melpomene,
n. sp., 41; minerva, n. sp., 40;
thespis, n. sp., 42
Diptera, 376 ; in 1889, 122, 171 ; critical
notes on, 150 ; at Mickleham, 256
Dytiscus punctulatus, 104
Dodonidia helmsii, 9, 53
Dodona maculosa, n. sp., 44
Dolichus flavicornis. Fab?'., 213
Donacia longicornis, n. sp., 84
DoRRETSHiEE — Heliophobus hispidus,
variation at Portland, 60 ; Odon-
tura punctatissima abundant at
Glanville's Wootton, 294 ; Agrotis
simulans at Portland, 351
Doryphora elongella, 172 ; lucidella,
102 ; obhtella, 102
Drepana acuminata, n. sp., 113 ; bidens,
n. sp., 113 ; binaria, 100 ; cul-
traria, 100 ; falcataria, 100 ; flavi-
linea, n. sp., 113 ; parvula, n. sp.,
112
Drynobia velitaris, 289
Durham — Sirex gigas, 292 ; collecting
in, 380
Dwarfing of Lepidoptera in captivity,
120
Ebulea catalaunalis, 277 ; stachydalis,
Zinck., 275, 289
Editorial notice, 25, 145, 353
Elachista monticola, 101 ; paludura,
101
Elater pomonse, 172
Emergence, irregular of Lepidoptera,
19 ; early of Selenia bilunaria, 135
Emmelesia albulata, two years in pupa,
260 ; adffiquata, 140 ; minorata,
381, — read for minosata, 170
Emydia cribrum, 266, 320, 382
Endromis versicolor, 144, 255
England — Homalota crassicomis, beetle
CONTENTS.
IX
believed new to, 352; Euryporus
picipes, beetle believed new to Mid-
lands, 352
Enoplotrupes sinensis, Lucas, 213 ;
variicolor, Fainnaire, 213
Entomological papers in Continental
periodicals, 316
Entomological Societies — ^London, 21,
70, 102, 140, 172, 206, 235, 265,
294, 325, 350, 385 ; South London,
23, 71, 142, 173, 207, 236 (June
outing, 255), 295, 326, 351, 386;
City of London, 103, 143, 267;
Birmingham, 1()4, 144, 175, 208,
237, 296, 352, 384 ; Lancashire and
Cheshire, 72, 384 ; Penarth, 237
Entomological tour on the table-land
of Mount Arthur, 8, 52
'Entomologist's Annual,' need of re-
vival, 65, 98
Entomology of Colorado, 19 ; gas-lamp,
61, 99, 134, 168 ; of the Portsmouth
district, contributions to, 227
Ephestia cahiritella, ZelL, 304 ; desue-
tella. Walk., 303; ficulella, 303,
351 ; figulilella, 303 ; kiihniella,
329 ; passulella, 304 ; roxburghii,
^ 330 ; semirufa, 139
Epinephele hyperanthes, 382, — var.,
326,— var. arete, MiilL, 326, 382;
ianira, abnormal, 259 ; tithonus,
var. in Devon, 16
Epione apiciaria, 64; parallelaria, var.,
119, 100
Epischnia bankesiella, 103, 335 ; tere-
brella, 333
Epunda lutulenta, 384 ; nigra, 15, 351
Erastria venustula, 224
Erebia butleri, 12; epiphron, 168;
epistygne, 78, 79 ; euryale, 59 ;
evias, 59, 79 ; glaciahs, 59, —
var. alecto, 59, — var. pluto, 79;
goante, 58 ; gorge, 58 ; lappona,
59 ; ligea, 79 ; melas, in Austrian
Alps, 350 ; mnestra, 59 ; orocram-
bus, 11 ; pluto, 11, 53 ; ruricola,
n. sp., 187 ; rurigena, n. sp., 187 ;
saxicola, Oberih., 187 ; tyndarus, 58
Eremobia ochroleuca, 139
Eromene ocellea. Haw., 300
Errata, 21, 70, 99, 153, 170, 172, 207,
314, 374
Essex — Hesperia lineola, 56, 57 ;
Vanessa polychloros, 57 ; Leuco-
phasia sinapis, 57 ; Thecla w-album,
67 ; Coleoptera at Rainham, 104 ;
Sesia sphegiformis, 262
Eubolia cervinata, 64 ; limitata, var., 381
Eucheirus parryi. Gray, 244
Euchloe belia, var. ausoni^, 79 ; tagis,
var. bellezina, 79
Euchlora (Anomala) truncata, n. sp., 244
Euchromia purpurana, 289
Eucosmia undulata, 15
Eudemis helichrysana, 265
Eudoria conspicualis, 274 ; ulmella, 274
Eugonia alniaria, 15, 140; tiliaria, 64
Eumenes coarclata, 237
Euperia fulvago, 321, 322, — on Cannock
Chase, 352
Eupisteria obliterata (heparata), 378
Eupithecia abietaria, G'oze, ? = E. to
gata, Hilbn., 205; absynthiata,
larvit, 347, 350 ; albipunctata, 257 ;
dodoneata, 102 ; extensaria, 23, —
larvi>3 feeding on Artemisia abro-
tanum, 295 ; fraxinata, 379 ; im-
purata, 289 ; indigata, 170 ; irri-
guata, 140 ; minutata, 378 ; oblon-
gata, larviie abundant, 347 ; plum-
beolata, 324 ; pulchellata, 379 ;
satyrata, var. callunaria, 170 ;
subciliata at Eickmansworth, 291 ;
subnotata, larvaB abundant, 347;
togata, two years in pupa, 260 ;
venosata, two years in pupa, 260
Eupoecilia dubitana, 290; hybridella,
290
Euripus japonicus, var. chinensis, 32
Eurybrachydinae, 160
Eurymene dolobraria, 140, 234
Euryporus picipes, new to Midlands, 352
Eusemia vithoroides, n. sp., 110
Eustetha nigropunctata, Fairm., 193 ;
thoracica, Jac, 193
Eusthenes pratti, n. sp., 160
Euthalia balarama, 172 ; sedeva, 172
Euzophera oblitella, 330
Exapate gelatella,-141, — form duratella,
141
Exetastes osculatorius, 173
Faroe Islands — 95 ; list of insects taken
in, 1890, 374, 375
Fauna, coleopterous, of South Africa,
remarks on, 174
Fidonia carbonaria, 170
Food-plant, of Plusia interrogationis,
204,— iota, 292 ; cherry laurel of
Diloba caruleocephala, 263, 292,
345, 383 ; ribbon-grass of Apamea
ophiogramma, 295; Iris pseud-
acorus of Arctia caia, 319
Forcing larvae of hybernating Noctuee,
143
France — Ehopaloeera at Digne, 78 ; two
days' collecting in Normandy, 223,
—five days', 288
Fulgoridffi, 160
Frutis sinensis, 160
Galeruca chinensis, n. sp., 166; (Adi-
monia) griseo-villosa, n.sp., 165
Gall-gnats (Cecidomyise), notes on some
species, 278
Gas-lamp Entomology, 66, 99, 134, 168,
385
Gastropacha quercifolia, 139
CONT:fcNTS.
Gelechia divisella, 97 ; fumatella, 103 ;
longicornis, 139 ; oblitella, 97 ; pa-
lustrella, 97 ; subdecurtella, 97 ;
terella, 103
Gebmany, Southern — Liparis monacha,
larvse abundant, 347
Geometra papilionaria, 15, 63, 69, 170 ;
vernaria, 234
Gloucestebshibe — Sallow season at
Bristol, 1890, 201 ; larva of Aoro-
nycta alni at Clifton, 383
Glypta rubicunda, Bridg., 296
Gnophria quadra, 68, 100, 289
Gracilaria syringella, melanic vars. from
near Birmingham, 350
Grapholitha csecana, 326
Grapta c-album, 224; gigantea, n. sp.,
189
Gymnopternus parvilamellatus, 153
Gyneephora pluto, n. sp., Ill
Gynandrophthalma fulveola, n. sp., 86;
IsBvicollis, n. sp., 86
Gyrinidfe, British, additional aid to
determination of, 105
Hadena chenopodii, larvse abundant,
347 ; rectilinea, 170
Hants — Colias edusa in 1889, 16 ;
Acherontia atropos in Portsmouth
district, 17 ; notes from New Forest,
21, 379 ; strongly marked specimens
of Peronia sponsana from New
Forest, 72; sallow season at Ports-
mouth, 200 ; contributions to the
entomology of the Portsmouth dis-
trict, 227 ; a week in New Forest,
258 ; Psyche villosella from New
Forest, 266; Sirex gigas, 292;
larvse of Bombyx neu stria abundant
at Stokes Bay, 319 ; Macro-Lepi-
doptera in New Forest, 320 ; notes
from Kingwood, 381 ; sugar a fail-
ure at Chris tchurch, 383
Halpe submacula, n. sp., 48
Harmologa latomana, 11 ; sirsea, 10
Harpalus chalcentus. Bates, 212 ; tri-
dens, Morawitz, 212 ; vicarius,
Harold, 212
Hedya pauper ana, 207
Helcyra superba, n. sp., 189
Heliophobus hispidus, variation at Port-
land, 60,— violet tinge, 352, 384
Heliothis armigera at Chatham, 344
Helophilus trivittatus, 352
Hemaris staudingeri, n. sp., 81
Hemerophila abruptaria, melanic var.,
207
Hemiptera, 378
Hemiteles macrurus, 173
Hepialus lupulinus in August, 203 ;
virensis attacked by New Zealand
fungus, Cordiceps robertsii, 23
Herminia derivalis, 289
Heetfordshibe — A day in, 257; La-
rentia olivata and Eupithecia sub-
ciliata at Kickmansworth, 291
Hespera sericea, n. sp., 162
Hesperia lineola, 72, 98, 99, 103, 264,
288, 296, 320,— addition to list of
British butterflies, 3, — from fens of
Huntingdon, 326, — in Cambridge-
shire, 142,— in Suffolk, 171,— in
Essex, 56, 57, 142, — taken either in
Kent or Sussex, 72, — in Jersey, 98 ;
pale var., 103
Hestina nigrivena, n. sp., 31 ; ober-
thiiri, n. sp., 32 ; viridis, n.sp., 32
Heterogenea (Limacodes) asella in De-
von, 264 ; obliqua, n. sp., 83
Heteromyza atricornis, 123, 151
Heteroptera, 159
Homalomyia lepida, 154 ; nigrisquama,
154 ; triangulifera, 154
Homalomyinse, 154
Homalota crassicornis, believed new in
England, 352 ; delicatula, 237 ;
diversa, 208 ; fragilis, 237 ; longula,
237, 268
Homoesoma cretacella. Bossier, 302;
nimbella, 302 ; saxicola, 302 ; se-
necionis, 302 ; sinuella, 142
Homoptera, 160, — new views on sub-
order, 154
Huntingdonshire — Hesperia lineola
from the Fens, 326
Hybernia marginaria, early appearance,
136
Hybocampa milhauseri, notes on, 91, —
pupse, 203
Hydradephaga near London, 20
Hydrelia uncula, 100
Hydroecia nictitans, vars., 365 ; peta-
sitis, 100
Hydrophoria socia, 154
Hydrotsea glabricula, 154 ; parva, 154
Hydrous caraboides, 104
Hylophila bicolorana, 100; magnifica,
n. sp., 83
Hymenoptera, 377, — at Mickleham, 256,
—in Shetlands, 293
Hypena obsitalis, Hiihn., 270
Hypenodes costsestrigalis, 289
Hypermecia angustana, — unicolorous
var., 141
Hypolimnas misippus, 24
Hypsipetes impluviata, 255 ; ruberata,
170 ; sordidata {— elutata), 170, 202
Hyria muricata, 139
Iceland — Bombus terrestris, 325 ; Cry-
modes exulis, 349 ; list of insects
taken in, 1890, 374, 375
Icerya purchasi, 71
Ichneumon haglundi, Holmg., sp. new
to Britain, 143, 172
Ilybius ater, De G., 104 ; subeeneus, 235
Uythyia semirubella, 289
Incurvaria tenuicornis, 141
CONTENl'S.
XI
India — Geometrid moth, alteration in
name, 316
Information wanted, 384
Ino geryon, 259, — in Berkshire, 264
Insect-colours, contributions to the che-
mistry of, 128, 155, 167, 181, 200,
217, 234, 247, 283, 309, 338, 370
Insect-fauna of Middlesex, 368
Insect-galls, evolution of, 73
Insecticide, London-purple as, 265
Insects, collecting by means of light and
sugar, 22 ; influencing sex of, 120 ;
observed on Lundy Island, July 13,
1888, 140; taken in Faroe and
Westmann Isles and in Iceland,
1890, 374
lolaus contractus, n. sp., 39 ; luculentus,
n. sp., 38
Ibeland — Sphinx convolvuli in Co.
Cork, 18 ; captures at sallows, 262
Iris pseudacorus (yellow iris), larvae of
Arctia caia feeding on, 319
Jana mandarina, n. sp., 112
Karenia caelatata, n. sp., 91
Katha moorei, n.sp., 81
Kent — Coleoptera at Chattenden, 104 ;
Lepidoptera, 292, — in Thanet, 139 ;
Heliothis armigera at Chatham,
344 ; Oxyptilus hiatus on coast, 346 ;
Argynnis euphrosyne, banded var.,
from Chattenden, 351 [142
Labrador — Polyommatus phlceas from,
Lamiomimus gottschei, Kolbe, 246
Lamprochromus elegans, 153
Lancashire — Colias edusa in 1889, 16 ;
Sphinx convolvuli at Grange-over-
sands, 18 ; Deilephila livornica near
Manchester, 203 ; notes from, 385
Laphygma exigua, 67
Larentia olivata at Kickmans worth, 291
Larva, protective colouring, 55 ; of Spi-
losoma fuliginosa, vitality, 205 ; of
Notodonta dictsea, brown form, 379 ;
of Acronycta alni at Clifton, 383
Larvee, of hybernating Noctuse forcing,
143 ; of Triphsena fimbria, 263 ; of
Bombyx neustria, abundant at
Stokes Bay, 319,— rubi, 137; of
Arctia caia feeding on Iris pseud-
acorus, 319 ; young, of Apatura
iris, 326 ; certain, abundant, 347 ;
of Eupithecia oblongata, subnotata,
abundant, 347 ; of Hadena cheno-
podii abundant, 347 ; of Liparis
monacha abundant in Southern
Germany, 347 ; autumnal, 347 ;
Eupithecia absynthiata, 350, —
abundant, 347 ; of Trichiura cra-
tsegi, 350 ; in 1890, 383
Lasiocampa quercifolia, 100, 349
Lasiops semicinerea, 122, 150
Lathrobium angvisticolle, 237 [101
Laverna lacteella, lol ; subistrigella,
Leia elegans, 152
Leioptilus scarodactylus, 289
Lema chinensis, 85
Lemiodes pulveralis, 276
Lepidoptera, in Wales, 5 ; irregular
emergence, 19 ; new species from
China, 26, 81, 109 ; taken in Dor-
setshire, 1889, 101 ; dwarfing in
captivity, 120; in Thanet, 139;
in Aberdeen and Kincardineshire,
168 ; certain species occasionally
abundant in British Islands, 177 ;
attracted by light at Shepherd's
Bush, 261 ; of Kent, information
wanted, 292 ; of Shetland, addition,
293 ; urticating hairs, 293 ; abun-
dant in New Zealand, 305 ; sexes,
337 ; scarcity, 346 ; -Heterocera,
377 ; Macro-, additions to Newbury
list, 140, — in New Forest, 320;
Micro-, two species new to British
list, 119
Leptarthra dohrni, 194; grandipennis,
Fairm., 194 ; intermedia, n. sp.,
194 ; longicornis, n. sp., 194
Leptida larevipennis. Mils., 266
Leria ruficauda, Zett., 123, 150
Lethe cyrene, n. sp., 27 ; labyrinthea,
n. sp., 28; nigrifascia, n.sp., 28;
occulta, n. sp., 26 ; trimacula, n. sp.,
27
Leucania impudens, 321 ; littoralis, 365 ;
propria, 10
Leucophasia gigantea, n.sp., 45; sina-
pis, 57, — var. lathyri, 79
Libellula cserulescens, 362
Life-history of Declana floccosa, 241 ;
of Bombyx quercus, var. callunse,
259
Light, and sugar, collecting insects by
means of, 22 ; electric at Taunton,
100 ; Lepidoptera attracted by, at
Shepherd's Bush, 261 ; captures by,
in Devon, 262
Limacodes (Heterogenea) asella in De-
von, 264
Limenitis pratti, n. sp., 34 ; sibylla, 68,
229, 288, 320, 379,— black var.,
291
Limnas chrysippus, 23, — from Natal,
with white spot on under wings, 24 ;
dorippus, from North Africa, 24
Limnobia stigma, 153
Limnophora albifrons, 154
Limosina cilifera, 126, 152 ; fenestralis,
126, 152 ; pusilla, 126, 152
Liparis monacha, larva? abundant in
Southern Germany, 347
Liroetes ameipennis, Weise, 216 ; fulvi-
pennis, n. sp., 215; leechi, n.sp.,
215
Lita costella, 102
Lithocolletis bistentella, 138 ; carvella,
Xll
CONTENTS.
324 ; kleemannella, 138 : stettinen-
sis, 138
Lithosia costipuncta, n. sp., 82 ; lenta,
n. sp., 81 ; quadra, 68
Lithostege griseata, 348
Lobophora sexalisata, 140
Locality labels for specimens, 171, 206
Lonchoptera ? trilineata, Zett., 124, 151
London-purple as an insecticide, 265
Luperina cespitis, 15, 63, 67, 322 ; gue-
n6ei, 65
Luperodes bipartitus, n. sp., 163; prae-
ustus, Motscli., 163
Luperus oenescens (?), We'ise, 164; bi-
plagiatus, n. sp., 165 ; capito, Weise,
165 ; hirsutus, 164 ; pratti, n. sp.,
164
Lybithea celtis, 79
Lycsena admetus, var. ripperti, 79 ;
arcana, n. sp., 43 ; astrarche, var.
salmacis, 139 ; — var. artaxerxes,
168 ; eros, 59 ; icarus, 23, — male of
pale lilac colour, 23 ; iolas, 79 ;
meleager, 79 ; nebulosa, n. sp., 43 ;
orbitulus, 59 ; pheretes, 59 ; ze-
phyrus, var. lycidas, 58
Macaria liturata, 348, 380
Macrogaster castane.v (arundinis), 97
Macroglossa bombyliformis, 259; fuci-
formis, 259 ; stellatarum, 139, 168,
204
Malachius seneus, 104
Mamestra abjecta, 5 ; albicolon, 169,
364 ; anceps, 5, 64 ; furva, 5, 169 ;
persicarise, 319; rubescens, 10
Man, Isle of — Epunda nigra, 351 ;
Stilbia anomala, 351 ; Agrotis sim-
ulans, 351 ; Cirrhoedia xerampelina,
351 ; Callimorpha hera, 351
Margarodes unionalis, Hilhn., 276
Mecyna deprivalis, 265; polygonalis,
265, 274
Medon ripicola, 237
Melanargia galatea, var. leucomelas, 79 ;
halimede, 26, — var. montana, 26 ;
iapygia, var. cleanthe, 79
Melanauster chinensis, Forster, 246
Melanippe fluctuata, lOQ; unangulata,
15, 234
Melanism and temperature, 23, 54, 133
Melanthia albicillata, 234, 380
Melasoma maculicollis, n. sp., 117
Melissoblaptes cephalonica, 336
Meliteea artemis, 346 ; aurelia, 59 ; au-
rinia (= artemis), 229; dyctinna,
59 ; maturna, 59 ; phcebe, 59
Melolontha cuprescens, Blanchard, 244
Mesotype virgata, 140
Metacrias erichrysa, 11
Metaxonycha tridentata, abnormal, 265
Metrocampa margaritaria, var., 19
Microdon devius, 125, 151, 171, 208;
mutabilis, 151
Micropteryx salopiella, 324 ; sparmann-
ella, 324 ; mansuetella, 324
Microcryptus (Phygadeuon) rufoniger,
173
Middlesex — Hydradephaga near Lon-
don, 20 ; Deilephila galii captured
at Stoke Newington, 174; Acidalia
rusticata in North of London, 261;
Lepidoptera attracted by light at
Shepherd's Bush, 261 ; Apamea
ophiogramma at Hampstead, 346 ;
insect-fauna, 368
Miltochrista rivalis, n. sp., 82; rufa,
n. sp., 82
Mimela pomacea, n. sp., 245
Minoa murinata (= euphorbiata), 226
Moma orion, 225, 320
Monmouthshire — Butterflies taken or
seen at or near Monmouth, in
seasons 1889 and 1890, 346
Monolepta leechi, n. sp., 216
Moth, Indian geometrid, alteration in
name, 316
Moth-trap, a successful, 231, 263
Moths, parasites on, 140
Mycetoporus angulatus, from Sutton
Park, 237
Mydftinse, 153
Myelois ceratoniae, 141, 301, 329 ; cirri-
gerella, 301 ; pryerella, 141, 301
Natal — Limnas chrysippus with white
spot on under wings, 24
Necrophorus mortuorum, 290
Nemeobius lucina, 231, 259
Nemeophila plantaginis, 259, — var.
hospita taken in Yorkshire, 1860, 22
Nemophora pilella, 139, 141
Neoglypsus opulentus, n. sp., 159
Neope ramosa, n. sp., 29 ; romanovi,
n. sp., 29
Neophf^dimus auzouxi, Lucas, 245
Nephopteryx genistella, 332; splendi-
della, 332
Nepticula argentipedella, 324 ; cryptella,
139 ; desperatella, 138 ; fulgens,
72 ; gei, 138 ; intimella, 139 ;
minusculella, 138 ; serella, 139 ;
splendidissimella, 138 ; tilise, 139 ;
woolhopiella, 324
Nepticulas bred in 1890, 323, 324
Neptis antigone, n. sp., 37 ; antilope,
n. sp., 35; arachne, n. sp., 38;
aspasia, n. sp,, 37; beroe, n. sp.,
36 ; cydippe, n. sp., 36 ; hesione,
n. sp., 34 ; thisbe, 35, — var. themis,
35, — var. thetis, 35
Neuria reticulata, 100
Neurigona erichsonii, 153 ; pallida,
153; suturalis, 153
Neuroptera, 377
New Zealand — Entomological tour on
the table-land of Mount Arthur, 8,
52 ; notes from, 19 ; Vanessa cardui
CONTENTS.
XUl
abundant, 133 ; Lepidoptera abun-
dant, 305
Noctua arundinis, 100 ; dahlii, 140, 169,
321, 322 ; depuncta in Devon, 292 ;
glareosa, 67, 121 ; sobrina, 169 ;
subrosea, 97
Noctua?, forcing hybernating larvae of,
143
Nodostoma gibbosum, n. sp,, 115 ;
orientale, n. sp., 115
Nomada borealis at Hastings, 72
Nonagria brevilinea, 326 ; cannae, 97 ;
neurica, 97
Nonarthra nigriceps, Weise, 163
NoEFOLK — Acherontia atropos at In-
goldisthorpe, 17 ; Rhopalocera \oi
West, 355 ; Sir6x gigas at Yarmouth,
384
NoBTHUMBERLAND — Collecting on coast
of, 292
Notes, on economy of Retinia resinella,
76 ; on Hybocampa milhauseri, 91 ;
on silk-producing and other Bom-
byces, 119; on Diptera in 1889,
122, — critical, 150 ; on season, 1889,
138,-1890, 323, 345 ; on some
species of gall-gnats (Cecidomyias),
278 ; on Tseniocampa opima, 307 ;
on sugar, 322 ; on Rhopolocera of
West Norfolk, 355 ; from New
Forest, 21, 379 ; from Aberdeen
and Kincardineshire on Lepido-
ptera, 168 ; from Cannock Chase,
378 ; from Ringwood, 381
Notodonta chaonia, 380; dietaea, 69,
100, 169, 289, 378, 379,— in August,
291, — brown form of larva, 379 ;
dictaeoides, 69, 378, 379,— drome-
darius, 69, 100, 169, 255; ziczac,
69, 100, 169
Notoreas paradelpha, 11, 53
Nottinghamshire — Amphidasys betu-
laria, var. doubledayaria, 319
Numenes disparilis, var. separata, 112
Nyctemera annulata, 19
Nymphalidae, phylogenetic significance
of wing-markings in certain genera,
80
Nyssia hispidaria, 69, — very light form,
174
Oaks defoliated by swarms of Tortrix
viridana, 361
Obituary — Arthur Bliss, 104; Joseph
S. Baly, 176 ; WiUiam Berry Farr,
208 ; Dr. R. C. R. Jordan, 238 ;
William Clayton, 268 ; Peter
Maassen, 328 ; C. G. Hall, 328 ;
Owen S. Wilson, 352
Ocydromia glabricula = Rhamphomyia
dispar, 153
Odonestis potatoria, cream-coloured
var., 349
Odontia dentalis, 326
Odontoptera bidentata, var., 19
Odontura punctatissima, abundant in
Dorsetshire, 294
(Edaliea stigmatica, 153
OEneis aello, 59
Ophion luteum, 173
Oporabia autumnaria, 170
Oporina croceago, 15
Orgyia prisca, n. sp., Ill
Ornix anglicella, 324 ; fagivora, 141
Orocrambus catacaustus, 11 ; mylites,
11
Orthoptera, 378
Orthosia suspecta, 169
Oscinis rapta, 154
Otiorhynchus sulcatus, 20
Oxfordshire — Lepidoptera in, 259
Oxypoda lentula, 208
Oxyptilus Itetus on Kentish coast, 346
Pachnobia leucographa, 68, 202
Paedisca opthalmicana, 257
Palopffius architectus, St. Farg, 237
Pamphila maga, n. sp., 48 ; similis, n.
sp., 48; virgata, n. sp., 47
Pamplusia monticolana (= mercuriana),
381
Paniscus cephalotes, 173, 237; testaceus,
173
Papilio alexanor, 79 ; gyas, 192 ; hecto-
rides, 350; machaon, 224; sciron,
n. sp., 192; thoas, aberration in
left hind-wing, 102
Pararge catena, n. sp., 30 ; episcopalis,
188 ; praeusta, n. sp., 188
Parasites of Bombyx rubi, 18 ; on moths,
140
Parnassius apoUo, 59, 79; delius, 59;
mnemosyne, 79
Paropsides maculicoUis, n. sp., 118 ;
(Phytodecta) nigrosparsus, 118
Pechypogon barbalis, 226
Pegomyia hyoscyami, 154 ; winthemi,
154
Pempelia genistella, 332; obductella,
334
Pentacitrotus aBneus, n. sp., 83
PentatomidaB, 159
Pentatominae, 159
Penthina capraeana, 139 ; grevillana,
141 ; postremana, 139, 324 ; prae-
longana, 141 ; sauciana, var. stain-
toniana, 141
Pericallia syringaria, 15, 100, 234
Perileptus areolatus, 237, 268
Perinephele lancealis, 64, 226
Peronea sponsana, strongly marked
specimens, 72
Petalura carovei, 54
Phauda pratti, n. sp., 81
Phibalapteryx lapidata, 144 ; vittata
(lignata), 64,— at Yeovil, 263
Phigalia pedaria (pilosaria) in January,
134
XIV
CONTENTS.
Philonthus seneus, 374, 375
Phorodesma pustulata (bajularia), 64;
pustulata, 321
Phoxopteryx upupana, bred, 265
Phycis adornatella, 331 ; betulse, 255,
257 ; davisellus, 332 ; obductella,
334 ; subornatella, 102, 142, 331
Phygadeuon (Microcryptus) rufoniger,
173; sodalis, 172
Phyllodecta multipunctata, n. sp., 117
Phytodecta flavoplagiata, n. sp., 117 ;
(Paropsides) nigrosparsus, 118
Pieris cisseis, n. sp., 192 ; lotis, n. sp.,
192 ; oberthiiri, n. sp., 46
Piezosternum subulatum, 22
Pipizella biguttata (= flavitarsis), 153
Platypeza modesta, 153 ; rufa, 153
Plesioneura grandis, n. sp., 47
Plusia bractea, 170 ; festucae, apparently
double-brooded, 326 ; interroga-
tionis, 170, 380,— food-plant, 204 ;
iota feeding on hawthorn, 204 ;
moneta, Fabr., occurrence in Bri-
tain, 254, 344, 350, — var. in Amur-
land, 344 ; ni, 265 ; orichalcea,
102, 349
Plusiidtie of Britain, addition to, 287
Poecilia nivea (= gemmella), 102
Poecilocampa populi, 62, 69
Pcecilochroma lewisii, 22
Polyommatus (Chrysophanus) dorilis,
Hufn., 294 ; phloeas from Labrador,
142 ; virgaurese, 58
Procris geryon, 5
Protective colouring of larva, 54
Psamotis pulveralis, Hiibn., 276
Pseudoterpna pruinata (cytisaria), 64
Psilocephala ardea, 122, 124, 150
Psilopus longulus, 153 ; obscurus, 153
Psilura monacha, 289
Psoricoptera gibbosella, 101
Psyche villosella from the New Forest,
266,— larvae, 295
Pterogospidea diversa, n. sp., 46
Pterophora paludum, 101
Pteropoecila lamed, 154
Pterostichus niger at Brockenhurst, 267 ;
? prattii, 212
Pterostoma palpina, 100
Ptiolina wodzickii = Atherix unicolor,
153
Pupae, of Hybocampa milhauseri and
Cerura, 203 ; treatment during
the winter, 262
Pupae-diggers, hint to, 325
Pyralides, Deltoids, and Crambi, addi-
tions to the British list, since
1859, 269, 297, 329
Pyralis lienigialis, 271
Pyronota festiva, 54
Queensland — Choerocampa celerio in,
137 ; Chalcophora in scrubs of
Central, 179
Bapala repercussa, n. sp., 42; subpur-
purea, n. sp., 42
Eetinia margarotana, 103, — new to
British list, 119 ; resinella, economy,
76
Ehagio scolopaceus in Shetlands, 298
Khagium mordax, 290
Ehamphomyia dispar= Ocydromia gla-
bricula, 153
Ehingia campestris, 153 ; rostrata, 153
Ehizotrogus solstitiahs at Chester, 294
Ehodophaea consociella, 336 ; rubro-
tibiella, 336 ; tumidella, 289
Ehomborhina japonica, Hope, 245
Ehopalocera Britannica, 16
Ehopalocera, in Switzerland, 57; at
Digne, 78 ; new species from China,
187 ; of West Norfolk, 355
Sallow season of 1890, 200, 234
Sallows, captures at in Ireland, 262
Saperda carcharias at Cambridge, 262
Sapromyza platycephala, 123, 126, 151,
171, 208
Satsuma chalybeia, n. sp., 43 ; pratti,
n. sp., 44
Saturnia oberthiiri, n. sp., 49 ; pavonia
(carpini), 135,— larva feeding on
oak, 261
Satyrus briseis, 79 ; circe, 79 ; fidia, 79 ;
maculosa, n. sp., 30
Scardia picarella, bred, 265
Sciaphila octomaculana from Shetland,
351
Sciara flavipes, 152
Schizomyia (Kief) galiorum, 152
Scodonia belgiaria, 170
Scoparia basistrigalis, 271 ; conspicu-
alis, 274; ingratella, Zell., 273;
scotica, 273 ; trivirgata, 10 ; ul-
mella. Dale MS., 273 ; zelleri,
Wocke, 272
Scotland — Notes on Lepidoptera from
Aberdeen and Kincardineshire, 168 ;
sallow season at Aberdeen, 1890,
202; addition to Lepidoptera of
Shetland, 293 ; Ehagio scolopaceus
in Shetlands, 293; Agrotis simu-
lans, Acronycta euphorbias, Scia-
phila octomaculana, from Shet-
lands, 351
Selenia bilunaria, early emergence, 135
Selidosema ericetaria, 380
Sepharia frontalis, n.sp., 254
Sephisa princeps, 190
Sesia bembeciformis, 366 ; sphegiformis,
255, — in Essex, 262, — taken by
" assembling " in Sussex, 266
Setina rubricans,n. sp., 82 ; unipuncta,
n. sp., 82
Setora divisa, n. sp., 83
Seudyra flavida, n. sp., 110 ; mandarina,
n. sp., 110 ; subalba, n. sp., 110
Sex of insects influenced, 120
CONTENTS.
XV
Sexes of Lepidoptera, 237
Sheopshibe — Colias edusa at Hawk-
stone in 1889, 16 ; Coleoptera from
Ludlow, 237
Siberia — Plusia moneta, var., in Amur-
land, 344
Siphonophora artocarpi, affecting the
bread-fruit tree, 265
Sirex gigas, 327, — at Yarmouth, 384, —
in Hants, 292,— in Devon, 320,—
near Plymouth, 264, — at Tenby,
384, — in Durham, 292 ; juvenous,
384
Siricidse, disparity of size, 384
Smerinthus ocellatus emerging from
pupa with one antenna, 326 ; populi,
rapid development, 18 ; tilise, males
assembling, 18
SoMKRSETSHiRE — Electric light at Taun-
ton, 100 ; Coleoptera at Burnham,
174; Phibalapteryx vittata and
Amphidasys betularia at Yeovil,
263
Sophronia emortualis, 270
Sphnenoraia cupreata, n. sp., 193 ; ful-
gida, 194
Sphinx convolvuli, 15, 100, 168, — in
Isle of Wight, 18, — in Lancashire,
18,— in Scoiland, 168,— in Co. Cork,
18; ligustri, 100, — var. of larva,
22
Spilonota pauperana, 203
Spilosoma fuliginosa, vitality of larva,
205; lubricipeda, Esp., var.radiata
(read for "hadita"), 207
Spilothyrus lavaterse, 79
Staffordshire — Colias edusa near
Madeley, 16 ; Cannock Chase,
Argynnis aglaia, black male from,
327,— Euperia fulvago on, 352,—
notes from, 378
Stathmonyma anceps, 11 ; hectori, 53
Staudinger, Dr., his collection, 378
Stauropus f agi, 100, 265 ; near Beading,
263
Stenus guynimeri, 208
Stigmonota fiexana, 226 ; nitidana (=
redimitana), 226; puncticostana,
102
Stilbia anomala, 15, 169, 234, 327, 351,
378
Suffolk — Hesperia lineola near Sud-
bury, 171
Sugar, and light, collecting insects by
means of, 22 ; notes on, 322 ; a
failure at Christchurch, 383
Sugaring, 126, 345, 380
Surrey — Andrena nigro-seniB at Dul-
wich, 72 ; Diptera and Hymenoptera
at Mickleham, 256
Sussex — Acherontia atropos, 17 ; Aci-
dalia margiuepunctata, taken at
Eastbourne, 23; Coleoptera at
Camber during 1889, 50 ; Andrena
clarkella and Nomada borealis at
Hastings, 72 ; a day at Tilgate
Forest, 254 ; captures in the
Brighton district, 259 ; Anticlea
cucuUata (sinuata) at Chichester,
291
Switzerland — Ehopalocera, 57
Sympycnus seneicoxa, 153 ; bifasciellus,
153 ; nigritibialis, 153
Synapsis davidis, Fairmaire, 213
Syria — Trichodes syriacus from, 327
Syrichthus alveus, 79 ; andromedse, 72 ;
carthami, 72
Tachydromia stramineipes, var. of T.
pectoralis, 153
Tseniocampa gracilis, 72; gothicina,
two vars., 174; opima, notes on,
307 ; populeti, 68
Talmonus, 115 ; farinosus, 115
Tanypus guttipennis, 152 ; phatta, 152
Taphinella longicornis, n. sp., 194 ; ni-
gripennis, 195
Tapinostola extrema, 326 ; helmanni,
97, 349
Tauroscopa gorgopsis, 11
Tegulata fimbriata, n. sp., 81
Temnaspis humeralis, n. sp., 86
Temperature and melanism, 23, 54, 133
Tephritis matricaria?, 126, 151
Tephrosia biundularia, 173, — small ex-
ample, 261 ; crepuscularia, 173, —
small example of early brood, 204,
261 ; luridata, 234
Tessaratominae, 160
Tethea reclusa, 255; retusa, 257, — in
Devon, 292 ; subtusa, 257
Thais rumina, var. honoratii, 78, — var.
medesicaste, 79
Thecla caelestis, n. sp., 191; elwesi,
n. sp., 39 ; ilicis, 289, — var. sesculi,
79, — var. cerri, 79; ornata, n. sp.,
40 ; roboris, 79 ; rubicundula, n. sp.,
40; w-album, 57, 69, 346
Thera firmata, 348
Thereva ardea, 208
Theria muscaria, 125, 151 [237
Thinobius linearis, 237 ; longipennis,
Thyatira trimaculata, var. chinensis,
113, — var. albomaculata, 114
Thyris fenestrella, 289
Tillus elongatus, 104
Tortrix branderiana from South of Lon-
don, 266 ; cratapgana, 289 ; viridana,
in swarms defoliating oaks, 361
Toxocampa pastinum, 348, 349
Toxoneura muliebris, Harr. (fasciata,
Mcq.), 154
Trachonetis (?) pryerella, 301
Trechus longicornis, 237
Trichiura cratagi, 140, — hermaphro-
dite, 345,— var. of larva, 350
Trichodes syriacus, from Syria, 327
XVI
CONTENTS.
Trichonyx markelii, 237
Trifurcula atrifrontella, 102
Trigonotoma dohrnii, Ghaudoir, 213
Trinomial system, use and abuse, 148
Triphsena fimbria, larvae, 263; inter-
jecta, 365
Trogophlreus subtilis, 268
Trogus exaltatorius, 21
Tropicoris illuminatus, n. sp., 159
Urticating hairs of Lepidoptera, 293
Vanessa antiopa, from Wet Mountain
Valley, Colorado, 327 ; cardui, 20,
— abundant in New Zealand, 133 ;
c-album, 69, 139, 229, 288; egea,
79 ; gonerilla, 19, 54 ; io, at Christ-
mas, 136; otea, 20; polychloros,
57, 68, 139, 168, 229, 288, 346
Varieties : — Epione parallelaria, 19, 101 ;
Metrocampa margaritaria, 19 ;
Odontoptera bidentata, 19 ; Sphinx
ligustri, 22; Nemeophila planta-
ginis (hospita, taken in 1860), 33;
Euripus japonicus (chinensis), 32 ;
Athyma fortuna (latefasciata), 34 ;
Neptis thisbe (themis, thetis), 35 ;
Argynnis adippe (cleodoxa), 79, —
aglaia, 327 (black), 350, — niobe
(eris), 59, — pales (napaea), 59, —
paphia (valesina), 58 ; Erebia gla-
cialis (alecto), 59 (pluto), 79; Ci-
daria immanata (thingvallata), 66;
Thais rumina (honoratii), 78 (me-
desicaste), 79; Euchloe tagis (bel-
lezina), 79; Leucophasia sinapis
(lathyri), 79; Thecla ilicis (cerri,
sesculi), 79 ; Lycaena admetus
(ripperti), 79 — astrarche (salma-
cis), 139 (artaxerxes), 168; Melan-
argia iapygia (cleanthe), 79; Hes-
peria lineola, 142, — pale, 103 ; Che-
Ionia bieti (pratti). 111 ; Numenes
disparilis (separata), 112; Thyatira
trimaculata (chinensis), 113 (albo-
maculata), 114 ; Dianthoecia carpo-
phaga, Bork. (capsophila, Dup.),
204,— luteago (barrettii), 141; Ca-
toptria scopoliana (parvulana), 141 ;
Tachydromia pectoralis (straminei-
pes, 153 ; Eupithecia satyrata (cal-
lunaria), 170; Taeniocampa gothi-
cina, 174 ; Zonosoma punctaria
(banded), 237; Limenitis sibylla
(black), 291; CrocaUis elinguaria
(trapezaria), 291; Epinephele hy-
peranthes, 326 ; Arctia caia, 344 ;
Odonestis potatoria (cream-colour-
ed), 349 ; Xylophasia monoglypha,
364 ; Eubolia limitata, 381 ; Gra-
cilaria syringella (melanic, from
near Birmingham), 350 ; Trichiura
cratsegi, 350
Varieties of Noctuse occurring in the
British Islands, contributions to-
wards a list of, 12, 97
Variation of Apamea ophiogramma, 12 ;
of Heliophobus hispidus at Port-
land, 60; of Coleoptera in size,
136; of Chrysolophus spectabilis,
137 ; of Agrotis cursoria and tri-
tici, 145
Volucella bombylans, 267
Wales— Collecting in, 361. North:
Sallow season, 1890, 202 ; CucuUia
ftbsinthii and Acidalia contigua
near Barmouth, 262, 291, 318;
Ennychia octomaculata, 319 ;
notes from Merionethshire, 385.
South : Agrotis ripee, larvee, 23 ;
Sirex gigas at Tenby, 384
Warwickshire — Gracilaria syringella,
from near Birmingham, 350
Westmann Islands — 314 ; list of insecta
taken in 1890, 374
Wight, Isle of — Acherontia atropos,
18; Sphinx convolvuli, 18
Wing-markings in certain genera of
Nymphalidae, phylogenetic signifi-
cance, 80
Worcestershire — Coleoptera from
Bewdley, 268; Chrysoclysta bi-
maculella from Wyre Forest, 327
Xylina semibrunnea, 135, 140 ; socia,
15,— = petrificata, 262
Xylophasia monoglypha, var., 364
Xylota abiens, 124, 171
Yorkshire — Acherontia atropos at
Hornsea, 16 ; Nemeophila planta-
ginis, var. hospita, taken in 18t)0,
23 ; sallow season at Rotherham,
1890, 202 [346
Zanclognatha emortualis, Schiff., 269,
Zethea sagitta, n. sp., 26
Zeuzera pyrina, 100
Zonosoma punctaria, banded var., 237
Zygaena exulans, 168 ; meliloti, 320,
326 ; pilosellee (minos), 367
LIST OF PLATES.— Plates I. & II., New Species of Coleoptera from
China. Plate III., Deltoids, Pyralides, Crambi, Plusia moneta (British).
Plate IV., Deltoids, Pyralides, Crambi (British). {All the Plates to be at
end of Volume).
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIIL] JANUARY, 1890. [No. 820.
VALEDICTORY.
With the present number the * Entomologist ' changes its
proprietorship, a change which has only been made once
previously during half a century, and was then from father to
son. Founded by the late Edward Newman in 1840, it was
continued for two years, and then became the * Zoologist,' a
magazine which was to include, as it does to this day, diverse
branches of Natural History.
By the year 1864, however, the entomological communications
had so increased as to demand a separate publication, and the
* Entomologist ' was re-created to receive them. My late father
again edited the journal, and continued to do so until his death
in 1876.
After his death, Mr. Carrington became Editor, assisted in
his duties by Messrs. Bond, Fitch, Frederick Smith and Jenner
Weir, Dr. Power and Dr. Buchanan White ; and on the deaths
of Mr. Smith and Dr. Power, Messrs. South and Billups
consented to join the staff. For their generous and long-
continued service, my hearty thanks are due to all these
gentlemen, as well as to our many contributors ; our relations
have always been most pleasant and cordial.
It is not without much regret that 1 have consented to
forego a proprietorship which has become almost a family
tradition, and to break this long-established connection of
editors and proprietor. But it is the official bond only which
is severed ; the friendship remains unimpaired.
ENTOM. — JAN, 1890. B
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Under the proprietorship of my successor, Mr. J. H. Leech,
the 'Entomologist?' will, I am convinced, become increasingly
valuable ; and for him and his Editor, Mr. South, who is
already well known to them, I would ask the continued support
of all our readers.
T. P. Newman.
It is with feelings not unmingled with regret that, by
force of circumstances, I retire from the position of Editor
of the * Entomologist.' It is, however, very gratifying to me
to remember that during the period — now more than thirteen
years — I have edited this magazine, I have received such
uniform support from its contributors and readers. To them I
tender my hearty thanks. It is a further satisfaction to feel
that, in all those long years, no word I have placed in its pages
has lost to me a single friend ; but my association with the
* Entomologist ' has introduced me to many whose friendship is
greatly valued.
To those whose names have appeared on the title-page, in
connection with mine, I also tender my thanks, — to each in
measure as they have individually responded to my appeals for
assistance.
Lastly, I must thank Mr. T. P. Newman for his support,
without which it would have been impossible to have gained for
the * Entomologist ' such success as it has attained.
John T. Carbington.
( 3 )
HESPERIA LINEOLA, Ochsenheimer : AN ADDITION TO
THE LIST OF BRITISH BUTTERFLIES.
By F. W. Hawes.
The specimens, — three in number, all males, — from which
the accompanying description is made, were taken by me during
the month of July, 1888, in one of the eastern counties, and
remained until quite recently in my cabinet, merely as curious
varieties of Hesperia thaumas. Happening, however, one day
last month, to turn over those plates in Dr. Lang's * Butterflies
of Europe,' on which the genus Hesperia is figured, I was struck
with the great resemblance of my specimens to a species repre-
sented at Plate 81, fig. 10. A reference to the description at
p. 351 of that work suggested the probability of the so-called
varieties being in reality H, lineola, the three main points of
distinction between H. lineola and H, thaumas appearing in
strongly marked contrast when the specimens under consideration
were compared with undoubtedly fresh examples of H. thaumas.
In the course of the week following my supposed discovery
Mr. Carrington spent an evening with me looking over my
collection of Diurni. To him I communicated my beliefs, at the
same time showing him the specimens, and he confirmed my
opinion that I had, indeed, British examples of H, lineola.
Since then we made a visit to the Doubleday collection at the
Bethnal Green Museum, when, whatever doubts I may have
had, were at once dispelled, my specimens being exactly similar
to the five males contained in the Doubleday European collection,
although two of my three are larger, and one is distinctly finer
than the examples labelled *' lineola^ France," in that collection.
1. H. lineola. 2. H. thaumas.
I believe H. lineola has been overlooked owing to its great
similarity to H. thaumas in appearance, and the fact that it
flies at about the same time of year (or possibly a week later) in
the same localities as the commoner insect. If all collections
in this country, consisting avowedly of British insects, were
carefully examined, I have little doubt that native H. lineola
would be found hidden away in some unexpected corners. At
any rate, an examination of localities known to produce H.
thaumas may result, during the coming season, in the capture of
this butterfly in widely different parts of the British Isles. The
known range in Europe extends, according to Dr. Lang's work,
from Scandinavia in the north to North Africa in the south.
B 2
4 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
To proceed to a comparison between Hesperia tkaumas and
H. lineola for the purposes of distinction, it will be noticed,
from the figures given of one anterior wing of each of the male
butterflies, that the black bar on the fore wings in H. thaumas is
decided, continued, and bent slightly downwards at about the
centre. In H, lineola the bar is narrow, broken, and has no
curve, is frequently very indistinct, and always considerably
shorter than in H. thaumas. Again, in H. thaumas the bar
springs from a point at about one-third of the length of the
inner margin, reckoning from the thorax ; in H. lineola the bar
appears almost to run into the base of the wing at its juncture
with the thorax. These are characteristics of the male insects
only, and the remaining points of difference apply equally to both
sexes. Perhaps the most positive and unfailing distinction in
both male and female H. lineola is to be found in the coloration
on the under side of the antennae. In H. thaumas this tint is of
a faint buff, never dark ; whereas in H. lineola the under side of
the tips is of a decided black. A third point of difference is the
absence, in H, lineola^ of the fulvous patch on the inner margin
of the under side of the hind wings, the insect in this respect
bearing a considerable likeness to H. actceon. These three,
then, are what may be called the distinguishing features of
H. lineola, when compared with H. thaumas ; but there are
other minor and less perceptible differences, i. e., H. lineola has
a duller and more suffused appearance, especially at the hind
margins, more decided neuration of the hind wings, and on the
under side a greenish hue ; whereas H. thaumas has a rich
glistening colour, is usually clear at the hind margin, and has a
grey appearance on the under side. The two species approach
each other very closely in size ; perhaps H, thaumas is a trifle
more elongate (see fig.) than H. lineola.
I venture no opinion now as to the right of H. lineola to be
considered a distinct species. The position of H. lineola in our
collections is between H. thaumas and H. actceon.
I may say here, however, that I hope I may be able in course
of time to supply a life-history of this new addition to our
Rhopalocera in all stages from British parents.
Since writing the foregoing I find that Mr. J. T. Carrington
captured in 1889, also in the same county in which I took my
specimens, several examples of H. lineola, including females.
They were taken at some considerable distance from the first-
named locality, but about the same time of year, although one
season later.
14, Dovecote Villas, "Wood Green, London, N., Dec. 7, 1889.
( ;> )
NOTES ON AGROTIS ASHWORTHIL
By Willoughby Gardner.
Of the many interesting species of Agrotidae inhabiting the
British Islands, none have had a greater fascination for the
writer for many years past than Agrotis ashworthii.
Who, indeed, that has seen the delicate dove-colour upon the
wings of this insect, when freshly emerged from the pupa, can
help being perpetually captivated by its quiet and unassuming
beauty ?
Beyond the attractiveness of the imago itself as a beautiful
object in Nature, the history of the species, its habitat, and a
certain justifiable pride in an insect peculiar to one's own
home district, have tended to keep up a perennial interest in
ashworthiL
Running in a northerly direction from Llanymynach, in
Shropshire, through Denbighshire and Flintshire to the sea, and
thence, with a slight break, due west along the coast as far as
the Great Orme's Head, is a narrow strip of what is known to
geologists as carboniferous limestone. This strip of liuiestone
rests unconformably upon a series of hard slaty Silurian rocks,
which crop out from below it to the west and south of its course,
while to the east and north it dips more or less suddenly beneath
newer beds of coal or sandstone or the sea. At intervals between
these two extreme points the ridge forms magnificent and
picturesque escarpments, often rising to cliffs several hundred
feet in height : these are seen at Llanymynach itself, at Llangollen,
near Mold, at Llandulas, and at other points.
It is a curious and most noteworthy fact, that wherever the
carboniferous limestone crops up upon the surface of the earth
in this country, there a perfect treasure-hoard of objects of
interest, for the student of nearly every branch of science, is
accumulated, such as is to be found on no other geological
formation.
The entomologist finds upon these long limestone escarpments
many rare and interesting insects. Among these may be noted
particularly Procris geryon, Mamestra furva, M. dbjecta, Agrotis
pyrophila. A, lucernea, and, foremost and most attractive of all,
Agrotis ashworthii. Upon this notable, and in so many ways
famous, ridge of rock, this species has its home ; here it was
first discovered, here it still thrives and multiplies, and beyond
it rarely seems to stray.
This beautiful and scarce insect was first discovered by the
late Mr. Joseph Ashworth, an ardent entomologist, who resided
for some time at Bron Hyfryd, near Llangollen : this house is
close by the finest cliffs along the whole range of the above-
mentioned limestone rocks, which are known here by the name
6 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
of the Eglwsegs. Along these rocks Mr. Ashworth collected
with much industry and perseverance, securing many scarce
species ; chief among these was the Agrotis which bears his
name. With Mr. Ashworth's death, however, the exact where-
abouts of the habitat of ashworthii appears to have been lost for
some time, till it was re- discovered, somewhere about twenty-five
years ago, by the late Mr. Nicholas Cooke. This eminent and
indefatigable entomologist started one day at 6 a.m.. upon a rocky
crag at one of the traditional spots, and worked straight ahead
for full twelve hours without a break, till success crowned his
efforts. From that time to the present the study of A. ashworthii
in its natural haunts, amid some of the most charming bits of
rock scenery in Wales, has afforded delight and pleasure to many
a friend of the re-discoverer of the species.
The imago of this Agrotis usually makes its appearance about
the beginning of July, though it is very much later in certain
seasons, being found occasionally freshly emerged during the
early days of August.
Pairing soon takes place, and the eggs are generally deposited
upon the wild thyme, the favourite food-plant of the insect ; these,
pale white and very conspicuous at first, soon grow darker in
colour, and hatch out in warm seasons at the end of about twelve
days. The little larvae are very active from the day of their birth,
"looping" along just like a Geometer. They appear to be some-
what delicate in their earlier stages, and do not take kindly to
any food, even their native wild thyme. They feed only at night,
and by day hide themselves most effectually among the herbage
and loose clods of earth ; as autumn approaches they stow them-
selves away in snug corners for the long winter sleep, having now
attained to fully half their size. Hybernation lasts no longer
than the first warm sunny days of spring, when the larvae come
forth again with appetites whetted by the long fast. Now they
seem to be much less particular in their diet, for they will feed
greedily upon very many of the plants they find aroand them :
among these food-plants may be mentioned, in addition to wild
thyme, golden-rod, sun cistus, fescue grass, and various hawk-
weeds. I have never noticed that sallow was touched by them in
a state of nature, but in confinement they will greedily devour
both the leaves and catkins. The larvae are generally full fed
about the middle of May, but the time varies by a fortnight
earlier or later, according to the season. They then bury them-
selves in the ground, turn to pupae, and in due course produce
the perfect imago.
Though sombre in tone, like the perfect insect, the larva of
ashworthii is eminently striking in appearance ; its body is
smooth and cylindrical, of a smoky green colour, carrying upon
the back of each segment a large oblong mark of most intense
NOTES ON AGROTIS ASHWORTHH. 7
velvety black ; a bright red shining head and red-brown prolegs
stand out in strong contrast, giving the caterpillar a decidedly
distingue aspect, which at once marks it out from the common
herd of Noctuse.
The indescribably beautiful dove-colour of the fore wings of
the perfect insect has already been alluded to. As in so many
other living things, this ebbs away sadly with the life of the
insect. Across the wings run three wavy dark lines ; between
the second and third is a rich brown shade, very much enlarged
in the female, almost absent in the male ; within this patch of
colour the orbicular and reniform are more or less conspicuous,
according to the intensity of the shade ; the hind wings are
smoky grey ; and the head, thorax, and body pale blue grey, like
the fore wings. Though simple and quiet in colouring, the
imago of Agrotis ashvorthii, like its larva, is at once beautiful
and striking, and cannot possibly be mistaken for any other
British species.
Now in writing thus of the life- history of A, ashworthii, the
question naturally suggests itself, How comes it that this parti-
cular Noctua is confined to so limited a habitat, and is, so far,
unknown to exist elsewhere ?
The Entomological fauna of the greater part of Europe has
now been pretty thoroughly investigated, and much collecting
has been done in various other parts of the world, yet A. ash-
worthii has never yet been discovered in any other locality. Why
is it that the insect has never strayed from its native Welsh
mountains, while most species of these temperate climes have so
wide a range of habitat ? How long has it existed and flourished
there, and where did it originally come from, leaving apparently
no trace of its kindred behind it ? Who can tell ?
Its food-plant is no rare and local herb ; the wild thyme, rock
cistus, and other plants upon which it thrives, are common in
many other places. The geological formation which it prefers is
a limestone found in many parts of Great Britain, as well as on
the Continent of Europe and elsewhere. Its habitat is neither
alpine, insular, nor peculiar as to climate or otherwise ; and yet
our insect seems debarred, in some mysterious and extraordinary
way, from straying abroad from its own particular adopted home.
It cannot, of course, have existed there always, but must have
travelled westwards with one of the great waves of life which
invaded these islands from the Continent some time after the
close of the last glacial epoch. Still, impelled by some curious
impulse, it has journeyed straight to its present mountain home,
leaving no colonies in similar situations behind it in its course,
nor, apparently, any survivors in the original cradle of its race.
The species of Agrotis which it most resembles is the conti-
nental A, candelarum (Staud.). This somewhat rare insect has a
8 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
range across Central Europe, from the Ural Mountains, through.
Poland, Germany, and Switzerland, as far as the western pro-
vinces of France. The imago is not unlike that of A, ashworthiiy
but the fore wings are of a more ashy grey, varied with red ; the
larva, though different in colour from that of ashtvorthii, resembles
the latter in having a series of deep black marks along its back,
which are, however, arrow-head-shaped instead of square. It
feeds upon various low plants, such as golden-rod and dock, the
first-named of which is included in the pabulum of ashworthii.
It is possible, therefore, that the immediate ancestor of A. ash-
worthii may have been the European A. candelarum, though ours
is now quite a distinct species from the continental insect.
Neither the larva nor the imago of ashworthiiy as found in its
Welsh mountain home, now shows the slightest inclination to
** cast back " to an earlier type such as candelarum; and indeed,
in the course of a long experience of the insect, the writer has
been struck by the very slight tendency to variation exhibited by
our species.
Unlike many rare animals and plants which have found a last
resting-place in some out-of-the-way corner of the globe, there
to dwindle away till they become extinct from natural causes,
Agrotis ashworthii seems to thrive and multiply in its native
haunts. Long may our unique and interesting local Noctua
continue to do so !
Liverpool, November 10, 1889.
AN ENTOMOLOGICAL TOUR ON THE TABLE-LAND OF
MOUNT ARTHUR.
By G. V. Hudson, F.E.S.
DuEiNG the summer of 1888—9 I spent a week on the table-
land of Mount Arthur for the purpose of investigating the insect
fauna of the locality, and, as it presents some marked and
interesting peculiarities, perhaps it may be desirable to place
my observations on record, and also, for the benefit of future
naturalists, to give a few practical hints as to the best way of
reaching the locality, and what to do when there.
Mount Arthur is the highest peak on the western side of
Blind Bay, and is always a conspicuous object from the town of
Nelson. ^ The table-land is situated behind the mountain range,
— that is, on the north-western side of it, — and extends for
about ten miles in the same direction, till we reach Mount Peel.
Its width is not so great, being, I should say, from five to eight
miles ; but, owing to the broken nature of the country, it is
evidently hard to say, especially as there is so much high land
TOtJR ON THE TABLE-LAND Oi' MOUNT ARTHUR. 9
all round. This plateau varies from 3600 to 4000 ft. above the
sea-level, and is covered with mountain birch, traversed by many
singular openings, which support a dense growth of tussock-
grass and numerous alpine plants. The mountains easily
accessible are Gordon's Pyramid (4600 ft.). Mount Arthur
(5800 ft.), and Mount Peel (5500 ft.). The varying elevations
which are traversed in ascending these gives the naturalist a rare
opportunity of observing and collecting an extremely interesting
series of alpine plants and insects. Kespecting the former I can
give no information, but feel sure that a visit to the table-land
would amply repay any botanist who was not afraid of a little
hard work. As to the best means of reaching the table- land, it
of course depends entirely upon whether we make Nelson or
Motueka the base of operations : in either case a horse and trap
is required, but while a whole day's driving is necessary from
Nelson, less than half the time is needed from Motueka to reach
the Graham's Kiver. This is a small branch of the Motueka
Kiver, which rises in the Mount Arthur range, and flows into the
main stream about fifteen miles above the town. After crossing
the Motueka a short distance above the mouth of the Graham a
fairly good road takes us to Heath's, where it is usually con-
venient to stop the night before continuing the journey. Arrange-
ments can also be made with Mr. Heath to carry the bulk of
one's impedimenta by pack-horse on to the table-land, which is
a great assistance, especially as it is necessary to take provisions
for the whole time one intends to remain there, and an abundance
of clothing to put on during the cold nights.
As soon as the usual hideous stratum of burnt logs, which
surrounds almost all cultivation in New Zealand, is passed, the
forest becomes extremely beautiful, and the views which one
obtains from the back, as it passes up the side of the Graham
Eiver, are really very fine. About four hours' hard climbing
from Heath's brings us to the saddle at an altitude of about
3000 ft. above the sea-level : here the source of the Kiver Pearse
is crossed, where several interesting Neuroptera can be captured,
a delicate species allied to Hemerohius being one of the most
conspicuous. Just before we cross this stream a fine view of
Mount Arthur is to be seen through an opening in the trees.
From this point the track gradually descends, following the sea
of Flora Creek for a matter of ten miles, and passing through
dense birch forest all the way. Here on favourable days in
January and February may be seen the rare and beautiful
Dodonidia helmsii flying quietly about in and out of the sunshine,
and settling on the branches just out of reach. I may state that
four specimens of this butterfly only have at present been taken,
and that the British Museum are much in want of a type ; so
perhaps visitors to this locality may be good enough to look out
for the insect, and obtain one for the National Collection. I
10 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
think it will be found on most of the wooded hills :n the Nelson
Province between 2500 and 3000 ft., as I took a poor specimen
on the Dun Mountain (1885) in quite a different neighbourhood.
It is also said to have occurred on the hills on the other side of
Wellington Harbour, but I have not seen it.
About two miles after we leave the source of the Pearse a
small clearing is reached, called Flora Camp, which is a con-
venient halting-ground for those who wish to ascend Mount
Arthur without visiting the table-land, as a branch track can be
followed up shortly after we leave the saddle leading directly on
to the mountain.
The track along Flora Creek in many places presents a most
picturesque appearance, the numerous waterfalls and the gradual
increase in the size of the stream being features of especial
interest. To an entomologist with a tent and plenty of time no
doubt a day would be well spent here collecting Neuroptera over
the stream, Micro-Lepidoptera, and sugaring the trees at night
for moths.
About three miles before we reach the first opening on the
table-land the track leaves the bed of Flora Creek, and starts to
ascend very rapidly, following the course of a small stream
which rises in Salisbury's Opening, near the first hut that is
reached. This hut, however, is now quite unfit to stop in, but
there are several others in various parts of the table-land that
can be used, and are far warmer than a tent, which is not a
sufficient protection against the cold at so great an elevation
above the sea-level.
Acting on Mr. Meyrick's suggestion, I took a kerosene-lamp
with me to the table-land, and lit up at dusk on the first evening
(Jan. 22nd). The night was slightly overcast, with a few drops
of rain, and much warmer than usual, the result being that
several good moths were captured at the lamp, including three
specimens of Leucania propria^ several Mamestra ruhescens, and
a rare Bombyx, besides several Scoparia trivirgata.
The next day (Jan. 23rd) I decided to ascend Mount Arthur,
and left the hut at 7.30, the weather being everything that could
be desired. A few minutes' walk brought us to the foot of
Gordon's Pyramid, where the track was soon discovered, and
followed up until the bush-line is passed at about 4000 ft. I had
better, perhaps, mention that this portion of the forest is very
rough, and it is most necessary to exercise great care in keeping
to the track, which, however, is now well-marked by numerous
blazes made during two successive visits. After leaving the
forest the vegetation is very rank, consisting of a great variety
of alpine plants, tussock, &c. Here, in the hot sunshine,
occurred Harmologa sircea in great numbers, in the finest con-
dition, flying with much agility, besides large numbers of
TOUR ON THE TABLE -LAND OF MOUNT ARTHUR. 11
Notoreas paradelpha, Harmologa latomana, and Tauroscopa gor-
gopis. Two specimens of Erehia pluto were taken on a patch
of shingle at about 4200 ft., but this must be regarded as an
exceptionally low elevation for the species.
On arriving at the top of the Pyramid a long descent is made
to reach the Mount Arthur range proper, and it is here that
probably the best collecting on the table-land is to be found.
Metaciias erichrysa was frequently seen dancing about in the hot
sunshine, and extremely difficult to catch. Two other Bombyces
were also obtained, which are not yet identified ; but any moths
belonging to the group are of extreme interest, owing to the
singular absence of its members from the fauna of the lowlands
in New Zealand. High up, at about 4800 ft., Stathmonyma
anceps was found, the dark grey fore wings harmonising
admirably with the rocks on which it perches, besides specimens
of Orocrambus mylites and catacaustus. These insects occurred
up to the extreme top of the mountain, as well as Erehia plecto,
which was very abundant on the shingle-flats above 5000 ft. I
must confess that the ascent of the last 800 ft. of the mountain
considerably alarmed me, although no doubt the dangers are
nothing in the eyes of more experienced climbers.
On the top we discovered the names of previous visitors
during the half-hour spent there, and noticed numerous speci-
mens of Erehia pluto and E, orocramhus, so I am disposed to
think that their range of elevation would be considerably more
extended on a higher mountain ; but, of course, this is a matter
for future observation. Above 5000 ft. the only common plant
is a fine wiry grass, which I conjecture is the food-plant of
these insects. The discovery of the larva of Erehia pluto would
be of excessive interest, and the insect might probably be reared
by anyone who was able to spend two or three months on the
table-land, as I think the females would readily lay their eggs in
captivity if the young larvae could not be found. An accurate
record of the times of appearance of these alpine insects would
also be extremely valuable, which, of course, could only be
obtained by a naturalist residing on the table-land during the
whole summer.
During the descent numerous stoppages were made to obtain
insects, Erehia pluto continuing extremely abundant until we
left the shingle and snow. Lower down a few Coleoptera were
obtained by beating spear-grass blossoms, but the Lepidoptera
absorbed most of our attention. It was curious to make the
acquaintance here of Dasyuris partheniata, a species found on
the cliffs above the Hermit's Cave, Wellington, but nowhere, as
far as I know, on the sea-level in the Nelson Province. When
the top of Gordon's Pyramid was again reached at six o'clock, I
was startled to see a conspicuous black insect flying about, which
12 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I felt sure was not Erehia pluto. On capturing it I at first took
it to be Erehia hutleri, but subsequent examination proved that
it was not a butterfly at all, but Stathmonyma hectoris. A rapid
descent soon took us through the forest, which appeared
extremely beautiful in the evening sunshine, and terminated
one of the pleasantest days I have ever spent.*
(To be continued.)
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS A LIST OF THE VARIETIES
OF NOCTQiE OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.
By J. W. Tdtt. F.E.S.
(Continued from vol. xxii., p. 305.)
Apamea, Och., ophiogramma, Esp.
The type of this species is represented by Esper's plate 1^2,
fig. 2, 'Die Schmetterlinge,' &c., and may be described as having
*' The anterior wings yellowish ochreous, with a large, dark-red,
somewhat triangular-shaped, costal patch, enclosing the yellowish
reniform, and then extending narrowly along the costa to the base;
the orbicular obsolete; below this and forming an outline to its lower
edge is a yellowish, followed by a slaty, line extending from centre
of base to anal angle ; below this line the colour is yellow-ochreous,
as is also the outer margin to apex ; several dark marks on outer
margin. Hind wings grey, with greenish tinge." Hiibner's figure
365 is "a pale grey-brown ground colour, with a large black costal
patch extending from the base, so as to include the dark stigmata ;
this patch is outlined in whitish ; a pale line parallel to hind
margin, a dark patch in the middle of the hind margin, and dark
forked (> ) mark at the anal angle. Hind wings dark grey, with
lumile." Haworth describes the species under the name of biloba
(' Insecta Britannica,' p. 209). His description is :— " Alis griseis
fascia abbreviata marginis crassioris subdolabriformi nigra, in
qua stigma reniforme griseum."
Apameay Och., leucostigmay Hb.
Hiibner twice figured this species, — first under the name of
leucostigma (fig. 375), and then a very marked variegated variety,
of a bright red colour, under the name oi fibrosa (fig. 385). The
latter name has been in general use in Britain for this species.
Our specimens are very variable, but all are of a dark umber-brown
ground colour. There are two very distinct forms occurring in
Britain, — one, variegated with paler transverse basal lines, and a
broad pale band extending from the apex to the inner margin,
just beyond the anal angle, and extending along the inner
* Abstract from a paper read before the Wellington Philosophical Society, July
10th, 1889.
VARIETIES OP NOCTUiE IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS. 18
margin ; the median nervures whitish and branching under the
reniform, and with either white or ochreous reniform stigmata,
= var. intermedia ; — the other more unicolorous, with the trans-
verse markings comparatively obsolete, the reniform either white
(= var. albipuncta) or ochreous (== the type). We get nothing
in Britain so extreme as Htibner's fibrosa ; and Guenee, in the
* Noctuelles,' vol. v., p. 210, makes the same remark about the
French specimens. He also adds that ** specimens are found
intermediate between fibrosa, Hb., and the unicolorous type."
Hiibner's type may be described as, — " The anterior wings dark
purplish brown, with blackish transverse lines; reniform yellowish.
Hind wings purplish grey, with a darker margin." Mr. Dobree
writes of the Canadian type: — *^ Leucostigma, so far as my
specimens permit me to judge, is rather of a bistre- than an
umber-brown, and mottled rather than unicolorous " (in litt.). Of
the type. Dr. Staudinger writes: — **A1. ant. unicolor. nigricant.
flavo vel albo-maculatis." Hiibner's type certainly is not " albo-
maculatis,^^ but ^'flavo-maculatis." Mr. Dobree writes : — *' Both
forms occur on the Amur, but apparently fibrosa, Hb., the less
commonly (Graeser, * Berl. Ent. Zeits.,* 1888). My specimen of
leucostigma from there agrees with Hiibner's type. I have
specimens, also from Canada, of both varieties " {in litt.). The
principal varieties are : —
a. var. albipuncta, mihi. — Unicolorous purplish brown (like the type),
umber-brown or blackish, with faint traces of transverse markings, but
with reniform white instead of ochreous. I have taken this form at
Greenwich, and have a long series of it, taken by the Eev. G. H. Raynor
in Wicken Fen ; and Mr. Percy Russ has captured a considerable number
of this variety, wth var. intermedia and the type, in the neighbourhood of
Sligo. Mr. Collins, of Warrington, takes this form a few miles from that
town, together with the type and var. intermedia. Mr. Reid writes: —
"This species is very scarce and local here (Pitcaple, Aberdeen); all
those I have taken are referable to solt .albipuncta. I have not seen
any other forms here" {in litt).
p var. intermedia, mihi. — (1) intermedia-albo. — Anterior wings of a deep
umber-brown, with two pale (slightly ochreous) transverse basal lines, and
a paler orbicular; reniform white (sometimes reticulated), and standing on
a white geminated line (part of median nervure) ; a pale oblique transverse
streak from apex to inner margin, and a pale wavy line parallel to hind
margin. (2) intermedia-fiavo. — The same as intermedia-albo, but reniform
ochreous. I have var. intermedia from Wicken and Sligo ; Mr. Collins
also takes this variety in the neighbourhood of Warrington. The Irish
specimens are particularly bright, but not red, like Hiibner's ^irosa.
y. var. fibrosa, Hb. — Hiibnei 's figure 385, fibrosa, may be described
as, " Anterior wings bright red, with dark greyish outer margin, and
darker red around the stigmata; reniform very pale. Hind wings as in
leucostigma.'' This form may occnr in Britain, but I have nevor seen
specimens nor heard of any captures at all resembling it. Mr. Dobree
writes: — *' The fibrosa from Canada are of a more generally sombre
colouring, but otherwise similarly marked to the European ones " [in litt.).
14 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
A SUMMER'S MOTHING ON DARTMOOR.
By Major John N. Still.
It seems surprising that so few people know anything of this
most lovely and interesting part of the country. Unique in itself
Dartmoor possesses very many advantages over other summer
resorts : the air has been described as the purest and strongest
in England. Its Tors, of which the highest is Yes Tor (2050 ft.),
and the immense extent of the moor, give the visitor that sense
of freedom which is only felt in mountainous districts.
To the antiquary, naturalist, botanist, and entomologist,
Dartmoor will always be interesting, and, as a humble collector
of Lepidoptera, I give my experience of collecting, and a list of
the captures I made during the past summer on the Moor, at
from 700 to 2000 feet above the sea.
During the wet weather which prevailed the latter part of
April, 1889, I only took Xylocampa areola (lithoriza). On the
1st of May I got some specimens of Lobophora carpinata (lobu-
lata), and, after another spell of wet, Melanippe galiata, Coremia
ferrugata, C. unidentatay C designatay and Rumia luteolata.
During the end of the month Tephrosia crepuscularia was nume-
rous in the fir woods, and I took also Venilia maculariay Odonto-
pera bidentata (abundant), Tephrosia punctalata, Bapta temerata,
and Hepialus humuli (abundant). Sugar was of little use, and,
although I sugared from April to November almost continually,
I found it very unproductive till late in September. I took
Eupithecia lariciata, E. subfidvata, E, nanata, Macaria lituratay
Adela cuprella, and C. viridella.
When I first came to the neighbourhood my expectations
were raised to the utmost by hearing wonderful accounts of the
swarms of moths attracted by rhododendron blooms, and of the
good collection made in 1888 over the same ground. This year,
although we had masses of rhododendrons in bloom, they pro-
duced next to nothing. During June honeydew reigned supreme,
and literally covered every tree, plant, and shrub. I worked the
rhododendrons at and after dusk, and only took the following : —
Xylophasia rurea, Hadena rectilinea, Cucullia umbratica, Choerocampa
porcellus, and Dianthoecia cucubaU. By day, Eubolia palumbaria, Ema-
turga atomaria, and Tanagra atrata were abundant. I also secured Thera
firmata, Cidaria corylata, Emmelesia alhulata, E. unifasciata, Melanippe
fluctuata, Anticlea rubidata, Melanthia albicillata, Cidaria associata, C.
dotata, Lomaspilis marginata, Boartnia repandata, Asthena candidata, Botys
ruralis, Angerona prunaria, Pseudoterpna pruinata, lodis lactearia, and the
pretty China-mark, Hydrocampa stagnata.
The extremely hot weather in June enabled me to use light
with advantage, and up to the end of July I captured the fol-
lowing at light :— j
A summer's mothing on dartmoob. 15
Gonoptera lihatrix, Noctua triangulum, N. /estiva, N. haja, N. xantho-
graphUf N. brunnea, Agrotis exclamationis, A. porphyrea, Axylia putris,
Hecatera serena, Mamestra hrassiccB, Hadena oleracea, H. pisi, Leucania
conigera, L. lithargyria, L. pallens, L. comma, Apamea hasilinea, A.
didyma, Mamestra sordida, Rusina tenebrosa, Spilosoma menthastri, S. lubri^
cipeda, Dianthoscia capsincola, Caradrina quadripuncta, C. taraxaci, Plusia
chrysitisy P. gamma, P. pulchrina, Crocallis elinguaria, Grammesia tri-
grammica, Phalera bucephala, Habrostola tripartita, Calymnia trapezina,
Arctia caia, Smerinthus populi, Sphinx ligustri, Cidaria suffumata, Mela'
nippe unangulata, Cleora lichenaria, Eucosmia undulata, Metrocampa
margaritaria, Abraxas grossulariata, and some magnificent specimens of
Geometra papilionaria and Ellopia prosapiaria. Sugar and other means
yielded the following : — Aplecta nebulosa, Nemeophila plantaginis, Selenia
bilunaria, Callimorpha dominula, Acronycta tridens, Halia vauaria, Acidalia
straminata, A. aversata, Thyatira batis, HydrcBcia nictitans, Mania typica,
Miana strigilis, Eubolia limitata, Pericallia syringaria, Uropteryx sambu-
caria, Melanippe sociata, Hypsipetes sordidata, Emmelesia affinitata,
TriphcBua fimbria, T. ianthina, T. pronuba, T. comes, Acronycta rumicis,
and A. ligustri.
The wild unsettled weather from the 1st to the middle of
August rendered mothing impossible. I took Gnophos obscurata
by day, and Polia chi, which swarmed at sugar. On the 17th I
captured one of the best moths I got, viz., Stilbia anomala, and
afterwards took fourteen specimens, mostly at dusk, flying over
long grass ; also Cidaria miata and C, siterata. Light continued
to answer until the end of this month, and I secured by its
means a fine series of Neuronia popularis, Luperina cespitiSy and
Z/. testacea. Also Noctua neglecta, Hydroecia micacea, Cilix
glaucata, Sphinx convolvuli, Epione apiciaria, Eugonia alniaria,
and the inhabitant of humble-bees' nests, Aphomia sociella,
August sugaring gave me Amphipyra tragopogonis, A. pyramideaj
Noctua c-nigrum, N. plecta, Xanthia fulvago and X. flavago, I
took Pelurga comitata and Anaitis plagiata.
In September I captured Eugonia quercinaria. Sugar now
seemed to improve ; there were many more moths on it, and
from this date to the end of October I took at it Hadena protea,
Agrotis suffusa, A, saucia, A. segetum, Epiinda nigra, Xylina
socia, X. ornithopus, Anchocelis lunosa, A. pistacina. A, rufina,
Agriopis aprilina, Miselia oxyacanthce, Oporina croceago, Scopelo-
soma satellitiat and Calocampa exoleta.
In conclusion, it cannot be expected that 700 feet above sea-
level can be so prolific as lower ground, and no doubt want of
knowledge caused me to overlook many species ; but I would
strongly recommend any entomologist wishing for fine air and
scenery, combined with collecting, to try a summer on Dartmoor.
Langstone, Horrabridge, Nov. 12, 1889.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Rhopalocera Britannica. — Messrs. John T. Carrington and F. W
Frohawk intimate that they are about to produce, under this title, a new
and carefully prepared monograph of the British butterflies, which will
be very fully illustrated by coloured and plain plates, giving life-histories of
every species drawn from Hving ova, larvae, pupae and imagines. The
authors state that they have already a large amount of material in hand,
but invite the assistance of the readers of the * Entomologist,' by requesting
loan of specimens for figuring, and local lists of species with notes. Further
particulars are to be duly announced. Communications should be addressed
" John T. Carrington, * Field ' Office, Strand, London, W.C."
CoLTAS EDUSA IN 1889. — Additional records of captures are: —
Lancashire. — A good many specimens have been taken in this district
during August and September. — G. Podmore; Charney Hall, Grange-
over-Sands, October 25, 1889.
Staffordshire. — Two specimens were noticed at Bar Hill, in the parish
of Madeley, by Mr. F. W. Button, of Newcastle-under-Lyme, when out
partridge-shooting in September. Mr. Button was formerly a collector,
and he therefore could not be mistaken. — (Rev.) Thos. W. Baltry ;
Madeley Vicarage, Staffs.
Shropshire. — On the occasion of an excursion of the North Stafford-
shire Naturalists' Field Club and Archaeological Society to Hawkstone,
Lord Hill's seat in Salop, — on Sept. 12th, I saw a male specimen of C,
edusa, caught by a young man who was out with the Club, in the park at
Hawkstone. — (Kev.) Thos. W. Baltry ; Madeley Vicarage, Staffs.
Hants. — Last season Colias edusa was fairly numerous at Gosport, Mr.
Larcon meeting with eight one day at Hillhead, and others were reported,
— also seen by myself, — from Stokes Bay and other places on the Solent. —
W. T. Pearce ; 111, High Street, Gosport.
Devonshire. — Buring the second week in August my father took five
males and one female of this species, on a railway-bank at Bawlish, and
saw several others. — C. Nicholson ; 202, Evering Road, Upper Clapton,
London, N.E.
Epinephele tithonus var. — In August I caught eight specimens"
of E. tithonus, seven females and one male, each having two additional eye-
spots on the upper wings. They are all more or less injured (vide Entom.
xxii. 306). I think they must be sought for earlier in the season. — M.r
Craske ; Newacott, Bridgerule, Holsworthy, Bevon, Becember 7, 1889.
Acherontia atropos in 1889. — The following records of the occur-
rence of Acherontia atropos during last year, have been received : —
Yorkshire. — At the close of the month of August, we met with a batch
of the larvae of the deaths-head moth at Hornsea. They were feeding on
the so-called " tea-tree " (Lycium harharum), one of the Solanaceae. We
got a dozen that were nearly full-fed. These were placed, with their food-
plant, under a garden bell-glass, where they continued to feed for a week
on the leaves of the tea- tree, the branches of which they soon stripped of ^
their foliage. Another change, and they gradually began to make their
way into the soil, burrowing down several inches, and forming an earthen
NOTES, CAPTUEES, ETC. 17
case wherein to pupate. The case, I may remark, was made up of minute
granules of earth and sand, with a few tiny stones intermixed ; but I could
find no flossy material, even under a strong lens. Herein they remained,
apparently quiescent, till the 7th of November, when the first moth
emerged from its pupal garments, and in half an hour, or a little more, the
wings were fairly expanded, and assumed their full proportions. Every
other afternoon the moths have put in an appearance, till the number has
nearly equalled the number we originally got. Among the batch are only
three cripples, and one pupa that is lively but has not yet emerged. Of the
dozen caterpillars, seven were brownish olive, with the anterior segments,
as Stainton remarks, white, the white being well defined and conspicuous.
I must leave it to students of colour-varieties to tell us how such dis-
crepancies arise. Food cannot be the cause, since all fed alike. Again,
some moths have the skull-like mark on the thorax white, and some dusky.
Kaltenbach tells us that the larva on the Continent feeds on the potato,
thornapple, jasmine and mock-orange {Philadelphus). Prof. Hessner has
noticed several caterpillars feeding on the trumpet-flower [Catalpa). — Peter
Inchbald ; Hornsea, Holderness, November 20, 1889.
Cheshire — A full-fed larva was sent in here on the 7th of September
last; it was taken in a potato-field near Frodsham, and I have a second
record from Manley, a neighbouring village near Delamere Forest. — K.
Newstead ; Curator, Grosvenor Museum, Chester.
Norfolk. — In September last larvae were very common at Ingoldisthorpe
and the surrounding district. — R. Newstead ; Curator, Grosvenor
Museum, Chester, October 17, 1889.
Sussex. — On August 6th I had brought to me two full-fed larvae of
Acherontla atropos. They were found in a potato-field at Pevensey
Sluice, about three miles from here. I put them into a box partly filled
with earth, and the next day they had both buried themselves. There
were several others found in the same locality, but these were destroyed. —
Thomas Howk ; 3, Royal Terrace, Devonshire Road, Bexhill-on-Sea,
November 10, 1889.
Hants. — The autumn of 1885 was in the Portsmouth district, as in
many other parts of the country, remarkable for the number of specimens
of Acherontla atropos, which were taken in all stages. Three imagines
were found in the grounds of the Free liibrary ; upwards of 170 larvae and
pupae were obtained by Mr. R. Stent, from the Portsmouth potato-diggers ;
and more than 50 larvae and pupae were obtained by myself, from the
diggers at Gosport. Of the pupae which I obtained I tried to force 14, by
keeping them in damp sawdust in a biscuit tin, on a very warm shelf in
the shop. By Christmas 10 imagines had emerged, but the sides of the
tin being too smooth, they could not crawl up, and falling on their backs, ^
in their struggles to recover they tore their wings with their sharp claws,
so that I only obtained three perfect specimens. Mr. Stent was not so
successful with those he experimented upon. From October, 1885, until
August of the present year, the insect disappeared altogether. At the end
of last August, two full-fed larvae were brought to me at Gosport. These I
at once placed in a tin as before, but took tlie precaution to line the sides
with thin rough wood. Early in September a pupa was brought to me by
a potato-digger, and placed with the others. I was not able to obtain any
more. A male emerged on October 21st, a fine female on October 22nd,
and another female on November 17th ; all three in perfect condition, and
ENTOxM. — JAN. 1890. C
18 THE ENrOMOlrOGIST.
their stridulating powers well developed. — W. T. Pearce ; 111, High
Street, Gosport, November 20, 1889.
Isle of Wight. — Acherontia atropos was by no means uncommon here
in September, when larvae and pupae were found singly scattered over a
considerable area. — Albert J. Hodges.
Dorsetshire. — On 10th August last, I received by post a larva of
Acherontia atropos, which was found feeding on vegetable-marrow in a
nursery-garden at Blandford. It immediately pupated, and the perfect
insect emerged and fully expanded on 18th October. — C. B. Smith ; 58,
Rectory Road, Stoke Newington, N.
Sphinx convolvuli in 1889. — The following additional records have
been received: —
Co. Cork. — This Sphinx-mOth was very common at Glandore this
autumn, previously the capture of two or three only having come under my
notice. I saw and captured about eighteen, all visiting the flowers of
Nicotiana affinis. Every favourable evening in September a couple of
these fine moths flew over the favoured plants, making a loud buzzing
sound in their quick flight. — C. Donovan; Westview, Glandore, October
23, 1889.
Lancashire. — I took four S. convolvuli this year, on a patch of Nicotiana
affinis in my garden, the dates being Augt. 24th, 29th, Sept. 8th, 13th. —
G. PoDMORE ; Charney, Hall, Grange-over-Sands, October 25, 1889.
Isle of Wight. — I can add two captures of S. convolvuli to your list,
which specimens came to petunia bloom on Sept. 1 1 th and 12th last. —
Albert J. Hodges.
Deilephila euphorbi/E. — This very rare insect in Britain has this
year re-appeared. A young friend, this autumn, came upon thirteen nearly
full-fed larvae, feeding upon Euphorbia paralis. They all very shortly
after capture pupated, though three of them died in the process. The
remaining ten are at the present moment healthy pupae in my possession.
I believe it is now many years ago since the larvae of D. euphorhice were
last taken in this country. The above are British beyond all doubt. —
(Rev.) J. Seymour St. John; 42, Castlewood Road, Stamford Hill, N.,
November 22, 1889.
Smerinthus popult, rapid development of. — It may be of interest
to note that a young friend of mine, Uving near London, has bred several
specimens of the above in August last, from ova laid two months before. —
J. M. Adye; November 20th, 1889.— I found a full-fed larva of S. populi
at Southsea, on July 14th, which pupated and appeared as a moth on the
14th August.— W. T. Pearce ; 111, High Street, Gosport.
Smerinthus tili.e : Males assembling. — Last year, I again, in
Surrey, took about a dozen S. tilice, assembling round a captive female. —
Harry M. See ; 4, St. Paul's Close, Walsall.
Parasites of Bombvx rubi. — When preserving some of the larvae
of Bomhyx rubi, I came to an unusually fine specimen and which to all
appearance looked as healthy as the others. Upon emptying it I found
that it was completely filled with nearly full-grown ichneumon larvae.
These I found, upon preserving them in spirits, to number fifty-six. This,
I think, is an exceedingly high number to be enclosed in one larva. —
A. Lionel Clarke; Barton, Gloucester,
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC, 19
Epione parallelaria var. — Whilst collecting Lepidoptera early in
July, 1889, a short distance from York, I had the good fortune to take the
very rare variety of the extremely local E . parallelaria {vespertaria), along
with several type specimens. The variety is of a dark uniform brick-red
colour, and has the usual dark border. — William Hewett; 3, Wilton
Terrace, Fulford Road, York, October 20, 1889. [This variety is more
commonly bred than captured ; some years not unfrequently. — Ed.].
Metrocampa margaritaria var. — On July 29th, 1889, I bred a
beautifu] variety of this elegant species, with all the cilia pale red, which
seems to be a continuation of the red streak at the apex of the fore wings.
The cilia thus coloured adds much to the beauty of the insect. — R.
Newstead ; Grosvenor Museum, Chester.
Odontopera bidentata var. — I took a fine variety of 0, hidentata on
the 18Lh May last, which is perfectly black ail over. — Harry M. See ;
4, St. Paul's Close, Walsall.
Irrp:gdlar emergence of Lepidoptera. — I obtained some ova of
Nemeojihila russula in 1889, which hatched in due course. Two of the
larvae fed up rapidly, pupated, and became perfect insects on the 2nd
September. The remainder are now about half grown, and are behaving
as might be expected from them. Broods of Melanthia ocellata and
Euplexia lucipara have acted in a similar manner ; and of two pupae of
Notodonta ziczac, one has already emerged, but not the other. — C.
Nicholson ; 202, Evering Road, Upper Clapton, N.E.
Colorado Entomology. — In Entom. xxi., pp. 298 — 305, I gave an
account of some entomological explorations in Eastern Custer Co., and
S.W. Pueblo Co., Colorado, enumerating the species taken, so far as then
identified. In Entom. xxii. I added three Hymenoptera to the list. Since
then I have obtained the names of various other species taken, which I
quote below, as a further contribution to the fauna of this interesting
region. For identifications I am indebted to Prof. A. S. Packard, Dr. G. H.
Horn, Dr. John Hamilton, Lord Walsingham, and Mr. W. H. Edwards.
(1.) E. Custer Co. : — Saprinus sphcBro'ides, Lee, Coccinella 9-uotata, Hbst.,
Epurcea papagona, Listrus senilis, Lee, Desrnaris constrictus, Smicronyx
fulvus, Papilio asterias, Fab., Pyrgus tesselata, Scudd., Pamphila nevada,
Scudd. (2.) S.W. Pueblo Co. : — Dendroctonus terebrans, Amara fallax,
Lee, Badister ohtusus, Diplotaxis heydeni, Serica curvata, Lee, Diabrotica
atripennis, Ditylus obscurus, Tomicus pini, Say, Tacky por us jocosns. Say,
Crocota brevicornis, Walker, Tolype, n.sp., Pcedisca dorsisignatana, Clem.,
Psecadia dicostrigella, Cham., Epyris monticola, Ashm., n. sp. — T. D. A.
Cockerell ; West Cliff, Custer Co., Colorado, October 19, 1889.
Notes from New Zealand. — We have again been favoured with an
unusually fine winter in New Zealand, as the following notes on insects
observed during August and September will sufficiently show, seeing that
these two months are the equivalents of February and March in Europe.
On July 31st my brother saw the first hybernated specimen of Vanessa
gojierilla,&nd on Aug. 13th they were very abundant in the Botanical Gardens,
as well as Ichneumon mediator and several Diptera. On Aug. 21st I found
a large number of the full-grown larvae of Nyctemera annulata on the New
Zealand groundsel (Senecio bellidioides), but saw no perfect insects. I also
30 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
opened a nest of Formica zealandica, which contained large numbers of
winged males and females, so that I conclude this species takes its conjugal
flight in the spring, whilst that of Atta antarctica occurs in the autumn.
On August 29th and 31st I was engaged in collecting Coleoptera, and,
besides taking several of the PselaplddcB, succeeded in obtaining four or five
specimens of Otiorhynchus sulcatus, a somewhat uncommon species in
New Zealand. September has been a warm wet month. The commonest
species of Lepidoptera was Pasiphila hilineolata ?, of which I managed to
obtain a good series, and hope, with the assistance of Mr. Meyrick, to be
able at last to rescue that unfortunate insect from the chaotic condition in
which it has so long been involved. Sept. 22ud was a lovely spring day, and
on visiting an old locality, where I have collected at least weekly for upwards
of seven years, I was astonished to meet with Vanessa otea, a species hitherto
only recorded from localities as far north as Napier and New Plymouth. I
also saw many'hybernated specimens of Vanessa cardui, so it appears likely
that we are again to be favoured with this interesting species in unusual
numbers. I should also mention that during the last week in September,
a young friend of mine captured two male specimens of Charagia virescens
at a shop window in Palmerston North, attracted by the light. It will
therefore, perhaps, be necessary to somewhat modify the statement in my
former paper as to the rarity of that species in the imago state (Entom.
Feb. 1885). In one of these specimens the white spots on the forewings
are slightly larger than usual, almost forming a continuous band from the
costa to the inner margin of the wing. The other is typical. — G. V.
Hudson ; WelHngton, New Zealand, October 3, 1889.
Hydradephaqa near London. — My search for aquatic beetles in a
pond near Tottenham during the present month, resulted in the capture of
nineteen specimens of Hydrophilus piceiis, sixteen of which were perfect.
The elytra of one were somewhat deformed, so I returned it to its haunts.
Dytiscus marginalis was also very plentiful there. The pond was large
and deep, but the beetles were amongst the weeds near the surface and
about three or four feet from the edge of the pond. Near Stamford Hill,
about the same time, I also got Dytiscus circwnflexus (-2), D. punctulatus,
and Hydrous caraboides. With II. piceus were also four nice specimens
of Ranatra linearis. — F. Milton; 164, Stamford Hill, N., Nov. 20.
New Views on the suborder Homoptera. — Burmeister says
truly, " a system can only separate and connect where Nature itself has
marked separation and connection." I will not involve myself in a
discussion as to the sharp and natural distinctions between suborders and
families. As Mr. Distant (Entom. xxii. 360) seems to be clear in his mind
on this point, I, in company with others, should value his definitions, or
those, indeed, of any one competent to give them. Species, for practical
purposes, are natural facts. Families are inferences from facts, which is a
very different thing. I now gather that '♦ les Cigalles Muettes," of
Latreille, including the Fulgoringe, Cercopinae, Jassinae, &c., are neither
Cicadse nor Cicadidae, but that they range as equally distinct groups with
Aphis, Coccus, and Psylla. But 1 suggest that the authorities of great
names (the pioneers of Zoology) are not to be dismissed simply because
they seem to be not "modern." My critic '* knows no silent Cicadidse." How-
ever, under one or more of the following terms, — Cicadae, Cicadariae, Cica-
didae, Cicadinse, Cicadellidae, Cicadinen, and Cicadelles, — Les Muettes are
SOCIETIES. ^1
grouped by Linngeus, Fabricius, Schrank, Germar, Burmeister, Fallen,
Kirschbaum, Sahlberg, Fieber, Walker, Edwards, and Scudder. The
author of this note finds himself in good company as to the choice of a title
to his forthcoming illustrations of this group of insects. Dr. F. Zavier
Fieber published his ' Katalog. d. Europseischen Cicadinen '(embracing the
Fulgoridse, &c.) in 187-2. The posthumous papers of this "grand
hemipteriste " were edited by M. Keiber, assisted by Messrs. Puton and
Lethierry, in 1875. Dr. Stal dedicated his fourth volume of ' Hemipteres '
to his friend Dr. Fieber in 1806. I fail to see why the author of 1875 is
to be dismissed as an authority on European Cicadinse, as being the least
modern of the two. A friend proposes the names Stridulantes and
Silentes, instead of the neuter names Stridulantia and Silentia, as inserted
in my sketch-plan ; they seem to be better. — G. B. Buckton.
More Notes from the New Forest. — I can corroborate Mr. Blaber's
remarks (Entom. 261), as to the general scarcity of Ijcpidoptera, and the
complete failure of " sugar " at Lyndhurst in 1889. I went there on the
25th June and stayed till the 10th July. The first ten days were all that
could be desired as far as the weather was concerned, but after that rain
set in, and, I believe, continued intermittently till the middle of August.
Of Diurni, Lyccena ccgon was common and in splendid condition, but, as
usual, rather local. Of L. icarus I did not see a single specimen, and
only one Thecla querciis. My experience, however, does not coincide with
Mr. Blaber's as regards Argynnis pajihia. I only saw a few males at first,
but both sexes became very abundant towards the end of my stay. Of the
variety valesina I saw two, one of which I took. I hear they have
been rather common there this season. A. adippe was fairly common, but
I only took one aglaia. Limenitis sihylla was by no means scarce, as I
frequently saw two or three at once. The Pieridae were conspicuous by
their almost total absence. Epinephele ianira and E. hyperanthes were
extremely abundant, as usual. E. tithonus and Hesperla thaumas {tinea)
were just coming out, though H. sylvanus was common. I was too early for
Vanessa io, V. atalanta, Pararge megcera, and Gonopteryx rhamni, though
a few hybernated specimens of the latter were still to be seen. Of
Melanargia galatea I took five specimens in an enclosure near the station.
Of moths, Nemeophila russula was not uncommon on the heaths ; but
night-flying moths were remarkably scarce, especially Noctua?. Larentia
pectinitaria, Melanippe montanata, and Acidalia remutata, seemed to be
the principal things, and Tortrix virldana was a perfect pest, when flying,
from its knack of looking like any other insect but itself. I noticed that
the trees did not present such a miserable appearance as they did last year,
which was, perhaps, on account of the comparative scarcity of larvae. —
^>. Nicholson; 202, Evering Road, Upper Clapton, N.E.
Erratum. — Entom. December, 1889, in Mr. Bignell's communication,
page 306, lines 5 and 7 from foot, for Tragus exaltorius read 2\ exaltatorius.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — December ^th, 1889. — The
Right Hon. Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair.
Prof. Franz Klapalek, of the Zoological Department, Royal Museum^
Prague, was elected a Fellow of the Society. Mr. W. L. Distant
t^ THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
exhibited, on behalf of Mr. Lionel de Niceville, a branch of a walnut tree,
on which was a mass of eggs laid by a butterfly belonging to the Lycsenidse.
He also exhibited two specimens of this butterfly which Mr. de Nicevilb
had referred to a new genus and described as Chcetoprocta odata. The
species was said to occur only in the mountainous districts of North-West
India, at elevations of 5000 to 10,000 feet above the sea-level. Dr. D.
Sharp e.xhibited the eggs of Piezosternum subulatwn, Thunb., a bug from
South America. These eggs were taken from the interior of a specimen
which had been allowed to putrefy before being mounted. Although the
body of the parent had completely rotted away, the eggs were in a perfect
state of preservation, and the cellular condition of the yelk was very con-
spicuous. Dr. Sharp also exhibited a specimen of Pcecilochroma lewisii,
Dist., a Pentatomid bug from Japan of a dull green colour, which when
damped with water becomes almost instantly of a metallic copper colour.
Mr. J. H. Leech exhibited a large number of Lepidoptera recently
collected for him by Mr. Pratt in the neighbourhood of IchAng, Central
China. The collection included about fifty-four new species of butterflies and
thirty-five new species of moths. Capt. Ehves observed that he noticed only
two genera in this collection which did not occur at Sikkim, and that the
similarity of the insect fauna of the two regions was very remarkable. He
added that about fifteen years ago, in a paper *' On the Birds of Asia," he
had called attention to the similarity of species inhabiting the mountain
ranges of India, China, and Java. Mr. M'Lachlan remarked that he had
lately received a species of dragonfly from Simla which had previously only
been recorded from Pekin. Mr. Distant said he had lately had a species of
Cicada from Hongkong, which had hitherto been supposed to be confined
to Java. Mr. W. H. B. Fletcher exhibited a preserved specimen of a
variety of the larva of Sphinx Ugustrl, taken in a wood near Arundel,
Sussex. Mr. W. White asked if the larva was normal in its early stage ;
he also exhibited drawings of the larvae of this species, and called especial
attention to one of a variety that had been exhibited at a previous meeting
by Lord Walsingham. Mr. F. D. Godraan read a long letter from Mr.
Herbert Smith, containing an account of the Hymenoptera, Diptera,
Hemiptera, and Coleoptera he had recently collected in St. Vincent, where
he was employed under the direction of a Committee of the Royal Society,
appointed to investigate the Natural History of the West Indies. A dis-
cussion followed, in which Dr. Sharp, Capt. EKves, Lord Wahinghim, and
Mr. M'Lachlan took part. Capt. Elwes read a letter from Mr. Doherty, in
which the writer described his experiences in collecting insects in the
Naga Hills by means of light and sugar. Mr. Doherty expressed an
opinion that light, if used in very out-of-the-way places, rather repelled than
attracted insects ; in fact that they required to be accustomed to it, and
that the same remarks applied to " sugar." Colonel Swinhoe said that the
attractive power of light depended very much on its intensity, and on the
height of the light above the ground. By means of the electric light in
Bombay he had collected more than 300 specimens of Sphingidse in one
night. Mr. J. J. Walker, E.N., stated that he had found the electric light
very attractive to insects in Panama. Mr. M'Lachlan, Dr. Sharp,
Mr. Leech, Capt, Elwcs, the Rev. Canon Fowler, Mr. A. J. Rose, and
others continued the discussion. Mr. Lionel de Niceville communicated a
paper entitled "Notes on a new genus of Lycsenidse." Mr. F. Merrifield
read a paper entitled " Systematic temperature experiments on some
SOCIETIES. 23
Lepidoptera in all their stages," aud exhibited a imniber of specimens in
illustration. The author stated that the darkness of colour and the mark-
ings in Ennomos autumnaria resulted from the pupas being subjected to a
very low temperature. In the case of Selenia illustraria, exposing the
pupae to a low temperature had not only affected the colour of the images,
but had altered the markings in a striking manner. Lord Walsingham ob-
served that it appeared that exposure to cold in the pupa-state produced a
darker colour in the imago, aud that forcing in that stage had an opposite
effect ; that insects subjected to glacial conditions probably derived some
advantage from the development of dark or suffused colouring, and that
this advantage was, in all probability, the more rapid absorption of heat.
He said he believed that an hereditary tendency in favour of the darker
forms was established under glacial conditions, and that this would account
for the prevalence of melanic forms in northern latitudes and at high
elevations. Capt. Elwes, Mr. Jenner Weir, Dr. Sharp, and others con-
tinued the discussion. — H. Goss, & W. W. Fowler, Hon. Sees.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—November Uth, 1889.— T. E. Billups, F.E.S., President, in the
chair. Messrs. E. H. E. Hillsworth, of Forest Grate; T. Hudson, of
Battersea ; M. Farrant, of Pimlico ; and J. A. Eevell, of Stoke Newing-
ton, were elected Members. Mr. Jager exhibited Dianthcecia irregu-
laris ^ Agrophila trahealis, and Neuria reticulata, from near Brandon,
Suffolk ; also Agrotis ripm, bred from larvae taken in S. Wales ; and
read notes with reference to rearing this species. He said the larvas
required about three feet of sand in which to hybernate, although they
pupated just below the surface. He had not found the larvae cannibals,
although they were frequently stated to be so. Mr. Tugwell, strongly
divergent forms of Agrotis tritici and A. cursoria, from English, Irish
and Scotch localities. Mr. Adye, varieties of Anchocelis lunosa taken
at Christchurch. Mr. Wellman, a specimen of Nemeophila plantaginis
var. hospita, taken in Yorkshire, 1860. Mr. Tutt, a drawer of Gnophos
ohscurana from many localities, arranged to show its range of variation.
Mr. E. Adkin, Gnophos obscuraria from Folkestone, Eastbourne,
and Lewes; and long and varied series of Acidalia marginepnnctata
from Eastbourne ; on behalf of Mr. W. J. Austin, extreme forms of
Gnophos obscuraria, Angeronia prunaria ; females of Lycana icarus shot
with blue, and a male of pale lilac colour ; and a variety of Argynnis
aglaia having the wings semi-transparent. Mr. Adkin also exhibited,
on behalf of Mrs. Hutchinson, a species of Scoparia, probably mercurella,
Mr. Carrington, Eupithecia extensaria, Mr. M'Lachlan, varieties of
Lycaenidae, one of which he thought might be an hermaphrodite
specimen of L. icarus. Mr. Carpenter, Hepialus virensis, attacked by
the fungus Cordiceps Eobertsii, from New Zealand, which gave rise to a
discussion as to how the germs of the fungus were received by the
larva.
November 2Sth, 1889. — The President in the chair. Messrs. M.
Cameron ; L. H. Strong, of Hackney ; C. G. Barrett, F.E.S., of King's
Lynn ; F. P. Trewicke ; A. J. Eobertson ; A. V. Legros, of Hammer-
smith ; L. W. Harris, of Forest Hill ; C. H. Lemmon, of Eotherhithe ;
W. Howgrave, of Blackheath; and W. E. Nicholson, of Lewes, were
elected members. Mr, Jenner Weir exhibited specimens of Limnas
24 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
chrysijjpiis and Hypolimnas misippus, received from Dr. Percy Eendall
from the Gambia ; also L. dorippiis from Eastern Africa, and a female
mimic of H. misippus ; L. chrysipjms, from Ceylon, and its mimic H.
misippus : L, chrysippus, from Natal, with a white spot on the under
wings similar to that of the intermediate female of H. misippus, referred
to above ; and, lastly, a female of H. misippus, which appeared to
mimic a species of Limnas intermediate in colour between L. dorippus
and L. chrysipjms, and said it would therefore appear that where these
two species of Limnas were found together and hybridised, the
mimicking female of the Hypolimnas was found similar in colour to the
hybrid. Mr. Fenn, a long series of Hyhernia aurantimia from N.
Kent. Mr. Elisha, bred specimens of Ddlephila galii bred from pupfe
forced during March, at a temperature of from sixty to seventy degrees,
emerging from fourteen or sixteen days after being placed in this heat,
and he had not lost any pupte during this process. Mr. Billups read
a paper contributed by the Kev. W. F. Johnson, '' A Further List of
the Irish Staphylinidae, compiled in 1889." The Secretary read two
contributions from Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell, " Hybrids and Mongrels,"
and ''Do the Colours of Living Insects fade?" — H. W. Babker,
Hon. Sec.
REVIEWS.
Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Field Club,
Dorchester: 'Dorset County Chronicle' Office. Vols. ix. and x.
1888 — 89. Price Seven and Sixpence each.
When one turns over the pages of these handsomely produced vohimes,
one feels regret that among all the varied societies there is none for the
collation and indexing of all the proceedings or transactions of the various
local and metropolitan scientific clubs or societies. To a private individual
it seems almost impossible to find what papers, bearing upon any particular
subject, have thus been overlooked. Here is an example, — a society not
nearly sufficiently known, doing excellent work in Entomology and other-
wise, publishing papers with coloured and plain plates of the greatest use
to the systematic entomologist. In these two volumes we may particularly
refer to (in vol. ix.), " Butalis siccella, a moth new to Britain "; (in vol. x.),
"New and Rare British Spiders," "A New Species of Epischnia,"
*' Supplement to the Lepidoptera of the Isle of Purbeck," and others.
Entomologists will not begrudge the expenditure necessary in obtaining
these Proceedings. — J. T. C.
Tlie Butterfly, its Life-history and Attributes. By John Studland.
London: T. Fisher Unwin. 1889. Price One Shilling.
ANYTaiNG which draws attention to Entomology and so begets students
in that subject should be welcomed, no matter how elementary be the work.
This is evidently the object of the little work under consideration. It is a
pity, however, that in choosing blocks for illustration more accuracy of
delineation was not observed, for if a beginner has to learn a thing, it is just
as well to do so once for all, and not have to relearn his lesson at a later
period. It will be a useful little book for those who know nothing of
Entomology.— J. T. C,
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIIL] FEBEUARY, 1890. [No. 821.
EDITORIAL NOTICE.
It is with great pleasure I have to announce that the Reference
Committee of the * Entomologist ' will henceforth be increased and
strengthened by the addition thereto of Mr. Wm. Lucas Distant,
F.E.S., &c. ; Mr. Martin Jacoby, F.E.S. ; Mr. John Henry Leech,
B.A., F.L.S., F.E.S., &c. ; Dr. David Sharp, F.Z.S., F.E.S., &c. ;
Mr. G. H. Verrall, F.E.S. ; and Mr. W. Warren, M.A., F.E.S.
All these gentlemen are so well known as authorities in their par-
ticular fields of biological research that it is unnecessary for me to
say another word on introducing them to the readers of the * Entomo-
logist.' As Editor, however, of this magazine, I desire to tender them
my very sincere thanks for so kindly according me their valuable aid.
- In discharging the duties of my new position it is a deeply-felt
gratification to me to know that I retain the confidence and shall
have the esteemed assistance of my former colleagues, Messrs. Billups,
Fitch, Jenner Weir, and Dr. Buchanan White. I take this occasion
to express my gratitude to these gentlemen for their support.
As regards the programme of the * Entomologist,* it is not pro-
posed to depart very materially from the lines upon which this
magazine has so far been successfully conducted. As hitherto, papers,
notes, &c., dealing with the insect-fauna of the British Islands will be
primarily considered ; but to be in touch with the requirements of a
not inconsiderable section of British entomologists, articles, by
English and foreign authors, on insects of all Orders, from various
parts of the world, will appear more frequently. Additional pages
will be given when lengthy faunistic papers are published.
Richard South.
ENTOM.— FBB. 1890. D
'■iCt THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA FROM CHINA.
By J. H. Leech, B.A., F.Z.S., &c.
The following are the descriptions of some of the more
important of the new species captured by Mr. Pratt, who
collected for me in the neighbourhood of Ichang, Central China,
during the season of 1888. I regret that I am unable to figure
them at present, but I hope to do so before long ; and, in the mean-
time, I can only say that I shall always be most happy to show
the types to anyone who takes an interest in the fauna of China.
Zethera sagitta, sp. n.
Creamy white ; neuration, apex, and margins of primaries black ; some
black scales along the upper portion of discoidal cell, which is partially
divided by a black bar across its centre, a black wavy submarginal band
extending to the second median branch, and a zigzag black line before the
outer margin: secondaries have the submedian and median nerve and
branch broadly black, but the other nerves are only narrow, a black zigzag
line on the outer margin forms a series of arrow-heads, of which the veins
represent the shafts. On the under surface the colour is rather more yellow,
and the venation, except median and branches, narrowly blackish, the lines
of the upper surface only faintly reproduced. Expanse, 78 — 90 mm.
Several specimens, including one example of the female, from
Chang Yang, taken in June.
This species is allied to Z. hestioides, Feld., from the Philippines.
Melanaegia halimede.
Arge halimede^ Men. Bull, de I'Acad. xvii. p. 216 ; Schrenck's
Reisen, p. 37, t. iii., fig. 6 (^ , 7 ? .
Melanargia halimede, var. meridionalis, Feld. Wein. Ent. Mon.
vi. p. 29 (1862) ; Leech, Trans. Ent. Soc, 1889, p. 101.
Melanargia halimede^ Elwes, Proc. Zool. Soc, 1881, p. 903;
Leech, 1. c, 1887, p. 425.
An extensive series from Chang Yang, taken in July.
The majority of the specimens are more or less of the typical
form of the species ; some of the examples agree with the speci-
mens figured by Menetries ; others have the well-defined black
bands on the upper, and ocelli on the under, surfaces, noticed by
him. None of the specimens are, however, as dark as the palest
example from Japan.
One form, of which there are several examples, is so very con-
spicuous that I have ventured to describe and give it a varietal name.
Var. MONTANA. — Central band very narrow, and the outer border is only
faintly indicated, whilst on the secondaries the black markings are absent,
excepting slight traces of a ring in the first median interspace, and a slender
dentate submarginal line.
Lethe occulta, sp. n.
Allied to M, oculatissima, Pouj. (Ann. Ent. Soc. Fr., 1885, p. xxiv.), but
much darker brown, the spot at inner angle of primaries is without white
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA FROM CHINA. 27
pupil, and of the same size as that at apex. On the under surface of
primaries there are but four ocelli, and the second and third of these are very
indistinctly formed : on the secondaries there are six ocellus-like spots, but
the third and fourth are very shadowy ; basal two-thirds of primaries brown,
apical third and whole of secondaries pale olive brown, all the wings sprinkled
with ochreous scales and traversed by dark brown lines. Expanse, 65 mm.
One male example, taken in July, at Chang Yang.
I have not seen the type of M. occulatissima, Pouj. ; the com-
parison is with the original description and with named speci-
mens in Mr. Oberthiir's collection.
Lethe cyrene, sp. n.
Brown, tinged with ochreous ; apical third of primaries slightly paler,
divided off obliquely from just beyond the middle of costa to near inner
angle, and containing a series of four small blackish spots, each placed at the
interior end of a narrow longitudinal fold on the outer margin, an indistinct
dark line parallel with outer margin. Secondaries with five black spots set
in fulvous rings, the costal one of the series has a large white pupil, and the
third is least in size, a small chestnut patch at anal angle ; fringes white,
chequered with brown, and preceded by a double line, following the contour
of outer margin. Under surface ochreous brown; two short transverse
brown bars intersect the discoidal cell, the space between them is pale
ochreous, and the outer bar is continued below the median nervure to the
inner margin ; beyond the cell is a broad brown band, which traverses the
wing in an oblique direction to the first median branch, below which it turns
inwards and then outwards to the inner margin, this band is bordered
externally with pale ochreous ; a submarginal series of five small ocelli set
in a transverse patch of pale ochreous is followed by two brown lines parallel
with the outer margin, the interspace filled up with pale ochreous from opposite
the first ocellus to inner angle ; fringes grey, with a dark line at their base.
Secondaries traversed by a pale ochreous stripe bordered with brown ; this
stripe does not attain the inner margin, and the outer edge bulges about the
middle ; towards the outer margin is a series of six ocelli set in a broad
transverse patch of pale ochreous, the first ocellus near the costa is the
largest, but does not greatly exceed the fourth and fifth, all have elongated
white pupils and the sixth is double ; a brown line, preceded by a whitish
one, and followed by one of pale ochreous parallel with outer margin ;
fringes as above.
2 . Apical third of primaries paler than in the male, with a whitish
costal dot on its inner edge, outer margin of secondaries more angulated ;
the under surface is pale brown, central third of primaries darker, enclosing
a whitish bar which crosses the discoidal cell ; secondaries with the costal
mark of the male outlined in and partly filled up with brown. Expanse,
62—68 mm.
Five male and one female specimens, taken in June, at
Chang Yang.
Allied to L. syrcis. Hew.
Lethe trimacula, sp. n.
^. Fuscous brown; apical third of primaries slightly paler, and
enclosing a distmct ocellus. Secondaries with two ocelli near anal angle,
the upper one with white pupil faint or entirely absent. Under surface of
primaries grey-brown, apical third greyish clouded with pale brown, and
divided off by a dark brown curved slightly wavy band ; the discoidal cell is
closed by a dark brown line, and divided transversely by another line of the
same colour ; ocellus very distinct ; a dark brown Hue parallel with outer
d3
»o THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
margin is preceded by a zigzag one, and followed by one at the base of the
pale grey fringes. Secondaries greyish, with five well-formed oceUi, that on
the costa is very large and bipupilated, as also is the smaller one at anal
angle ; two brown lines traverse the disc, the outer cmrves half round the
costal ocellus, and then proceeds in a series of waves to the inner margin ;
fringes and marginal lines as on primaries. The ocelli on both surfaces are
ringed with pale fuscous. Expanse, 68 — 72 mm.
2 . Same as male, but apical third of primaries limited by a pale band.
Several males and one female from Chang Yang, taken in
July.
Lethe nigrifascia, sp. n.
^. Fuscous brown, darker on the outer margins. Primaries crossed
by a black band which curves from the costa, and is not well defined imtil it
reaches the third median branch, where it is dilated, as it also is at each
succeeding vein to the inner margin. Secondaries have a submarginal series
of six black spots set in pale rings, the first is largest, but does not greatly
exceed the fourth, whilst the sixth is smaller and indistinct; a pale line
parallel with outer margin. Fringes white, fuliginous at extremities of the
nervules. Under surface ochreous brown, fuscous towards outer margin ; a
broad whitish bar crosses the discoidal cell ; central transverse line whitish,
ill defined, commencing as a blotch on costa, and bordering a faint
reproduction of the black band of upper surface ; a smaller white patch
nearer the apex, and a pale line parallel with outer margin. Secondaries
have two pale violet basal lines, the first is indistinct after passing the
median nervure, but the second continues its course to the submedian, where
it turns in and terminates at the internal nervure ; beyond is another pale
violet line, bordered inwardly with brown, running from costa to first median
branch, where it turns sharply inwards and upwards for a short distance,
then again turns and descends to the median nervure ; a fourth pale violet
line traverses the wing in a wavy course from costa to inner margin ; this is
bordered externally with various shades of brown and limits the outer third,
which is somewhat darker than the rest of the wing, and has a series of six
ocelli ; the first four of these ocelli are surrounded with pale violet, but in the
two last, which are larger, this colour is only distinct on their inner edge ;
the sixth ocellus is double; a pale violet line parallel with outer margin
forms triangular blotches opposite the last three ocelli, that at the anal angle
being the largest ; fringes as above.
?. Colour of the male, but there is no black band on primaries; a
blackish shade, broadest near the costa, where it is bordered by some pale
yellowish dashes, runs obliquely to beyond third median branch, and then
curves inwards to the inner margin ; some whitish spots towaards apex. The
under surface is pale fulvous, and the pale violet lines on the secondaries of
the male are replaced in this sex by pale yellowish ones. Expanse : male,
70 — 74 mm. ; female, 78 mm.
Two male and one female specimens, taken in August, at
Chang Yang.
Allied to Lethe (Dehis) armahdinay Oberth., from Moupin.
Lethe labyrinthea, sp. n.
^ . Brown, with an olivaceous gloss. Primaries have two dark clouds
in the discoidal cell and a blackish central transverse band ; from the outer
edge of the last, rays are projected along the nervules to the outer margin,
intersecting in their course a blackish transverse Hne ; a second abbreviated
waved blackish band extends from inner margin to second median nervule.
Secondaries have a submarginal series of six black spots enclosed between
two wavy ill-defined blackish bands, parallel with outer margin is a narrow
l^EW SPECIES 0^ LEPII)OI>TER^ F^bM CHINA'. ^Si*
blackisH line ; fringes white, variegated with blackish at the extremities of
nervules. Under surface pale ochreous, tinged with olivaceous ; two brown
bars in discoidal cell of primaries ; central transverse line brown, oblique,
with three deep indentations, and edged towards costa with yellowish;
some pale spots near costa precede a suffused brownish marginal line.
Secondaries with a grey-brown pale-edged band near the base, extending from
costa to median nervure, beyond is a brown suffused line curving from costa
to abdominal margin, and emitting a spur to the median nervure ; central
band of unequal width and edged externally with blackish, followed by a
broad ochreous marginal band in which is placed a series of six ocelli, the
third and fourth are rather indistinct, and all more or less completely
encircled with lilacine white ; an antimarginal line of the same colour edged
on each side with black, and swelling out into lunules opposite the last three
ocelli ; fringes white, chequered with brownish at extremities of nervules.
' 2 • Paler ; markings of primaries above same as on under surface of
male, but with the addition of two small ocelli below apex. Expanse:
male, 70 mm. ; female, 80 mm.
Four specimens (two males and one female, Ichang, July;
one male, Chang Yang, July).
Allied to L. nigrifascia, but may be at once separated by the
different character of central band of primaries and the larger
ocelli.
Neope ramosa, sp. n.
^. Closely allied to 8. goschJcevitschii, Men., from Japan, but the
ground colour is dark chocolate-brown, the spots on primaries are smaller,
nearly orbicular, pale yellowish buff in colour, and each pair between the
median nervules are separated by a quadrate blackish spot. Secondaries
have two pale yellowish buff longitudinal patches and three spots ; the
former each enclose an obscure ocellus and the latter are arranged in a
longitudinal series ; below are three black spots decreasing in size to the anal
angle, the first is partially, the second distinctly, and the third indistinctly
surrounded with pale yellowish buff. Under surface blackish, variegated
with white and yellowish buff; primaries have a white-centred black spot
enclosed in a whitish ring near apex, and below this is a nearly square
white spot followed by two pairs of yellowish buff spots as above : secondaries
have three basal spots as in S. goschkevitscJiii, but they are paler in colour
and the lower one is much larger ; the central band is greyish, very irregular
in shape and bordered on each side with white. Expanse, 90 mm.
Two males taken in June and July, at Chang Yang.
Neope romanovi, sp. n.
(^ . Chocolate-brown with olive reflections and a metallic green tinge
in certain lights ; venation not ochreous, there are two transverse series of
small yellowish spots on outward half of primaries, but those towards costa
are ill-defined. Secondaries have a marginal series of large black spots, each
spot edged internally and externally with yellowish except that at outer
angle, which is bordered on its hinder edge only. Under surface pale brown
tinged with violet-grey. Primaries broadly streaked with ochreous grey
along the inner margin ; central brown band very narrow, bidentate near
costa, then gently curved, emitting a short projection before its termination
near anal angle ; four antimarginal ocelli, the second almost filled up with
white ; two brown sinuated lines parallel with outer margin. Secondaries
with three yellowish brown ringed spots at the base ; the central band is
grey -brown with a triple edging of brown, yellowish, and dark brown ; seven
very distinct antimarginal ocelli.
so ^ THti fiNTOMOLOGlSf.
$ . The inner series of spots on upper surface of primaries distinct*
Expanse, ^ 74 mm., ? 80 mm.
Two male and one female specimens taken in July at Ichang.
One male example, Chang Yang, July.
Satyrus maculosa, sp. n.
$ . Dark greyish brown. Primaries with three large black yellowish
ringed spots towards outer margin; the two lower ones are contiguous.
Secondaries have two similar spots above anal angle ; fringes pale grey
tipped with darker. Under surface pale grey ; basal two-thirds and outer
margin of primaries thickly sprinkled with brownish ; a dark brown line
traverses the wing before the three large ocelli ; three narrow black lines on
outer margin enclose two whitish ones. Secondaries reticulated with
brownish on basal two-thirds ; ocelli five in number, the two nearest costa
contiguous, the other three lie towards anal angle, the fifth least in size ; a
dark wavy submarginal line and two parallel with outer margin enclosing a
whitish one ; fringes pale grey. Expanse, 36 mm.
One female example taken in July at Chang Yang.
Allied to Satyrus arvensiSy Oberth., but differs from that
species in having five ocelli of equal size, and further in the
absence of white pupils.
Pararge catena, sp. n.
Brown suffused with fuliginous. Primaries traversed by an angulated
indistinct dark line bordered externally with paler, most clearly towards
costa ; a submarginal series of six black spots set in ochreous rings, the first
of which is very small and the last two larger than others ; marginal line pale.
Secondaries with a pale angulated central band and a submarginal series
of six ochreous ringed black spots, the third very small and the sixth equal
in size to the fourth and fifth, but ill-defined ; a pale hne parallel with outer
margin ; fringe pale ochreous, chequered with brown at the ends of nervules.
Under surface of primaries grey -brown ; a pale ochreous bar, edged with
brown, crosses the discoidal cell, and is preceded by a small spot of the same
colour ; beyond the cell is an angulated dark line edged externally with pale
ochreous ; this edging forms a triangular patch at costa, and unites with a
quadrate spot of the same colour on inner margin ; there are six pale
ochreous spots towards outer margin, all of which, with the exception of the
first, have black centres with white pupils ; beyond these is an interrupted
short ochreous band, two pale ochreous lines enclosing a brown one
parallel with outer margin. Secondaries brown, with an olive tint ; some
spots and an interrupted white band near the base; central band white,
angulated and intersected at the angle by a short longitudinal bar ; a sub-
marginal series of six ocelli, the first bipupilated and the third very small,
the first three are distinctly bordered externally with white and the last three
less distinctly ; lines parallel with outer margin whitish ; fi-inges as above.
In the female the white markings are rather broader. Expanse, 55 mm.
Seven male specimens taken in July, and one female captured
in August, at Chang Yang.
In some respects this species agrees with Pararge dumetorum,
Oberth., Etud. d'Ent. xl. pt. iv. fig. 20 ; but it is easily separated
therefrom by the ocelli on both surfaces of primaries.
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA FROM CHINA. 31
Callerebia albipuncta, sp. n.
$ . Primaries blackish brown, outer third paler, towards apex is a large
round black patch, enclosing two small white spots encircled with pale
fulvous ; below is a brighter fulvous cloud. Secondaries blackish brown,
paler along abdominal margin ; towards anal angle is a fulvous-ringed black
spot, enclosing a white dot ; fringes tinged with grey. Under surface of
primaries red-brown, apex and upper half of outer margin greyish ; bi-
pupilated ocellus as above ; secondaries dark brown, traversed by innumer-
able irregular wavy lines ; ocellus towards anal angle as above, and there is
a white spot in each nervular interspace between it and the costa. Expanse,
64 to 60 mm.
? . Discal area of primaries suffused with reddish, otherwise similar to
male.
Allied to C. sylvicolaf Oberth., and C. pratorum, Oberth.
(Etud. d'Ent. xi.), but most closely to the last named ; from both
species it may, however, be separated by the series of white
spots on under surface of secondaries.
Several male specimens taken at Chang Yang in July, and a
number of both sexes from Ichang Gorge, taken in August.
This species is fairly constant in the character of marking,
but two female examples have the white submarginal spots
reproduced on the upper surface of secondaries. One of these
specimens has the black patch on primaries pear-shaped, enclosing
three white spots, and there is a small ocellus below it, near the
outer angle.
Clerome ^rope, sp. n.
(^ . Drab-brown. Primaries darker towards the outer margin ; a con-
spicuous tuft of fulvous silky hairs on the interior edge of the median nerve
near the base. Under surface brown ; primaries paler along the inner
margin with a triangular vitreus patch below the median nerve ; all the
wings traversed by three dark reddish brown lines, terminating at the sub-
median nervure ; there are six small yellow spots on the primaries before
the submarginal line, that nearest the costa punctiform, sometimes absent ;
on the secondaries there is a transverse series of five similar spots, the first
is near the central line, the fourth and fifth approximate more to the sub-
marginal, whilst the second and third are equidistant from either line.
Fringes on both surfaces grey-brown, preceded by a slender brownish line.
? . Colour of male ; outer margin of primaries with a suffused blackish
border, broad on costa and tapering towards outer angle ; external margin of
secondaries is also suffused with blackish. The vitreus patch and tuft of
hairs are characters pertaining to the male only. Expanse, ^ 78 — 89 mm.,
$ 84— 100 mm.
A splendid series, taken in June and July, at Ichang.
This species is closely allied to (7. assama, Westw., from
Assam and Khasi Hills ; but it is much paler in colour above,
whilst beneath the spots are much smaller ; the transverse lines
are differently curved, and there is no disposition of the second
to unite with the third above anal angle.
Hestina nigrivena, sp. n.
Whitish green ; venation of primaries, and a streak above the submedian
nervure, broadly blackish, as also is the median nervure of secondaries and its
d^ TtiE teNtOMOLOGtSt.
branches, but the other veins of this wing are narrow in comparison ; outer
fourth of primaries black, enclosing a double row of spots of the ground
colour; there is also an ill-defined blackish central transverse bar; on the
secondaries there is a series of distinct black marginal spots and indications
of a submarginal series ; these last are placed in a very faint pinkish streak.
Under surface, colour as above, but the venation is less broad, and the only
distinct black spots are some small linear ones on the outer margins of all the
wings ; on the secondaries is a faint pinkish streak parallel with outer margin,
most clearly defined at anal angle. Expanse, 78 — 90 mm.
Four specimens (three males, one female), taken in May and
June at Chang Yang.
Closely allied to H, mena, Moore, from N. India, but may be
at once distinguished from that species by the pinkish streak on
both surfaces of secondaries, a character which brings it very
near to H. assimilis.
Hestina viridis, sp. n.
^ . Pale greenish, neuration broadly black ; outer third of primaries
black, its Hmit not well defined internally, enclosing a transverse series of
large spots followed by smaller ones ; these are of the groimd colour, and the
two last of each series are linear. Secondaries have a marginal and sub-
marginal series of ill-defined black spots ; outer margin and fringes black,
abdominal fold tinged with yellowish. Under surface whitish green ; neura-
tion and some dashes between the nervules black ; outer margin and fringes
black : ^ secondaries have the costa beyond the subcostal nervure and
abdominal fold yellow.
2 • Similar to the male, but the bar closing the discoidal cell of
primaries is almost obliterated, the black of outer third is broken up into
a double series of spots below apex, and the venation is less broad. Ex-
panse, <^ 96 mm., $ 110 mm.
Two specimens from Chang Yang (male June, female July).
Allied to H. assimilis, but at once distinguished by the total
absence of red markings.
Hestina oberthuri, sp. n.
Greyish white, venation broadly fahginous ; outer margins with broad
fuliginous borders, that of primaries intersected by one and of secondaries by
two transverse rows of small spots of ground colour. Under surface similar
to above, but there is a bluish black line on all the wings parallel with outer
margin. Fringes white, chequered with black. Expanse, 76 mm.
Several examples taken in June at Chang Yang, and Septem-
ber at Ichang.
In some specimens the pale ground colour is much suffused
with fuliginous.
Unlike any species of Hestina with which I am acquainted.
EURIPUS JAPONICUS.
Eurijjus japonicus, Feld. Weiss. Ent Mon. vi. p. 27 (1862).
Var. chinensis*
One male specimen captured in August, at a place three days'
journey N. of Ichang.
As this example differs from the Japanese form of the species
in the much smaller size of the white spots and streaks on both
KEW species of iiEPibOPTERA FROM CHINA. 3S
surfaces, and in having the basal spot, costal and inner marginal
streaks of secondaries yellow instead of white, I have given it
the varietal name of chinensis.
Apatura fasciola, sp. n.
Dark fuscous brown. Primaries edged with yellowish along the costa to
beyond the middle, and tinged with the same colour on outer margin ; the
central area is traversed by a yellow band composed of seven spots, of
which the two nearest costa are smaller and the next pair larger than the other
three ; a white spot towards apex. Secondaries with a central transverse
yellow band extending from costa to submedian nervure, and interrupted by
the nervules ; the outer margin is yellow, tinged with fuscous, and inter-
sected by a transverse line of the ground colour, a black spot above anal
angle. Under surface opalescent, clouded with tawny on the outer margin of
all the wings ; the primaries have a bluish-white spot near apex, below this are
three small dots of the same colour and a black dot set in a tawny ring ;
secondaries with a well-defined ocellated spot near anal angle, and a series
of small spots above ; the basal half of all the wings is darker than the outer
half, and separated by a tawny transverse line, most clearly defined on the
secondaries. Expanse, ^ 74 mm., $ 82 mm.
Two male specimens taken in July, and two females in
August, at Chang Yang.
Athyma punctata, sp. n.
^ . Black. Primaries with apical and central white spots, shaded on
edges with violet-grey ; the former is intersected by the subcostal nervure,
and the latter by the rays of the median. Secondaries with a large central
white spot, shaded with violet as on primaries ; broad submarginal line pale.
Under surface rusty brown ; primaries have white spots as above ; a violet-
grey longitudinal streak from the base, interrupted by the ground colour
before reaching the centre of the wing where it terminates, is broadly
bordered below and outwardly with blackish ; there are indications of a
violet-grey submarginal line ; secondaries white along the costa, central
white fascia extends from costa to the bluish-grey abdominal fold ; sub-
marginal band whitish, tinged with violet and bordered outwardly with a
dark browinish shade. Expanse, 68 mm.
Two male specimens taken in May and July at Chang Yang.
Athyma disjuncta, sp. n.
Fuliginous-black, with white markings. Discoidal streak of primaries
terminating in a somewhat triangular head, and followed by an oblong
transverse dash ; beyond and nearer the costa are three other oblong spots ;
central band composed of eight spots, the sixth of which is round and larger
than the others, but the fourth is very small or quite absent ; submarginal
series of linear spots only faintly indicated towards costa, followed by black
quadrate spots. Secondaries with central and submarginal bands, the latter
composed of linear spots, slightly decreasing in size towards costa ; between
the bands and also before outer margin are some black quadrate spots.
Under surface of primaries blackish, marked with tawny along the nerves ;
basal and central spots as above, but the fourth spot of the latter series more
clearly defined; marginal series large, those nearest the costa nearly
obliterated, and the others intersected by a tawny transverse band ;
secondaries tawny, with a black-edged white streak from the middle of the
base to the costa, followed by some black dots ; central band bordered with
blackish, interrupted, and extending only to the abdominal fold ; submarginal
Si *HE fi^TOMOLOdiST.
band as above, but the inner edges of the spots are rounded and bordered
with blackish; between these bands is a series of conspicuous short lon-
gitudinal black dashes, the lower ones edged externally with white ; a fairly
broad blackish band on outer margin, preceded by an interrupted white
one. Expanse, ^ 68 mm., 2 76 mm.
The bands on upper surface are very like those of A. sulpitia,
but the form of the discoidal streak on primaries is very similar
to that of A. helmanni,
I have received a splendid series of this novelty from Chang
Yang, taken in June and July.
Athyma fortuna.
Athyma fortuna, Leech, Trans. Ent. Soc. 1889, p. 107,
pi. viii. figs. 1, la.
A nice series from Chang Yang, June and July.
In some of the male specimens the white spots forming the
central band of all the wings exhibit a tendency to elongation,
as in L. sydyi, Ld., var. latefasciata. Men. (Schr. Keis. p. 29).
I propose that this form should be known as var. diffusa.
LiMENITIS PRATTI, Sp. n.
Black, inclining to brown towards base of all the wings. Primaries with
a white transverse bar, preceded and followed by obscure whitish ones in
discoidal cell; a central series of six quadrate white spots and beyond a
transverse series of smaller red spots, the upper of which are round, and the
two nearest costa edged internally with white; submarginal spots white,
intersected by a line of the ground colour, that in the second median inter-
space large and triangular. Secondaries have two black transverse bars
enclosing an obscure red one near base ; a central series of seven white
spots, followed by a series of smaller red ones ; outer margin broadly
bordered with white, intersected by an interrupted transverse band. Under
surface similar to above, but the costa is whitish and the markings are
larger, those in the discoidal cell are well-defined, and below the cell there is
a large white blotch, transversely intersected by a blackish band ; secondaries
have the costa edged with red, and there are some reddish and black marks
on the white basal third ; the other markings same as above, but more band-
like in character. Expanse, 69 mm.
One example taken in July at Chang Yang.
This species is more nearly allied to L, populi than any
other Limenitis known to me.
Neptis hesione, sp. n.
^. Fuliginous-black, with pale buff markings. Discal streak of
primaries broad, partially suffused with blackish, the outer extremity pro-
duced and obtusely pointed, two spots near apex, oval and of nearly equal
size, separated from each other by the first discoidal nervule, and from an
indistinct curved linear spot by the subcostal nerve ; a spot in the first
median interspace is nearly round and touches both nervules, below are two
smaller spots separated by the submedian ; submarginal pale and narrow.
Secondaries have a fairly broad central band ; submarginal band, bordered
externally with blackish grey, tapers from costa, attains its greatest width in
the submedian interspace, and from thence is attenuated to abdominal
margin; between the bands is a transverse series of oblong black spots.
KEW species OE^ tiEPirJOPTERA FROM CHINA. 3S
Under surface chocolate -brown ; markings white, streaked with ochreous-
grey, and clouded with whitish along the costa ; discal streak broad, clear
and distinct, with a large blackish patch below ; apical spots hardly
separated ; spot in first median interspace invades the space above and
unites below with the enlarged pair on inner margin; submarginal line
white tinged with violet, interrupted towards apex by two longitudinal
streaks of the ground colour, and preceded by a chocolate-brown band,
which is narrowly edged inwardly with blackish grey, and intersected by a
transverse series of pale lunules : secondaries with basal, central, and sub-
marginal bands; the first traverses the wing from base to costal nerve,
where it is cut into by the ground colour ; the second is bordered externally
with blackish grey, followed by ochreous-grey ; the third is tinged with
violet, preceded by an interrupted band of the ground colour, bordered with
ochreous-grey, and followed by a series of lunules, also of the ground
colour, edged externally with whitish. Fringes chequered black and white.
Expanse, 56 mm.
One male specimen taken in July at Chang Yang.
Closely allied to N. armandiay Oberth., but differs from that
species on the upper surface in the broader discal streak, closer
proximity of the apical spots, and pale submarginal band of
primaries ; also in the broader central and uninterrupted sub-
marginal bands of secondaries, whilst beneath there are several
points of difference.
Neptis thisbe.
Neptis thishe, Men. Bull. Acad. Pet. xvii. p. 214 (1859) ;
Schrenck's Keisen, ii. p. 26, t. 2, fig. 9 (1859) ; Elwes,
Proc. Zool. Soc. 1881, p. 894.
An extensive and somewhat variable series from Chang
Yang, where the species appears to be on the wing from June to
August.
Var. themis. — Fringes of primaries almost wholly white at the apex,
and black from the fifth subcostal nervule to below first discoidal nervule ;
there is no trace of fulvous on the outer margin of secondaries. On the
under surface of primaries the spot between discoidal nervules is large, round,
and without a trace of marking below it in next interspace ; the central band
of secondaries terminates in a large white spot between the subcostal
nervules, and there are no markings in the interspace above or between the
band and discal streak, which in this form is distinctly white.
Three examples (two males, one female).
Var. thetis. — Identical with var. themis above, but beneath there is a
white mark in interspace below the outer round spot of primaries ; the discal
streak and submarginal band of secondaries are merely fragmentary ; the
basal and terminal portions of the former only remain, and of the latter
there are some traces towards outer angle. There is also a noticeable
absence of brown clouding on secondaries, and the brown band posterior to
the white central one is very narrow.
Four examples (three males, one female).
There are intermediates between each of these forms and
the type.
Neptis antilope, sp. n.
Black, with a slight brownish tinge ; markings yellow. Discal streak of
primaries obtusely pointed, two oblong spots and a dot above towards apex,
86 THfi ENTOMOLOGIST.
an oval spot below intersected by second median nervule, and a wedge*
shaped one on inner margin interrupted by the submedian nervure ; sub-
marginal band pale and narrow. Secondaries have central and submarginal
bands ; the former is somewhat narrow, and the latter tapers towards either
extremity. Under surface of primaries chocolate-brown, a broad patch of
yellowish occupies the space between costa and median nervure, absorbing
the paler discal streak; the outer Umit of this patch is marked by some
whitish spots, and the upper portion of black suffused patch, which lies
between median nervure and inner margin, extends to the narrow reddish
brown submarginal band, and encloses a large yellowish white spot ; outer
margin has a broad yellowish border, intersected by one paler and one darker
indistinct lines ; the apicaJ portion of the border extends inwards and
amalgamates with the two oblong spots; secondaries yellowish; central
band white, edged externally with blackish grey, and followed by a chocolate-
brown wavy band, the upper portion of which is broadly bordered with
violet-grey ; submarginal band light chestnut. Fringes white, with black
patches at tips of nervules. Expanse, $ 58 — 67 mm., $ 67 mm.
Two male specimens taken in June, and one female example
in July at Chang Yang. I took two specimens at Hong Kong in
March, 1886 ; these are smaller than those from Central China.
This species surperficially resembles iV. thishe,
Neptis cydippe, sp. n.
Similar in size and shape to N. thishe ; the markings, however, are very
like those of N. antilope on the upper surface, but there are three pale spots
from middle of costa of primaries, and the costal spot of apical trio is
much larger. Under surface of primaries chocolate-brown, suffused with
pale ochreous between costa and discal streak; outer margin broadly
bordered with same colour, intersected by a narrow interrupted chocolate-
brown band ; inner margin to median and first branch dark grey, a blackish
patch above in first median interspace ; some violet-tinted whitish spots from
costa to outer end of discal streak ; apical spots whitish, as also are those in
the median interspaces, but the outer edges of these last are more or less
encroached upon by the marginal border. Secondaries pale ochreous tinged
with brownish, and clouded with chocolate-brown on outer portion of costa ;
some violet-grey and chocolate-brown marks between the costal and 'second
subcostal veins; central band whitish, bordered externally by a suffused
chocolate-brown band, the outer edge of which is irregular; beyond are
some chocolate-brown spots, followed by a pale transverse band and some
obscure brown spots. Expanse, <^ 70 — 77 mm., $ 84 mm.
Several specimens of each sex taken in July and August at
Chang Yang.
Neptis beroe, sp. n.
^. Brownish black, with yellow markings. Primaries have a broad
discal streak interrupted by the third median branch, and continued down-
wards as a curved spot, which is interrupted by the second median branch
and terminates at the first, below is a somewhat triangular patch intersected
by the submedian nervure ; towards the apex are two large oblong spots,
separated by the subcostal nervure from a long streak on the costa.
Secondaries have broad central and narrower submarginal bands ; the costa is
broadly glassy.^ Under surface pale fulvous, outer margins of all the wings
paler; primaries have curved discal streak and spots on inner margin as
above, but whitish in colour, the lower spots of the two towards apex is
obscured by a greyish suffusion, and the same colour replaces the linear
yellow patch on costa ; between these spots and two indistinct ones just
below middle of costa is a bright chestnut-brown cloud, the narrow
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA FROM CHINA. 87
submarginal band terminating in a dark grey cloud on inner margin is
of the same colour, and is bordered externally with paler whitish : secondaries
tinged with greenish between costal and second subcostal nervule to beyond
the middle, where there is a small bright chestnut-brown cloud ; the white
central band is suffused with greyish at its outer extremity, and has a
clouded brownish edging ; submarginal band whitish, with a violet tinge,
interrupted by the nervules, bordered on each side with dark grey, and
preceded by a bright chestnut-brown band tapering from the outer angle to
inner margin. Fringes white-chequered, except at fourth subcostal, with
black patches at the extremities of the nervules.
? . Darker ; streak and bands narrower, spots rather smaller, the patch
on costa of primaries represented by a small linear spot and some yellow
scales ; the costal border of secondaries is not glassy. The under surface is
more suffused with bright chestnut-brown, the space enclosed by curved
discal streak is black, sHghtly glossy towards base. Expanse : male,
68 mm. ; female, 70 mm.
Two males and one female, Chang Yang, taken in June.
Neptis aspasia, sp. n.
Black, tinged with brown ; markings yellow. Discal streak of primaries
interrupted at the fork by the third median branch, the continuation has its
external edge gently curved, and below its extremity is a nearly round spot
in the first median interspace. Secondaries broadly cinereous along costal
third; central band, which is white on the abdominal fold, runs straight
towards outer margin, but is interrupted by the costal border ; submarginal
band tapers fi:om outer angle, the upper portion obscured by costal border.
Under surface chestnut-brown, inner portion of primaries below discal streak
and curved extension leaden grey ; some violet-grey spots from middle of
costa, a large white spot below submedian, and a violet-grey dash above,
together with an ill-defined pale violet spot in discoidal interspace are edged
externally by an undulated transverse dusky line ; parallel with the outer
margin is an interrupted pale violet line : secondaries, white central band
bordered on each side with blackish grey, curves upwards from second
subcostal nervule in the direction of outer angle, and is followed by two wavy
narrow greyish bands, each bordered with darker ; submarginal band pale
violet, bordered with greyish, tapering firom outer angle ; an indistinct grey
line parallel with outer margin. Fringes white, with patches of black at tips
of nervules, preceded on the under surface by a broad dark line. Palpi pale
grey, with dense black hairs. Eyes plum colour. Expanse, 80 mm.
One example from Chang Yang, taken in July.
Neptis antigone, sp. n.
Very similar to N. aspasia on the upper surface, but the spot in first
median interspace forming continuation of discal streak is larger, rounder,
and more completely isolated, whilst the costal band of secondaries is
broader, and traverses the wing from abdominal margin, where it is but
shghtly paler, to middle of subcostal nervure, the submarginal band is also
much broader, and commences below the subcostal nervure. Under surface
dark ochreous brown, the discal streak proper and a portion of the extension
are much suffused with this colour, the spot below in first median interspace
is fairly distinct, and only separated by the first median nervule from a
white dash extending to inner margin, the enclosed space is black ; a curved
series of four blue-tinted white spots from middle of costa and a large white
one beyond ; an obscure brown narrow band commences on the costa, skirts
the external edge of white spot, and then turns outwards and downwards
parallel with outer margin, terminating in a black cloud on inner margin ;
secondaries paier towards base; central band tinged with violet and
38 THE ENTOMOLOGlSf.
bifurcated towards costa, followed by a broad bluish grey line ; submarginal
band white tinged with violet, and intersected by a transverse line of the
ground colour; there are some indications of a line parallel with outer
margin. Palpi white, with black^hairs ; eyes brown. Expanse, 78 mm.
One example, Ichang, May.
Neptis arachne, sp. n.
Resembles N. beroe and also N. aspasia, in the markings of upper
surface, but it lacks the central streak of the former, and the apical spots are
more clearly separated in the latter, whilst it differs from both in the rupture
of discal streak from its continuation at second median fork. In this species
the disconnection is effected, not only by the passage of the third median
nervule, but by the interposition of a triangular patch of the ground colour in
the fork. Under surface bright chestnut-brown. Primaries ochreous at base
and along costal fold, a bluish grey discoidal spot, some ochreous scales at
the commencement of the discoidal nervules and a suffused ochreous mark
to discal streak below ; beyond is a curved series of four large bluish grey
spots, and nearer the apex a pale ochreous spot, above which are some
ochreous streaks; dentated submarginal line ochreous, narrowly edged
internally with ground colour, preceded by some ochreous suffused patches,
and bordered externally by a band of the ground colour ; outer margin
broadly ochreous, intersected by a transverse interrupted line of the ground
colour ; discal streak and curved continuation pale ochreous, enclosed space
blackish grey, which colour is continued below the first median nervule to
border of outer margin ; secondaries ochreous, basal half of costa tinged with
chestnut ; a broad suffused patch of bright chestnut-brown from outer half
of costa to discoidal nervule, and from thence continued as a narrow band to
abdominal margin, the patch encloses some bluish grey marks and there are
some chestnut spots towards base ; broad central band pale ochreous, suffused
with dark grey beyond the third median and bordered externally with bright
chestnut-brown, this is followed after an interval by a narrow transverse
band of the same colour, as also is the sinuous submarginal line. Fringes
white, with black patches at extremities of nervules, that at fourth shbcostal
is small whilst those of second and third median nervules approximate,
leaving a very slender space of white. Expanse, 77 mm.
One male example taken in July at Chang Yang.
loLAUS LUCULENTUS, Sp. U.
^ . Light blue, finely dusted with black scales ; costa and outer margin
of primaries to below third median nervule broadly black. Secondaries with
two white-tipped black tails ; costa bordered with black, abdominal margin
broadly whitish ; two black spots on outer margin towards the black anal
angle, which has an orange-brown lunule; fringes white, chequered with
biack at extremities of nervules and preceded by a black line. Under
surface pale greyish white; primaries have linear discoidal spot and
central transverse lines blackish ; submarginal line dusky : secondaries have
a blackish discoidal bar and transverse wavy central lines ; there are also two
blackish linear spots, one near base and towards costa, the other about the
middle of inner margin ; submarginal line dusky ; a black spot at anal angle,
and one between second and third median nervules, the first narrowly, and
the last broadly bordered with reddish orange.
$ . Paler ; black border of primaries narrower over cell, disclosing a
distinct black discoidal spot, beyond which is a whitish cloud. Expanse,
S' 40 mm., ? 44 mm.
Four male and three female specimens taken in July at Chang
Yang.
Allied to lolaus longinus. Hew.
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA FROM CHINA. 39
lOLAUS CONTRACTUS, Sp. n.
(^ . Black, ornamented with bright dark blue, which on the primaries
forms a patch extending from the base to the middle 'of the disc between the
median and submedian nerves, slightly encroaching beyond each boundary.
On the secondaries the blue forms a broad oblique abbreviated band, its an-
terior limit being the second subcostal nervule, and its posterior the first
median, but there is a small triangular mark beyond this latter boundary,
extending to the orange spot at anal angle ; there are some black spots
towards the outer edge of the blue band ; the abdominal margin is paler,
becoming whitish at the base. There are two tails of equal length, both
black with white tips. Under surface of primaries whitish grey ; discoidal
spot linear white ; central transverse line blackish, terminating at the sub-
median nervure ; submarginal line indistinct ; on the middle of inner margin
is a fan-like arrangement of long dark grey hairs ; central transverse Hne of
secondaries wavy, turning off at a right angle to abdominal margin when
opposite anal angle ; outer margin bordered with dark grey, intersected by a
band of ground colour ; a large black spot on the outer edge of a round orange
patch before the first tail, and one at angle preceded by an orange streak.
2 . Greyish black, with a patch of pale lilac-blue on the disc of
primaries, and some scales of the same colour towards outer margin of
secondaries ; fringes grey. On the under surface the lines are more distinct,
and the spots larger. In one female specimen the lilac-blue is only shown on
the primaries as a discal suffusion. Expanse, S" 38 mm., ? 40—42 mm.
Allied to I. iapyx, Hew.
Thecla elwesi, sp. c.
^. Fuscous brown, the discal area of primaries tinged with reddish
orange, especially behind the black bar which closes the discoidal cell.
Secondaries with some black spots and orange marks on outer margin at
anal angle; tail reddish orange, edged with black and tipped with white.
Under surface sandy brown, dusky discoidal bar edged with white, followed
by an oblique triangular streak darker than the ground colour and bordered
on each side by a white-edged dark line ; a dusky line, edged externally with
paler parallel with outer margin ; secondaries with two white central trans-
verse lines, the first edged externally with dusky and not extending beyond
the median nerve, the second slightly wavy, bordered internally with dusky,
and curved inwards beyond the second median nervule; outer margin
bordered with reddish orange, edged internally with pale ochreous, wider
towards anal angle, the orange colour extending halfway along the ab-
dominal margin ; a black spot at anal angle and one in the second median
interspace ; fringes white, preceded by a black line which traverses the tail
to the white tip.
2 . Orange-brown, clouded with greyish brown towards the base of all
the wings, apex and outer margin black; a black spot on secondaries in
second median interspace ; fringes whitish, grey at the base and extremities
of nervules. Under surface of primaries reddish orange, secondaries rather
browner ; markings as in the male, except that the first transverse line of
secondaries extends farther across the wing. Expanse 50 mm.
One female taken in July, and two males captured in August,
at Chang Yang. Also two female specimens taken in the latter
month, at Ichang ; these have the basal half of all the wings
suffused with greyish brown, and the marginal border of primaries
is broader.
The male bears a superficial resemblance to the same sex of
T. betulcB from Europe, but it is much larger and the tails are
longer and more slender.
40 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Thecla ornata, sp. n.
c^. Primaries blackish, with a large reddish- orange patch on the disc,
intersected by the second and third median nervules; fringes dark grey.
Secondaries fuliginous brown, with a short tail at the extremity of the second,
and a much longer one at the extremity of the third median nervule ; both
are black, tipped with white ; fringes white, tipped with black and preceded
by a black line which towards anal angle is edged internally with whitish.
Under surface olivaceous grey; central transverse line of primaries white-
edged internally with black; submarginal series of black spots bordered
with white and increasing in size towards inner margin : secondaries have
a white central line inwardly edged with black, and uniting in the second
median interspace with a submarginal line composed of white-edged black
spots, and followed by a reddish-orange patch, which is widest between the
second and third median nervules, and hardly to be traced beyond the first
median branch ; from the abdominal margin, above the orange patch, are
two short black-edged oblique lines, approximating at their discal ex-
tremities ; between the termination of these lines and the juncture of central
and submarginal lines is a black-edged white curve ; a black spot at anal
angle, between which, and one in the second median interspace is a pale blue
patch edged internally with black ; fringes of all the wings olivaceous grey,
preceded by a dark line, which is edged internally with white, especially on
the secondaries.
2 . Fuliginous brown, without reddish- orange patch. Under surface as
in the male. Expanse, ^ 32 — 34 mm., $ 35 mm.
Two male and one female specimens taken in July at Chang
Yang.
Allied to T. v-album, Oberth. Etud. d'Ent. xi. pi. iv. fig. 23,
but the reddish-orange patch on upper surface of primaries is
more in the centre of wing, and the markings of under surface
are of a very different character.
Thecla rubioundula, sp. n.
<y . Fuliginous-brown. Primaries with a discal reddish orange suffusion.
The tail of secondaries hardly darker, narrowly tipped with white ; fringes
grey. Under surface brown ; outer margin of primaries broadly tinged with
reddish orange ; central transverse line white, bordered internally with dark .
brownish ; there are some indications of a submarginal series of black dots ;
central transverse line of secondaries white, bordered internally with dark
brownish, and bidentated before reaching the abdominal margin; outer
margin broadly bordered with reddish orange, and preceded by a submarginal
series of small black spots, edged internally with bluish ; a black spot at
anal angle, and one in the second median interspace ; between these is a
faintly blue triangular spot. Expanse, 31 mm.
Two male specimens, Chang Yang ; June.
Allied to Thecla ornata^ but the primaries are paler and the
reddish orange colour does not form a distinct patch ; on the
under surface the red markings at once separate it both from
T, ornata and T, v-album,
DiPSAS MINERVA, Sp. H.
$ . Pale orange-brown ; outer margin of primaries narrowly bordered
with black, broader at the apex. Secondaries with a black spot on outer
margin between second and third median nervules, and another at anal
angle ; fringes grey, darker at the tips and extremities of nervules, preceded
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA FROM CHINA. 41
by a black line, which traverses the tail to the white tip. Under surface
rather paler than above ; primaries with an interrupted white submarginal
line, edged internally with black, followed by a series of white lunules, edged
externally with black, and enclosing reddish orange spots ; secondaries have
a white submarginal line, edged internally with black, with three deep
indentations before abdominal margin, followed by an undulated black-edged
white line enclosing some reddish orange spots and two black ones ; one of
these last is placed at outer angle, and the other, which is edged with
reddish orange, between second and third nervules ; the orange spots are
edged externally with black, intersected by short projections from a white
line parallel with outer margin; fringes and tail as above. Expanse,
37 mm.
In one of the specimens the border of outer margin and apex
is very faintly indicated.
Five female specimens taken at Ichang in June.
Allied to Bipsas (Thecla) seraphim, Oberth. Etud. d'Ent. xi.
pt. 5, fig. 37, from which it differs principally in the arrangement
of markings on under surface of secondaries.
DiPSAs COMES, sp. n.
2 . Closely allied to D. minerva, but the black border of primaries is
confined to the apical and costal areas ; on the secondaries there is no black
spot, but there are traces of a pale submarginal line, which is deeply
indented before abdominal margin ; the under surface is browner, there are
no markings on the primaries beyond the submarginal line ; the submarginal
line of secondaries starts from a point nearer the middle of costa, has only
one deep indentation before abdominal margin, the line following extends
only from the outer angle to second median nervule and forms a series
of arches interrupting the broad reddish orange marginal border ; there is
no black spot at outer angle, and that between the second and third median
nervules is smaller. Expanse, 38 mm.
One female example taken in July at Chang Yang.
Dips AS melpomene, sp. n.
Pale orange-brown ; apex of primaries, tail, and anal angle of secondaries
black. Under surface rather browner than above ; primaries streaked with
whitish along the inner margin, discoidal bar and submarginal line darker,
the latter faintly edged externally with whitish : secondaries with dark
discoidal bar edged with whitish ; submarginal line white, curved, and
slightly indented before abdominal margin, followed by a paler shade of the
ground colour ; a spot between second and third median nervules and one
at anal angle black ; the marginal border is of the ground colour, intersected
by a paler line to the second median nervule, then pale reddish orange to
the abdominal margin ; fringes of the ground colour, preceded by a darker
line to the second median nervule, from which point to the anal angle the
fringes are white, preceded by a black line, which traverses the tail to the
white tip. Expanse, 40 mm.
One example captured at Chang Yang in August.
Allied to T.jonasi, Janson, but easily distinguished there-
from by the different character of the apical patch of primaries
above and the markings on the under surface of secondaries;
the tails are longer and more slender.
entom.—feb. 1890.
4S THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
DiPSAs THESPis, sp. n.
Pale orange-brown ; tail, anal angle, and spot between second and third
median nervules black. Under surface pale ochreous-brown, with central
transverse and submarginal lines of primaries white, the first bordered
internally and the last externally with black : secondaries have an internally
black-bordered white central line projecting sharply outwards before reaching
the abdominal margin, and a submarginal series of connected black-edged
white lunules, the first of which at the outer angle is followed by a black
spot; another larger black spot displaces the lunule between second and
third median branches ; this is surrounded with reddish orange, and the
marginal border is tinged with the same colour ; a small black spot at anal
angle, and there are some short longitudinal black dashes before the black
line at base of the white fringes. Expanse, 33 mm.
One example, taken at Ichang in August.
Allied to Dipsas (Thecla) lutea^ Brem., but differs from that
species very materially in the markings of under surface of
secondaries.
Kapala repercussa, sp. n.
^. Fuliginous-brown, with strong purple reflections; fringes slightly
paler ; tail of secondaries black, tipped with white ; lobe at anal angle
marked with blue and pale orange. Under surface olivaceous-brown ;
primaries have a faint pale linear discoidal spot and central transverse line,
the latter with an interior edging of fuscous ; submarginal line indicated
only towards inner margin : secondaries have a dark discoidal bar outlined
with white ; a waved white line broadly bordered interiorly with fuscous,
and preceded by a thin wavy white line, forming a compound band
extending only to the submedian nervure, is intersected by the nervules,
and exhibits a tendency to become broken up into spots ; at its termination
are two short parallel white lines running to abdominal margin ; sub-
marginal line whitish wavy ; a large velvety black spot encircled with orange
in the second median interspace ; the lobe at anal angle is black, with white
fringe, above it is a blue spot, and two small patches, one orange and
the other blue separated by a black streak ; fringes of abdominal margin
white. Expanse, 40 mm.
2 . Eather browner, and the purple reflection is less intense.
Ten males, two females, Chang Yang ; July.
Allied to Rapala (Deudorix) manea, Hew. 111. D. L. p. 23,
pi. 9, figs. 40, 41 (1863).
In some examples of the male there is a distinct reddish
orange cloud just beyond the discoidal cell on primaries ; this is
faintly indicated in other males and one female specimen.
Eapala subpurpurea, sp. n.
_ <y . Closely allied to B. repercussa, but the purple reflection is more
vivid, and on tlie primaries almost confined to the lower half of the wing;
the lobe at anal angle of secondaries is black, with white fringes tipped
with black. On the under surface the primaries are greyer on the inner
margin ; the discoidal spot is outlinpd indistinctly ; the transverse line is
dark olive-brown, edged externally with whitish, and more obhquely placed;
submarginal line pale. The central transverse line of secondaries is dark
olive-brown, edged externally with whitish, and.internally, towards abdominal
margin, where it forms a distinct W, with tawny; submarginal line dusky;
the black spot in second median interspace has an inner border of reddish
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA FROM CHINA. 43
orange, between this and black anal lobe is a dark patch powdered with
whitish scales. Abdomen below yellowish. Expanse, 38 mm.
2 . The primaries are rather more uniformly suffused with purple.
Nine males, three females ; Chang Yang, June and July ;
Ichang, July.
Lyc^na arcana, sp. n.
(^ . Brown ; secondaries with a slender short black tail fringed with
white ; discoidal spot of primaries black ; discal area suffused with pale
blue, as also is the basal area of secondaries, which is further adorned with
a submargiual row of black spots, the last two bordered internally with
orange, and externally with whitish. Under surface pale grey ; discoidal
spot, central, and submargiual lines of primaries dark grey, bordered with
white. The secondaries have three black basal spots ; discoidal spot and
central Ime dark grey, bordered with white ; the line is much interrupted,
especially towards the costa, and is represented on the costa itself by a black
spot outlined with white ; submargiual line wavy dark grey, and preceding
a series of triangular spots of the same colour on the outer margin ; two
JDlack spots towards anal angle, edged outwardly with metalUc-blue and
inwardly with orange.
? . Similar to male, but without the blue suffusion. Expanse, ^
31 mm., 2 33 mm.
One male, Chang Yang, June; one female, Ship-y-Shan,
September.
Allied to L. argiades, but differs therefrom in the ornamenta-
tion of under surface.
Lyc^na nebulosa, sp. n.
(^ . Lilac-blue, suffused with fuscous. Primaries have some pale blue
scales along the costa, and a distinct black discoidal spot ; the outer margin
is broadly bordered with black, and the central series of spots of the under
surface are faintly indicated. Secondaries have all the margins broadly
bordered with black. Fringes white. Under surface pale greyish white ;
linear discoidal spot and central series of spots on primaries black ; sub-
marginal series of dark grey lunules, followed by a series of blackish linear
spots on the outer margin : secondaries have a basal series of three, and a
central series of eight, black spots ; discoidal spot is linear and very narrow,
the markings beyond are similar to those on primaries, but the spots on the
margin in the median interspaces are round and larger ; fringes white,
streaked with grey, and preceded by a thin blackish line. Expanse, 36 mm.
One male specimen taken in June at Chang Yang.
Somewhat resembles the female of L. argiolus, but differs
therefrom in the shape of primaries, shade of blue, and markings
of under surface.
Satsuma chalybeia, sp. n.
(^ . Pale blue ; costa, apical third, and outer margin of primaries black,
as also are the fringes ; secondaries with an interrupted black submarginal
band ; a broad black line before the black and grey fringes. Under surface
grey dusted with black atoms, basal half of primaries blackish, discoidal spot,
central and submarginal wavy lines black ; transverse band of secondaries
occupying the central third of wing blackish limited by black wavy lines,
submarginal line black, undulating, followed by some obscure dusky spots ;
fringes as above. Expanse, 30 mm.
One male example, Chang Yang , May.
e2
44 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Differs from Satsuma (Thecla) frivaldszkyi, Ld.,in having two
distinct transverse lines on upper surface of primaries, and in the
absence of white markings on under surface of all the wings.
Satsuma pratti, sp. n.
<y. Fuliginous-brown. Primaries have some blue scales below the
median nervure, and the secondaries have a dull bluish reflection. Under
surface of primaries brown, suffused with blackish towards the black basal
area, an indistinct wavy dark central line bordered with white at costa :
secondaries black irrorated with white scales, and a brown cloud towards
outer angle, the indented central line broadly bordered with white below
costa and on inner margin ; submarginal band wavy ill- defined and inter-
sected by a pale wavy line. Expanse, 30 mm.
One male specimen taken in June, at Ichang.
Separable from Satsuma (Thecla) frivaldszkyi by the darker
colour of all the wings, and by the white markings and blackish
ground colour of under surface of secondaries.
Amblypodia angulata, sp. n.
5 . Costa of primaries slightly sinuous, outer margin dentate and rather
concave from apex to middle. Costa of secondaries convex near the base,
then concave to the acuminate and vertical apex from whence the outer
margin decends obliquely to the middle when it becomes rounded ; tails are
somewhat spatulate. Black with a strong suffusion of bluish purple, intersected
by the black venation, on the disc of all the wings ; discoidal spot of secondaries
black and bar-like. IFnder surface of primaries blackish, with a large quad-
rate pale grey blotch on the greyish inner margin, preceded by some short
brownish grey transverse lines on the disc ; central line brownish grey,
curved and wavy; submarginal line darker, edged internally with black,
twice angulated above inner margin, and followed by some indistinct dark
grey-brown lunules : secondaries grey irrorated with black, suffused with
violet towards the base and clouded with obscure purplish violet over the rest
of the wing ; several pale but ill-defined transverse lines. Expanse, 40 mm.
One female example received from Chang Yang.
Amblypodia ganessa, Moore, Cat. Lep. E. I. C. p. 44, pi. la, fig. 9
(1857). Var. seminigra,
^, Primaries blue paler beyond cell, costa and outer margin deeply
bordered with black ; the discoidal spot, which is within the costal border, is
more intensely black. Secondaries black suffused with blue most pronounced
along the central area. Fringes fascous grey. Under surface pale brownish
grey with four whitish wavy edged darker bands, the first two are basal the
third is abbreviated the fourth broad and the only one which is clearly defined ;
submarginal line slender and interrupted : secondaries greyish brown with
four interrupted bands these are of the ground colour, but darker at the edges
and bordered with whitish ; brownish submarginal line wavy, bordered with
whitish and followed by a few brownish linear dots on the margin ; fringes
pale grey preceded by a darker line. Expanse, 32 mm.
One male example, Chang Yang, June.
DODONA MACULOSA, Sp. n.
^ . Black with fulvous and white markings. Primaries have an oblique
central band represented by a bar in the discoidal cell and one below to the
inner margin ; beyond is a slender linear discoidal spot, followed by a larger
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTEEA FROM CHINA. 4§
double spot intersected by the discoidal nervule ; above is a small dot on the
costa, and below are three roundish spots, those in the submedian and first
median interspaces are out of line and nearer a submarginal series of spots,
the last of which is hnear and slightly curved, the next round, and the one
above dot-like ; the remainder of the series comprises two pairs of white spots,
but the initial one of the costal pair is very small ; there are two other white
spots nearer the apex. On the secondaries the markings comprise an oblique
streak from the costa to the submedian nervure, one beyond extending nearly
to the anal angle, but interrupted by first pair of median branches ; a short
bar from the costa broken up by the venation into three spots ; a submarginal
band also interrupted ; all, together with a line parallel with outer margin,
are obscure fulvous ; the anal lobe and tail are black, the former bordered
with whitish. Fringes grey tipped with black. Under surface inclined to
brown ; all the markings of primaries are similar to above, but rather paler,
less interrupted, and with the addition of a basal band and a marginal series of
linear spots. Secondaries with a pale fulvous streak along abdominal
margin, which unites before the anal angle with one running from the
base parallel with submedian nervure, and enclosing a third broader streak ;
an oblique white streak from the costa terminates on the submedian nervure
in a point, and beyond is a party-coloured streak, white at the costa, pale
fulvous to the second median, and then white again to its termination ; the
whitish submarginal band is preceded by a black interrupted streak and
followed by a black transverse dash from the costa ; a broad pale fulvous
line, white near costa, parallel with outer margin ; anal lobe and tail velvety
black edged and fringed with white, above is a whitish cloud.
$ . Similar to the male, but the markings are paler, much larger, and
less interrupted. Expanse, ^ 39 mm., 2 42 — 46 mm.
Two females, Chang Yang, June ; four ^^males, two females,
Ichang, July.
Allied to D. egeon^ Dbld., from N. India, but easily dis-
tinguished by the different characters of the markings. It is
also very close to D. eugenes, Bates, and may possibly be only a
local form of that species.
Leucophasia gigantea, sp. n.
^ . White. Primaries with a large black spot on the second discoidal
nervule, sometimes extending upwards to the first ; a smaller one on the
discocellular. Under surface of primaries with the black spots faintly repro-
duced. Secondaries have an angulated suffused band indicated by a blackish
costal streak, and a curved mark between the discoidal and third median
nervules ; discoidal cell intersected by a longitudinal black bar ; the venation
is dark, especially on the secondaries and outer margin of primaries. Head
black ; collar yellow ; thorax black dusted with white ; pectus sprinkled with
yellow ; abdomen white.
? . Under surface of secondaries and apex of primaries tinged with yel-
lowish, the black markings more band-like, with the addition of a ziczac
black submarginal hue ; all these markings are faintly seen through from
above. Expanse, <^ 48 — 62 mm., $ 72 mm.
^ The specimens of the May brood are without black spot on
primaries, the colour is more creamy, and the venation appears
more prominent. I propose the name of immacula for this
seasonal form.
The type is separated from the other species of Leucophasia
by the large black spot on primaries, and both forms are dis-
tinguished by the yellow collar.
A fine series taken at Chang Yang in May and August.
46 TIIE ENTOMOLOGIST.
PlERIS OBERTHURI, Sp. n.
$ . White. Primaries : costa bordered with black ; nervules edged on each
side with black, expanding towards the outer margin, which appears in con-
sequence to be deeply bordered. Secondaries black at outer angle and half-
way along the costa ; nervules bordered with black, and there are streaks of
the same colour in the interspaces, pointed towards outer margin and bifur-
cated at their inner end. Under surface similar to above, but the streaks in
interspaces of secondaries are connected with the borders of nervules ; a deep
yellow patch at base of secondaries.
2 . The black borders of nervules of primaries are not quite so broad
as in the male, but otherwise there is no difference in the markings of the
sexes. Expanse, ^ 80 mm., $ 92 mm.
In one specimen the whole of the primaries is black with the
exception of the discoidal cell, a broad patch from the base
between the median nerve and inner margin, intersected by the
submedian and a curved series of five oblong spots beyond the
middle of the wing.
A fine series taken in April and June, at Chang Yang.
Allied to P. acrcea^ Oberth., but differing therefrom in the
character of the marginal borders.
Delias patrua, sp. n.
^ . Black. Costa, inner angle, discoidal cell, and uervular interspacea
streaked with grey, the streaks in latter are attenuated towards outer margins,
before which they unite with a whitish-centred grey spot, those nearest apex
are linear, and the streaks preceding are not always well defined. Secondaries,
inner area of the wings within submedian nervure, and a portion of interspace
above canary -yellow, each interspace above has a grey streak, those between
the median nervules are centred with white, and the upper one is only
separated from a broad discal streak by the disco-cellular nervule ; a series
of grey spots before the outer margin, those nearest anal angle with yellow
linear centres. Under surface black ; primaries with the streaks and spots
as above but white, the costa is only sprinkled with grey scales, there are
two short yellow dashes between costa and submedian nervure towards apex,
and the spots nearest apex are more or less yellow : secondaries have canary-
yellow markings, a broad x^atch at the base intersected by the praecostnl, a
broad streak, whitish towards base, in the discoidal cell ; inner area as above ;
a central and submarginal series of spots, but the former are only suffused
with yellow to a greater or lesser extent. Fringes grey and black.
$ . Fuliginous-black, the costa less grey, the streaks are shorter and
are not connected with the spots towards outer margin ; the inner area
above is whitish towards abdominal fold. Expanse, ^ 88 mm., $ 92 mm,
A fine series, Chang Yang, June.
Closely allied to D. belladonna, but at once separated by the
absence of yellow patch at base of secondaries.
Pterogospidea diversa, sp. n.
Brownish black. Primaries have three subhyaline spots on the disc, and
five very small ones towards apex, the central spots form a triangle, a lunar
or linear one at end of discoidal cell, one rather larger and more quadrate
beyond, and a still larger one below, of the outer five the second is punctiform
and placed inwards, the fourth rather outwards, and the remaining two are
directly under the first ; a white spot in the submedian interspace under the
la}ger subhyaline one. Sccondaiics have a broad white central band
N£W SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA PEOM CHINA. 47
terminating on the inner margin opposite a white band on the abdomen,
and there are some black spots on its upper external edge. Fringes of
primaries black, spotted with white above inner angle ; of secondaries white,
tinged with grey, becoming darker towards outer angle, and with a slender
blackish line at their base preceded by some white spots. Under surface as
above, but the white spot in submedian interspace is rather larger, and is
followed by a whitish shade : the central band of secondaries is also wider,
and encloses two black spots, there is a faint indication of a pale submarginal
line ; there are some bluish grey hairs at the base. Head and thorax tinged
with yellow. Palpi yellowish, and the pectus is tinged with same colour.
A nice series from Chang Yang, taken in June.
Nearly allied to P. sinica, Feld., but easily distinguished
therefrom by the different maculation.
Plesioneura grandis, sp. n.
^ . Fuliginous brown, all the wings paler towards base. Primaries with
a greyish apical patch and three subhyaline spots, one in the discoidal cell, a
larger one below and a little beyond in the first median interspace, and a
smaller one in the interspace above ; fringes pale grey, becoming darker
towards apex of primaries. Under surface of primaries greyish, costal half
sufiPused with fuliginous from the base to just beyond the subhyaline spots :
secondaries fuliginous brown, sprinkled with ochreous scales; fringes as
above,
$ . Similar in colour to the male, but without the greyish apical patch
on primaries ; the subhyaline spots are larger, the two central ones are only
separated by the median nerve. Expanse, ^ 55 mm., $ 68 mm.
Two male specimens taken at Chang Yang, in April, and
one example of each sex from Ship-y-Shan, captured in
September ; these have elongated primaries, whilst those from
Chang Yang have broader secondaries.
Pamphila virgata, sp. n.
^. Dark brown. Primaries have a fulvous streak from base parallel
with costa to beyond the middle, this steaak is broken up by the subcostal
nervules into linear spots, its outer extremity curving downwards, and
terminate directly over four fulvous spots placed in the median and
submedian interspaces, there are two more or less confluent yellow dashes
in the discoidal cell, and the base and inner margin are streaked with
fulvous scales. Secondaries tinged with fulvous towards base with some
fulvous-centred dashes. Fringes yellow, chequered with dark brown. Under
surface of primaries blackish, with centre spots as above, but the costal
streak and discoidal spots are not so clearly defined, the apical half of outer
margin is suffused with yellow, but the base is not sprinkled with yellow
scales. Secondaries yellow, with some spots at the base, an indistinct
central band, and two parallel transverse series of black spots before the
outer margin, black, more or less obscured with yellow ; the abdominal fold
is streaked with blackish.
$ . Similar in ground colour to the male, but the yellow costal streak is
ill defined, except above the one discoidal spot, the central spots are smaller,
and all are pale in colour. Expanse, 30 — 32 mm.
A fine series from Chang Yang and Ichang, taken in June
and July. I took examples of each sex at Foochau in April,
1886.
Allied to P. marOf Fab.
48 t^E BNTOiiOLOGtSl.
Pamphila maga, sp. n.
^ . Superficially resembles P. virgata, but the thorax is much stouter,
and the primaries are without the yellow costal streak of that species, there
are two yellow spots in discoidal cell, the lower of which is oblong and much
the largest ; beyond are six other yellow spots forming a transverse series,
three of these are close together near the costa, one in each median
interspace, and one near the submedian nervure. Secondaries have one
spot in each median interspace. Under surface of primaries blackish ; costa
and upper portion of outer margin broadly suffused with yellow ; the yellow
spots of the upper surface are, with the exception of the sixth, reproduced,
the second to fourth each followed by a black spot, and there is a submarginal
series of indistinct black spots between apex and first median nervule ; a
projection from the yellow marginal border passes between the costal and
central spots. Expanse, 32 mm.
One male example taken at Ichang in June, and I captured
one at Ningpo in April, 1886.
Pamphila similis, sp. n.
^. Exactly identical with the same sex of P.pro7ni7iens, Moore, except
as regards the sexual mark, which in this species is replaced by two
subhyaline spots, one fairly large and triangular, the other, just above it,
smaller and comma-like.
One male example taken at Chang Yang, in June.
Halpe submacula, sp. n.
<y . Dark brown. Primaries have a double subhyaline spot in discoidal
cell, one in each median interspace beyond, and three forming a short
oblique dash just below costa and near apex ; there are also two small
obscure yellowish spots below the discoidal cell. Secondaries have three
central subhyaline spots, two of these are only separated by the second
median nervule, and the third is nearer the costa. Under surface dark
brown, clouded with yellowish, discal central and costal subhyaline spots as
above, but tinged with yellow ; the costa is streaked with ochreous to the
middle, and there is a submarginal series of ochreous spots extending to first
median : secondaries are brown, sprinkled with ochreous scales, with a pale
yellowish spot near base of costal nerve, another nearer its middle, and one
at its external extremity, the last constitutes the initial spot of a submarginal
series of double pale yellow spots, the third of which represents the terminal
spot of three, forming a longitudinal streak from the base of the wing ; another
longitudinal streak below is in connection with the last spot of submarginal
series, but its junction therewith is obscured by some blackish markings ;
fringes of both surfaces pale yellow, chequered with blackish. Expanse,
38—40 mm.
Five male specimens from Chang Yang, taken in June.
Cyclopides chinensis, sp. n.
Brownish black. Primaries with a short white dash near costa and
towards apex, broken up by the nervules into three spots. Under surface of
primaries brown, suffused with fuliginous over the discal area, upper half of
outer margins bordered with greyish, white dash as above ; secondaries
brown, inner half thickly sprinkled with greyish scales, and traversed by two
obscure darker bands. Fringes dark grey, both above and beneath. Expanse,
^ 32—34 mm., ? 36—40 mm.
Several specimens of both sexes, taken in the neighbourhood
i^EW SPECIilS OF LEPIDOPTERA FKOM CHINA. 49
of Ichang in June and August ; and one male example, captured
in June at Chang Yang.
The white spots forming the costal dash vary in number
from three to one ; in some specimens, where three are present,
they are very faint; and in others all the spots are entirely
absent from both surfaces.
Allied to C. ornatuSy Brem., but separable therefrom by the
absence of the silver streak on under surface of secondaries.
Cyclopides nanus, sp. n.
Fuliginous brown. Primaries have six small yellowish spots, one
discoidal, and a transverse series of five beyond, two of which occupy the
median interspace, and three near costa. Fringes of secondaries and towards
inner margin of primaries whitish, spotted with brownish. Under surface of
primaries as above, with the addition of a broad stripe of yellowish scales
along the costa, and some yellowish patches below apex : secondaries are
thickly sprinkled with yellowish, especially on the basal half, which is
divided into two parts by a dark transverse line just beyond a pale yellowish
discoidal spot, there are central and submarginal series of pale yellow
spots ; fringes as above. Expanse, 21 mm.
Seven specimens, including two examples of the female,
taken at Ichang in June. One of the females has the number of
spots in the submarginal series on under side of primaries
increased to six, by the addition of one to the costal set.
I also received specimens of this species from a native
collector at Ningpo, 1886.
Distinguished from other species of the genus by its small
size.
BizoNE cruenta, sp. n.
^ . Primaries white, with crimson markings ; a short basal transverse
line, united by a streak along the costa with one traversing the wing from
costa to inner margin, from the upper outer edge of this last line is a longi-
tudinal wedge-shaped spot, followed by two black dots, placed obliquely,
not as in B. hamata one under the other ; beyond the middle is a second
transverse line, uniting at each extremity with a broad apical and outer-
marginal border. Secondaries pale crimson, shading to white at the base.
Fringes white. Under surface of primaries : central area fuscous, with two
ill-defined but contiguous black spots ; secondaries as above. Head and
thorax pure white, collar faintly flecked with crimson.
? . Similar to the male, but on the upper surface the markings are
paler, there is no longitudinal spot before discal dots, and the border of outer
margin is not united on the costa with the preceding transverse line ; the
lower discal spot is not always clearly defined. Expanse, ^ 25 — 28 mm.,
2 24— 29 mm.
Several specimens from Chang Yang, taken in May, July,
and August ; one female example taken in July at Ichang.
The male of this species is without costal fold or pencil of
hairs.
Saturnia oberthuri, sp. n.
^ . Ground colour of all the wings deep yellow ; the discal area of
primaries occupied by a large salmon-pink patch, its upper limit being the
third median nervule, and reaching the inner margin ; a black transverse
50 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
discal bar is set in a reniform spot of a pinkish brown colour, edged
internally with black ; basal line black, irregularly wavy ; central line, from
costa to inner margin, black, and has the appearance of a series of n-marks ;
outer line double, wavy, commencing from the apex, where it is white ; it
loses itself in a large black spot, then continues in a series of symmetrical
black waves to the inner margin ; submarginal line white, straight ; apex
suffused with a pale brown cloud ; basal two-thirds of costa heavily clothed
with thick dark brown scales. Secondaries with the salmon-pink patch and
n-like central line as in primaries ; basal line curved and indistinct ; double
outer line wavy, black throughout ; white submarginal line wavy, traversing
a broad band of dull orange-brown ; discal spot very similar to that on
primaries, but larger, bordered all round with black, and the bar bordered
externally with violet-grey scales. Head yellow, collar and front of thorax
blackish brown, remainder of thorax and body golden orange. Under
surface with fainter markings ; legs chocolate-brown, banded with pink.
Expanse, 154 mm.
One male, taken near Ichang in August.
Mr. C. Oberthur, after whom I purpose naming this species,
possesses a male specimen from Cochin China.
29, Hyde Park Gate, S.W.
COLEOPTERA AT CAMBER DURING 1889.
By W. H. Bennett.
Hastings and the districts around it afford some remarkably
good hunting-grounds for the coleopterist. By far the best of
these (as far as my experience goes) is to be found near Rye, a
quaint old town of considerable interest from an archaeological
point of view.
Our business, however, is with the entomological features of
the place. Immediately on leaving the town our hunting-ground
begins. There are, at the foot of the hill on which the town
stands, some miles of flat marshy land, intersected by more or
less brackish ditches, the haunts of the Octhebii, &c. ; and a
mile or two off, near the mouth of the harbour, is a small range
of sand-hills, similar in character to the well-known Deal sand-
hills. They are not of large extent, only a mile or so in length,
and very narrow. Judging, however, from the number of special
sand-hiil species found there we may, I think, safely conclude
that at some former period they must have been much more
extensive.
The following are the best species I have taken there during
1889 : — Dyschirius salifius, plentifully, apparently associated with
Bledius unicornis and B. tricoimis, and also with Heterocerus
sericans. Dyschirius ceneus also occurred, but I could not find
any Bledii at the same place with it. In March I took two
specimens of Masoreus wetterhallii on moss, but could never find
any more ; so I suppose it is rare here. In moss, in early
spring, I found Amara bifrons (not rare), A. rufocincta (one),
COLEOPTERA AT CAMBER DURING 1889. 61
Harpalus rotundicollis, anxius, and pimcticollis, and a single
specimen of H, cordatus. Acupalpus consputus was rare by the
side of a ditch, and the only Bembidiums that were worth
mentioning were B. mannerheimi and B. varium. From the
ditches I got Hydroporus parallelogrammus (plenty), Agahus
conspersuSj Hydrobms ohlongiis, Octhehius margipallens, 0. hicolor^
and 0. ceratus in plenty, and 0. punctatus and 0. exaratus rare.
Under tidal refuse, on one occasion, 0. rufimarginatus was to be
found in the utmost profusion. It is curious that, although I
take this species every year at Camber, I have never taken a
single specimen in the water, but have invariably found them
under tidal refuse from the river.
A few very good Staphylinidge occurred. Philonthus quis-
quillarius, and var. dimidiatus, and Actohius signaticornis, under
decaying vegetable matter almost in the water ; Bledius tri-
cornis (common but very local), B. unicornis ditto, B, opacus
very sparingly. The rare B. crassicollis, hitherto only recorded
from Deal, also turned up, but in very scanty numbers, the
most determined searching only resulting in one or two speci-
mens a day. As might have been expected, Trogophloeii occurred
in numbers on the muddy sides of the ditches. T. corticinus
swarmed in the spring, and T, hilineatus and elongulatus
were both common. In carrion there occurred Homalium
riparium (one), H, fossulatu7n, and H, oxyacanthcB ; also
Aleochara algarum and A, ohscurella in numbers. On the sand-
hills I met with Anisotoma calcarata and A. duhia ; and at the
same place, in dead birds, I found Saprinus maritimus (common),
S. metallicus, and S. immundus (sparingly) ; also a fine series of
Nitidida 4-pustidata, and on one occasion I beat out of the dry
carcass of a dog Cryptophagus p)ilosus and Dermestes undulatus.
Among the Byrrhidse, Syncalypta hirsuta was not rare among
moss and stones, while on the banks of a ditch I got a nice
series of the queer Scymnus-like Limnichus pygmceus. Heterocerus
ohsoletiis was common, and H. sericans I got in numbers for the
first time, but it is very local. Helops pallidus occurred
sparingly, and deep in sand. Among the weevils I got Metallites
mavginatus (two), Hydronomus alisinatis, Bagous lutosus (one),
and B. tempestivus. This last species seems excessively local
here ; I found it at one ditch only, and there it occurred in dry
roots of grass in the utmost profusion. Some idea of the
numbers can be gathered from the fact that I counted fifty in my
paper at once after shaking a few handfuls of grass. The only
other species worth mentioning were Tanysphyrus lemnce (com-
mon), Phytohias leucogastaf Bar is t- album , Phloeophagus spadixj
and Hyperaspis reppensis.
. I have paid no attention to the Lepidoptera, but I have no
doubt many good species occur. I might mention that a few
6^ tHE ENTOMOLOGISI*.
weeks ago, in an afternoon's hunting, I got more than fifty pupas
of Gymnancycla canella,
11, George Street, Hastings.
AN ENTOMOLOGICAL TOUR ON THE TABLE-LAND OF
MOUNT ARTHUR.
By G. V. Hudson, F.E.S.
(Concluded from p. 12.)
Tuesday, January !:i4th, was occupied in collecting about
Salisbury's Opening, round the base of Gordon's Pyramid. The
sun was very hot, and nearly every tussock was enlivened by the
presence of Argyrophenga antipodum, which is pre-eminently the
butterfly of the table-land. It will be seen how widely the speci-
mens of this insect taken here differ from those from Christchurch
and the Dun Mountain, and individuals from other localities
would probably exhibit further aberrations. The number of
ocelli on the wings varies exceedingly; one specimen in my
collection has them almost completely suppressed.
Of the large Crambi, Crambus crenceus is the commonest
species, but is with difficulty distinguished from C, isochyliis on
the wing. Crambus siriellus is a finely-marked species, and a
good series can be obtained with a little perseverance ; but I
understand from Mr. Meyrick that it is by no means confined to
the alpine or subalpine regions, being found extensively on the
low-lands. The brilliant little Crambus helistes may be seen
flying about like swarms of small flies, in wet places, and is
usually very common near the track. Where it leaves the forest,
a fine species of Hepialus occurred, of which I managed to secure
four specimens in all. It is said to be only a variety of Hepialus
variolaris, a low-land insect ; but I feel almost sure that it is an
abundantly distinct species. Other species taken were Arcteuthes
chrysopeda, Notoreas paradelpha, and a curious light form of
Chrysophanus boldenaruirif which was abundant on the shingle
round the stream.
The morning of Friday, 35th, was devoted to the limestone
caves, which are often rather difficult to find, but directions can
be easily obtained from Mr. Heath, or the miners. In one of
these a very remarkable orthopterous insect occurred. I regret
to say that I was only able to obtain three male specimens. They
are extremely active, and can leap two or three feet at a time ; their
capture is consequently attended with much difficulty in a dark
cave, where one can only look about with a single candle. I much
wanted to ascertain the food of these insects, but the caves seem
devoid of any kind of fungoid vegetation, which I should imagine
TOUR ON THE TABLE-LAND OF MOUNT ARTHUR. 53
that they would be likely to eat. No Coleoptera were observed ;
and in fact the only other insect was the luminous dipterous
larva, which on examination proved identical with those found
on the banks of streams in the forest round Wellington. In the
afternoon we visited a singular gorge, chiefly remarkable for its
steep sides and a large rock at the entrance, in the middle of the
stream, somewhat resembling a sphinx in shape. This place is
well worth visiting, and can be easily found by following down
the first large stream which crosses the southern end of Salisbury's
Opening. A peculiar species of Ranunculus was abundant on the
steep sides, and many other rare looking plants. The insects
taken were numerous, comprising, amongst the Geometrina, —
Larentia chionogrammaj Cidaria purpurifera, Epyaxa semifissata^
Larentia clarata, and Boarmia productata. Of the Pyralidina,
the genus Scoparia was, as might be expected, strongly repre-
sented, the following species being taken flying about the rocks :
Scoparia philerga, S. cymatias, S. trivigata, Xeroscopa 7iiphospora,
X. cyameuta, X. rotuella, Diptychophora interrupta, CEcophora
griseata^ and many other Micro-Lepidoptera. In fact, the locality
is so productive that I devoted two other afternoons to collecting
there, and should strongly recommend any entomologist visiting
the table-land to give it his close attention.
On Sunday, January 27th, I decided to work Mount Peel and
the neighbourhood, and made an early start in the morning,
arriving on the top of the mountain at about eleven o'clock. On
our ascent, Notoreas paradelpha was common at about 4000 feet,
where a black species of Pyronota also occurred. The first snow
was met with at about 5000 feet, and shortly afterwards we again
fell in with Erebia pluto, but not so commonly as on Mount
Arthur. As, however. Mount Peel is so much better suited to
collecting, a larger and finer series was taken here than on the
former. I was also astonished to meet with the odd little
Chrysophanus boldenarum up here. The butterfly is said to
frequent river-beds in the South Island, but I am inclined to
think that it is far more widely distributed, and have seen large
numbers in the Wellington Province. A fine species of Locustidse
was also abundant on the rocks, and completely protective in its
colouring ; the same species occurred on Mount Arthur, and in
both localities the insects were quite invisible when motionless.
On returning, a visit was made to Lake Peel, where several
specimens of the alpine Cicadse (Cicada montana, Hud., MSS.
name) were secured, as well as Stathmonyma hectori, and other
interesting insects.
Monday, 28th, was devoted to setting specimens and collecting
in the gorge ; and on Tuesday we left the table-land, meeting
with three specimens of Dodonidia hehnsii on the track, all of
which were unfortunately out of reach.
54 , THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Perhaps a few notes on the low-land insects observed in this
locality may be of some interest, as showing the range of altitude
exhibited by many species. Amongst the butterflies, Vanessa
gonerilla and Chrysophanus salustius were occasionally met with
at about 3200 feet ; they did not exhibit any noticeable divergence
from the type. Agrotis nullifera was once taken at light, also
Scoparia dipthei'aliSf both being normal forms. Crambiis flexiio-
sellus, Boarmia productata, and B, melinata occurred occasionally
from 2000 to 3500 feet, but were not very common ; in all the
specimens the markings were somewhat darker than usual.
Petalura carovei, the great dragonfly of New Zealand, was very
abundant in swampy localities round Salisbury's Opening. I did
not see any specimens above 4000 feet, while the smaller Lihellula
smithii, Agrion colensonis, and A. zealaiidica were swarming almost
everywhere, extending up to the top of the mountain. The
ordinary flesh-flies {Calliphora quadrimaculata, Sarcophaga
Icemica, &.c.) were, as usual, everywhere. I noticed many speci-
mens on the top of Mount Arthur, while eating my lunch. I am
quite at a loss to understand what supports such large numbers
of these insects in such remote localities, and can only conjecture
that they are endowed with an extremely keen sense of smell,
and travel great distances in search of food.
Among Coleoptera, Pyronota f estiva was everywhere abundant,
and was perhaps slightly larger and more brilliant in colouring
than the ordinary form, although I think specifically identical.
Ceratognathus foveolatus occurred under the bark of the mountain
birch ; but, as I have before mentioned, I did not devote sufficient
time to this order to judge at all accurately of its prevalence.
An inspection of the insects taken, arranged according to the
elevation at which they occurred, will, I think, at once show that
as the mountains are ascended the Lepidoptera become decidedly
darker in colour. This has long been observed in other countries,
but I think it is interesting to be able to contribute farther
evidence from New Zealand. Respecting the cause of this
peculiar phenomenon, there seems to be little doubt that it is
owing to the low temperature existing at high altitudes, as the
same eifect has been produced artificially by retarding, by means
of an ice-house, the development of three species of European
moths [Selenia illustraria, S. illunariaj and S, alniaria), of which
Mr. Merrifield gives a most interesting account in the * Trans-
actions of the Entomological Society for 1889.' Lord Walsingham
has long ago suggested that a darker colouring or melanism is
advantageous to alpine or arctic insects, as it enables them to
absorb the sun's rays much more rapidly than if they were of a
lighter hue ; and he instances, as an example, the simultaneous
emergence of a white and a black insect from the pupa in a stormy
and cold climate, such as we have in the alpine regions. A passing
TOUR ON THE TABLE -LAND OB^ MOUNT ARTHUR. 55
gleam of sunshine would enable the black insect to dry its wings,
fly away, and propagate its species before the white one was nearly
developed, and consequently there would be a continual selection
in favour of the darkest varieties. This theory, I believe, is the true
explanation of the singular prevalence of melanic species at high
elevations, and may of course be equally well applied to those
dark varieties and species of insects which have, hitherto, been
almost invariably taken in the arctic regions. That there is a
marked tendency to a darker coloration in the Lepidoptera from
the Mount Arthur district as we ascend in altitude, I do not
think anyone can for a moment dispute, who examines the
representative collection now before the Society.
For those wishing to learn further particulars in connection
with this most interesting subject, I must refer them to the
abstract of Lord Walsingham's paper contained in the * Entomo-
logist' (Entom. xviii. 81).
In conclusion, I should like to give a very striking instance
of protective colouring, which I observed when on a previous
visit to the Table-land in 1888. While gathering some small
branches from a birch tree, I discovered a beautifully variegated
larva imitating exactly the delicate hues of the lichen-covered
twigs. After feeding on the birch leaves for a few days it spun
up, and emerged a very grey form of Declana roccoce on June 7th.
I have often seen the larva of this insect, as before mentioned
('Transactions,' N.Z., p. 190, 1888), round Wellington, where,
however, it does not in the least resemble the curious caterpillar
found on the table-land. This circumstance, I think, gives us a
hint as to the means by which alpine insects may have assumed
some of their peculiarities.
In connection with my previous visit to the table-land in
1888, I should also mention that it was three weeks later in the
year than in 1889, and I noticed great differences in the insects
observed. For instance, in February, 1888, Stathmonyma anceps
was very abundant ; Erebia pluto, scarce ; Rhyssa antipodumy one
taken and three or four seen ; Cladopais mirus, very common. In
January, 1889, 1 found S. anceps was rare, E,pluto very abundant,
and of R. antipodum and C, mirus I neither saw or captured a
single specimen. This shows that there is a rapid succession of
insect life on the mountains, which can only be properly studied
by numerous and prolonged visits of entomologists.
Wellington, New -Zealand.
56 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
ON THE OCCURRENCE OF HESPERIA LINEOLA
IN ESSEX.
By A. J. Spiller.
The discovery of Hesperia lineola as a new British butterfly
is an event of great interest to all entomologists, and in this case
there is every reason to believe that the insect, although
probably confined to one or two counties, will be found pretty
plentiful where it does occur.
During my residence in Essex in 1885-8, I frequently came
across the species referred to. In 1885 Colias edusa appeared
sparingly in clover fields, and to obtain a series I spent many
August mornings among the fragrant clover blossoms. Here I
first noticed H. lineola, and although I suspected at first that my
captures might be this species, yet their seeming abundance, and
the fact that they flew with ordinary H, thaumas, led me to dis-
regard this theory, and to accept as a solution of the problem
that they were a local variety, due probably to their occurrence
upon a chalky soil. In 1887, which was an exceedingly hot
summer, the Pieridse appeared in vast numbers in the clover-
fields, and, expecting from the great heat that C. hyale or C. edusa
would appear, I again assiduously searched the clover flowers.
Neither C. hyale nor C, edusa appeared, but H, thaumas and H.
lineola did, and in numbers that rivalled the " whites," nearly
every field in one district producing these " skippers " in abun-
dance. Still considering H. lineola to be but a local variety of
11. thaumas, I did not capture the large numbers I might have
taken, but after netting them simply selected those specimens
which had the black bar least developed, in the hope of obtaining
extreme varieties. I was particularly anxious to obtain males in
which the black bars were altogether wanting, and consequently
netted large numbers, letting those go which did not come up to
my expectation of what a variety ought to be. The species was
also plentiful in 1888.
I have now thoroughly overhauled the specimens in my
cabinet, and find that I possess sixteen H. lineola in my series of
H. thaumas. In order that no doubt may exist upon the matter,
I have forwarded a pair to the Editor of the 'Entomologist' for
identification. [The specimens are certainly referable to H,
lineola. — Ed.]
How long this butterfly has existed in Essex is a question I
feel unable to determine. But I resided in 1874—6 at Stanstead
in that county, and although in several of my entomological
peregrinations I collected within a couple of miles of the spot
where I recently found it so plentiful, yet I never met with
H. lineola there.
I may say that although its head- quarters in my district were
RHOPALOCERA IN SWITZERLAND. 67
a few miles from my late residence, yet I was in the habit of
meeting with this form all around the neighbourhood, — some-
times in clover-fields, sometimes settled on flowers in corn-fields,
and occasionally flying in grassy lanes. The time for its
appearance would be the latter half of July and the beginning of
August.
Butterflies, as a rule, are scarce in that part of Essex. In
1875 Colias edusa and C. hyale occurred plentifully, but Vanessa
polychloros is the only local species I have found in fair numbers.
Leucophasia sinapis occasionally occurs singly, likewise Thecla
w-album and L. argiolus ; and in 1887 T.quercus more frequently.
The common skippers, S. alveolus and T, tagesy are very local but
fairly abundant ; but H. sylvanus is met with everywhere with H,
thaumas. The only fritillary I met with during four seasons was
a single wandering A, paphia^ in a country lane, — most probably
a rambler from some distant wood. Even such a common species
as L, egeria seems to be non-existent . Butterflies being thus
comparatively scarce was probably the reason why I paid so much
attention to what I then considered to be a local form of H»
thaumas, but which I now know to be H. lineola.
Chinnor, Oxon, January 10, 1890.
Hesperia lineola, a description of which is given by Mr. Hawes
(Entom. 3), occurs in abundance, the first week in July, on the
marshes near Purfleet, Shoeburyness. I possess five specimens
only, but could, had I been disposed, have taken many scores
last year. — F. G. Whittle; 2, Cambridge Terrace, Lupus
Street, S.W.
RHOPALOCERA IN SWITZERLAND.
By R. S. Standen, F.E.S.
On my return to England, after an absence of six years on
the Continent, 1 have been surprised and disappointed to find
how strong a hold exclusive British Entomology still has upon
the average collector. It is natural enough that we should
treasure and make the most of insects that are unknown else-
where, but how extremely limited is the list of them. The
British Isles, as was remarked once by Mr. Bates, are but a
" half- starved fragment " of the great palaearctic realm, and it
seems to me that to limit one's researches to a small corner of a
large area is to take an extremely narrow view of an important
science.
In these days of cheap locomotion, too, it is hard to under-
stand why the young student, who has long since exhausted his
observations — for example, on the British butterfly — should not
ENTOM, — FEB, 1890, V
58 THE ENTOMOLOaiST.
burn to know something of its much more numerous congeners
on the other side of the Channel. When one thinks that in
little more than twenty-four hours one can reach the best
collecting- ground in the South of France or the Swiss Alps,
where in one day an active man may secure more species than
the whole summer through in England, it seems strange that
insular predilections should still so largely prevail. And what
proper estimate, for instance, can we form here of the true
characteristics of that alpine genus Erehia, with its meagre
quotient of two, as compared with thirty distinct species and a
vast number of varieties on the Continent of Europe alone ? Or
of our ten Lycsenidae against fifty or more on the Continent ?
For the benefit of those who are unfamiliar with the aspect
of a Swiss Valley, from the lepidopterist's point of view, in the
month of July, I may be allowed, perhaps, to recall a stroll up
one of them, net in hand, on a warm day towards the end of
that month. For most species the end of July is late, at the
lower end of a valley, but there is often consolation higher up,
where species that were ragged 2000 ft. below have here only
just emerged. Where all are so beautiful and so prolific in
insect-life, it is difficult to make a selection ; but the one of
which I have the most grateful recollections is the Visper-Thal,
off the Valley of the Ehone. A friend and I explored it together
in July, 1885- From Visp to Stalden is an easy walk of two
hours along a pretty valley, where the vine is still in cultivation ;
a noisy stream rushes over its rocky bed beneath you, and the
snowy peak of the Balfrein blocks out all further view ahead.
The only rarity I met with here was a single specimen, much
worn, of the var. lycidas of L, zephyriis. Until a year or two
previously, Berisal, on the Simplon, was the only locality for
this insect. I took two females of it also on the Gemmi in 1886.
This is one instance among many of the fact before referred to,
viz., that, other conditions being favourable, the same insect may
be found at widely varying altitudes, a difference in this particular
case of some 4000 ft.
We stayed the night at Stalden, a most picturesque old
village at the junction of the Saas and Zermatt valleys. At
6 o'clock the next morning we set out for Saas-im-Grund (5000 ft.),
a three hours' walk, but expanded by us into nearly five, by
reason of the many snares which beset our path— notably on
approaching our destination, when the sun had full possession of
the narrow valley, and species new to us were occurring at every
step — the most abundant being Polyommatus virgaiirece, flitting
dazzliDgly among patches of its namesake, the golden-rod, and
Erehia tyndariis and goante scattered generally over the meadows.
We spent five days at Saas, working each day in different
directions; but the most remunerative in species was one ou
which we walked up to Mattmark Lake (7000 ft.).
EHOPALOCERA IN SWITZERLAND. 59
In the immediate neighbourhood of the Saas Hotel five
interesting members of the Lycsenidae occur, viz., optiletCy pheretes,
orbitulus, eros, and donzeliiy the deep violet of the first and the
silvery grey of the last three being particularly striking when
seen for the first time. A little further on a group of fritillaries
enliven the scene — Melitcea maturnay phoebe, aurelia, dictynna ;
Argynnis niobe, with its var. eris, A. pales, andvar. napcea. Par-
nassius apollo also occurs here pretty abundantly ; and a little
higher up, where the valley narrows, we took quite a modest
series of P. delius, hovering gracefully along the margin of the
stream, where they appear to suck the flowers of Saxifraga
aizoides, on which also the larvae are said to feed. Here the
scenery begins to grow wilder ; huge masses of rock shoot up
above the larch, spruce, and birch, with which the slopes are
still clothed, the boulders in the river are mightier, and there is
a weird feeling of desolation ahead. We are now over 6000 ft.
above sea-level, and the alpine Erebias are at hand — mnestra,
eviasy gorge, euryale. On a barren slope, just before reaching the
lake, I took a worn specimen of the very local (Eneis a'ello,
abundant some years on the Simplon.
The approach to the Mattmarksee is almost diabolical in its
savage grandeur. A few scattered bushes of the alpine rose and
a little brushwood are the only signs of vegetation ; the narrow
pass is choked with rocks and stones, and the Allalein Glacier
forms a natural dam between the lake and the valley. From out
of it rise colossal pyramids of cleft ice sheer against the sky, and
from an ice grotto at the lower end issues the Eiver Visp. In
this wild spot, on a towering slope of loose shale — with not a
particle of vegetation visible, and where a false step meant
broken bones, if not something worse — E. glacialis was quite
abundant, with an occasional var. alecto. But collecting under
these conditions is too exciting to be agreeable, and we soon
clambered over the little rocky pass down to the shore of the
muddy lake, where a stunted kind of vegetation again appeared,
and where we again came across a few specimens of Lyccena
pheretes, orbitulus, and eros, in much finer condition than those
we took 2000 ft. lower down. Erebia lappona was also common
and fine at this spot.
There is a small inn here, where fair accommodation and
Italian wines may be had. At Saas-im-Grund also is a capital
hostelry — the Hotel du Monte Moro — where board and lodging
are only 5s. per diem ; so that a fortnight's excursion to this
valley from England may be accomplished easily and com-
fortably for from ten to twelve pounds.
I append a list of Ehopalocera, observed or taken, between
Visp and Mattmark, in the third week of July, and shall be glad
to give ic formation about other valleys and hotels to any one
desiring it.
F 2
60 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
The language of the Canton Vallais, where Visp lies, is
German, but as it adjoins a French canton many of the people
speak that language also. Kane's ' Handbook of European
Butterflies ' will be found a most useful vade niecum.
List referred to above. — P. podalirius, machaon, P. apoUo, delius,
P. brassicae, rapae, napi var. bryoniae, callidice ; L. sinapis ; C. phico-
mone ; P. virgaiireas var. zermattensis, hippothoe var. eurybia, alci-
phron, var. gordius ; L. aegon, argus, optilete, zephyrus var. lycidas,
pheretes, orbitulus, astrarche, eros, icarus, eumedon, escheri, donzelii,
minima, semiargus, arion, var. obscura ; V. urticae, io ; M. matm'na,
aurinia var. merope, phoebe, didyma, var. alpina, dictynna, athalia,
partbeiiie ; A. euphrosyne, pales, var. napaea, latonia, niobe, var. eris,
papliia, var. valesiua ; M. galatea; E. epipliron var. nelamus, me-
lampus, mnestra, ceto, evias, glacialis, var. alecto, lappona, tyndarus,
gorge, goante, ffitbiops, euryale ; (E. aello ; S. liermione ; P. moera ;
E. ianira, lycaon, hyperantbes ; C. satyrion, pampbilus ; S. carthami,
alveus ; N. tages ; H. tbaumas, Imeola, sylvanus, comma.
Framingham Earl Hall, Norwich, December, 1889.
ON THE VARIATION OF HELIOPHOBUS HISPIDUS AT
PORTLAND.
By N. M. Richardson, B.A.
I think that I can give an explanation of the confusion that
has arisen with regard to the violet tinge of Heliophobus his-
piclus at Portland. I sent to Mr. Tutt on Oct. 1st, 1888, speci-
mens taken during September, and on Oct. 15th answered a
letter of his asking about the violet tinge. It is probably a part
of this letter that he quotes (Entom. xxii. 136), and so far as I
remember I had not at that time noticed any distinct violet
tinge.
This year I found that many specimens, when alive and for
some time after death, were distinctly tinged with violet, or
perhaps more accurately pinkish -lilac, but that after a few weeks
this tinge entirely disappeared. At the present time, though I
kept for myself several strongly tinged specimens, I cannot find
a trace of this violet tinge in any of them.
Hiibner therefore probably figured the moth alive or when very
recently killed. I could not, however, say of any of the Portland
specimens, even during life, that their " pale markings were of a
delicate violet " ; on the contrary, they are very pale ochreous,
some of them being almost white : the violet is nothing more
than a tinge, far less intense than the pink colour of a fresh
specimen of Xylocampa lithoriza, and is, as I have said above,
very evanescent. It is spread over the whole of the fore wings,
but is most striking on the hind margin and fringes.
OAS-LAMl? ENTOMOLOGY. 61
With regard to the varieties of H. hispidus found at Portland,
I wish, in the first place, to correct the apparent meaning of a
quotation which Mr. Tutt makes from a letter of mine (Entom.
xxii. 137), " This (var. pallida) is a more common var. and very
pretty." As he does not give the context, it would appear that
I meant '* more common " than his var. argentea (which repre-
sents, I suppose, the commonest form at Portland), whereas I
have little doubt that I referred to a very small (1 in. S lines)
and dark var. (his var. obsoleta?), of which I have only taken two
specimens, one a good specimen of the extreme form, and one a
bad specimen somewhat resembling it, which is the one I sent to
Mr. Tutt. I have seen no others just like these two specimens,
which differ from the ordinary form in being smaller, darker, and
having less distinct though similar markings. All the other
Portland specimens that I have seen resemble each other in the
general style of their markings and in size (about 1 in. 5 lines),
but vary a good deal in the shade of their ground colour, from
very pale greyish brown to almost black. There is, as Mr. South
says (Entom. xxii. 282), very little variation in the arrangement
of the markings.
Between these two extremes there is every intermediate form,
and it would be impossible to make any line of division, as a
graduated series could be arranged in which the differences
between consecutive specimens would be almost imperceptible.
The bulk of the specimens are neither very dark nor very light,
but the very light ones are commoner than the very dark ones.
I have seen nothing that can be called a variety amongst the
females ; they vary a little in size, but are far more constant in
shade of ground colour than the males, and never very light or
very dark ; they are much less handsome than the males, and of
a less graceful shape.
I do not possess any Torquay specimens, so cannot un-
fortunately compare them with those from Portland.
Montevideo, near Weymouth, Dec. 21st, 1889.
GAS-LAMP ENTOMOLOGY.
By J. Akkle,
i
Why a moth should rush to a street-lamp, and decline to
waste its energies in a straight course for the moon, — wliy, in
other words, the insect should be attracted by artificial light, and
shun that which is natural, — is a matter that has exercised the
minds of philosoj^hers, ancient and modern. Between the moral
drawn from the question by the early Greek, and the speculation
of the latter-day scientist, one thing to the entomologist is
certain, that by taking moths " at light" he can add captures to
6j tHE ENtOMOtOfilST.
his collection which otherwise he might seldom, if ever, make.
Among the methods of taking moths at light, these observations
will be confined to the working of gas-lamps, to a method
followed by me for years, and, lastly, with reference to captures
made personally, with the exception of a solitary insect.
Perhaps our best hunting-ground here is a lonely road
about half a mile south of the city. Along one side stretches a
plantation of miscellaneous trees and undergrowth, chiefly oak ;
on the other is a footway, with lamps two hundred yards apart.
Beyond this open fields stretch away into the country. A
hawthorn hedge bounds the road on either side.
I rarely take a net, my only apparatus being a cj^anide bottle
— the cyanide (of potassium) being covered by a layer of cotton-
wool— and a twelve-foot ladder, taken close by a few silent
friends from a neighbouring graveyard. The bottle is an
ordinary pomade-bottle ; it fits the waistcoat-pocket, and so,
with the aid of* the cotton-wool, prevents the insects from rolling
about. The ladder I prefer to all other appliances, because the
outside, inside, and framework of the lamps can be examined.
Again, the use of the ladder enables the entomologist to work
with little interruption, the collector being taken as a rule for
a "gas-man." Nevertheless, the night is sometimes varied by
incidents more or less amusing. You become " a character well-
known to the police " ; nay, it is likely enough that the stalwart
officer on the beat, in spiked helmet and greatcoat, may assist in
" running in " — to the cyanide bottle — a refractory insect.
Many moths, not even singed by the flame, rest inside the
lamps ; many of course on the glass outside ; but others, such
as Poecilocampa populi and Asteroscopus sphinx {cassinea), lie
close to the framework inside, outside, and under the lamp, so
that they are invisible to a spectator on the footway. Again, a
female, finding herself imprisoned, will often deposit her eggs in
the lamp, or she may be captured, taken home, and made use of
for breeding purposes. All this can be best effected by means of
a ladder. I have carried mine, to be modest, one hundred miles.
It is well to have in one's pocket two or three chip-boxes to
accommodate eggs or females. My only companion, in nine
cases out of ten, is a trusted stick.
All moths are not equally attracted by the lamps. I never
took a single hawk-moth, or a Tceniocampa, although the latter
might be swarming on the sallows near. P. populi comes well to
lamps ; not so Eriogaster lanestris, its near relative. Up to 1889
I had only one record of Plusia gamma, when in that year the
insect changed its character and became a nuisance. I never
took a Dicranura vinula. But my experience goes to show that
the great majority of moths, males chiefly, come to lamps, and
more especially the Geometers. Among the latter, Hyherniay
(3^AS-LAMP ENTOMOLOGY. 63
Cidaria^ and the " Thorns " are especially conspicuous. Arctia
caia, Spilosoma luhricipeda, and S, menthastri are always certain
to come in their season by the dozen. I helped an A. caia one
night no less than three times out of my net, and over the hedge,
until it returned a fourth time and fell a victim to a bat.
A, fiiliginosa I never even saw. Hepialus humuli rarely allows
itself to be trapped, although dancing over the grass by the
dozen ; and H. lupulinus never, though equally common.
The best nights for lamp-hunting are those that are warm,
dark, and still. Insects are very sensitive to temperature,
therefore a thermometer below 50° F., marks a paucity of sport.
Few moths, if any, will be abroad in moon or starlight. A strong
wind is equally unfavourable. If the weather-vane points at all
to the east, the entomologist may certainly rest indoors.
I have always observed two chief flights of moths in a night.
With the dusk appear the Geometers; these are afterwards
followed by the Noctuas ; and this flight goes on till eight
o'clock. After an apparent rest of a couple of hours, the second
flight begins at ten, with diminished Geometers but increased
Noctuas, and continues till midnight. The entomologist may
then turn in and empty his cyanide bottle. He should have in
readiness a large wide-mouthed pickle bottle, half-filled with
chopped and bruised laurel leaves. On the top of the leaves,
which should be well pressed down, a piece of perforated card
should be placed, and fitting the bottle. On this the insects may
be laid, when they will remain perfectly natural and relaxed for
a week or more. Moths of a green colour, like the Emeralds,
should be set at once ; in fact, they should be removed from the
cyanide bottle as soon as killed, pinned into a pocket-box, and
set on reaching home. This is the secret in preserving the
exquisite tint of an insect like Geometra papilionaria.
The entomologist at the top of his ladder on a favourable
night looks into a veritable insect world. Thousands of gnats,
many in their last struggles for existence, cover the bottom
of the lamp. These gnats, when seen on the wing at the
approach of dusk, are sure harbingers of successful sport. If it
be the month of August, half a dozen Noctuas may be inside,
sullen and quiet. A beetle or two, with numerous earwigs and
three or four Geometers, swell the company. Some of the
lepidopterous insects are scorched by the flame, but the greater
proportion are fit for the cabinet. The whitish eggs on the glass
inside are probably those of Luperina cespitis. Outside there will
be more earwigs, a G. papilionaria if birches are in the neigh-
bourhood, Noctuas, more Geometers ; and all these, as a rule,
will be as fresh as if straight from the chrysalis. Spiders are
feasting busily on the dying gnats, and a bat flies up and down
and about, taking, the meanwhile, a liberal tithe. The great pest
64 THfi ENTOMOLOGiS*.
to the collector is a red ichneumon ; a friend labels it, with a
query, Ophion. This insect is a little larger than a wasp, and
possesses a sharp and down-curved sting or ovipositor, which it
can use in a very unpleasant manner. I have often small lumps
the size of a pea, and more, raised on the back of my hands by
these creatures, although the pain is by no means equal to the
sting of a wasp or bee. The ichneumon gets into the lamps, or
buzzes outside by the dozen, and seems to angrily resent all
intrusion. The whole scene reminds one of the early Greek and his
moral, viz., that these seductive lights are as fatal to the insect
tribes as the sinful pleasures of this world are to women and to
men. I will now append a list of Chester captures. Those
marked with an asterisk are rare : —
January. — Cheimatohia brumata, Hybemia defoliaria, Phigalia pedaria,
( pilosaria).
February. — H. rupicaprcria, H. marginaria (progemmaria), P.
pedaria,
March. — Selenia bilunaria {illunaria), P. pedaria, Anticlea badiata,
Anisopteryx ascularia, H. rupicapraria, H. marginaria^ Eupithecia abbre-
viata.
April. — 8. bilunaria, H. marginaria, A. mscularia, A. badiata, Triphosa
dubitata.
May. — 8, bilunaria, A. badiata, Melanip]^ fluctuata, Cidaria suffiimata,
June. — A. badiata, Coremia unidentaria, Melanippe montanata, M,
fluctuata, Timandra amataria, Camptogramma bilineata, Cabera pusaria,
Acidalia aversata with var. remutata, Rumia luteolata (cratcegata), Caradrina
quadripunctata (cubicularis), Arctia menthastri, A. lubricipeda, TriphcBna
jnonuba, Agrotis exclamationis, A. segetum, Leucania comma, Scapula
olivalis.
July. — Phorodesma pmtulata->' (bajularia), by Mr. J. Lyon Denson,
Chester; Uropteryx sambucaria, A. aversata with var., A. inornata, C.
exanthemata, Geometra papilionaria. Abraxas grossulariata, S. illunaria
var. juliaria, Cidaria fulvata, Metrocampa margaritaria, lodis lactearia,
Camptogramma bilineata, Phibalapteryx vittata (lignata), Arctia caia, Liparis
similis (auriflua), L. pallens, L. conigera,^^' Noctua augur,-'^ N. plecta,
Mamestra brassiccB, M. anceps,^ Xylophasia mofioglypha (polyodon), Gram-
mesia trigrammica^- var. bilinea, C. morpheus. C. alsines,'^ Lvperina cespitis,
Plusia gamma, P. iota,^^' Hepialis humuli (?), Ebulea sambucalis, Perinephele
lancealis, (Edematophorus lithodactylus, Scopula prunalis, 8. lutealis,
Zanclognatlia tarsipennalis, Diiirnea fagella, Lemnatophila phryganella,
Tortrix vlburnana, T. rosana, Teras contaminana, Platyptilia gonodactyla,
Crambus tristellus.
August. — G.papilionaria, Pseudoterpna pruinata {cytisaria), Hypsipetes
sordidata [elutata], the dark form ; A. grossulariata, Epione apiciaria, Cro-
callis elinguaria, Eugonia alniaria [tiliaria), Cidaria truncata [russata),
Coremia unidentaria, C. designata {propugnata), M. fluctuata, C. pumria,
Eubolia Umitata [mensuraiia], E. cervinata, Boarmia repandata, T. dubitata,
C. aversata, 8. illunaria var. juliaria, Halia vauaria (wavaria), Neuronia
popularis, L. testacea, Noctua rubi, L. cespitis, L. pallens, A. caia. Audio-
celis lunosa, Orthosia lota, Calymniapyralina,'^ C trapezina, Bryophila perla
NOTES, CAPTUHES, ETC. 65
(a very diminutive form), Triphcena ianthina, T. orbona, T. pronuha, P
gamma, Ccenobia rufa^ L. gueneei,* Rhacodia caudaiia, Conchylis straminea,
Scoparia truncicolella, Tortricodes hyemana, Faraponyx stratiotalis, Botys
ruralis {verticalis).
September. — E. alniaria; C. truncata, vara, centum-notata, comma-
notata, perfuscata; C. immanata and var. marmorata/r M. fluctuata, E.
apiciaria, C. testata, Hydrcecia micaceaj A. pistacina, A. lunosa, Xanthia
fulvago {cerago), X, flavago, X. citrago, Nonagria arundinis (typhcs), Girr-
hcedia xerampelina,* Amphipyra tragopogonis, L. simills.
October. — Oporabia diliUata, Himera pennaria, C. miata,'^' A. pista-
cina, Diloba cmruleocephala, Hydrcecia nictitansj Scopelosoma satellitia,
0. lota.
November. — 0. dilutata, H. pennaria, C. vdata,^' Hybernia defoliaria
(four well-marked forms), C. brumata, 0. lota, 0. macilenta, Pcecilocampa
populi, D. cceruleocephala, Xylina ornithopus (rhizoUtha),^ S. satellitia,
Asteroscopus sphinx->' (cassinea).
December.— C. brumata, H. defoliaria, 8. satellitia, P. populi,
2, George Street, Chester.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
On the Need of the Revival of the * Entomologists' Annual' —
In a short notice of vols. ix. and x. of the ' Proceedings of the Dorset
Natural History and Antiquarian Field Club '(Entom. 24), a remark is made
on the need of the collation and indexing of the proceedings of the various
local and metropolitan scientific clubs or societies. This undeniable want
appears to me to have been, practically, the very one so ably met for many
years by Mr. Stainton and others, in the • Entomologist's Annual,' which
has now been defunct for sixteen years. Would it not be practicable for a
conclave of our working entomologists to collate the various papers and
notes pubHshed in the different journals since the ' Annual' disappeared,
and publish the results, with such plates as could be afforded ; and then to
continue the work year by year? It can hardly be doubted but that
subscriptions or contributions would be obtainable to supplement the
deficit, if any, of the funds needed to bring out such a work : that is, sup-
posing the sale by itself did not suffice. I have never, myself, ceased to
regret the disappearance of that prime necessary to working entomologists,
the annual yellow volume; and I feel sure a very large number of
us would gladly aid in its resuscitation. Will not some of our leading
entomologists move in the matter? — (Rev.) 0. P. Cambridge; Bloxworth
Rectory, January 11, 1890.
Hesperia lineola, Ochs. — In his record (Entom. 3), of the interesting
discovery of Hesperia lineola as a British butterfly, Mr. F. W. Hawes
seems to indicate that there is some divergence of opinion as to the specific
distinctness of H. lineola and H. thaumas. Besides the rather slight but
constant colour differences, there are also structural differences between the
two species. These are shown in the genital armature of the males. It is
impossible to give in words a good idea of this structure, but in the
• Transactions 'of the Linnean Society, Second Series, Zoology, vol. i., pi.
Ivii. figs. 26 and 27, will be found illustrations of the parts. — F. Buchanan
White.
66 l-fiE -B^^HoUotOGist*
Note on Cidaria immanata froim: Iceland. — After careful examina-
tion of the specimens of Cidaria that I captured in Iceland during July
and August, 1889, Mr. South arrived at the conclusion that all are referable
to Cidaria immanata, and none to the closely aUied C. truncata (russata).
By far the larger proportion of the specimens of C. immanata were taken
at Arnefjord, Dyrafjord, and Onundafjord, on the west coast of Iceland, July
30th and 31st, and the greater number belong either to the dark typical
form, or to the reddish one so common at Rannoch. The Rannoch form,
so far as my observation went, is, on the whole, the most abundant, though
typical C. immanata is widely distributed, occurring at Saudarkrok and
Akureyri on the north, and Eskefjord on the east coast. I only captured
five specimens of C. immanata at Reykjavik, and these were all of the
Rannoch form. Its comparative scarcity in the neighbourhood of the
capital may be attributed to the fact that it was then (July 26th), only
beginning to emerge from the chrysalis. Its scarcity at Isaflord, on the
west coast, and at all the fjords on the north and east coasts (^after it had
appeared in plenty elsewhere), can hardly be assigned to the supposition of
its disappearance at so early a date as the first week of August ; it is far
more reasonable to suppose that the higher latitude of some districts, and
the more Alpine character of other regions, or both causes combined,
account for its absence or scanty appearance. It is perfectly true, that as
I landed at thirteen fjords where no previous visit of any entomologist has
been recorded, to my knowledge, I had no means of knowing the best
locality for insects during the one or two hours or one day that I was en-
abled to spend there ; but, on the other hand, it must be borne in mind
that at certain of these fjords above-mentioned Geometridse were easily dis-
covered, occurred in plenty, and very near the landing-place, and also that
my experience of the rarity of moths at Siglufjord tallies with that of
Finsterwalden in 1856, this being the only place adjacent to the Arctic
Ocean that was similarly surveyed by the German Expedition of that year.
Var. marmorata, among the Iceland specimens, is somewhat sparingly
represented. Of the form of marmorata in which the reddish tint is
suffused over the whole of the fore wings, instead of being confined to
the base and extremities, as in the ordinary type of this var., there are
Only two specimens, and these are from Dyrafjord. There is also one spe-
cimen of '^ pytlionissata " of MilHere, from Arnefjord. As regards Icelandic
varieties, I took two specimens of this moth, shortly before leaving Reykjavik,
that I named ** cjornensis,'' as found in the sloping meadows above " cjorn,"
or the lake in rear of the cathedral, but which I found to have been
previously discovered by Staudinger, and by him named " thingvallata,'^
from Thingvellir, the place of its capture. The name cjornensis may,
however, possibly be allowed to stand, in reference to an intermediate form
between the ordinary marmorata and the thingvallata of Staudinger, of
which I also took two specimens, one above the cjorn or lake, and the other
a few days later, at Dyrafjord. It is remarkable that this last var. exactly
corresponds to one in Mr. South 's collection, taken at York. — (Rev.) F. A.
Walker, D.D.
Sugaring. — My own experience quite agrees with all that has been
written recently, respecting the comparative failure of sugar in attracting
Lepidoptera. I think the subject of interest, and should like to see the
opinions of experienced collectors as to the cause of this unproductiveness,
which has been noticed by so many. Somewhat indifferent health has
NOTfiS, CAPTURES, ETC. 67
necessitated my confining my sugaring-grounds to the trees surrounding
our house, and in our own neighbour's garden. There is a tolerably good
variety, comprising elm, lime, poplar, willow [Salix alba), with hedges of
hawthorn and blackthorn. In some years my sugar-patches rendered a
good return of moths, my captures numbering about fifty different species.
Now, for three or four years past, night after night, sugaring has been almost
of no avail. Can it be a case of inherited instinct? and are the rising gene-
rations of moths getting too wise to be trapped by the sugaring baits?
The evolutionists tell us many wonderful stories ; can they help us to
arrive at some conclusion in this instance? Why is it that certain species
of Lepidoptera are so rare ? Is it to be attributed to the female laying but
a limited number of eggs, to a delicate constitution in the larva and pupa,
to more than ordinarily persistent attacks from ichneumon flies and other
enemies, or, more probably, from a want of knowledge of the habits
of these species ? In the year 1878 I had the good fortune to capture at
sugar the specimen of Leucania alhipuncta mentioned in my list. The
late Mr. Buckler was very anxious to obtain ova, and asked me to do my
best in procuring some for him. In company with a friend, I have yearly
made a strict search in hope of finding another, but without success.
Again, in the case of Laphygma exigua, taken here in a clover-field by my
brother last year ; although we tramped the same field day after day, over
and over again, both last year and this, not another was to be seen. It is
easier to understand why some insects should be local; this may arise
from the food-plants being confined to definite areas ; but why a moth,
capable, I should suppose, of by no means a long-sustained flight, such as
these two species, should turn up only here and there singly, remains to me
inexplicable. We cannot, I think, conceive that these, like the swift and
strong-winged Sphingidse, which perhaps often are so, are immigrants from
distant lands ; there can be little doubt of their being " true-born Britons ";
and it seems to me likely that many species are rare, mainly on account of
some particular and curious habit of concealment of which we are not
cognisant. — Joseph Anderson, Jun. ; Chichester.
Sugaring seems to have been rather a failure this season in most
places ; but in South Devon, where I was staying early in September, I
found it by no means unproductive. Some twelve common species of
KoctusB were abundant, while a few specimens turned up of Noctua
glareosa, &c., and one each of Thyatira batis, Hydrcecia micacea, Noctua
umbrosa, and Luper'ma cespitis. A few common Geometridae, such as
Cidaria truncata and Larentia viridaria, also came to the sugared patches.
All these w^ere taken from six or eight trees skirting the north-west side of
a wood. The moon was shining during each of the six nights that I
sugared, which were for the most part cloudless. — K. M. Prideaux;
9> Vyvyan Terrace, Clifton, Bristol.
Forcing pdp^ of D. galii.— In the * Entomologist,' xxii. p. 202, I
read the words, " By all means force your galii pupje." Not being the
fortunate possessor of galii in pupae at the time, I obtained three, as much
for the experiment as otherwise. I commenced forcing under the direc-
tions given by Mr. J. Arkle, placing my pupae under a glass, beneath
which I placed a small thermometer, keeping the whole near a fire. The
highest temperature reached 120° Fahr., the lowest 40°. I placed ray
three pupae beneath the glass on Nov. 11th, and on Dec. 15th the first
emergence took place, the second on the 26th, the third on the 30th of the
68 TflE ENTOMOLdGlST*
same month. Free and frequent damping with tepid water is one of the
most essential things connected with forcing pupae. I am of opinion
drjmess is far more fatal than heat. — T. Walpolk ; 9, Dudley Terrace,
New Somerby, Grantham, January 6, 1890.
Lepidoptera in 1889. —
New Forest. — On July 15th last I arrived at Brockenhurst to spend
the two succeeding days collecting Lepidoptera. The following were among
my observations : — Apatura iris : I captured a fine female, the only one I
saw during my short stay. It was resting with outspread wings upon the
wet ground in the shade, undoubtedly beaten from the oaken foliage overhead
by the torrents of rain that fell during the night and early morning ; it
being still quite early in the day when I found it. Limenitis sibylla was
fairly plentiful, but mostly in worn condition. Argynnis paphia, plentiful
and in very fine condition : T took one male with a pale yellow spot on each
of the primaries, and a female with two straw-coloured spots on each
primary ; T secured ten of the var. valesina, all except one being in the
finest condition ; eight of these I took on the 17th. Considering A. paphia
was not so abundant as usual, valesina was out in large proportion. In a
low-lying part of the Forest, where the wild gladiolus grows, many species
of Diptera swarm, such as the great Tahanus bovinus, and the tormenting
blood-drinking Hcematopota pluvialis, whose bite is only too well known.
In this particular spot I noticed A. paphia, especially the females, were all
in the most perfect condition and in great numbers ; it was here, too, where
I found the beautiful Calopteryx virgo. Argynnis aglaia I found very
abundant on a rough grassy opening, settling on the thistle bloom. 1 took
a fine series (but mostly males) in a few minutes. A. adippe appeared very
scarce ; I noticed only two or three, and they were much worn. Lyccena
agon was out in abundance ; some of the males were of large size. Satyrus
semele I found just out on the wing; males in plenty, but one female only.
Lithosia quadra : 1 took but one specimen, a female, at rest on the trunk
of the knight-wood oak. Vanessa polychloros : not one specimen seen, and
I heard of none being taken this year in the Forest. It is now many years
since I had the pleasure of taking this fine insect ; in the years of 1872-3
it absolutely swarmed in South Suffolk, since which time I have taken but
one solitary specimen, and this was at rest on palings in the Croydon
district in 1874.— F. W. Fkohawk; October, 1889.
Rotherham. — In this district the year 1889 opened with cold winds
and much wet, the insects usually appearing in February and March being
much behind time, and the season did not fairly commence before April.
Larvae searching during April was not a success as compared with 1888,
when the abundance of several species was remarkable, although T. fimbria
was fairly plentiful if well searched for on the docks and low herbage. At
the end of April and first week in May the sallows were in bloom, and I
found plenty of work, insects being abundant ; but owing to the difficulty
of getting at the sallows, many of them being in the thick brush, a patch
of trees were sugared in the hope that we might be fortunate in taking a few
stragglers. I was very agreeably surprised to find that, notwithstanding the
close proximity of the sallows, a number of Taeniocampidae visited the
sugar, including P. leucographa, P. ruhricosa, T. munda, and T. populeti,
as well as other insects, hybernated S. satellitia and C. vaccinii being very
abundant. During the first half of May very few visits to the woods were
made, the weather being wet and cold, and towards the latter end of the
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 69
month there was a very heavy thunderstorm, accompanied with hail, which
had the effect of beating a great number of larvae from the trees, — some
never to get up again : this was plainly evident in the case of T. w-alhum,
for when we worked the elms, on several occasions in vain, a few pupae only
were taken from the low bushes and ground herbage later on. During June
sugaring was persistently carried on two and three times weekly, with
results almost nil; from the 9th of the month to well into July no rain
fell; the nights were remarkably still with heavy dew; no insects came to
sugar, although plenty were flying ; the low bushes and ground herbage
were covered with a sweet sticky substance, which proved a successful
counter attraction to our sweets. Larva beating was usually carried ou
after the sugaring, commencing just before daybreak, and, to make up for
disappointment in the matter of imagos, larvae were fairly plentiful, — that
of C. flavicornis, though difficult to beat daring the daytime, now comes
down quite easily ; in addition to that insect B. parthenias was plentiful ; a
few G.papillonarla; also P. populi, N, hispldaria, and G.paleacea (fulvago),
Bjtli these last are new to the district, the latter especially so, as I am
assured by an eminent Yorkshire entomologist that before it turned up here
in 1888 only two specimens are recorded for this county. The larva of D.
bifida has not shown up at all, and I only saw two or three of N. dictaa,
N. dlctaoides, and N. droniedarius. N. ziczac was fairly plentiful ; but the
pretty little L. halterata, usually abundant most years, has been exceedingly
scarce. — John N. Young ; 85, Fitzwilliam Road, Rotherham.
Monmouthshire. — iVt the beginning of August, 1889, Argynnis paphia
was extremely abundant along the banks of the Wye ; there were literally
thousands to be seen in the course of a walk, in splendid condition. A.
adippe was also present, though not in the same abundance as A. paphia;
but I did not see any specimens of A. aglaia. I took several of Vanessa
c-album in fine condition. I also took two specimens of Thecla w-alhum^
and saw others. There were a few Thecla guercus about, though these were
not by any means plentiful. Several of the commoner butterflies were
conspicuously absent: thus I saw none of the genus Lyccena, and no
Hesperidae. The only moth I captured was a solitary specimen of Angerona
prunaria. I saw great numbers of larvae of Euchelia jacobcea on the
ragwort, and succeeded in rearing some of them. I found also many troops
of young larvae of Bombyx quercus : they were nearJy all attacked by a
kind of slug, owing probably to the wet summer. The most abundant
insects in the locality were certainly Argynnis paphia and A. adippe. I
noticed that all the Lepidoptera seemed much attracted to the banks of the
river. — G. L. Patten.
CoLiAS EDusA IN 1889 : Additional Record — Yorkshire. — I saw
on the 5th Sept., 1889, a fine male specimen, whilst driving near to Bishop
Wood, on the Selby and York road. — Samuel Walker; 75, Union
Terrace, York, January 4, 1890.
ACHKRONTIA ATROPOS IN 1889 I AN ADDITIONAL ReCORD —SOMERSET-
SHIRE.— To the list in the * Entomologist ' of locaUties in which Ache-
rontia atropos appeared last season, I can add Clevedon, Somersetshire.
Several larvas and pupae having been found, a friend, — a very careful col-
lector,— was successful in rearing many imagines. All his pupae were
placed on the top of earth covered with a thick layer of moss, which
was kept very damp. The box with the pupae was placed against a
70 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
wall at the back of the kitchen range, so that the heat coming through the
wall, kept up a warm temperature. The imagines commenced to emerge
at the time they usually do in the natural state. — T. B. Jefferys ; Bland-
ford, January 6, 1890.
Sphinx convolvuli in 1889: additional recced, Sussex. — A
specimen was taken at the head of the old pier here in September,
apparently attracted by a gas-light. The length of the pier is 1130
feet, and surely an exceptional place to find this insect ? — Louis Meaden ;
15, Elm Grove, Brighton.
Entomology of Holland and Belgium. — I should be glad if any
readers of the ' Entomologist ' could give me the names of publications
containing information respecting the above, especially relating to the
Forest of Ardennes ; also where I may obtain a list of the butterflies of
the above-mentioned countries. — W. H. Bath; Lady wood, Birmingham.
Erratum. — In my " Notes on Agrotis ashivorthii,'' in January number,
the bottom line on page G should read " the back of each segment two
oblong marks of intense," &c. — Willoughby Gardner.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — January 15, 1890, the 57th
Annual Meeting. — The Right Honble. Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S.,
President, in the chair. An abstract of the Treasurer's accounts, showing
that the finances of the Society were in a thoroughly satisfactory con-
dition, was read by Dr. Sharp, one of the Auditors. The Secretary
then read the Report of the Council, from which it appeared
that the Society had lost during the year several Fellows by death
and had elected 24 new Fellows ; that the volume of Transactions
for the year extended to nearly 600 pages, and comprised 23 memoirs,
contributed by 20 authors and illustrated by 17 plates ; and that
the sale of the Society's Transactions and other publications is
on the increase. It was then announced that the following gentle-
men had been elected as Officers and Council for 1890 : — President,
The Right Honble. Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S. ; Treasurer, Mr.
Edward Saunders, F.L.S. ; Secretaries, Mr. Herbert Goss, F.L.S.,
and the Rev. Canon Fowler, M.A., F.L.S. ; Librarian, Mr. Ferdinand
Grut, F.L.S. ; and as other Members of Council, Mr. J. W. Dunning,
M.A., F.L.S., Captain H. J. Elwes, F.L.S., Mr. F. DuCane Godman,
M.A., F.R.S., Dr. P. B. Mason, F.L.S., Prof. R. Meldola, F.R.S.,
Mr. R. South, Mr. Henry T. Stainton, F.R.S., and Mr. Roland
Trimen, F.R.S. Lord Walsingham nominated Mr. J. W. Dunning,
Captain Elwes and Mr. F. DuCane Godman, Vice-Presidents for the
Session 1890 — 1891, and he then delivered an Address. After
remarking on the attractive beauty of some of the larger diurnal
Lepidoptera, and the brilliant metallic colouring of certain species of
Coleoptera, the influence that such magnificent examples of the
wealth of design in Nature might have upon artistic taste, and the
consei^uent refinement and increased enjoyment of life, Lord Walsing-
SOCIETIES. 71
ham referred, in illustration of the practical usefulness of entomo-
logical studies, to the successful importation into California of the
Australian parasites infesting the scale insect [leery a purchasi), which
had proved so noxious to the orange plantations. Through the
efforts of Prof. Riley, upwards of 10,000 parasites had been dis-
tributed and had since spread very widely, so that in many localities
the orange and other trees hitherto thickly infested with this noxious
insect had been practically cleared of it by their aid; he also
referred to the successful fertilisation of red clover in New Zealand
by the importation of impregnated queens of the common humble-
bee, and to the uses to which the silk produced by various
exotic species of Bombycidae had now been successfully applied.
Reference was then made to the investigation instituted by Mr.
Francis Galton, and to the experiments of Mr. F. Merrifield, with the
view of determining the percentage of hereditary transmission to
successive offspring by different generations of successors, and to the
valuable auxiliary such experiments and the researches of Professor
Weismann, Mr. Poulton, and others might prove to the study of
the laws of heredity, protective resemblance, and natural selection.
It was then observed that even if the study of Entomology could
claim to have conferred no greater benefits upon the human race
than to have afforded to many members of our urban population
an inducement to improve their minds and recreate their bodies,
it would have contributed in no small degree to the sum of human
health, happiness, and morality ; in connection with these remarks
he quoted the words of the Abbe Umhang in his obituary notice
of Henri de Peyerimhoff, *' J'ai connu plus d'un jeune homme
qui s'est passionne pour une branche de Thistoire naturelle, et je n'en
ai vu aucun s'ecarter du chemin de la vertu et de I'honneur." Atten-
tion was then drawn to the enormous numbers of species of Insecta
as compared with the numbers of species of other orders of the
Animal Kingdom, and an approximate estimate was made of the extent
of the field of Entomology, and of its relation to other branches of
biological study. In connection with the subject of the principal
works in Entomology continued or completed during the year, special
mention was made of the ' Biologia Central! Americana,' by Messrs.
Godman and Salvin, and the * Revisio Insectorum FamilisB Manti-
darum,' by Professor Westwood. In conclusion, Lord Walsingham
referred to the losses by death during the past year of several Fellows
of the Society and other entomologists, mention being made of Mr. F.
Bond, Dr. Signoret, Mons. Puis, Colonel C. J. Cox, Pastor Holmgren,
Dr. Franz Low, Dr. Karl Venus, and the Rev. J. G. Wood. A vote of
thanks to the President for his services during the year and for his
address was proposed by Mr. H. T. Stainton, seconded by Prof.
Meldola, and carried. Mr. Elwes then proposed a vote of thanks to
the other officers of the Society, which was seconded by Dr. Sharp
and carried. Lord Walsingham, Mr. Goss, Canon Fowler, and
Mr. Grut replied. — H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
— December 12i/t, 1889. T. R. Billups, President, in the chair. Mr.
73 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
A. Beaumont, of Lewisham, was elected a member. Mr. E. Adkin
exhibited very strongly marked specimens of Peronea sponsana, from
the New Forest. Mr. South remarked that nearly all the examples of
this species he had taken at Haslemere were of this form, although the
markings were not quite so dark. Mr. Barrett said that he had had
considerable experience of collecting at Haslemere, but had never met
with this form, which was evidently a local race. Mr. Tugwell
exhibited pale grey specimens of TcBniocampa gracilis from the London
district, and reddish examples of the same species from the New
Forest. Mr. Ince, a large collection of spiders from Switzerland.
Mr. Carpenter, varieties of Hyhernia defoliana. The Secretary read a
note from Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell, upon " The Colours Bed and
Yellow," and Mr. South made some observations thereon.
January 9th, 1890. — The President in the chair. Messrs. F. H.
Atkinson, of Pimlico ; C. F. Johnson, of Highbury ; and F. Grover,
of Westminster, were elected members. Mr. Hawes exhibited
specimens of Hesperia lineola, and remarked that he first met with this
species flying with H. thaumas, and was of opinion that H. lineola
appeared when U. thaumas began to get worn. Mr. Carrington also
showed examples of H. lineola, taken by himself about twenty miles
from where Mr. Hawes captured his. Mr. Weir exhibited Continental
examples of H. lineola, also a specimen which he had taken many years ago,
but was not certain whether in Kent or Sussex, and an example of H.
thaumas from Sussex, which bore a very close resemblance to H. lineola,
Mr. South exhibited the specimens of Peronea sponsana from Hasle-
mere, referred to at the last meeting, and made some observations on
the named varieties of this species. Mr. R. Adkin, a short series of
Nepticula fulgens, received from Mr. Vine, of Brighton. Mr. Car-
rington, an example of a butterfly which had been sent to him for
identification, and was stated to have been captured in England, the
species being Syrichthus andromedce. Mr. Billups, Andrena nigro-cena
and its internal parasite Stylops, taken at Dulwich, 1889 ; and on
behalf of Mr. Bennett, of Hastings, a living series of Andrena clarkella
and its rare parasite Nomada borealis, taken from its nidus, on the 6th
of the month, at Hastings. A communication was read from Mr.
Strong relating to an immense swarm of moths at Williamstown
about the end of October last. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
Lancashire and Cheshire Entomological Society. — The annual
meeting of this Society was held on January 13th, in the Free
Library, William Brown Street, Liverpool. The President, Mr. S. J.
Capper, F.L.S., delivered an address, in which, among other matters
of interest to entomologists, brief reference was made to the history of
the Society since its foundation in 1877. The inaugural meeting was
held at Mr. Capper's house, at Huyton Park ; the original members
were eleven in number ; and the first President has been re-elected,
year by year, up to date. Meetings are held on the second Monday
in each month, and entomological visitors will be sure of a cordial
welcome.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIIL] MARCH, 1890. [No. 822.
THE EVOLUTION OF INSECT-GALLS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
Prof. G. J. Eomanes, in ^ Nature,' November, 1889, p. 80, has
a letter on the subject of galls. After quoting Mr. Mivart's
remarks on the "disinterested" nature of galls, he himself also
says that he has always considered gall-formation *' one of the most
important facts in organic nature with reference to the theory of
natural selection ;" and this because it is " the one and only case
in the whole range of organic nature where it can be truly said
that we have unequivocal evidence of a structure occurring in
one species [the plant] for the exclusive benefit of another"
[the gall-insect].
The assumption then is that the various forms of galls are
formed solely, and have been evolved only, for the benefit of the
gall-insects themselves, a phenomenon which Prof. Romanes justly
regards as very exceptional. But the exception seems to me to
be only apparent and not real.
Let us consider the probable phases in the evolution of galls.
Doubtless there were internal plant-feeding larvae before there
were galls ; and, indeed, we have geological evidence that boring
insects date very far back indeed. The primitive internal
feeders, then, were miners in the roots, stems, twigs, or leaves,
such as occur very commonly at the present day. These miners
are excessively harmful to plant-life, and form a class of the
most destructive insect-pests known to the farmer : they fre-
quently cause the death of the whole or part of the plant
attacked. Now, we may suppose that the secretions of certain
of these insects caused a swelling to appear where the larvae
lived, and on this excrescence the larvae fed. It is easy to see
that the greater the excrescence, and the greater the tendency of
the larvae to feed upon it, instead of destroying the vital tissues,
the smaller is the amount of harm to the plant. Now the con-
ENTOM. — MARCH, 1890. G
74 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
tinued life and vitality of the plant is beneficial to the larvse, and
the larger or more perfect the gall, the greater the amount of
available food. Hence natural selection will have preserved
and accumulated the gall-forming tendencies, as not only
beneficial to the larvae, but as a means whereby the larvae can
feed with least harm to the plant. So far from being developed
for the exclusive benefit of the larvae, it is easy to see that,
allowing a tendency to gall-formation, natural selection would have
developed galls exclusively for the benefit of the plants ^ so that
they might suffer a minimum of harm from the unavoidable
attacks of insects.
But here it may be questioned — Have we proof that internal
feeders tend to form galls ? In answer to this I would point out
that gall-formation is a peculiar feature, and cannot be expected
to arise in every group of internal feeders. But I think we can
afford sufficient proof that wherever it has arisen it has been
preserved ; and further, that even the highly complex forms of
galls are evolved from forms so simple that we hesitate to call
them galls at all.
Let us first take the Hymenoptera, which form so many
galls. The North American oak-galls, formed by species of
Cynipidae, afford every gradation of character. They may be
divided into sections ; the galls in the first section being so essen-
tially part of the branch that they cannot be removed without
taking away part of the branch or twig with them. The second
section comprises galls on the branches, but of a different
substance from the branch, so that they can be removed without
taking a portion of the branch with them. Then of leaf-galls we
have again two sections, one consisting of galls which cannot be
separated from the leaf, the other of galls which are separable
from the leaf-tissues.* Finally, there is a section comprising
galls on the roots.
To take individual instances : the gall of Andricus cryptus,
Ashm., is hidden under the bark, so as to be invisible externally.
The gall of A, gemmariuSf Ashm., is tubular or fusiform. But
a third species in the same genus, A. pomiformis, Bass., forms
a globular polythalamous gall. A, piger, Bass., forms a swelling
of the leaf; but A. virens, Ashm., forms a true globular leaf- gall.
So that, although we cannot actually observe the evolution, its
stages have been preserved for us in certain species. Diastrophus
fusiformans, n. sp., forms merely fusiform swellings of the stems
of Potentilla in Custer County, Colorado ; but D, potentillce,
Bass., forms oblong spongy galls.
The rose-galls also show us various stages of evolution. In
Custer County, Colorado, we have three kinds of leaf-galls on
roses. Ehodites roscefolicBy mihi, forms galls which are nothing
* ^ee « On the Cynipidous Galls of Florida,' by W. H, Ashmead,
THE EVOLUTION OF INSECT-GALLS. 75
more than flattish swellings of the leaflets. The galls of R.
globosus, n. sp., are globular, and very little attached to the leaf ;
and R, spinosellus, n. sp., makes globular spiny galls on the
leaves, like those of R. bicolor in miniature. Of rose-galls on
the stems we get first fusiform or irregular roughish galls on the
stems and branches, formed by R. fusiformans, n. sp., and
occurring at West Cliff. Next are globular smooth galls, the
product of R. ignota, Osten Sacken, and larger and roughish
globular galls formed by R, tuherculator, Eiley. Finally, the
galls of R, bicolor, Harris, are globular and excessively prickly,
while those of R. roscB, Linn., develop moss-like hairs.
Some sawflies, as Phyllmcus integer, Norton, are simple
internal feeders in twigs ; but species of Euura and Nematus
form true galls. In North America nine species of sawfly galls
occur on the willow.
Turning to Diptera the same gradations of types are to be
observed. The swelling produced by Cecidomyia destructor, Say,
is hardly to be called a gall, and is quite inconspicuous — yet how
destructive ! Compare this with the white, woolly, conspicuous
galls of Trypeta bigelovice, n. sp., produced in abundance at West
Cliff, Colorado, on Bigelovia, and yet apparently not injuring the
plant seriously at all.
Cecidomyia, which reaches its maximum of destructiveness in
the non-gall-making species, as C. destructor, yet has myriads of
forms producing genuine galls. Thus on Carya are eight species
of galls produced by Cecidomyia.
The Dipterous willow-galls of West Cliff, Colorado, are very
instructive. A species doubtfully referred to Cecidomyia salicis-
nodulus, Walsh, produces an elongate fusiform hard woody
swelling of the stem, hardly a true gall at all. C, silicis-saliqua,
Walsh, makes broader reddish fusiform swellings, which are
very conspicuous. Then C, salicis-batatas, Walsh, or an allied
species, forms large irregular potato- shaped galls at the end of
the twigs.
Among Lepidoptera we have any number of internal feeders,
which there is no occasion to enumerate ; but Gelechia gallce-
solidaginis, Kiley, forms genuine galls on Solidago. Many other
Lepidoptera have been bred from galls, but in most cases the
evidence points to their being mere inquilines.
I think I have now given sufficient evidence to show that we
have all the gradations from mere stem-borers to complicated
galls, and the idea that they evolved in the way I have indicated
is irresistible.
The study of galls and the rearing of gall-insects is a most
fascinating pursuit, offering much chance of new discovery.
Galls may be collected in the early spring, and as the warm
weather comes on they yield their inhabitants without any
g2
76 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
special attention. It is surprising to me that galls and their
inhabitants are not more a subject of study among entomo-
logists.*
West Cliff, Custer Co., Colorado, January 23, 1890.
NOTES ON THE ECONOMY of EETINIA RESINELLA, Linn.
By E. Adkin, F.E.S.
In the spring of 1888, I heard from Mr. Salvage, who was
then collecting in the neighbourhood of Forres, that a number
of the twigs of the Scotch fir (Pinus sylvestris, L.) had attached
to them nodular masses of resinous matter containing larvae,
which he believed to be those of Retinia resinella^ and I sub-
sequently received some of the twigs from him. These I placed
in sand, kept moistened so as to prevent the twigs becoming
unnaturally dry, and allowed them to remain out of doors until
the imagines emerged ; in the interim observations were made,
with a view, more especially, of ascertaining any facts that
might have a bearing upon the opinion that had been expressed,
that the larva of this species occupied a period approaching two
years in feeding up.
Examining the twigs externally when received, it was evident
that the resinous nodules were invariably fixed to wood of the
previous year's growth ; that what should have been the leading
shoot of the then present year was much dwarfed, and in some
cases represented by little more than a bud, giving the impres-
sion that it had been mined at some anterior period. This
at once suggested an examination of the interior, but as it would
have been necessary to open several twigs to gain any satisfactory
information in this direction, and as such a proceeding was
calculated to kill the larvae, it was postponed until such time as
the moths should come forth ; only a sufficient number of the
nodules being opened from time to time to ascertain the condition
of their tenants. In due course the desired conditions were
fulfilled, and it was then found that the most satisfactory
method of arriving at the object in view was by cutting longitu-
dinally through the twig and nodule together, the fibre of the
former and the semi-crystalline substance of the latter yielding
readily to the persuasive dissecting knife, and thus exposing to
view in section the workings made by the larva throughout its
life. These may be briefly summarised thus : — A narrow gallery
under the bark of the twig, on the side opposite to that to which
the nodule is attached, commences at a point nearly level with the
* Note.— I am indebted to Dr. C. V. Eiley and Mr. W. H. Ashmead for identifi-
cation of several of the galls mentioned. The new species will be fully describecl
hereafter.
ECONOMY OF RETINIA RESINELLA. 11
centre of the nodule, thence proceeding to the base of the young
shoot, which is completely hollowed out, and entering the
nodule, which is divided into an inner and an outer chamber, at
the upper end of the latter, the inner apparently being reserved
for pupation. The order of procedure in the formation of these
workings would appear to be as follows : — The young larva upon
leaving the egg eats through the bark of a twig near the
extremity of the old wood, and taking a course in the direction
of growth, keeping always on the same side, soon reaches the
young growing shoot, upon the soft wood of which it feeds,
probably consuming it during the summer of its first year. It
now becomes necessary that it should provide for passing the
winter, and having weakened the terminal shoot by reducing it
to a mere shell at its base, it is desirable that it should provide
a more substantial habitation in which to weather the storm ; it
is probably at this time that the bark is again pierced, but on the
opposite side to that by which the larva entered, and by a larger
hole, through which the sap would flow readily, and, congealing as
it reaches the air, at once begin to form a resinous mass, which
by its own weight, would spread in the direction of the trunk of
the tree, the larva as it does so following its movement, and, by
removing the bark as it becomes covered, increase the flow
of the resinous juices until the nodule has attained a sufficient
size; being hollowed out the meanwhile into the chambers
above referred to, and the domicile completed in which the larva
is to spend the remainder of its existence.
It was after having attained this stage that the larvae under
notice were first observed in the early days of May, 1888 ; they
were still small, and showed little signs of growth until the end
of that month ; but from this time they grew rapidly, and by the
end of June had the appearance of being full fed, in which con-
dition they remained until the spring of 1889, the pupal stage
being reached by the 20th April, and the imagines emerged
between 25th May and 3rd June. During the time that the larva
is in the nodule, it appears to reside in the outer of the two
chambers, and to gain what sustenance it requires from the
juices that ooze into its apartment from the tree.
Thus the time from the finding of the larvae to the appearance
of the imagines was some thirteen months, and it is evident that
the larvae when first noted, had already been feeding for some
considerable time, and had indeed completed the earlier stages of
their existence ; there appears, therefore, to be no doubt that
this species does occupy a period of two years in completing its
metamorphoses.
Wellfield, Lingards Road, Lewisham, February, 1890.
ig • THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
RHOPALOCERA AT DIGNE.
By Mrs. Nicholl.
The butterflies of Switzerland are nearly as well known to
British entomologists as those of our own island. Everybody
goes to Switzerland, and many people catch butterflies during
their holiday, and consequently the chance of finding a new
variety, or a new locality for a species, is but very slight. This,
however, is by no means the case in the South-eastern depart-
ments of France. Hautes Alpes, Basses Alpes, Isere, and Var,
present a wide and little-explored field to the butterfly hunter,
and if the district were thoroughly worked it is more than
probable that new varieties, and even new species, might be found
there. The country is very mountainous, and presents a great
variety of geological formation, combined with a climate far
warmer than that of Switzerland ; and although the general
character of the mountains is bare and stony, yet there remain
many forests of birch, beech, oak, and pine, and many rich
mountain pastures, where the flora is even more varied and
beautiful than that of the Swiss Alps.
The inns of this country are generally reported to be exceed-
ingly bad, but this is now no longer the case. Digne, Barcelon-
nette, and BriauQon possess excellent hotels; and good clean
mountain inns, aff'ording excellent accommodation, are to be
found at Ville Vallouise, Monetier, La Grave, and La Berarde.
So the entomologist need not fear any great discomfort if he
should be tempted into a voyage of discovery into a country
which is probably rather less known than Japan to the ordinary
English tourist.
We arrived at Digne on June 10th last, and remained there
until July 2nd. We then went to Seyne and Barcelonnette,
returning to Digne on July 9th, and remaining there till July 17th.
I append a list of the more remarkable insects which I took at
Digne during these two periods. The weather was generally fine
and hot after the first week we spent there ; but the season was
fully a fortnight late, owing to the cold and wet which had
prevailed south of the Alps during the months of April and May.
It was, however, too late for the greatest of the local rarities, —
Thais rumina, var. honoratii, — one of the most striking and
beautiful of European butterflies, for which the neighbourhood
of Digne is the only known localit3^ I succeeded in purchasing
one from a peasant farmer who collects and sells them to
Staudinger ; but the season had been a very bad one : he had but
two left in stock, and my specimen cost 25 fr. I believe that in
a good year they can be had for 10 fr. It was also too late for
the local Erehia epistygney which flies on the high limestone ridge
of the Dourbes during Mai'ch and April; but this is always plentiful.
ilHOPALOCERA AT DK^Nfi. t9
Between June 9th and July 2nd I caught the following butter-
flies : —
Pa;pilio alexanor, — Common all round the town.
Parnassius apollo. — Near the Baths ; not plentiful.
Thais nimina, var. medesicaste. — Common at the Baths, and
in a little gorge running up into the ridge of limestone rocks
behind the town.
Euchloe belia, var. ausonia. — Common on the limestone
ridges. E. tagis, var. hellezina (nearly over). — On the Dourbes.
Leucophasia sinapis, var. lathyri. — Generally common.
Thecla ilicis, vars. cerri and cesculL — Common.
Lyccena iolas (nearly over). — Two only, near the Baths.
Erebia evias and E. epistygne, — On the Dourbes.
Coenonympha dorus, — Common,
Spilothyrus lavaterce. — Common.
Argynnis adippe, var. cleodoxa, — Common. A. daphne,— ^
Common.
Between July 11th and 16th, at Digne, I took the following : —
Thecla rohoris. — Plenty about the oak trees in the little gorge
running into the back of the " town rocks," all, however, a good
deal worn, and had evidently been out some days. This rare
insect probably flies for a very short time, as it was certainly not
on the wing before July 1st. I scarcely found any after July 12th.
Lyccena meleager. — Very common. L. admetus, var. ripperti.
— Common on lavender blossoms.
Libythea celtis, — Not uncommon (partial to clematis).
Vanessa egea. — Plentiful.
Parnassius mnemosyne, — Common at the foot of the precipice
of the Dourbes.
Satyrus circe and S, briseis. — Very common. S,fidia, — Just
coming out on the last day I had at Digne.
Melanargia galatea, var. leucomelas. — One only.
Syrichthus carthami, — Common. S. alveus, — Common. I also
took a remarkable var., I think of S. alveus^ in which the under
side of the hind wings is brilliant red-brown — a bright shade of
burnt sienna.
Erebia ligea. — In the forest on the side of the Dourbes. E,
glacialis, var. pluto. — On the Dourbes. Had I remained a few
days longer I should have taken E. scipio in plenty on the
Dourbes. I got a good series of this handsome insect a week
later, in Dauphine. Melanargia iapygia, var. cleanthe is common
at Digne in the month of August.
Besides these butterflies I took a good many beautiful species
of Heterocera, but these I have not yet named. I failed to find
the rare Glostera alpina, which is frequently met with on poplar
trunks near the town.
Merthyr Mawr, Bridgend, Qlamorganshii-e.
^0 ^HE ENTOMOLOGlSt.
ON THE PHYLOGENETIC SIGNIFICANCE OF THE WING-
MAEKINGS IN OEETAIN GENERA of the NYMPHALIDiE.* .
By F. A. DixEY, M.A., F.E.S., &c.
The varied markings exhibited by the members of the genus
Vanessa and its immediate allies (including the Argynnidse), can
all be reduced to one simple type, consisting essentially of four
series of dark spots running in a direction almost parallel to the
outer borders of both fore and hind wings. This pattern in its
simplest form is seen in the genus Argynnis, and in a more
highly specialised and decorative condition in the genera Pyra-
meis, Graptay and Vanessa, The earliest type now extant is,
perhaps, furnished by the female of Argynnis diana, in which the
primitive pattern of spots is beginning to be established by a
lightening of the dark blue ground colour in certain areas of the
wing. A derived form (A. sagana, female), in which some of the
lighter shadings have become almost white, may represent a
transition from the primitive speckled condition to that which is
the rule in Apatura and Limenitis ; while the female of A. niphe,
taken in connection with A . paphiay var. valesinay and Clothilda
pantherata^ indicates the path along which the generalised system
of coloration prevailing among the Argynnids has become
transformed into the more specialised pattern of the highly
ornamental Vanessas. The blue patches, occurring in the sub-
marginal band or chain of spots in many of the VanessidsB, are
probably a relic of the original deep blue or green ground colour
of the genus Argynnis, to which so many female Argynnids show
a tendency to revert ; the bright brown, salmon-coloured, or
scarlet ground colour of Vanessids being derived from the fulvous
tint generally belonging to the male Argynnids, and in a less
degree to the females. From the " Protovanessa," or common
ancestor of the genus Vanessa in the widest sense, three
principal lines seem to have diverged ; the first leading in the
direction of the genus Pyrameis ; the second towards the inter-
esting genus Araschnia ; the third through the genus Grapta to
F. polychlorosy F. urticce, F. milberti, &c. The genus Eurema
would seem to be an offshoot from the first of these stems ; the
two species, F. io and F. antiopa, from the last. Special atten-
tion was drawn to the rudimentary ocellus in the hind wing of
F. io, as indicating that the large ocellus nearer the costa
was mainly formed out of three members of a series of blue-
centred black spots, well marked in P. gonerilla, P. itea, and
many other species closely allied to P. cardui ; this conclusion
being strengthened by the condition of the ocellus in a variety of
F. io, figured in the ' Entomologist,' vol. xxii. PL viii. fig. 8.
* Epitome of a paper read before the Entomological Society, London, Eeb. 5, 1890.
81
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA FROM CHINA.
By J. H. Leech, B.A., F.Z.S., &c.
(Continued from p. 50.)
Hemaris staudingeri, sp. n.
All the wings hyaline ; primaries with black base, costa and inner
margin, the latter tapering towards^ outer angle ; outer margin brownish
black, broader towards the apex, and encroaching into each internervular
space. Secondaries with a broad, black, inner margin, and narrow outer border.
Thorax olive -brown ; patagia tinged with reddish ; body black, segments 11
to 13, reddish orange ; anal tuft black. Under surface as above, but head,
pectus and anterior legs yellowish white, and the 11th and 12th segments of
body bordered with yellow. Expanse : male, 58 mm. ; female, 66 mm.
Five males and one female taken at Chang Yang in July.
Allied to Hemaris alternata, Butl., but the borders of all the
wings are narrower, and black instead of brown ; the patch at
base of secondaries is also black.
Phauda pratti, sp. n.
^ . Primaries golden -orange, suffused with dusky about the disc and
outer margins, and pale at apex, where also the fringes are whitish. Second-
aries subhyaline, outer half blackish ; inner margins clothed with reddish
orange hairs ; fringes black ; body black, clothed about base with reddish
orange hairs. Under surface as above ; pectus, abdomen and legs golden-
orange. Expanse, 29 mm.
One male taken near Ichang in July.
Allied to Phauda fortunei, U.S., but at once separated by
the absence of black apical patch on primaries.
Tegulata fimbriata, sp. n.
Primaries pale cinnamon-brown, clouded with darker across the discal
area ; a broad blackish spot, set in a pale grey patch, on costa near base, and -
a small colon-like mark beyond ; the subcostal nervure is deeply fringed
with greyish silky hairs. Secondaries pale brown, darker towards outer
margin. Under surface of primaries fuhginous-brown, costa tinged with
yellowish ; secondaries pale yellowish brown, with an obscure dark ante-
marginal band. Expanse, 32 mm.
One specimen taken in July at Chang Yang.
Allied to Tegulata protuberans, Moore, from Darjeeling.
Katha moorei, sp.n.
<y . Primaries pearly grey, darker along the costa and outer third of the
wing. Secondaries yellowish buff. Head, thorax, body and antennae dark
pearly grey. Under surface as above, but rather fainter. Expanse, 42 mm.
One male taken at Chang Yang in June.
LiTHOSIA LENTA, Sp. n.
^ . Primaries uniform pearly grey, silky, and slightly tinged with yellow
along the costa. Secondaries rather paler, especially towards the costa.
Head yellow, thorax and body pearly grey, anal tuft yellow. Under surface
as above, but rather paler. Expanse, 22 mm.
Two males, one taken at Chang Yang in June, the other
near Ichang in July.
S^ tHE feNTOMOLOGlSt.
LiTHOSIA COSTIPUNCTA, Sp. n.
<y . Ground colour of primaries rich orange, with a round black spot
just below middle of costa. Secondaries rather paler. Under surface the
same as above, but slightly paler and with no indication of the black costal
spot ; legs blackish. Expanse, 37 mm.
One male taken at Chang Yang in June.
Setina unipuncta, sp. n.
^ . Primaries yellow, costa inclined to orange, costal spot black and
distinct. Secondaries paler. Under surface of primaries fuliginous, all the
margins yellow, as also is the discoidal cell, central spot indistinct;
secondaries as above, but costa deeper yellow. Head and thorax colour of
primaries ; abdomen paler, tinged with grey towards anal segment, which is
yellow.
? . Primaries reddish orange, the discal area suffused with yellowish,
black central spot. Secondaries pinkish red. Under surface as in the male,
but the yellow is replaced by red. Expanse : male, 34 mm. ; female, 38 mm.
Two specimens taken at Chang Yang (female in May ; male
in June).
Setina rubricans, sp. n.
Primaries rosy -buff ; costa black at base ; discal spot large, black, a
smaller one below on the inner margin ; there is also a submarginal series
of small black spots. Secondaries paler, rather darker along outer margin.
Under surface : primaries suffused with black along the centre of the wing
and basal portion of costa ; secondaries with a marginal row of five smaU
black spots ; legs marked with black. Expanse : male, 30 mm. ; female,
34 mm.
A nice series taken at Chang Yang, in June ; also specimens
from the neighbourhood of Ichang, in July. There is an un-
named specimen from Pekin in the National Collection at South
Kensington, which I believe is referable to this species.
MiLTOCHRISTA RIVALIS, Sp. n.
Closely allied to M. inscripta, Walk., but smaller, and the discal area of
primaries much whiter ; there is a black dot at the base and a pink streak
above on the costa, but no other black marks before the first line, which is
distinctly curved. Expanse : male 22 mm. ; female, 27 mm.
Several specimens taken at Chang Yang in June, and at
Ichang in July ; also one female example taken by my native col-
lector at Gensan in July, 1887, which at first I thought was
probably a variety of M, inscripta. The differences referred to
are constant.
MiLTOCHRISTA RUFA, Sp. n.
Primaries reddish orange ; basal and outer thirds blackish, the external
edge of former oblique and internal edge of the latter curved, meeting on the
inner margin. Secondaries orange -yellow, outer margin bordered with blackish.
Fringes reddish orange. Under surface orange-yellow ; base of costa and
border of outer margin of primaries blackish, as also is the narrower outer
border of secondaries ; fringes as above. Head and thorax orange-yellow ;
abdomen rather darker. Expanse, 24 — 27 mm.
Six specimens taken in June at Chang Yang.
NEW St»ECIES Oi' LEPlDotTERA FROM CHlNA. 83
PeNTACITROTDS iENEUS, sp. n.
$ . Primaries cupreous-yellow ; two transverse black angulated bands,,
with metallic-blue spots, are united by a longitudinal streak from one to the
other above the middle ; there is also a black streak on inner margin from
base to first l3and ; beyond second band is a small black spot, and the apex
has a narrow black border in which are some metallic-blue dots. Second-
aries yellow, with two large black spots before the outer margin. Under
surface yellow ; markings as above, but there are no blue spots on primaries.
Expanse, 27 mm.
One male example taken in June at Chang Yang.
A female specimen of this species, from Darjeeling, in the
National Museum at South Kensington, has the bands on the
primaries interrupted.
Hylophila magnifica, sp. n.
$ . Primaries rosy, suffused with brownish about the disc and basa
portion of costa ; the cell and basal portion below it bright mossy green ; a
broad submarginal band of green, dark along its inner margin, and traversed
by a whitish line from apex to inner margin. Secondaries pale golden-brown;
neuration and fringes rosy. Abdomen light golden-brown. Under surface
as above, but fainter. Head and thorax moss-green, streaked with rosy ;
legs rosy ; antennae rosy above, brownish beneath. Expanse, 34 mm.
One male of this lovely species taken at Chang Yang in May.
Setora divisa, sp. n.
$ . Primaries : basal two-thirds dark chocolate -brown ; outer third
paler ; outer line chocolate-brown, and a few dashes of the same colour
along the outer margin ; a dark line precedes the fringes, which are inter-
sected by a pale line ; discoidal spot black. Secondaries fuscous-brown, with
a pale marginal line ; fringes intersected by a pale line. Under surface
uniform fuscous-brown, with a pale marginal line. Expanse, 26 mm.
One male taken at Chang Yang in June.
Heterogenea obliqua, sp. n.
^ . Primaries yellowish-buff, sprinkled with reddish-brown scales ; a
straight dark brown line runs from apex to near the base of inner margin ;
there is also a narrower, dark brown, submarginal line. Secondaries fuscous-
grey, with silky reflections. Head and thorax yellowish buff ; body rather
darker. Under surface yellowish, sprinkled with darker scales. Expanse,
30 mm.
One male taken at Chang Yang in July.
Atossa nelcymna.
Atossa nelcymna^ Moore, Proc. Zool. Sec. 1874, p. 577,
pi. Ixvii., fig. 7,
Calcosia palcearctiay Staud., Rom. Mem. Lep. iii. p. 192, pl. xi.
fig. 3, 1887.
Yar. chinensis.
$ . In this form the neuration is broadly bordered with blackish ; the outer
third of all the wings is much suffused with the same colour, and sprinkled
with greenish grey scales. Expanse, 79 mm.
I received one female taken at Chang Yang in June.
(To be continued.)
64 tHij ENTOMOLOGIST.
DESCRIPTIONS OF NEW SPECIES OF PHYTOPHAGOUS
COLEOPTERA RECEIVED BY MR. J. H. LEECH, FROM
CHANG-YANG, CHINA.
By Martin Jacoby, F.E.S.
DoNACiA LONGicoRNis, n. sp. (Plate I. fig. 2).
Subdepressed, obscure greenish or brownish cupreous ; antennae as long
as the body {3") ) thorax constricted at the base, the sides tuberculate
anteriorly, the surface transversely strigose ; elytra punctate-striate, the
interstices transversely wrinkled, the apex truncate.
S" . The posterior femora extending much beyond the elytra, with a stout
tooth, their tibiae curved, finely dentate at the inner margin, triangularly
toothed below the middle. $ . Antennae shorter ; femora not produced
beyond the elytra, obsoletely toothed, their tibiae simple, unarmed. Length,
^ — 5 lines.
<^. Head minutely rugose, with a deep central groove between the
antennae ; eyes rather small ; palpi and mandibles piceous ; antennae as long
or longer than the body, black, very finely pubescent, the third joint
distinctly longer than the fourth and the longest ; thorax slightly longer than
broad, the anterior portion much widened and swollen in shape of rounded
tubercles at the sides, the anterior angles also distinctly tuberculiform, the
surface flattened with a central longitudinal groove, entirely and closely
transversely strigose without punctuation ; scutellum clothed with fine
greenish pubescence ; elytra flattened, their apex truncate, the surface trans-
versely rugose or wrinkled, the punctured striae placed at regular intervals,
the punctures rounded at the base, more elongate towards the middle, and
distinct to the apex ; the underside metallic, clothed with very short yellowish
pubescence.
A few specimens.
This Donacia will not be very difficult to recognize on account
of the long and slender antennae, the long posterior femora and
dentate tibise of the male insect ; the female difi'ers considerably
in this, but in no. other respect ; the strongly swollen anterior
portion of the thorax will further assist in the recognition of the
species.
Chalgolema, n. gen. (Criocerid^ ?)
Body elongate ; eyes small, entire ; antennae widely separated, filiform,
the first and second joints short, the others elongate ; thorax subquadrate,
the lateral margin distinct, the disc flattened, foveolate ; scutellum not longer
than broad, its apex broadly truncate ; elytra irregularly punctured, sparingly
pubescent, their epipleurse narrow ; legs moderate, the femora thickened, the
posterior ones more strongly incrassate ; the first joint of the posterior tarsi
as long as the two following ones together ; claws appendiculate ; presternum
broad, slightly longer than broad ; mesosternum constricted at the middle ;
the first abdominal segment double the length of the second one.
The species, for the reception of which I propose the present
genus, and of which only a single specimen was received, seems
to form a most interesting link between the Sagridce and Crio-
ceridce on one hand, and the Megascelidce on the other. I cannot
at present, however, give an opinion on its true systematic posi-
tion, since the insect seems to unite characters to be found singlyj
NEW SPECIES OF COLEOPTERA FROM CHINA. 85
in several tribes, and divided amongst their respective genera ;
thus, Chalcolema has the head and antennae of a Megascelis,
a thorax peculiar to itself on account of a distinct lateral margin
and its general shape, while the proportionate length of the
abdominal segments resemble those of the Crioceridce, as well as
its general elongate shape and narrow elytral epipleurse ; the
appendiculate claws, however, again separate it from the last-
named tribe.
Type, Chalcolema foveicollis,
Chalcolema foveicollis, n. sp. (Plate I. fig. 1).
Black ; the head, thorax, and legs fulvous ; elytra metallic dark blue ;
thorax remotely punctured, deeply foveolate at the sides ; ^elytra closely and
strongly punctured, finely pubescent. Length, 4:^ lines.
Head swollen at the vertex, strongly but remotely punctured, with a
central longitudinal groove ; clypeus wedge-shaped, deflexed, its surface con-
cave, its anterior margin emarginate, obliquely angulate at the sides ; labrum
transverse, deeply concave at its anterior margin ; mandibles very robust
and thickened ; palpi filiform, black, the terminal joint longer than broad,
pointed ; antennae more than half the length of the body, black, the basal
joint obscure fulvous below, short and thickened, the second slightly shorter
and less stout, the others elongate and slender, nearly equal in length,
the terminal joint with a short and pointed appendage ; thorax slightly
broader than long, the base somewhat narrower, the anterior angles tubercu-
liform, the surface very remotely but distincly punctured, fulvous, shining,
with a deep longitudinal fovea near the lateral margin, and a larger and more
rounded one at each side near the base ; scutellum black, shining ; elytra
elongate, slightly constricted at the middle, the shoulders prominent and
acute, bounded inwards by a deep longitudinal depression, the disc closely
impressed with smaller and larger punctures, the interstices somewhat
transversely rugose (especially near the suture), and sparingly clothed with
short pubescence ; underside black, shining, the coxae, legs, and the pros-
ternum fulvous ; tibiae clothed with yellowish pubescence.
Lema chinensis, n. sp.
Black ; the base of the head, thorax and elytra fulvous ; thorax impunc-
tate ; elytra with a sutural depression, strongly punctate-striate ; abdomen
and the middle of the breast, fulvous. Length, 2 — 2h lines.
Head black, the base and two rather strongly raised tubercles between
the eyes fulvous ; eyes deeply indented, the lateral grooves deep, the lower
portion of the face sparingly clothed with yellow pubescent ; antennae rather
short and robust, entirely black, the fourth joint slightly longer than the
third ; thorax not longer than broad, the sides rather deeply constricted, the
basal sulcation distinct, placed at some distance from the base, the anterior
angles with a minute tubercle bearing a single hair, the surface impunctate ;
scutellum fulvous ; elytra with a distinct sutural depression below the base
regularly and rather deeply punctate-striate, the interstices at the sides and
at the apex, costate ; underside clothed with fine yellow pubescence.
The entirely black antennae, colour of the head and the two
tubercles of the latter, as well as the fulvous abdomen, separate
L. chinensis from its Asiatic congeners ; the amount of fulvous of
the breast is somewhat variable. The species seems allied to L.
russula, Bohem. (bohemanif Clark), but differs in its coloration.
A few specimens.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Temnaspis humeralis, n. sp. (Plate I. fig. 3).
Black, sparingly pubescent ; thorax impunctate, with a tubercle at the
posterior angles ; elytra flavous, finely punctured, the shoulders with a
black spot ; abdomen and a spot on the posterior femora, flavous. Length,
5 lines.
Head broad, impunctate, black, with a deep fovea between the eyes ;
antennae scarcely extending beyond the base of the thorax, black, the four
basal joints shining, the rest opaque, transversely widened ; thorax deeply
transversely sulcate behind the anterior margin, with an acute lateral
tubercle near the base, the surface smooth, shining, black, furnished with
single erect black hairs ; scutellum black, its apex slightly emarginate ;
elytra finely and not very closely punctured and sparingly clothed with black
hairs, flavous, with a black spot placed on the humeral callus ; underside and
legs black, the metasternum with two triangular raised elevations ; abdomen
flavous ; the posterior femora with an acute tooth near the apex, the latter
flavous.
A single specimen.
Gynandrophthalma l^vicollis, n. sp.
Black ; the head, thorax, scutellum and legs fulvous ; elytra black ;
thorax impunctate, elytra closely punctured. Length, 1^ Hues.
Head smooth, impunctate ; antennae black, the lower four joints fulvous ;
thorax two and a half times broader than long, the sides rounded, widened
towards the base, very narrowly margined, the surface impunctate fulvous, the
posterior margin slightly produced and broadly rounded at the middle ;
scutellum broad, strongly pointed at the apex, the surface fulvous, impunctate ;
elytra parallel, black, closely punctured, the punctuation somewhat regularly
arrranged in rows, the lateral margin but shghtly produced below the
shoulders ; under side black (with the exception of the anterior portion of
the breast), finely clothed with greyish hairs ; legs fulvous ; the first joint of
the posterior tarsi scarcely as long as the two following joints together.
Of this species, principally distinguished from its congeners
by the fulvous head and the black elytra, many specimens were
obtained.
Gynandrophthalma fulveola, n. sp.
Entirely pale fulvous ; apical joints of the antennae fuscous ; head and
thorax impunctate; elytra finely and subregularly punctured, the apex
nearly impunctate. Length, 1| line.
Head with a rather deep rounded fovea between the eyes, impunctate,
the anterior margin of the epistome deeply concave -emarginate ; labrum
more or less black ; antennae not extending beyond the thorax, the lower
four joints fulvous, the rest nearly black ; thorax transverse, more than
twice as broad as long in the male, the sides strongly rounded and widened
at the base, the basal lobe scarcely produced, the surface entirely impunctate ;
scutellum triangular, acutely pointed ; elytra moderately closely but finely
punctured, the punctures semi-regularly arranged in rows, gradually dimi-
nishing towards the apex, the latter nearly impunctate under side and legs
fulvous, finely pubescent.
Many specimens.
G. fulveola may be known by the entirely anicolorous fulvous
colour, the impunctate head and thorax in connection with its
small size.
NEW SPECIES OF COLEOPTERA FROM CHINA. 87
Crypt ocEPHALus rectipennis, n. sp.
Metallic dark blue ; the basal joints of the antennae and the anterior
femora fulvous ; thorax rather closely punctured ; elytra strongly punctate-
etriate, the interstices more or less convex.
(^ . The lower portion of the head and the anterior angles of the thorax
flavous ; the elytral interstices rather convex and somewhat rugose. 2 • The
head and thorax unicolorous dark blue, the latter closely strigose-punctate.
Length, l-^l^ line.
^ . Head with a few punctures, the vertex piceous, this colour projecting
into three points into the flavous portion of the lower part of the head ; eyes
not deeply emarginate ; palpi piceous ; antennae half the length of the body,
the five or six lower joints flavous, the rest fuscous, the third joint scarcely
longer than the second one ; thorax strongly transverse, the sides rather
rounded at the middle, the angles acutely pointed, the disc with a more or
less distinct transverse depression at each side, rather closely impressed with
elongate punctures, which are more numerous at the sides than at the disc ;
scutellum black, slightly raised ; elytra without distinct lateral lobe, rather
flattened, strongly punctate-striate, the interstices convex at the sides and
somewhat rugose, the shoulders raised, narrow ; under side and legs nearly
black, the four anterior femora and the presternum fulvous.
This small species, of which several specimens are contained
in this collection, seems allied to C pumiliOj Suffr., but is, I
think, distinct from that species ; its colour is not blackish green
but dark blue : the thorax has closely placed and elongate punc-
tures, which in the female insect almost occupy the entire sides,
forming strigse ; the sculpture of the elytra also differs apparently
from C. pujnilio, as the interstices are distinctly raised at the
sides in C, rectipennis and irregularly wrinkled.
Cryptocephalus nigrolimbatus, n. sp. (Plate I., fig. 6.)
Below black, above pale flavous ; antennae black, the basal four joints
fulvous ; thorax impunctate ; elytra strongly punctate-striate, narrowly
margined with black ; legs fulvous. Length, 1^ — 2 lines.
Head impunctate, shining, flavous; eyes moderately deeply notched;
epistome separated from the face by a deep oblique groove ; antennae two-
thirds the length of the body, the basal four joints fulvous, the rest black ;
thorax narrowly transverse, the sides slightly rounded, very naiTowly mar-
gined, the surface entirely impunctate, shining, flavous, the extreme basal
margin black ; scutellum flavous, margined with black-; elytra deeply
punctate-striate, the punctures visible to the apex but finer, the interstices
smooth, scarcely raised, flavous, the extreme sutural and lateral margins,
and the epipleurae partly, black ; pygidium flavous ; under side black, pro-
sternum flavous ; the last abdominal segment in the female flavous, with a
deep oblong fovea.
The black under side and similarly coloured narrow elytral
margins distinguish C. nigroUmhatm from C. pini, C. hecticus,
Fab., and other unicolorous species : the female specimens are
considerably larger than the male, but do not differ in any
important way.
A small number of specimens.
Cryptocephalus nasutulus, Weise.
Several specimens agreeing closely with the author's descrip-
tion were obtained. I must, however, add that the thorax in all
88 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
m
k the
is moderately closely and distinctly punctured (Weise calls the
punctuation obscure), and that there is a lateral depression
distinctly visible in the female, less so in the male, at each side ;
C, nasutulus is allied to G. fortunatus, G. approximatus, Baly,
G, kulibiniy Gebl., and G. splendens, Kraatz.
Cryptocephalus festivus, n. sp. (Plate I., fig. 4.)
Flavous ; the terminal joints of the antennas and the middle of the
breast and abdomen black ; thorax impunctate ; elytra violaceous-blue,
strongly punctate-striate, the interspaces smooth, the lateral margin ante-
riorly flavous. Length, 1^ — 2 Hnes.
Head nearly impunctate, flavous, the extreme vertex blackish with a
few fine punctures ; antennae long and slender, two-thirds the length of the
body, the lower four joints flavous, the rest black ; thorax transverse, strongly
narrowed in front, the sides but moderately deflexed with a narrow margin,
the lateral margin nearly straight, the surface entirely impunctate, flavous ;
scutellum black, slightly longer than broad, its apex truncate ; elytra regu-
larly and strongly punctate-striate, the punctures distinct to the apex,
metallic violaceous, the interstices flat and impunctate, the anterior margin
and the epipleurae at the base flavous ; pygidium, under side and legs pale
flavous, the centre of the lower portion of the breast and of the abdomen
black, the apex of the last abdominal segment in the male slightly emar-
ginate at the middle, that of the female with the usual deep fovea.
I am not acquainted with any eastern Cr-yptocephalus agreeing
in coloration with the present insect, of which a dozen specimens
were received ; the flavous colour of the lateral margin and of
the epipleurae extends to the middle of the elytra,
Cryptocephalus flavopictus, n. sp. (Plate I., fig. 5.)
Black, finely pubescent ; three spots at the head, the anterior and lateral
margin of the thorax, and two basal spots (sometimes absent) of the latter,
flavous ; thorax closely punctured ; elytra strongly punctured, flavous, the
suture and two transverse narrow bands connected with a lateral longitudinal
stripe, black ; legs fulvous. Length, 2 lines.
Head rather closely punctured, finely pubescent, longitudinally depressed
at the vertex, black, two spots above the eyes and the epistome bright flavous ;
antennae two-thirds the length of the body, the lower five joints fulvous, the
others black ; thorax subcylindrical, much narrowed in front, the sides
strongly deflexed, the lateral margins nearly straight, the surface closely and
finely punctured and pubescent, black, the anterior and lateral margins
flavous (the former narrowly widened at the middle, the latter widened at
the angles) ; scutellum scarcely raised, slightly longer than broad, its apex
truncate, black ; elytra sparingly clothed with short yellow pubescence,
closely and strongly punctate striate, flavous, with a naiTow black transverse
sinuate band before and another below the middle connected with the
black suture, and a similarly coloured stripe running parallel to the lateral
margin, — this latter band does not extend to the apex ; pygidium black, its
lower edge flavous ; the under side black, the anterior coxae and the legs
fulvous, the femora pale flavous at their apex.
G, flavopictus resembles much in its coloration G. pustulatus,
Boss, and allied forms, but differs in the finely pubescent upper
surface, and in the close and somewhat elongate punctuation of
the thorax ; the two basal spots in front of the scutellum are
frequently absent ; the elytra in the male insect show deep rows
NEW SPECIES OF COLEOPTERA FROIM CHINA. 89
of punctures with more finely punctured interstices, while these
latter in the female are as deeply punctured as the rest of the
punctures ; the flavous colour of the elytra forms three spots on
each, placed one at the base, the second at the middle, and the
third at the apex ; the lateral black stripe is rounded in front of
each of the flavous spots.
Several specimens.
Cryptocephalus discoid alis, n. sp.
Black; the head (the vertex excepted), the sides of the thorax and the
anterior femora fulvous ; thorax impunctate ; elytra violaceous-blue, strongly
punctate-striate. Length, 1^ line.
Head impunctate, obscure fulvous, the vertex piceous ; labrum black ;
the lower five joints of the antennae fulvous, the basal joint piceous above,
the others black ; thorax short, nearly three times broader than long, the
lateral margins very slightly rounded, the angles acute, the surface smooth
and shining, fulvous with a discoidal lozenge-shaped black spot from the
base to the apex ; scutellum raised, black ; elytra dark blue, regularly
punctate-striate, the punctures diminishing in depth towards the apex, the
interstices somewhat rugose at the sides, the shoulders prominent, sub-
tubercuHform ; pygidium and under side black; anterior femora and the
presternum fulvous, the latter ending into a sharp point at each side.
The above description is that of the female insect ; a single
male now before me has a rather deep longitudinal and punctured
depression at the vertex, and the thorax is nearly entirely black,
the sides being broadly and the anterior margin narrowly flavous ;
the punctuation of the elytra is rather more strongly impressed.
This small Cryptocephalus resembles certain varieties of C. albo-
scutellatus, Suffr., but differs in the flavous anterior femora, the
stronger elytral punctuation, and in the shape of the pro-
sternum.
DiORYCTus nigripennis, n. sp.
Fulvous ; the terminal joints of the antennae piceous ; head finely punc-
tured ; thorax impunctate ; elytra black, finely punctate-striate. Length,
2 lines.
Broadly subquadrate, robust ; the head rather closely and very finely
punctured, fulvous ; eyes broadly and subangulate emarginate ; antennae
short, the lower five joints fulvous, the others fuscous slightly widened ;
thorax strongly narrowed in front, the sides evenly rounded and very nar-
rowly margined, the posterior angles acute, the posterior margin sHghtly
sinuate and produced into a point at the middle, the surface not visibly
punctured, fulvous, shining, the extreme basal margin black ; scutellum not
visible ; elytra broadly subquadrate, their apex broadly rounded, the basal
lobe obliquely produced at the middle, the disc with ten rows of fine punctures,
black, the interstices flat and impunctate ; under side and legs fulvous ; pro-
sternum much broader than long ; the anterior margin produced into a
distinct tooth at the middle, the posterior margin concave at each side.
Hab. China (coll. Jacoby).
A single specimen of this proportionately large-sized species
is contained in my collection from China without precise
locality.
(To be continued.)
ENTOM. MARCH, 1890. H
90 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
DESCRIPTIONS OF CHINESE SPECIES OF THE
HOMOPTEROUS FAMILY CICADIDiE.
By W. L. Distant.
I AM indebted to the kindness of Mr. J. H. Leech for a small
but very interesting collection of Rhynchota made by his collector
in China. This collection proved most opportune material for
my Monograph of the Eastern Cicadidse, as although I had
examined most of the large Continental collections, and amassed
considerable material myself, the Cicadidse of China were, and
still remain, a subject of much conjecture. The three species
here described add to our scanty knowledge, and will be subse-
quently figured in another publication. The remaining portions
of the collection I hope to describe shortly in the pages of this
Magazine.
Cicada leechi, n. sp.
Head black ; the eyes, apex and base of front, and a triangular spot on
anterior margin of vertex, greenish ochraceous. Pronotum castaneous ; the
anterior, posterior and lateral margins, a narrow central longitudinal fascia,
and two small basal spots, ochraceous ; these ochraceous margins and spots
more or less edged with black, the posterior margin crossed by three black
bands — one central and one near each lateral angle. Mesonotum black, with
two broken linear ochraceous obconical basal spots, the lateral margins and
the basal cruciform elevation — excluding centre and apices — also ochraceous.
Abdomen black, with two slightly oblique white macular fasciae on each lateral
area ; outer margins of the tympanal coverings ochraceous. Body beneath,
legs and opercula dull ochraceous, the sternum greyishly pilose ; the lateral
striations to face, the outer margins of coxae, inner margins of anterior and
intermediate femora, and the extreme apices of tibiae and tarsi black.
Tegmina and wings pale hyaline, the venation pitchy ; tegmina with the
costal membrane pale greenish, the transverse veins at the bases of the
second and third apical areas broadly infuscated, and those at the bases of
the fifth and seventh areas narrowly infuscated ; the bases of the wings
narrowly pale greenish. The opercula are long, — about extending to two-
thirds the length of the abdomen, — overlapping internally, their outer
margins moderately concave, their inner margins slightly convex, their
apices angularly rounded. Long. excl. tegm., 3", 38 mm. Exp. tegm., 105
to 110 mm.
Hab. China ; Wa Shan and Chia Kou Ho.
This species is allied to the Japanese C. hihamataj Motsch.,
but differs by the larger size, the different markings of the body,
and the totally different structure of the opercula, which in
Motschulsky's species are widely divergent, and not overlapping
as in C. leechi.
Cicada sinensis, n. sp.
Head and pronotum greenish ochraceous ; head with abroad black fascia
between the eyes ; pronotum with two short narrow discal black fasciae near
anterior margin and a black band across the posterior margin near each lateral
area. Mesonotum castaneous, with a central tri-lanceolate greenish ochraceous
spot with the surrounding area black, a lateral black fascia on each side
outwardly margined with greenish ochraceous, the centre and apices of the
NOTES ON HYBOCAMPA MILHADSERI. 91
basal cruciform elevation black. Abdomen black, with two longitudinal and
slightly oblique macular white fasciae on each lateral area ; outer margins of
the tympanal coverings ochraceous. Body beneath pale ochraceous, thickly
clothed with greyish pile ; legs greenish ochraceous. Tegmina and wings pale
hyaline, the venation greenish inwardly, fuscous outwardly ; tegmina with
the costal membrane ochraceous and its outer margin pale sanguineous, the
transverse veins at the bases of the second and third apical areas infascated ;
extreme bases of the tegmina and wings pale sanguineous. The opercula
are short, not extending beyond the basal segment of the abdomen, convexly
rounded externally, and slightly overlapping at their inner margins. Long,
excl. tegm., S' and ? , 29 to 32 mm. Exp. tegm., 80 to 85 mm.
Hab. China ; Chia Kou Ho.
Karenia c^latata, n. sp.
$ . Head, pronotum and mesonotum pale greenish, sparingly pilose ;
head with the area of the ocelli, and a spot on each side of base of front,
black ; eyes brownish ochraceous. Pronotum with two central discal curved
fasciae, which are united posteriorly, and a spot on the lateral margins, black.
Mesonotum with two central obconical spots at anterior margin, on each side
of which is a larger angulated spot, and a rounded spot at each anterior angle
of the basal cruciform elevation, black (these spots are more or less effaced
in the typical specimen described) ; base of the cruciform elevation, a small
spot on each side of it, and a spot on each side of the basal margin of the
metanotum, black. Abdomen ochraceous, strongly pilose, with three irregular
longitudinal fuscous fasciae, — the central one broadest, those on the lateral
areas much angulated and macular. Body beneath and legs greenish
ochraceous ; a spot at base of antennae, posterior margin of face, a spot
near bases and apices of femora, bases of tibiae, tarsal claws, and the
base and apex of abdomen, more or less black. Tegmina and wings pale
hyaline, the venation more or less fuscous ; tegmina with the costal mem-
brane greenish, its extreme margin black, the transverse veins at the bases
of the second, third, fourth, fifth and seventh apical areas broadly infuscated,
and a series of fuscous marginal spots placed on the apices of the longitudinal
veins to apical areas ; extreme bases of the tegmina and wings ochraceous.
Long. excl. tegm., $ , 30 mm. Exp. tegm., 100 mm.
-Hab. China ; Chia Kou Ho. 1700 feet. July.
Although I possess but a single female specimen of this
species, it seems to clearly belong to the genus Karenia which I
proposed for the reception of a Burmese species some time
since. The peculiar structure of the cruciform elevation at the
base of the mesonotum, the ulnar vein emitted at extreme apex
of basal cell of tegmina, the narrowed head, and short and
robust abdomen, all show its generic position, though of course
the male structure of the tympana is at present unknown.
NOTES ON HYBOCAMFA MILHAUSERL
By T. a. Chapman, M.D.
Among my earliest entomological ambitions was a desire to
become acquainted with this insect, my interest being, I think,
excited by Sepp's figure of the larva, and the vernacular name
which he gives it, the " Dragon." It is now possible to purchase
h2
92 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
the insect alive, and I have thus been enabled to learn something
of it, and I find it so remarkable in several particulars as to
much more than justify my curiosity. It is not really closely
related to any of our Notodontas, but is nearest to the Ceruras,
with a suspicion of true Notodonta {N.ziczac and N. dromedarius) .
The egg is large, clay coloured and beautifully zoned, with a dull
terra-cotta like surface, apparently free from any structural lines
or markings, — really the structure is so much finer than in Cerura,
that a much higher power is needed to show it, — of a form not
very different from that of C. vinula. The egg of C. erminea is
so different from that of vinula^ that it is, perhaps, not safe to say
that that of H, milhauseri is not also of a Cerura pattern.
By the way, I was struck with the accurate knowledge which
Sepp had, 100 years ago, of Cerura eggs ; describing the brown
eggs of vinula and bifida laid in pairs (or more) on the upper
sides of the leaves; whilst furcula (and hicuspis) are black, and
laid solitarily on the under surface of the leaves.
The young larva has grand lateral horns in front and a dorsal
row ; as he grows older the lateral ones disappear, whilst the
dorsal ones remain, though proportionately smaller. I do not
propose to describe the larva, which is of course well known, and
to which no description without a figure can do justice ; but till I
saw it alive I could not understau4 why any larva should have
such remarkable angular outlines, curiously conspicuous corners
and humps. What the dark young larva resembles I have not
ascertained, but by chance I one day brought in with their food
so exact a resemblance of the full-grown larva, that there could
not be any doubt as to the meaning of all its curious outlines and
markings. This was a curled oak leaf, eaten and abandoned by a
Tortrix {viridana ?) larva.
This particular leaf was in detail exactly imitated by the
larva of H, milhauseri. There was a curled portion of leaf with
the outline of the body of the larva, the netted green texture of
the leaf like the small markings on the surface of the larva,
a brown decayed mark or two like the larva has ; the extremity
was eaten off on lines following partly a rib, so as to imitate the
truncate aspect the larva has, however viewed; whilst the
secondary ribs of the leaf, being eaten between, projected laterally
from the roll just like the dorsal spines of the larva, and in about
the same size and order; the tall one in the 5th segment;
the dwindling ones in the 6th to 10th ; and the taller bifid one on
'' the 12th ; this one resembling points from both edges of the leaf.
Most curious, perhaps, of all, the little backward projecting
points at the tips of the spines (or humps), apparently so super-
fluously complicated in the larva, were exactly represented in the
leaf; the Tortrix larva, in eating the substance of the leaf
between the secondary ribs, had eiaten these down to some extent
NOTES ON HYBOCAMPA MlLHAtTSfiRi. 93
also, but stuck fast just at a tertiary branch, the small remaining
portion of which precisely represented the backward process of
the larval spine. I never met with another rolled leaf that hap-
pened in exact numbei^ size, and position, to represent all the
processes of the larva as this one did, but any rolled and aban-
doned leaf bore a very close resemblance to the larva.
The cocoon is the most Cerura-like phase of this insect ; it is
made on the bark of the tree ; though rather rounder and not
quite so flat, it is in favourable specimens very like a Cerura in a
similar locality. It differs, however, in several particulars. In
its construction the larva first makes a silken net over itself at the
site of the cocoon ; this is so open and flimsy looking, and so
close down on the larva, which is rolled together under it, that it
is surprising how the larva can move about inside to continue the
work, and how in doing so it does not tear all to pieces. Cerura,
on the other hand (I have watched bifida and bicuspis), selects a
place for its cocoon, and begins at what will be the tail of the
cocoon by making what looks like its head, a little structure like
the toe of a slipper ; it pushes this end forward, working beneath
it by loosening its attachments in front, and pushing its head
under, spinning a continuation of it ; in this way it gets under and
detaches from the surface any bits of lichen and loose fragments of
bark, which thus adhere in precisely their natural positions to the
surface of the cocoon, and so much help its concealment ; and
having in this way pushed the front of the cocoon forward to its
place, it closes the hinder end, and begins the excavating process by
which it obtains the materials to form the outer part of the cocoon
of a sort of artificial bark. H, milhauseri gets to the surface of the
cocoon some colouring matters or lichenous material from the
surface of the bark, and puts a little detached material round the
margin of the cocoon to make it fit a little ; but the face of the
cocoon, instead of being like that of Cerura, an artificial bark, is
almost pure silk of a dense gummy substance, such as I have seen
vinula make under difficulties when he could get no wood to work
with. Milhauseri only slightly smooths the bark beneath the
cocoon, and covers it with gummy silk. Cerura lies in a neatly
excavated cavity in the bark with practically no silken lining.
Partly by its original close structure, and partly by contraction
as it matures, this cocoon fits the pupa more closely than any
other cocoon I have met with, so that, combined with its dense
horny texture, it is extremely difficult to open it without injuring
the contained pupa.
This close fitting of the cocoon to the pupa is related to
perhaps the most curious of all the facts I have observed in
this species, that is, its method of emergence ; which is, I think,
perhaps the most remarkable of any of the many remarkable
provisions in different Lepidoptera for the escape of the moth
from its cocoon.
04 THE ENTOMOL0i(5tlSf .
As the shortest way of describing this process, I will call it
cutting out a lid with a sardine opener. Cerura bursts an
irregular lid, having first softened the place with some fluid, and
in many instances the broken lid falls back for a time into
its place ; the lid is irregular in form, often in several pieces,
just as accident decides ; but milhauseri marks out with his
sardine-opener an exact definite lid, of which there is no trace or
indication in the construction of the cocoon, and continues
cutting on this exact line until the lid is set free. This lid is of
oval shape, but with the anterior margin more rounded than the
posterior. There is something more to be learnt about the action
of this sardine-opener than I have yet ascertained, but I can give
a few more particulars. First, as to the implement itself. In the
pupa, just in front of the eyes and between the bases of the
antennae, is a deep pit, having at the bases of the antennse, on
either side, a sharp margin, almost a horn ; stretching up from
below, from the mouth region towards the pit, is a flat surface
slightly furrowed and wrinkled, and terminating at the front
margin of the deep pit (though one would say at first sight in the
middle of it), in a straight spine projecting well beyond the general
surface of the pupa, sharply pointed and polished ; a slight ridge
stretches back from the spine through the pit, and fades out on to
the surface of the pupa, so that the pit might be described as a
double furrow, stretching from before backwards. This spine is
the sardine-opener, and by a lateral rotatory movement of the
pupa, which obtains its fulcrum from the tightness with which it
is grasped by the cocoon, it traverses over and over again the
outlines of the lid till it is cut through.
I have not seen this operation performed, for the reason that
when you attempt to see it you stop it ; but I have caught the
creature actually at work, and can add this further fact, that the
spine in some way applies to its line of action a softening fluid,
and it is the softened gum that it actually cuts or divides.
The fluid no doubt comes from the same mouth-glands as in
other cocoon-softening species, but the precise means by which it
is guided by the spine I have not ascertained ; whether the pit at
its base has anything to do with it I cannot say, or whether this
pit is a means of giving this portion of the pupa-case, which
includes the eye-covers, a firm attachment to the moth ; but very
often it remains attached to the moth after the rest of the pupa-
case has been pushed away backwards.
The imago is very delicate and easily rubbed, and such a
specimen is a very disappointing representative of so curious a
life-history ; but a specimen in fine condition, from its delicate
tints and unusual markings is very pleasing,
rirbank, Hereford.
95
FAEOE ISLANDS.
By Kev. F. a. Walker, D.D., F.L.S., &c.
The long mountain ranges of the Faroe Islands in full view,
with a bank of snowy clouds resting along its whole extent. On
nearer approach the islands present a succession of many peaks,
some near the sea, others more in the background, with grassy
slopes and table land intervening in front. The cliffs of Oster
(East) Island wear a majestic appearance, 2200 feet in perpen-
dicular height above the sea that laves their base, and the slopes
of shale that have fallen from their weather-beaten surface.
Westmanhavn, where our vessel is to make a brief stay, is
situate on another island, that of Stromoe. There are also
inland cliffs sideways to the sea, some 1600 feet in height,
covered from top to bottom with short grass, but presenting too
steep a gradient ever to be climbed, and a singular aspect, as
cliffs of their steepness are usually bare, with the exception of
some grassy ledges. The highest elevation in the Faroes is, I am
told, 2800 feet. "Splendid nature!" said the mate of our
vessel, as I stood chatting with him on the prospect this
beautiful morning ; and I heartily concur with him. The cliffs
and hills look green after those of Iceland, being clothed with
turf up to their very summits ; and there is a chasm on the
brink of one of them 1000 feet deep, communicating by a narrow
fissure on the sea level with the waves. We are now passing
between Oster and Stromoe islands, through a very narrow strait,
dangerous in stormy weather. Sea caves that can only be
approached by water are as numerous on one side of this strait
as are watercourses trickling down the slopes on the other.
The church and dwelling houses of Westmanhavn are all
built of wood as in Iceland, and there are numerous crops of
vegetables on the grassy slopes around, and some patches of
barley here, whereas no cereal is seen there. The potatoes, now
in full blossom, look remarkably flourishing, as the climate is
particularly warm and sheltered round these land-locked fjords,
very different from that we have just quitted. I imagine that
one cause of the diversity of the temperature is to be found in
the great altitude of the Alpine heights environing the Icelandic
fjords, and keeping off the sun altogether in the dark days
of winter. Here the verdant hiUs are sufficiently high to
shelter the borders of the fjord, but not perpendicular and lofty
enough to cast a gloom over it, and retard its products.
Another great cause of the milder climate is no doubt
to be attributed to the Gulf Stream. I captured two specimens
of Nebria brevicollis, and observed our ordinary Tipula oleracea
once more ; also the plants Narthecium ossifragum and Scabiosa
96 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
as with us, but had no time to make further observations as we
had to start very shortly again for Thorshavn. As we advance,
the fjord widens, the cHffs seem more stupendous, on our right is
the open sea, and in front of us are other islands of the Faroe
group which we are rapidly approaching.
There are twenty-four islands in all, and one of the eastern-
most is known as Needle Island, from a cave at one end of the
isle forming an aperture right through, and known accordingly
as the " eye of the needle." The entrance to Thorshavn is said
to be a very ugly one in bad weather, when the S.E. wind
prevails. Thorshavn and the fields immediately adjoining appear
to me to furnish a link between Iceland and southern civilization.
It is true that the Faroe Isles possess no trees except in the
garden borders, but in those garden borders there are more and
larger currant bushes than in Iceland ; and in addition moun-
tain ash trees, willows, sycamores, &c., of fair height ; and more
garden flowers grown in the open air, including tiger lilies and
monkshood. Then again, I see once more some of our common
English wild flowers, which are not to be met with, or at all events
I have not found, in Iceland, as the daisy and milkwort {Polygala),
The flowers of the eyebright {Euphrasia) are larger than in
Iceland, and other wild flowers as Caltha palustris more abundant
than there. Oats as well as barley are grown at Thorshavn, and
the variety and luxuriance of the wild grasses is remarkable.
Earwigs and froghoppers, both unseen in Iceland, are beheld
once more here. In other respects the Fauna of the two regions
would appear to be very similar. Compare the following list of
Faroe Island insects, the result of the necessarily brief observa-
tion of half a day spent there : —
CoLEOPTERA. — NebHa brevicollis, Westmanhavn, Thorshavn. Pter-
ostichusj"^ Thorshavn.
DiPTERA. — Helophili(spendulus,-i' Thorshavn. Scatophaga stercorariay*
Thorshavn.
Lepidoptera. — Larentia didymata,^^ Thorshavn.
Neuroptera. — Limnephiltis griseus, Thorshavn.
Orthoptera. — For/icula auricularia, Thorshavn.
AB.Ac-RmT)A.—Phalangium longipes,^ Thorshavn.
An asterisk is . af&xed to such species as are also noticed
in Iceland. The Nebria brevicollis of the Faroes is replaced in
Iceland by the slightly smaller but closely allied Nebria gyllenhali.
I may add, in conclusion, that the Faroe islanders number
about 10 or 12,000, and only seven of their twenty-four islands
are inhabited. ^ The climate varies but 7° centigrade between
summer and winter.
Dun Mallard, Cricklewood, N.W.
9t
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Contributions towards a List of the Varieties of NocTUiB
OCCURRING IN THE BRITISH IsLANDS. — As thcsG papers havG become some-
what voluminous in character, we have decided to discontinue their publica-
tion in the * Entomologist.' It is understood that the author, Mr. J. W.
Tutt, is making arrangements for the re-issue of the early papers, which,
together with others in continuation, will appear in book-form. For
further particulars apply to Mr. Tutt ; Westcombe Park, S.E.
The late Mr. F. Bond. — To the list of notes on entomological subjects
by the late Mr. Bond, contained in the memoir of him (Entom. xxii. 265),
should, I think, be added that he contributed records of his captures in the
Cambridgeshire Fens to the entomological portion of * Fenland, Past and
Present' (a bulky volume published in 1878). When engaged in assisting
to get together the list of Lepidoptera captured in the district, and therein
contained, I visited Mr. Bond at Staines, and Mr. Dunning's charming
description of his visit might well apply to my own. But unfortunately
my object prevented but the most cursory glance at Mr. Bond's rich
collection of insects. He had written to me to come early, so I was at his
home by an early hour in the morning, and my visit lasted till past ten at
night, and has left a delightful memory of a kindly enthusiast, brimful of
practical knowledge. I took down with me an early proof of the list, and
we went through it seriatim, putting in Mr. Bond's localities and additional
species. What this indicates may be gleaned from the text of the work,
where it is stated that " upwards of fifty species, otherwise not recorded in
the district, and the greater portion of which have probably become
extinct," were then added by Mr. Bond, " besides much additional in-
formation as to other species." This information he gave almost entirely
from memory, interspersed with reminiscences of the circumstances
attending the capture of the species. He rarely referred to notes,
and when he did so, — generally as to a question of date, — it was to an
interleaved copy of Stainton's 'Manual,' which appeared to contain notes
and dates of most of his interesting captures. This copy must be very
valuable, and should not be lost sight of. When the additional matter was
in type I sent it to Mr. Bond, and he again went through it and checked it,
the result being that the work contains a permanent record of Mr. Bond's
most interesting captures in the district, and it is well known that he was
by far the most assiduous and successful collector in the rich fenlands of
Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire before the great drainage schemes
changed the face of the country. As an instance of Mr. Bond's reticence
in publishing his captures may be mentioned that at the time the claim of
Argyrolepia schreheriana to be British rested upon the single specimen
taken at Yaxley by Mr. Bouchard, and published in the * Entomologist's
Annual' of 1855, Mr. Bond took about a dozen specimens at Wicken, which
were unrecorded. Mr. Bond explained to me the locality, and being an
out-of-the-way spot, not likely to be visited, he said he felt certain the insect
was still there. This has received confirmation by its capture in recent
years. Among notable insects which Mr. Bond was the first to discover
may be mentioned Macrogaster castanece [arundinis), Tapinostola hellmannif
and Nonagria neurica, and the larvae of N. camics and Noctua suhrosea.
Among the Micro-Lepidoptera Mr. Bond also worked most successfully.
d8 tUE ENTOMOLOGfgT.
and in the genus Gelechia alone discovered at Wicken and Yaxley Fens foui'
new species — divisella, palustrella, oblltella, and suhdecurtella. — Alfred
Balding; Wisbech.
The Revival of the 'Entomologist's Annual.' — I desire most
heartily to endorse the wishes expressed in the remarks of the Rev. 0. P.
Cambridge, under this head (Entom. 65), that some system ought to be
arrived at for rendering available to entomologists generally the many very
useful notes, and even results of research, at present practically lost by
reason of being hidden away in the publications of the numerous Field
Clubs and Natural-History Societies of the provinces. The entomologist
who makes a " science" of the study of insects takes, as a rule, one of two
main lines of research. Either he will devote himself to the investigation
of the habits, &c., of a special insect or group of insects, or else to that of
ascertaining what individual insects exist within a given defined area, be
that large or small. Now for either of these purposes a ready means of
reference to what has already been done by others, in a similar direction,
would be invaluable. Having myself for some years been the editor of the
Journal of a provincial Field Club, I have become aware of the fact that
much more really useful work is done in one or other of the above-named
directions than many would suppose. At a Special Meeting of the Ento-
mological Society in May, 1883, when the Bye-Laws were being altered,
I brought this subject before the Society, considering it would be a great
inducement to many to become Fellows. I then suggested the possibility
of a system of abstracts being made and added to the Journal, as is done
by the Chemical Society. I still hope it may yet be carried out somewhat
in the manner suggested by the Rev. O. P. Cambridge, and I feel sure that
all Secretaries of Field Clubs, &c., would willingly supply the copies of
such of their Journals as contained papers on entomological subjects. —
Alfred Lloyd ; The Dome, Bognor, Feb. 6, 1890.
Hesperia lineola in Jersey. — On July 21st, 1871, I paid a visit
to Jersey, where I took three specimens of an Hesperia, which have since
remained in my cabinet, labelled H. linea (thaumas). On reading Mr. F.
W. Hawes' note on his interesting discovery (Entom. 3), I sent him the
specimens for comparison, and he informs me that they are undoubtedly
Hesperia lineola, and resemble the specimens in the Doubleday collection
in being of a browner hue than those captured by himself in 1888. — W.
A. Luff; 12, Mansell Street, Guernsey.
Hespkria lineola. — Would it not be as well that before the summer
comes there should be published, in parallel columns, the precise points of
difference between H, thaumas and H. lineola? I have been informed
that when thoroughly understood the differences are sufiQcient to enable the
insects to be distinguishable in the field, or at all events in the net. This
might save the heedless and needless destruction of thousands of innocent
butterflies, very beautiful to the lover of nature, and, T believe, quite inno-
cent of any injury to man. Otherwise, it is much to be feared there will,
in a few months' time, be a general slaughter of every thaumas in the
country, in the hopes of taking " the last new thing." — Alfred Lloyd ;
The Dome, Bognor, February 6, 1890.
[In his remarks on and comparison between these two insects, Mr.
Hawes has been so explicit, that unless those who may go on the war-path
Notes, captubes, etc.
d9
against the " Skippers," during the next season or two, are determined to
slay all and spare none, our well-known friend thaumas should suffer no
more inconvenience than that which may be caused him by capture and a
brief inspection. However, that nothing may be left undone that could in
any way tend to prevent unnecessary destruction, the following differential
synopsis is given ; —
H. thaumas.
1. Tips of antennae yellow be-
neath.
2. Central black streak of male
slightly curved to inner
margin.
3. Hind wings beneath, inner
margin fulvous.
H. lineola.
1. Tips of antennae black be-
neath.
3. Central black streak of male
short, straight, and some-
times interrupted.
3. Hind wings beneath, inner
margin not fulvous.
1 and 3 refer to both sexes, 2 to male sex only. — Ed.].
Hesperia lineola : a Correction. — There is a mistake in my note
(Entom. p. 57). " On the marshes near Purfleet, Shoe bury ness," should
read, " on the marshes near Benfleet and Shoeburyness. — F. G. Whittle.
Gas-lamp Entomology. — With reference to Mr. Arkle's remarks con-
cerning the entire absence of the genus Taniocampa at gas-lamps (Entom.
62), it may be of interest to record that towards the end of April, 1887,
Tceniocampa stabilis, T. incerta, T. gothica, and T. pulverulenta, were all
common on the gas-lamps in this neighbourhood, together with a few T.
munda and Pachnohia rubricosa. — R. M. Prideaux ; 9, Vyvyan Terrace,
Chfton, Bristol.
In view of Mr. Arkle's statement that he has never taken the
genus TcBTiiocampa at gas-lamps, the following observation may be inter-
esting. Some seasons ago I took a good number of Pachnohia rubricosa
(or Tceniocampa rubricosa according to Doubleday's list), on gas-lamps
in Lancashire; but no other members of the TcBuiocampa genus came to
light, although several others occur in the neighbourhood. It would thus
appear that the species P. rubricosa is more correctly placed in the
' Entomologist ' list than in the old list. — J. E. R. Allen; Nantclwyd
House, Ruthin, N. Wales.
I am rather surprised to find, from Mr. Arkle's notes on *' Gas-
lamp Entomology (Entom. p. 62), that he has never captured a single
Sphinx at light. My own experience of this branch of collecting has been
exceedingly small ; but on one of the few occasions when I attended to it,
I found a fine Smerinthus ocellatus, clinging tenaciously to the outside of a
gas-lamp at Tottenham. Moreover, Dr. Knaggs, in his * Guide,' refers to
the '* absurd habit " that the Smerinthi have of creeping up underneath the
lamp, and also states that atropos, convolvulus and galiif have been known
to enter houses attracted by the light. Kirby too (* European Butterflies and
Moths '), states that A. atropos is attracted by light. Evidently, therefore,
the Sphinges are habitually light-seekers, and it certainly seems very
strange that Mr. Arkle's experience has been uniformly negative of this
fact ; it would be somewhat interesting to hear from other collectors as to
their luck. I have some recollection of reading that M. stellatarum has
been known to come to light, but I cannot locate my authority. — F. H.
Perry Coste ; ** Ravenshoe," Burnt Ash Hill.
loo tkk ENTOMOLOGlSt.
Additions to my list (Entom. 64): — March, T, hyemana; October,
L. phryganella. — J. Arkle ; Chester.
The Electeic Light at Taunton. — Seeing the numerous accounts of
the failure of sugar last year, the better success I had at light struck me as
peculiar. From the middle of May to the end of September I went out as
nearly as possible every night, and even on the coldest and wettest of
nights I never failed to see an insect of some kind. Among the 200 odd
species I took at light during the year are : — S. ligustri and S. convolvuli,
C. porcellus and C. elpenor and the three Smerinthi; of the Bombyces, H.
hicolorana, L. lurideola, G. quadra, A. villica, S. mendica, H. liwnuli, H.
lupulinus and H. hectus, C. ligniperda, Z. pyrina, D. pudibunda, P. populi,
L. quercifolia, D. lacertinaria, D. falcataria, D. binaria and D. cultraria,
D.furcula, D. bifida and D. vinula; 8. fagi, P. palpina, N. dictcsa, N.
dromedarius, N. ziczac ; of the Noctuse, T. derasa, C. octogesima, A. diluta,
B. muralis, D. coryli, A. ligustri, N. arundinis, H. micacea and H.petasitis,
N. reticulata, M. persicarice, M. literosa and M. bicoloria, G. trigrammica,
A. saucia, N. plecta, T. fimbria, T. orbona, X. fulvago {per ago), C. xeram-
pelina, C. difiinis, P. flavicincta, H. pisi and H. genistcB, C. umbratica, P.
iota, P. chrysitis, H. uncula ; and among the Geometrse, C apiciaria, M.
margaritaria, P. syringaria, E. alniaria and E . fuscaiitaria, G. papilionaria
and G. vemaria, H. strigata, B. piniaria, T. dubitata and E. certata.
Some moths, which are plentiful in the woods around, do not come to light,
as, for instance, T. batis and A. pyramidea. The last-named is very
common, but I only took one example at light. I also secured a specimen
which I put down to be a variety of M. fiuctuata ; the large dark blotch in
the centre of the margin of the upper wing is absent. Early in the spring,
an example of A. atropos was taken, and in 1888 four D. galii. Unluckily
they had found their way into the globes, and were a bit damaged. — M.
Farrant ; 74, Cambridge Street, Pimlico, S.W.
[At the December meeting of the London Entomological Society,
Colonel Swinhoe stated that in Bombay he had collected more than 300
specimens of Sphingidse by means of the electric light. Mr. J. J. Walker,
K.N., said that at Panama he found the electric Hght very attractive to
insects. Mr. M*Arthur, who has just returned from India, informs me
that in passing through the Suez Canal he noticed numbers of moths,
many of large size, darting about in the beam of the electric light, which
was worked from a sort of cage suspended over the bow of the ship. — R. S.]
Epione parallelaria var. — At the foot of the recorded capture of a
variety of Epione parallelaria which appears in the January number by Mr.
Hewett, is to me a rather astonishing note by the editor, who says : — " This
variety is more commonly bred than captured ; some years not un-
frequently." Having bred and collected this species for many years, — and
I believe the experience of other York collectors will confirm me, — I
must say that I have never heard of one of this variety having been bred
before. This form is figured, Entom. xi. pi. 2, fig, 3. and is recorded at
p. 170 of that volume as having been captured by the late Mr. Prest, on
the 13th July, 1874, at its haunt near Strensall. Further mention is made
of several others taken in previous seasons near the same spot, pointing to
an hereditary form. Mr. Anderson and Mr. Jackson, of York, have, I believe,
both captured it. There is one in the AUis' Collection in the Yorkshire
Philosophical Society's Museum in this city, which looks by its rather worn
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 101
appearance, like a captured specimen ; and also the one in my collection,
the capture of which was recorded in Entom. xvi. p. 211. My variety, I
believe, is in finer condition than any of those previously recorded ; the
dark purple border is strikingly intensified. I remember, in a conversation
with Mr. Prest, when he came to look at my specimen (which he described
as the best he had seen), saying that all examples of the variety in question
had been taken close to a hillock at Sandburn, and I believe Mr. Hewett's
specimen was captured within a few yards of where the others were taken.
There are several pretty forms of E. parallelaria bred as well as captured ;
indeed, most of the York entomologists possess something unique in
markings of the species, but I believe the natural variety, which has the
centre of the wings dark brick-red, without the reticulated markings, but
with the border purphsh black, is exceedingly scarce. All the examples of
this form have been captured about one particular spot, which seems to
point to the existence of a distinct local race. — S. Walker ; 75, Union
Terrace, York, January 20, 1890.
[The note referred to should have been signed J. T. C, not Ed.].
Lepidoptera taken in Dorsetshire in 1889. — Although rather late
in the day, the following records from this district will not perhaps have
lost all their interest. The general character of the season here last year,
— 1889, closely corresponded to that of so many other localities, being about
the worst I have ever known. There seemed a good promise at the end of
May and during the first week in June, but soon after that a plague of
larvae of several species completely devastated the young foliage over large
areas of coppice and timber, and thenceforward there succeeded an almost
complete dearth of insects. Busy among the devastating larvae were
numerous Ichneumonidae, chiefly, as far as I could observe, one almost en-
tirely black species. To this cause perhaps it was due that the common
green oak Tortrix, T. viridana, was not very abundant, though quite
common enough; the succeeding brood, however, of Hihernia defoliaria,
H. aurantiana, and CheimatGhia hrumata, I have never seen exceeded in
numbers. Among the latter species of Lepidoptera we meet with, I may
mention Pterophora paludum, Zell. After many visits to its localities I
met with one example of each sex in good condition, on the 29th of August;
no others were seen or taken. It did not appear at all in 1888,
at any rate we did not meet with it, though its localities were well worked.
In 1886 and 1887 (Entom. xix. p. 256, and xx. pp. 308, 326), we took it in
tolerable abundance. All our efforts to find the larvae or pupae have as yet
proved unavailing. Psoricoptera gibosella, which was plentiful on trunks
and branches of oak-trees in 1888, did not appear in 1889. ChauUodus
illigerellus ; two fine specimens were bred from larvae in united blossoms of
Angelica sylvestrls late in August. Cerostoma lucella, about twenty examples,
sixteen of which were beaten from one oak-bush at different times between
July 9th and September 1st; the rest were beaten from oak near the same
spot, excepting one which was flying in sunshine and settling on the
blossoms of the bull-daisy, in a rough field at some little distance. Cero-
stoma alpella occurred but rarely in the same locality, though in greater
abundance than C. sylvella, which is usually the more common species.
Elachista paludum, one example on a bog on the heath. E. monticola, in
a swampy spot, appeared to be pretty frequent. These two have not been
before recorded from Dorsetshire. Laverna subistrigellaf one, in a rough
field. L. lacteellaf three in the same field as the last species, at the end
103 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
of June, 1887. The four last species have been determined by Mr.
Stainton. Specimens of L. paludicola have hitherto done duty in my
cabinet for L. lacteella, about which last little appears to be known among
entomologists generally. Trifurcula atrifrontella, one caught on the wing
in a wood about the end of June. This also has been examined aud de-
termined by Mr. Stainton, who speaks of it as "a great rarity." Apatura
iris, female, the first I have seen in this district ; the species has not been
recorded in Dorsetshire since 1841. Plusia orichalcea, a fine specimen
taken by my friend Mr. J. J. Dunn Cooke, at Hyde, near Bloxworth, about
the middle of July. Eupithecia dodoneata, several examples in May and
June. Near Weymouth it appears to have been quite abundant last
spring. Catoptria albersana, one taken, several seen. Euchromia purpur-
ana, one taken. Lobesia reliquana, fairly abundant. Eupctcilia nana
several. Tinea semifulvella, one. Depressarla pupurea, one beaten out of
thatch in August. (Ecophora fulviguttella, several. Gracilaria elongella,
several. Lita costella, one (the first there met with), in a swampy spot, the
first week in September. Pacilia nivea (== gemmella), frequent, but not
in anything like its usual abundance. Doryphora ohlitella, several in a
bog on the heath. In some seasons it is fairly common. D. lucidella,
one ; not met with before in this district. Bryotropha umbrosella, tolerably
abundant, Chesil Beach, Portland, beginning of July. Stigmonota punctl-
costana, one flying in a wood in June. This is its first record in this
county. I have not thought it necessary to arrange the above species in
any systematic order, but have taken them at random, while looking over
my notes of the season. — 0. P. Cambridge ; Bloxworth Rectory, Feb-
ruary 7, 1890.
A Curious Blunder. — Lord Walsingham's recent remarks on the
ignorance of the public on entomological subjects have met with a curious
confirmation. A writer in one of our first medical journals, speaking of
the tarantula, pronounced it a " harmless beetle " (sic). When a medical
graduate thus confounds Arachnida and Coleoptera, what may we not
expect from the general public? — J. W. Slater; 36, Wray Crescent,
Tollington Park, N.
SOCIETIES.
Ehtomologioal Society of London. — February Bth, 1890. — The
Right Hon. Lord Walsingham, M A., F.R.S., President, in the chair.
The President announced that he had nominated Mr. J. W. Dunning,
M.A., F.L.S., Captain H. J. Elwes, F.L.S., and Mr. Frederick DuCane
Godman, M.A., F.R.S., Vice-Presidents for the Session 1890—1891. Mr.
B. A. Bristowe, of Champion Hill, S.E. ; Mr. J. E. Eastwood, of Witley,
Surrey; Mr. A. B. Farn, of Stone, Greenhithe, Kent; and Mr. O. Gold-
thwaite, of Leyton, Essex, were elected Fellows; and Mr. R. S. Standen
was admitted into the Society. Mr. F. D. Godman exhibited a specimen
of Papilio thoas, from Alamos, in the State of Gonora, Mexico, showing an
aberration in the left hind wing. Mr. R. Trimen remarked that butterflies
of the genus Papilio were seldom liable to variation. Mr. Charles G.
Barrett exhibited a series of specimens of Phycis subornatella. Dup., from
Pembroke, the east and west of Ireland, the Isle of Man, and Perthshire ;
and a series of Phycis adornatella, Tr., from Box Hill, B'olkestone, Norfolk,
and Reading ; also a number of forms intermediate between the above,
SOCIETIES. 103
taken in the Isle of Portland by Mr. N. M. Richardson. He said that these
forms proved the identity of the two supposed species, which he believed
were both referable to P. dilutella, Hb. He also exhibited specimens of
Hesperia lineola, and a pale variety of it taken in Cambridgeshire by Mr.
H. W. Vivian ; specimens of Epischnia bankesiella, a recently-described
species, taken by Mr. N. M. Richardson in Portland ; and a specimen of
Retinia margarotana, H.-S., a species new to Britain, discovered in Mr.
Hodgkinson's collection amongst a number of Retinia pinivorana which had
been collected in Scotland. Mr. W. H. B. Fletcher showed a series of
Gelechia fumatella from sand-hills in Hayling Island and near Little-
hampton, and, for comparison, a series of G. distinctella, from the same
places. He also showed a few bred specimens of G. terrella, and a series
of preserved larvas. He stated that on the downs the larvae live in the
middle of the tufts of such grasses as Festuca ovina and allied species, and
that on sandhills where herbage is more sparse, they make silken galleries
under stones, and sally forth to eat blades of grass growing near their
homes. Mr. H. Goss read a communication from Dr. Clemow, of Cron-
stadt, St. Petersburg, on the subject of the coincidence of vast flights and
blights of insects during the years 1510, 1757, 1763,1782, 1783, 1836 and
1847, and the epidemic of influenza. During the year 1889 no unusual
activity in the insect world had been recorded. Mr. H. T. Stainton and
Mr. M'Lachlan made some remarks on the subject, the purport of which
was that there was no connection between epidemics and the occurrence of
swarms of insects. Mr. G. A. J. Rothney communicated " Notes on
Flowers avoided by Bees." It appeared, according to the author's observa-
tions, made in India, that dahlias were exceptionally attractive, but that the
passion-flower was only resorted to by a few species oi Xylocopa; and that,
with one exception, he had never seen any insects feeding on the flowers of
the oleander. Mr. Slater, Colonel Swinhoe, Mr. Trimen, Lord Walsing-
hara, and Mr. M'Lachlan took part in the discussion which ensued. Dr.
D. Sharp read a paper entitled " On the structure of the Terminal Seg-
ment in some male Hemiptera." Colonel Swinhoe read a paper entitled
" On the Moths of Burma," which contained descriptions of several new
genera and 107 new species. Dr. F. A. Dixey read a paper entitled " On
the Phylogenetic Significance of the wing-markings in certain genera of
the NymphalidcB." A long discussion ensued, in which Lord Walsingham,
Mr. Jeuner Weir, Capt. Elwes, Mr. Trimen and others took part. —
H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
City of London Entomological and Natubal History Society. —
February Qth, 1890.— J. A. Clark, F.E.S., President, in the chair. Messrs.
A. Quail, J. A. Simes, and W. Cook were elected members of the Society.
Mr. Raine exhibited specimens of preserved larvae, including a fine variety
of that oiPhalera hucephala, L. Mr. G. Bryant, preserved larvae and pupae
of Apatura iris, L., Papilio machaon, L., Limenitis sibylla, L., and Neme-
obius lucina, L. Mr. Whittle, a variety of Epinephele ianira, L., having
the left hind wing nearly bleached. Mr. J. A. Clark, 24 species of
Tineina ; also currant-stems, showing ravages of larvae of Sesia tipuliformis,
Clerck. Mr. J. VV. Tutt exhibited photographs of a number of varieties
of Arctia caia, L., and A. villica, L., Spilosoma menthastrif Esp., and S,
liibric'qoeda, Esp., and Abraxas grossulariata, L., the extent of variation
being of much wider range than either he or any of the members present
104 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
had ever seen in English collections. He also remarked on the recent dis-
covery of Hesperia lineola Ochs., which hitherto had been passed over as
Hesperia thaumas, Hufn., in Britain. The same member, referring to Mr.
0. Goldthwaite's exhibit of Lycsenidae, pointed out the similarity of these
and other Continental species to Lepidoptera indigenous to this country,
and considered, that as the latitude, climate, and geology were nearly iden-
tical, other species might have been overlooked. In Coleoptera, Mr.
Cripps exhibited Plymouth species. Mr. Heasler, Dromius A-notatm,
Panz. Mr. Bellamy, Hydrophilus piceus, L., Dytiscus punctulatus, F.,
Molytes coronatus, Goeze, and M. germanus, L. Mr. Milton, Carabus
nitens, L., and Trichiusfasciatus, L. Mr. G. A. Lewcock reported on the
Coleopterous species prevalent in 1889, giving an account of the insects
obtained by him at Chattenden, including Brachytarsus scabiosus, F.,
Tillus elongatus, L., Anthribus albinus, L. (by Mr. Cripps), and 40 speci-
mens of Malachim ceneus, L. ; at Rainham (Essex), Geodephaga were
plentiful in early spring; at Epping Forest aquatic species were abundant
in both spring and autumn, and several specimens of Dytiscus punctulatus,
F., Hydrous caraboides, L., Ilybius ater, De G., &c., were among the
captures ; many species were also obtained from Farnham, Esher, Woking,
and other localities. — G. A. Lewcock, E. Hanes, Hon. Sees.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — January ^Oth, 1890. — Mr.
W. E. Blatch, President, in the chair. The Rev. Chas. F. Thornewill ex-
hibited Acidalia immorata, also Noctua f estiva var. conflua, the latter being
from Scotland. Mr. C. J. Wainwright showed Cabera rotundaria, from
Sutton Park. Mr. H. Tunaley read a paper on the entomology of Porlock,
in Somersetshire and the neighbourhood, giving a good description of the
place, and a list of the Lepidoptera taken, which included some rare species.
The insects captured were exhibited.
February Srd. — Annual Meeting. — Mr. W. E. Blatch in the chair. The
report of the Council for the past year was very satisfactory, showing a con-
siderable amount of work done in this their first year. The Treasurer's
report was read, which showed a slight balance in hand. The following
gentlemen were elected as officers for the ensuing year: — Mr. W. E.
Blatch, President ; Rev. Charles F. Thornewill, F.E.S., Vice-President ;
Mr. R. Bradley, as Treasurer; and Mr. C. J. Wainwright, as Secretary,
the remaining members of the Council being Messrs. W. E. Lee and E.
C. Rye. — CoLBRAN J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
OBITUARY.
Arthur Bliss died January 29th, 1890, at the early age of 32 years.
For some time past his health had been far from robust, but the immediate
cause of his death was pneumonia supervening on influenza. Mr. Bliss
was a member of the South London Entomological and Natural History
Society from 1874, and at one time ably discharged the duties of secretary
to that body. In March, 1885, he was elected a Fellow of the Entomo-
logical Society of London. Although specially interested in the lepidopterous
fauna of his own country, he also formed a collection of tropical species, but,
with the exception of a few observations recorded in the * Entomologist,'
he does not seem to have contributed much to the literature of his study.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIIL] APRIL, 1890. [No. 823.
ON AN ADDITIONAL AID TO THE DETERMINATION OF
CERTAIN BRITISH GYRINIDiE.
By James Edwards, F.E.S.
In the case of a genus like Gyrinus^ where so much difference
of opinion exists amongst authorities as to the value of the
specific characters hitherto in use, one experiences an amount of
gratification more than ordinary in calling attention to a structural
character comparatively easy of observation and practically
constant ; I allude to the contour of the median lobe of the
oedeagus.
In dealing with the Homoptera-Cicadina I have long been
accustomed to make use of this character in cases where the
other characteristics available are difficult to appreciate or other-
wise unsatisfactory, and in certain groups I have frequently
succeeded by its means in definitely limiting species, which it was
otherwise almost impossible to characterize intelligibly. Under
these circumstances I, not unnaturally, place its value as a
differential specific character very high, mainly on account of the
infinitesimally small amount of variation which it presents in the
individuals of those assemblages of insects which we are accus-
tomed to call a species. Its value, however, is by no means
uniform, and each case must be judged entirely on its merits.
For instance, there are many species of Typhlocyba whose identity
may be decided from an inspection of this part alone ; while, on
the other hand, it would be impossible to refer the same organ
from several species of Limotettix to the species to which they
belonged, on account of their great similarity inter se ; and it is
worthy of remark that the latter insects would probably be readily
separable by differences in colour and facies, whilst the former
resemble one another so closely in those respects that they can
only be identified with certainty by a reference to the male
genitalia. These examples are taken from the Cicadina ; but so
ENTOM. — APRIL, 1890. I
106
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
far as I am at present able to judge, the result in the Coleoptera
will be very much the same.
As observable in dried specimens, the cedeagm of Gyrinus is
a corneous body consisting of a median and a pair of lateral
lobes, found between the dorsal and ventral surfaces of the last^
abdominal segment; for a short distance from its base it is
somewhat oval in section and parallel to the long axis of the
body, but its parts are abruptly and obliquely bent upwards to
follow the curve of the last ventral segment. The side lobes, the
form of which does not vary in any marked degree in the several
species, have the basal half of their inner faces excavated for
the reception of the basal half of the median lobe ; their apical
half is flattened and blade-like, and their apices are fringed with
long cilia. The form of the median lobe is various, and peculiar
to the respective species ; its contour in some of our species may
be gathered from the outline figures. The latter are made from
specimens in Canada balsam, and magnified 40 diameters; but in
the Table of Species I have described its appearance when merely
dissected out and viewed from above with a hand-lens magnifying
about 20 diameters.
u i^g
1, (Edeagus of Gyrinus ehngatus. 2, Median lobe of cedeagus, G. opacus ;
3, of G. marinus ; 4, of G. hicolor.
As it became necessary, in the preparation of this paper, to
re-examine the British species of Gyrinus, I have thought it well
to include some general observations, with a Table of our species
to facilitate their determination.
It is evident that we have in Britain two kinds of Gyrinus
with the reflexed margins of the thorax and elytra testaceous
and the interstices of the latter sculptured ; in one of these (a)
DETERMINATION OP CERTAIN BRITISH GYRINID^. 107
the interstices are very finely but distinctly punctured, and in the
other (b) the same parts are transversely substrigose. Although
these insects have been in our lists for more than twenty years,
there is still much diversity of opinion as to the names to be
applied to them. Dr. Sharp, in introducing the insects in question
in his valuable paper on the " British Gyrinidae " (Ent. Mo. Mag.
V. pp. 57, 58), adopts the name caspius, Aube, for a, and colym-
bus, Er., for b ; but caspius, Aube, which according to authors
= caspius, Men., should have smooth interstices, whilst in
colymbuSy Er., the same parts should be extremely finely punc-
tured. Dr. Regimbart is a great authority on these insects, and
doubtless has some good reason for treating the two forms under
consideration as one species, but certainly none appears from his
Monograph ; nor is it clear why the name caspius^ originally given
to a form with the interstices smooth, should be applied to insects
exhibiting respectively two kinds of sculpture on the interstices.
Canon Fowler, in ' Col. Brit. Islands ' (vol. i.), includes both
forms under the name caspius, Men., at p. 212, and at p. 214 he
deals with them under the name colymous, Er. After copying
Regimbart's synonymy and translating that author's description
of caspius, Men., he proceeds to examine the characters laid down
by authors for colymbus and caspius, and concludes by very
properly proposing a distinctive name for the form b. Under
all circumstances it seems to me better to adopt the name
colymbus, Er., for a, and striolatus. Fowler, for b; at all events
until it is shown, more conclusively than at present, that they
ought to bear some other. I have been unable to obtain males of
either of these species for dissection, but I have a female of
colymbus, Er., taken by myself in the Norwich district. This
insect was, until recently, standing amongst my specimens of
natator, where it attracted my attention by its less convex form,
and the straighter sides and more evident outer apical angle of
its elytra.
In re-defining the species which he calls caspius, Menetr., at
p. 259 of his Monograph, on the challenge of M. de Borre, Dr.
Regimbart omits all mention of the form with the interstices
substrigose. The former writer seems to think that the caspius
of Regimbart, with its varieties, and suffriani, Scrib., are forms
of natator, Scop., and he appears to base his opinion on the fact
that it is not impossible in some, perhaps in most, specimens of
the species last named, with an amplification of about 40 diame-
ters, to detect feeble traces of very fine punctuation. For all
practical purposes, however, the interstices of natator may be
regarded as impunctate. M. de Borre says that he has found all
the intermediate forms between caspius and natator, which,
assuming that his caspius is the same as that of Aube, is intelli-
gible enough ; for it is not clear how the genuine caspius of that
i2
108
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
author is to be separated from natator. With regard to the
question of the specific identity of suffrlani and natator, the
views of M. de Borre are scarcely likely to be largely adopted.
Such matters as these might be well decided by a reference to
the male genitalia.
Table of Species.
1 (4). Under side wholly testaceous.
2 (3). Scutellum with a broad well-defined keel at
the base. Upper side dull
3 (Q). Scutellum simple. Upper side very shiny
4(1). Under side wholly or in greater part black.
6 (6). Punctures of the inner striae becoming
stronger towards the base
6 (5). Punctures of the inner striae becoming
finer towards the base, or uniform.
7 (16). Keflexed margins of thorax and elytra
testaceous.
8 (11). Interstices sculptured.
9 (10). Interstices closely and very finely punc-
tured
caspius, Sharp ; Regiinbart,
nee Men., nee Aube.
10 (9). Interstices transversely sub-strigose
1. minutus, Fab.
2. urinator, 111.
3. suffriani, Scrib.
4. colymhus, Er.
pars ; Fowler, pars ;
... 5. striolatus, Fowler.
colymhus, Sharp ; nee Er.
caspius, Regimbart, pars ;
nee Men., nee Aube.
11 (8).
12 (13).
13 (12).
Interstices smooth.
Form ovate. Length of elytra one-seventh
( $ ) to one-fourth {^) greater than their
joint width
Form oblong-ovate, or even elongate and
compressed. Length of elytra one-third,
or more than one-third, greater than
their joint width.
14(15). Average size smaller. Outer apical angle of
elytra obtuse but evident. Mesosternum
and apex of abdomen rufo-testaceous.
Dorsal aspect of median lobe of oedeagus
strap-shaped, slightly narrowed to its
broadly rounded apex, a little below which
its sides are very slightly concave
15 (14). Average size larger. Outer apical angle of
elytra completely rounded off. Meso-
sternum and apex of abdomen black.
Dorsal aspect of median lobe of cedeagus
elongate-triangular, somewhat attenuate
in its apical half, apex sub-acute
16 (7). Reflexed margins of thorax and elytra
nigro-aeneous.
6. natator, Scop.
7. elongatus, Aube.
distinctus, Sharp.
8. hicolor, Payk.
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA FROM CHINA. 109
17 (18). Punctures of the inner striae not, or scarcely
finer than those of the outer. Dorsal
aspect of median lobe of oedeagus elon-
gate-triangular, apex acute 9. tnarinus, Gyll.
18 (17). Punctures of the inner striae distinctly
finer than those of the outer. Dorsal
aspect of median lobe of oedeagus elon-
gate-triangular, suddenly narrowed about
half-way from the base, and thence
parallel-sided to its subtruncate apex ... 10. opacus, SahJ.
For the examination of the sculpture of the interstices in these
insects an amplification of about 40 diameters is very convenient.
Both G. elongatus and G, bicolor are subject to considerable
variation in shape, some specimens being very narrow and convex.
In the English descriptions of the latter insect too great a point
is made of its more elongate and parallel form, as a means of
distinguishing the species from elongatus^ — probably because
most, if not all, of the authentic British specimens pertain to
the var. angustatus ; but Dr. Sharp has kindly given me some
Swedish examples of veritable bicolor, not one of which actually
belongs to that variety, and which, so far as size and form are
concerned, I can exactly match with a few abnormally large
females out of an extensive gathering of elongatus. Here, how-
ever, the form of the elytral apices, and the colour of the meso-
sternum and apex of the abdomen, serve to separate the two
species. I mention this to show that a Gyrinus may be the true
bicolor without being exceptionally elongate, parallel-sided, and
convex.
Several of our species have a dull form, resembling in that
respect the normal form of minutus ; I have it, in both sexes, in
svffriani, natator, marinus (in which species it is very frequent],
and opacus.
131, Rupert Street, Norwich, March 15, 1890.
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA FROM CHINA.
By J. II. Leech, B.A., F.Z.S., &c.
(Concluded from p. 83.)
Campylotes pratti, sp. n.
Agrees in design with Campylotes {Epyrgis) desgodinsl, Oberthiir (Etud.
d'Ent. 9, pi. xi. fig. 10), but differs therefrom in its larger size and in having
a black transverse basal band on primaries ; the inner portion of the basal
half of all the wings is decidedly yellow instead of salmon-pink, as in
desgodinsi. Further, the pectinations of the antennae are much longer.
Expanse, ^ 70 mm., ? 82 mm.
I received a number of specimens from Chang Yang. From
their fine condition these appeared to have been bred.
no TitE ENTOMOLOGIST?.
EUSEMIA VITHOROIDES, Sp. n.
<y . Ground colour black ; primaries with two creamy white blotches in
the cell, one near the base, the other towards the extremity ; a central series
of five spots of the same colour, the first, third and fourth longitudinal and
larger than the rest ; there is also a whitish streak at the base of wing ; on
the costa near the base are three bluish transverse bars, and parallel with
outer margin three indistinct rows of bluish spots ; a row of longitudinal
marks along inner margin. Secondaries with a broad creamy white basal
band, and central band of spots of the same colour ; between these bands is
situated a large creamy white blotch. Fringes white, chequered with black.
Abdomen black, with a white ring at its base, and an orange one on last
segment ; anal tuft also orange. Under surface much as above, but more
tinged with blue; a very distinct submarginal band of whitish spots on
primaries, and a whitish basal streak on costa of all the wings ; pectus and
abdomen rich orange ; legs black. S' Expanse, 73 mm.
One male taken at Chang Yang in June.
This insect bears a wonderful superficial resemblance to
Vithora stratonice, Cram., of which species it is probably a
mimic.
Skudyra sub alb a, sp. n.
<^. Closely allied to S. longipennis, Walk., but the ground colour of
primaries is white, thickly sprinkled on basal half with dark grey, the inner
margin is not shaded with bluish grey, but there is a patch of this colour
between the central lines ; the laky brown apical patch encloses a small
bluish cloud which has a paler, almost white, spot on its exterior edge ; the
patch of brown beyond outer line is larger and more crimson in tone.
Secondaries yellow, broadly bordered with black. Under surface of primaries
white ; costa narrowly and outer margin broadly bordered with black, the
latter tinged with white at apex ; there is a patch of the same colour along
inner margin from base to beyond middle, and the discal spots are also black ;
secondaries as above. Expanse, 44 — 47 mm.
Five male specimens from Chang Yang, where they were
taken in June, and one example of the same sex from Ichang,
also taken in June.
Seudyra mandarina, sp. n.
^ . The costal and central portion of primaries greyish, sprinkled with
darker scales; discoidal spots blackish, ringed with pale grey; inner and
outer marginal areas purplish, clouded with purphsh brown. Secondaries
deep orange, with a large, round, black central spot ; a submarginal band of
black confluent spots, connected from the anal angle with the base of the
wing by a blackish suffused streak. Under surface deep orange, clouded
with reddish brown about the margins ; discal and central spots on primaries,
and discal and anal spots on secondaries, black. Expanse, 50 mm.
A fine male taken at Chang Yang in July.
Seudyra flavida, sp. n.
^ . Primaries grey, sprinkled with brownish scales ; apical portion and
outer margin clouded with purplish brown; along the inner margin is a
large patch of purplish brown, maroon at the base and towards inner angle,
this is traversed by two black bars intersected by a yellowish line ; discal
spots purphsh brown, ringed with white ; secondaries orange-yellow, without
any blacJc markings. Under surface dull golden orange, clouded with
reddish brown about the outer margins ; discal spots and patch along inner
NEW SPECIES OF LEPIDOFTERA FROM CHINA. Ill
margin of primaries blackish brown ; there is also a blackish discal spot on
secondaries. Expanse, 66 mm.
Three males taken at Chang Yang in August.
Chelonia bieti, Oberth.
Var. pratti.
This form is larger than the type ; the transverse band on primaries
from costa to inner angle is much broader and more irregularly outlined ;
the black markings on secondaries are more pronounced, and in addition
there are two round black spots towards the base of the wing. The
segmental divisions of the body are bright scarlet, of which colour there is
also a broad band along each side. The under surface agrees with the
upper, which is not the case in the type. Expanse, 74 mm.
Three females of this form taken at Chang Yang in June.
DiONYCHOPUS RUBIDUS, sp. n.
2 . Ground colour white, rather silky ; secondaries with a submarginal
row of four black spots, one situated towards outer angle, the other three
near anal angle, the last two of which are only separated by the submedian
nervure ; there is also a small black bar-shaped mark situated at the end of
the cell. Under surface as above, with the addition of a small black spot at
base of secondaries. Abdomen brilliant crimson above, white beneath, with
dorsal and lateral series of black quadrate spots; tip of anal segment white.
Femora and tibias of anterior legs crimson ; there is also a crimson mark
below each eye; antennae black, white at the base and apex. Expanse:
^ 74 mm. ; $ 69 mm.
Two specimens taken at Chang Yang in July and August.
Allied to Dionochopus niveus, but differs especially in the
crimson body, black spots of secondaries, and colour of antennae.
Crinola flavicollis, sp. n.
Semitransparent whitish; neuration, costa, outer margin, and fringes
of all the wings fuliginous-grey. Head and thorax fuliginous-grey ; collar
yellow. Abdomen whitish, ringed with fuliginous-grey towards base.
Expanse, 40 mm.
Four specimens taken in May and June at Chang Yang.
GYNiEPHORA PLUTO, Sp. n.
<? . All the wings sooty black ; primaries slightly paler at the end of
the cell ; under surface the same, but rather paler ; legs, pectus and abdomen
dirty yellowish white ; head and palpi bright orange. Expanse, 36 mm.
Two male specimens taken near Ichang, one in July, the
other in August.
Artaxa MONTIS, sp. n.
^ . Primaries pale yellow ; a thin sprinkling of black scales forms a
band from the centre of the wing to the inner margin. Secondaries white,
with a yellow tinge, rather silky. Head and thorax orange ; abdomen
black, except the first and anal segments, which are orange. Under surface
silky white ; abdomen and legs yellowish. Expanse, 40 mm.
A single male taken at Chang Yang in June.
Orgyia prisca, sp. n.
^ . Primaries chestnut-brown, traversed by two darker transverse lines,
the inner line almost straight, the outer first curves towards the apex, then
113 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
descends obliquely to inner margin ; discal area of wing towards the costa
suffused with darker; there are a few white scales about the centre of the
costa and a small white apical dash. Secondaries chocolate-brown. Under
surface light brown, suffused with darker. Expanse, 30 mm.
I received a nice series of males taken at Chang Yang in
June and July.
NuMENES DisPARiLis, Staud., Eom. Mem. Lep. iii. p. 200, pi. xi.
fig. 2, a, b (1887).
Var. separata.
$, This form differs from the type on primaries in having a band
connecting the yellowish white fascia with the apex, also a white spot near
the base of the costa ; on the secondaries the typical white central patch is
absent.
The female differs in the wide basal band of primaries, and in having
two black spots instead of a streak on secondaries.
Both sexes exceed typical measurements, the difference being $ 58 mm.,
$ 82 mm., as against $ 50 mm., ? 58 mm.
Two males and a female taken at Chang Yang in July.
Jana mandarina, sp. n.
Primaries: inner two-thirds chocolate-brown, very woolly about the
base; central line straight, dark chocolate; outer line dark chocolate,
straight, bordered internally with whitish brown ; submarginal Une blackish
brown, wavy, dividing the outer third of wing into two nearly equal parts, the
outer of which is light brown, the inner suffused with darker. Secondaries
pale brown, suffused with blackish scales about the disc ; two straight central
lines and a wavy submarginal line dark brown. Thorax chocolate-brown ;
abdomen ferruginous; antennse black. Under surface ferruginous-brown,
with the markings of upper surface rather darker. Expanse, 79 mm.
One female taken at Chang Yang in July.
Anther^a thespis, sp. n.
Ground colour pale oHve-brown; primaries sprinkled about the discal
area with brownish orange scales ; a large pale green subhyaline spot nearly
circular, margined with black, and intersected by a white line, is situated about
the centre of the wing towards costa ; beyond this spot the wing is traversed
by a row of subhyaline spots partially obscured by scales, and connected by
a dark wavy line, externally bordered with orange ; beyond this is a broad
wavy band of chocolate-brown ; there is also a wavy, indistinct, chocolate
submarginal line, and the apical patch is ashy grey. Secondaries with a
distinct ocellus ; the centre is a large pale green subhyaline pear-shaped spot,
bordered with black, the edge of this last is intersected by a white Une, and
the whole is surrounded by bright yellow which merges into the ground
colour, and is bordered by black on its upper and outer portions ; bands as
on primaries, but the subhyaline spots more open ; thorax and base of all
the wings thickly clothed with woolly scales. Abdomen russet-brown. Under
side much as above, but suffused with violet-grey. Expanse, 162 mm.
One female taken at Ship-y-Shan, near Ichang, in September.
Drepana parvula, sp. n.
Ground colour of primaries mouse-grey ; at the end of the cell are two
white dots, from the first of which a dark line curves to the inner margin;
two other dark lines start from the apex, one descending with a slight curve
to the outer angle, the other to the centre of inner margin ; at the apex is a
NEW SPECIES OE LEPlDOtTERA EROM CHINA. 113
small yellowish spot, bordered externally with black. Secondaries brownish
grey ; head and thorax mouse-grey ; abdomen brownish grey. Under surface
silky white, upper portion of primaries shaded with grey. Expanse, 24 mm.
One example from Chang Yang, July. Four specimens,
including both sexes, taken by myself at Ningpo in April, 1886.
Drepana acuminata, sp. n.
(^ . Pale reddish brown ; apex of primaries blackish, much produced
and acutely pointed ; two dark brown lines traverse the disc of the wing, the
first is deflected to median nervure, then inflected to inner margin, the
second runs from costa towards outer margin as far as first discoidal
nervule, where it joins a darker apical streak, then turns inwards
and descends obliquely to inner margin ; an obscure submarginal line ;
two small black central spots. Secondaries have two central dark brown
lines, the first curved and the second straight ; submarginal line slightly
wavy, also dark brown. Under surface whitish, tinged with brown
over costal area of primaries, one central black spot ; a dark brown line
traverses the wing from near blackish apex to inner margin ; submarginal
line obscure ; secondaries have a central black spot and dark brown trans-
verse line; submarginal line also dark brown, but very faint. Expanse,
39 mm.
nm.
One male specimen taken in July at Ichang.
Allied to D.falcataria.
Drepana bidens, sp. n.
Primaries : outer margin deeply concave below the apex and less deeply
before inner margin; purphsh black, outer margin bordered with tawny,
interrupted by a line and cloud of the ground colour and preceded by a
broad whitish band. Secondaries similar to primaries, but rather paler and
without whitish submarginal band. Under surface pale ochreous-brown ;
discal area suffused with dark grey. Expanse, 30 mm.
One example taken in July at Chang Yang.
Drepana flavilinea, sp. n.
2 . Smoky grey, tinged with violet ; basal line of primaries yellowish,
but not clearly defined, central line yellow, starting from the yellowish apex;
submarginal line is also yellowish, narrow, united with central line towards
apex; all these lines are continued across the secondaries: the apex of
primaries is produced and obtusely pointed ; there is a minute white central
spot. Under surface pale ochreous-brown. Discal areas of all the wings
sufi"used with greyish, and traversed by a faint line ; a small white central
dot on primaries. Expanse, 32 mm.
Two female specimens taken in July at Chang Yang.
Thyatira trimaculata, Brem.
Yar. chinensis.
Primaries chocolate-brown ; there are three nearly round white patches
with brown centres, one at the base, — this is the largest, and has the brown
centre sprinkled with black scales, — one at the apex, and one at the outer
angle ; there is a series of pale marginal lunules. Secondaries fuscous -brown,
paler towards the base, with a dark centpftl spot and line. Under surface
fuscous-grey, paler towards the inner margins.
Female like the male, but larger. Expanse ; ^ 38 mm. ; ? 41 mm.
114
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Differs from the type in size, darker colouring, and diflferent'
shape of the spot at outer angle of primaries.
A nice series from Chang Yang, June and July. Ichang,
August.
Var. albomaculata. S
Arrangement of markings as in "var. chinensis,^^ but spots almost^"
white ; secondaries much paler, and with central spot and hne very distinct.
Expanse, 48 mm.
One female taken near Ichang in August.
OUS^
ROM
i
DESCRIPTIONS OF NEW SPECIES OF PHYTOPHAGOUS
COLEOPTERA RECEIVED BY MR. J. H. LEECH, FROM
CHANG- YANG, CHINA.
By Martin Jacoby, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 89.)
DlORYCTUS VARIABILIS, n. Sp.
Black; the head, antennae, thorax and the legs fulvous; elytra black,
extremely finely punctate-striate.
Var. Head and thorax nearly black. Length 1 — 1^ line.
Head with a few extremely fine punctures, visible only under a strong
lens ; eyes slightly but broadly emarginate, the emargination rounded ;
antennae entirely fulvous, short, the terminal joints lightly and gradually
thickened ; thorax of the same shape as in the preceding species, and
similarly coloured, entirely impunctate ; scutellum invisible ; elytra with the
basal lobe scarcely produced, black, the punctured striae scarcely perceptible ;
legs fulvous ; pro sternum much broader than long, its surface flat without
anterior projection.
This small species is similarly coloured as the preceding, but
differs totally from it in the nearly impunctate head and elytra,
their shape, and the structure of the prosternum ; the variety
does not seem to differ, except in its almost entirely black colour.
Aorta chinensis, n. sp.
Fulvous, pubescent; the antennae (the basal joints excepted), the apex
of the femora and the tibiae, black; thorax coarsely punctured; elytra
depressed below the base, punctate-striate, the interstices more or less
costate.
$ . Elytra more strongly costate.
Var. Head or thorax black ; legs entirely fulvous. Length, 2^ — 3 lines.
A, chinensis, although closely allied to A. nigripes, Baly, and
A, howringii, is quite distinct; the head, which is either fulvous
or black, is closely punctured ; the antennse are black with the
exception of the lower four joints, which are fulvous, they extend
nearly to the end of the body ; the thorax is less globose than in
the allied species, more transverse in shape and has an obsolete
transverse depression at each side, the surface is coarse
punctured and clothed with fulvous pubescence ; the elytra a;
Entomologist April 1890
V/. Purisiss del.etlitli. "West, Newman imp
New species of ColeoptersL froin Chiria
EntoTnoloqist April 1880.
Plate III
V.r Purkiss del. etli.
West.lJewnia-n:
New species of Coleoptera from China.
tJEW SPECIES OF COLEOPTERA FHOM CHINA. 115
similarly pubescent, and have a distinct oblique depression at
the base, which is absent in A. nigripes and A, howringii; the
punctures are transverse in shape and frequently arranged in
double rows, the interstices are slightly convex, in most speci-
mens the legs are black, with the base of the femora fulvous ; in
others the head, antennae and legs are entirely black.
Several specimens.
Talmonus, Fairm.
This genus, recently described by M. Fairmaire, seems to me
to be identical with LypestheSy Baly, and his species, T, farinosus,
with L. ateVf Motsch. (pulverulentuSj Jac). This is, therefore,
the third time that Motschulsky's species has been described
under different names.
Many specimens.
NODOSTOMA ORIENTALE, n. Sp. (PL I. fig. 7).
Greenish- seneous, the base of the antennae and of the femora, fulvous ;
head and thorax closely and finely punctured, the sides of the latter sub-
angulate : elytra strongly punctate-striate, the base conxex ; femora with a
minute tooth.
^ . Elytra less regularly and subgeminate punctate-striate.
2 . Elytra very regularly punctured, with a short oblique costa below
the shoulders. Length, 2 lines.
<y . Of dark greenish-aeneous colour, the head rather closely and
strongly punctured and subrugose, the epistome not separated from the
face ; labrum fulvous; antennae about half the length of the body, the lower
four joints fulvous, the first stained with black above ; thorax about twice as
broad as long, the sides distinctly angulate at the middle, the surface rather
closely but somewhat less strongly punctured than the head ; elytra with
the base distinctly swollen and depressed below the raised portion, the base
rather irregularly punctured, the striae more regular posteriorly but here and
there appearing double, the shoulders prominent, forming a slight ridge ; the
femora with a very minute tooth.
N. orientale seems closely allied to N. puncticolle Weise, also
from China, but differs in the punctured clypeus, the angulate
sides of the thorax and the swollen base of the elytra; the
latter is much more distinctly visible in the female, which may
be mistaken for another species, since the elytral punctuation is
very strong and regular throughout, a short but strong oblique
costa extends from the shoulder to the lateral margin, all other
characters agree with that of the male ; both sexes were obtained
in sufficient numbers.
NODOSTOMA GIBBOSUM, n. Sp.
Oblong-ovate, widened behind, dark aeneous ; the labrum, base of the
antenna3 and base of the femora and tibiae fulvous ; thorax closely and strongly
punctured ; elytra convex, strongly widened, finely punctate-striate. Length,
1^ line.
Head closely and strongly punctured, the vertex subrugose, the epistome
also strongly punctured, separated from the face by an obsolete transverse
depression, its anterior edge deeply concave-emarginate ; labrum and palpi
fulvous ; antenniE black, the lower three joints fulvous, the first stained with
116 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
•
piceous above ; thorax about one half broader than long, the sides rounded and
widened, very obsoletely angulate below the middle, the anterior angles slightly
pointed, the surface very strongly and rather closely punctured, a narrow
longitudinal central space as well as the extreme anterior margin, smooth ;
elytra convex, strongly rounded towards the middle and pointed at the apex,
the punctures rather finely impressed but distinct to the apex, the base with
a shallow transverse depression, only visible in certain lights, the interstices
above this depression subtuberculate (male), or subcostate (female), the sides
in the female also furnished with a short costa below the shoulder and a
longer one further inwards ; the four posterior femora minutely toothed.
This species, which has all the characters peculiar to the
genus, is much distinguished by its shape and the sculpture of
the elytra ; the thorax also is longer than is usually the case, and
its sides are scarcely angulate.
A few examples.
Cleorina lefevrei, n. sp.
Metallic dark blue or violaceous ; antennae black, the basal two or three
joints fulvous ; finely and moderately closely punctured ; elytra with a
transverse depression below the base, finely punctate-striate. Length,
li— If line.
Of broadly ovate shape, the head rather closely and distinctly punctm-ed,
the epistome not separated from the face, the anterior edge of the clypeus
deeply concave-emarginate ; antennae less than half the length of the body,
black, the third and fourth joints of equal length, the lower three fulvous,
the basal joint stained with metallic-blue above ; thorax transverse, twice as
broad as long, the sides nearly straight, the surface punctured like the head,
the punctures subremotely placed; scutellum impunctate, broad, its apex
acute ; elytra with a deep transverse depression below the base, the
shoulders prominent, the punctured striae fine (except within the depression),
nearly indistinct at the apex.
Closely allied to C. janthinay Lefev., but quite distinct.
Numerous specimens were obtained.
Chrysomela seriepunctata, ? Weise.
The description of this Chrysomela from Siberia, by the
author in Wiegmann's ' Archiv,' 1887, agrees so closely with the
specimens from Chang Yang, that I must refer them to that
species, the more so as the very numerous and variable species
already described, from the East, are for the greater part very
difficult to separate. The present insect is entirely metallic dark
blue, the thorax is very finely and rather closely punctured on
the disc (Weise says not closely), and the sides have a deep row
of coarse punctures (deepest near the base), which limit the
nearly smooth lateral and slightly raised marginal space; the
elytra have numerous rows of strong punctures, which only at
the sides can be distinguished as being arranged in pairs, the
interstices are nearly as strongly, sometimes more finely, punc-
tured. All this agrees with the author's description.
Chrysomela sibirica, Weise,
Numerous specimens, agreeing entirely with the author's
description, were obtained by Mr. Pratt ; the upper surface of the
i
NEW SPECIES OF COLEOPTERA FROM CHINA. 117
insect is of a violaceous-cupreous colour; the thorax is very
finely punctured on tlie disc, coarsely at the sides, which latter
have a deep longitudinal depression at the base ; the elytra have
four double rows of deep punctures, with numerous finer ones
on the interstices.
Phytodecta flavo-plagiata, n. sp. (PI. I. fig. 8).
Black ; the head, apical joints of the antennae, and the legs partly,
fulvous ; thorax finely punctured ; elytra more strongly and semi-regularly
punctate, black, a transverse spot on the shoulder and another near the
apex, flavous. Length, 2f — 3 lines.
Of subquadrate and moderately convex shape, the head fulvous, finely
and rather closely punctured ; antennae not extending beyond the thorax, the
lower five joints fulvous, the others black, very broadly dilated; thorax
about three times broader than long, the sides rather strongly rounded, the
surface finely and rather closely punctured on the disc, the punctures of
various size, those at the sides much larger, the lateral margins slightly
thickened, smooth and fulvous, the rest of the disc black ; scutellum very
broad, impunctate ; elytra not broader at the base than the thorax, more
strongly punctured than the latter, the punctures partly arranged in rows,
the shoulders with a transversely-shaped flavous spot, and another one of
similar shape placed at the sides and at some distance from the apex ; the
under side and legs nearly black, the femora and tibiae more or less fulvous.
Easily known from its congeners by the coloration of the elytra ; the sub-
apical spot of the latter is generally more or less constricted at its middle.
Four specimens.
Melasoma maculicollis, n. sp. (PI. I., fig. 9.)
Metallic violaceous blue; thorax flavous, finely punctured with five
spots, placed transversely ; elytra semi-regularly punctured, longitudinally
impressed below the shoulder; sides of abdomen fulvous, spotted with
black. Length, 5 — 6 lines.
Head finely punctured at the sides ; antennae not extending beyond the
thorax, the terminal joints gradually thickened, black, the basal four joints
more or less fulvous below; thorax narrowly transverse, the anterior
margin concave at the middle, the sides strongly rounded anteriorly, the
surface very finely punctured, flavous, with five black spots, a small one at
each side, another at the middle of the base, and two large spots at the
middle of the disc ; scutellum black ; elytra broader than the thorax,
metallic dark blue, rather closely and finely punctured, the punctures
arranged partly in single or double rows ; a short distinctly raised costa is
seen in front of the shoulder near the base (female), which in the male
insect is replaced by a longitudinal smooth space ; the shoulders are
prominent and swollen ; the underside and legs are metallic blackish blue,
but the sides of the abdomen are bright flavous, each segment having a
black spot at the sides, the last segment with two central spots.
Of this large and handsome species several specimens were
obtained ; the elytral short costa in the female is very peculiar,
and is followed at the sides below the shoulder by a short longi-
tudinal groove, visible in both sexes.
Phyllodecta multipunctata, n. sp.
Metallic dark blue; the head and thorax closely punctured, elytra
deeply punctate-striate, the Btrise rather irregular, the interstices finely
118 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
punctured and somewhat rugose ; margins of the abdominal segments
fulvous ; tarsi piceous. Length, If line.
Head distinctly and closely punctured ; antennae black, the basal two
joints fulvous below, the third joint longer than the fourth and second joint,
the terminal ones strongly thickened ; thorax transverse, twice as broad as
long, the sides nearly straight, the surface finely but rather closely punctured
with an obscure central smooth narrow ridge ; scutellum black, impunctate ;
elytra with deeply punctured striae, which are occasionally doubled and
distinct to the apex, the interstices very slightly raised, finely punctured, and at
the sides slightly rugose ; under side of a more dark greenish-aeneous colour,
with the extreme margins of the abdominal segments fulvous ; tarsi piceous.
This species, although closely allied to several others,
described by Motschulsky, seems to differ in the close punctua-
tion of the thorax, the sculpture of the elytra, and the colour of
the under side.
Paropsides maculicollis, n. sp. (PI. I., fig. 10.)
Fulvous ; head black in front ; thorax very closely punctured, the base,
lateral margins, and a central stripe, black ; scutellum black ; elytra semi-
regularly punctured, the lateral and sutural margins, a transverse band near
the middle, another below the latter, and a longitudinal stripe at the shoulder,
black. Length, 3^ — 4 lines.
Head very finely and closely punctured, black, the base with a fulvous
spot; antennae fulvous, not extending beyond the thorax; thorax three
times broader than long, very finely and closely punctured, the sides with a
small fovea, the disc fulvous, the sides broadly, and a narrow central
longitudinal stripe black, the base with another black, medially widened
transverse band; elytra with numerous rows of strong punctures, the
interstices nearly as strongly punctured, the disc fulvous, the sutural and
lateral margins narrowly black, a similarly coloured transverse band is
placed near the middle, extending across the suture, where it is greatly
widened; this band is joined by a longitudinal black stripe, extending from
the shoulder downwards; another transverse narrow band, triangularly
widened at its middle, extends across the disc below the middle ; prosternum
raised and truncate in fi:ont ; breast and legs sometimes fulvous.
This species closely resembles P. 12-maculata, Gebl., but is,
I think, quite distinct, since the differences are constant in more
than the fifty specimens which are contained in this collection ;
the colour of the thorax is different from that of the allied
species, the pattern of the elytra partly resembles it, but the
third transverse apical stripe in P. l^-maculata is absent in the
present insect, the punctuation of the elytra is distinctly stronger,
and the larger punctures are more regularly placed in rows.
Paropsides (Phytodecta) nigro-sparsus, Fairm,
Tlie description given by M. Fairmaire of this species surely
proves that it cannot belong to the genus Paropsides; the
triangularly dilated tibiae and shape of the prosternum doubtless
belong to Phytodecta, and Fairmaire's species seems to be
identical with Phytodecta IS-maculata, Jac, described in the
Proc. Zool. Soc, 1888, also from China ; the only difference I
can see is the absence of the lateral spots of the thorax in
Fairmaire's species, and its somewhat larger size.
(To be continued.)
119
TWO SPECIES OF MICRO-LEPIDOPTERA NEW TO THE
BRITISH LIST.
By J. B. HODGKINSON.
Retinia margarotana, H.-S,
When looking over my collection Messrs. Barrett and Webb
detected the above handsome species among Retinia 'pinivorana,
A few days afterwards I found a second example among my
duplicate R, pinivorana. This specimen I took off Scotch fir on
the moors above Stoneyhurst, in June, 1879; it is in fine con-
dition, as also is the other, which I have no doubt was sent to
me with R. pinivorana from the west of Scotland. 1879 pro-
duced several other novelties, such as Coccyx scopariana, Penthina
postremana, Nemophora pilella, and Trifurcula pallidella.
Bryotropha (Gelechia) obscurella, Hein.
On July 5th, 1887, 1 took two fine specimens of this species
in the vicinity of Windermere College. Mr. Stainton, to whom
the specimens were submitted on two occasions, was unable to
identify them. When Messrs. Barrett and Webb were here I
showed them the species, but neither of these gentlemen could
name it then. Subsequently I forwarded the specimens to Mr.
Barrett, and suggested that, if they were not referable to any
known species, he or I had better describe and name them : this
latter course, however, was found to be unnecessary, as Mr.
Barrett has determined them to be Bryotropha obscurella of
Heinemann.
Ashton-on-Ribble, Feb. 16, 1890.
NOTES ON SILK-PRODUCING AND OTHER BOMBYCES.
By Alfked Wailly.
During the last few years, having been absent from home
from the beginning of August till the middle of September, my
rearings of Silk-producing Bombyces and other Lepidoptera had
to be discontinued at the end of July. But notes were taken, as
usual every season, up to that time. Of Asiatic and North
American species reared and mentioned in previous reports,
nothing of importance can be stated. But after many years'
experience I can now state that the following species, if protected
from their enemies, can be reared in the open air even in
^nglsind:— Anther cea pernyi (the North-China oak silkworm),
A. yama-ma'l (the Japanese oak silkworm). A, roylei (the Hima-
layan oak silkworm), Telea polyphemus (polyphagous North
120 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
American silkworm), RudAttacus cynthia (the Ailanthus silkworm).
Platysamia cecropia (North American) might also be added : this
species seldom succeeds in England in the open air, as it remains
too long in the larval state before spinning, but in Central and
South Europe it would thrive splendidly. It feeds on fruit trees
and most forest trees. The larvse of the first four species produce
fine and excellent silk and form " closed " cocoons, the last two
*' open " cocoons. As I have mentioned P. cecropia I may, I
think, be allowed to make a little digression.
Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell has published (Entom. xxii.) several
interesting articles on the "Variation of Insects," and (page 177
of that volume) he invites those who possess dwarfed Lepidoptera
to examine them and report on the sex. The paragraph referred
to runs thus : —
" Lepidoptera may be dwarfed in captivity, by giving the
larvse an insufficient supply of food, and it has been stated that
these dwarfs are generally of the male sex. Mr. T. G. Gentry
(Can. Ent. 1877, 50) believed he could influence the sex of insects
in this way, and out of twenty Samia cecropia so reared eighteen
proved to be males. It would be interesting if all those who
possess dwarfed Lepidoptera would examine them and report on
the sex."
Now I quite agree with the first statement, that an insufficient
supply of food will produce dwarfed individuals ; but with respect
to the second statement, that the dwarfs will generally be of the
male sex, this I consider erroneous and only accidental. I never
was more surprised than when I read that the sex of insects
could be influenced in any way. It comes to this — that an insect
which, with a sufficient supply of food, would have been a female,
will turn into a male if kept short of food. In no other sense
can I understand the statement. I have had considerable expe-
rience with the breeding of cecropia moths from cocoons received
from North America. This year I received 1500 cocoons, —
nothing compared with the number sent to me in 1878, which was
5500. For years I have had this species of Samia, and I never
noticed that the number of male dwarfed specimens exceeded in
any permanent degree the number of female specimens. Some-
times the males will predominate, and sometimes the females.
This year a small number of cecropia larvse were bred here in
captivity, in Norbiton, by one of my neighbours, who brought me
the thirteen cocoons obtained. All were very small, but male
and female moths (about half the natural size, and even less)
emerged from the cocoons, only one pupa having died. Of the
Ameiican cocoons, not bred in captivity, but all collected in the
country, a number of dwarfs were found, as is often the case ;
and male and female moths emerged from these tiny cocoons in
about equal numbers. From a hundred Callosamia promethea
NOTES ON SILK-PRODUCING A\D OTHER BOMBYCES. 121
cocoons, all extremely small, again male and female moths
emerged, about half the size of ordinary specimens. I do not
know whether the larvae of these promethea were bred in captivity,
but I should think so considering their small size.
In nature, however, there are dwarfed individuals in all
species of insects and other animals, and this has nothing to do
with the quality or quantity of food consumed, as they live side
by side with, and on the same food as, their brother giants. It
is a freak of Nature, who delights in creating these dwarfs and
giants, with all the intermediate sizes between.
With respect to small-sized insects, I may also say that I have
frequently found small moths possessing more activity and vitality
than larger ones, just as we find some small men stronger than
big men.
Taking my leave of the dwarfs and the giants, I will say a
word or two about young larvae. My belief is that a larva, if it lives,
must produce in course of time a male or a female perfect insect,
independently of the quantity or quality of food it may have
consumed. There are two different kinds of larvsB in each
species. With some, size alone seems to be the only difference,
but in others there is a marked difference ; for instance, in Actias
luna from N. America, the smaller larvae in the first stage have
longitudinal lines all along the sides of the body ; the larger
larvae, on the contrary, are all pale green, without any markings
at all. In all probability the larger larvae produce the female
moths, the smaller ones the males.
After this digression, of which I had not seen the length at
the outset, I will pass to the remarks I have to make on the silk-
producing Bombyces I received during the last few years.
From Assam every year, in winter and spring, I had large
quantities of Anthercea assaniensis sent to me, but never could
obtain a single moth. This year over 400 were sent, all the
moths having emerged on the voyage or died in the chrysalis.
Some of the moths appeared to have emerged only a few days
before their arrival, and this shows that there would be a possi-
bility to receive the cocoons before the emergence of the moths,
if they were sent in small boxes by sample post, going overland
like the letters, instead of sending them in large boxes by parcel
post, which takes a fortnight or more longer.
Another species, sent also from Assam, was Attaciis riciniy the
cultivated A, cynthia. This species is still worse to travel, the
moths emerging in about a fortnight or three weeks ; therefore
the cocoons were tied to strings laid across the boxes, to give
room to the moths to emerge, pair, and lay their eggs, but I found
the young larvae hatched and dried up.
To obviate this rapid emergence of the moths, my cor-
respondent in Assam placed in some of the cases A, assamensis
larvae, which were just beginning to spin, thinking by so doing
EN TOM. — APiilL, 1890. K
123 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
that about a week would be saved. The experiment was a com-
plete failure, but it has taught this lesson — that larvae cannot live,
or change into pupae that will live, when they are travelling ; the
shocks experienced by the larvae when travelling prevent them,
first of all, from forming their cocoons properly, then the shakings
kill the larvae or newly formed pupae ; therefore I only found
dead larvae or dead pupae in the cocoons.
In 1886 I received live cocoons of Dirphia tarquinia from
French Guiana. This species is remarkable for the beauty of the
perfect insect, but the cocoon — fusiform, or spindle-shaped, thin,
and rather similar to, but larger than, that oi Lasiocampa potatoria
— is useless as a silk-producer. From eighteen cocoons sixteen
moths emerged between the 14th of July and the 17th of August.
A pairing took place on the 4th of August, the female laying until
the 8th of August 207 eggs. Only a few larvae hatched, and they
all died within a few days. I have here to remark that if pupae
from hot countries are considerably delayed in producing their
moths in consequence of a great change of climate, the moths,
although the pairings take place, and although they seem per-
fectly healthy, lay eggs that are not fertile, as a rule. Being
months instead of weeks before they emerge, the moths of these
tropical regions seem to have lost their vitality and power of
reproduction. Besides, a considerable number of these tropical
species die in the pupa state, when the heat is not sufficient to
allow the moths to emerge just at the time they are ready to
make their appearance.
Tudor Villa, Norbiton, Surrey.
NOTES ON DIPTEEA, IN 1889.
By E. Brunetti.
The time I was able to devote to collecting last year was
again exceedingly limited, and most of the following notes refer
to specimens sent me by correspondents for identification. It
will be seen that I am able to introduce a few new species,* and
as these have been captured by collectors who have only recently
taken up the study of this order, I trust it will be sufficient
encouragement to others to turn their attention to the Diptera,
where even beginners can render so much assistance.
The new species referred to are the following : —
Psilocephala ardea, F. Birmingham ; taken by E. C. Bradley.
Lasiops semiciiierea, Wied. Birmingham; taken by E. C.
Bradley.
* By a new species I mean a species not given in Mr. Verrall's recent list, which
may be taken as a basis for all future catalogues.
NOTES ON DIPTERA. 123
Leria ruflcauda, Zett. Eeading ; taken by E. Brunetti.
Heteromyza atricornis, Mg. Aberdeen ; taken by E. Terras.
Sapromyzaplatycephalafhoew, London; taken by E. Brunetti.
Cecidomyidce,
Cecidomyia destructor, Say. One specimen sent me from
Alford (Lincolnshire) by Mr. Mason ; bred by him from puparia
collected in that locality during the autumn of 1888. Owing to
mould, I believe only one specimen emerged, but this is, to the
best of my belief, C, destructor, the "Hessian Fly."
Mycetophilidce.
This is a group I have not worked at, so I have been unable to
identify the few examples that have passed through my hands.
Bihionidce.
About eight common species have been sent me, none calling
for any special remark.
Psychodidae,
Psychoda sexpunctata, Curt. From- London in June and July ;
also the common P. phalcenoides,
Tipulidce,
Dicranomyia dumetoruin, Mg. London, early in May ; abun-
dant for two or three days, since which time occasional specimens
have appeared. I have two other species of this genus, one
from London, the other from Staines.
Erioptera flavescenSy Mg. Hastings, Aug. 28th.
Stratiomyidce,
Chrysonotus hipunctatus, Scop. One specimen of this rather
rare species was taken by Mr. Tumaley near Birmingham.
Beris morrisii, Dale. Dover.
Xylophagidcs,
Xylopkagus ater, F. One specimen of this rare species was
sent me by Major Yedbury, taken at Plymbridge, May 16th.
Tabanidce,
Several common Tabanidas and LeptidaB have been sent me.
Asilidce,
Isopogon brevirostris. Ivy bridge, June 16th ; Corn wood,
June 2nd.
Bombilidce,
Bombylius major, L. Maidstone, June 2nd ; Westerham,
April 23rd.
B, discolor, Mik. Dover ; Maidstone. May and June.
K 2
124 - THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
TherevidcB.
Psilocephala ardea, F. One specimen of this species was
taken by Mr. Bradley at Wyre Forest, near Birmingham, on
July 7th. This species is new to the British lists.
Thereva pleheia,li. (lugens), Dover.
jT. fulva, Mg. Dover.
Scenopinidce,
Scenopinus fenestraliSf L. One from Birmingham. Last
year I took several in London, but this year not one has appeared,
though its natural habitat seems to be houses.
EmpidcB,
Empis lucidtty Zett. Aberdeen. Not a common species,
though it seems to have been common there.
Hilar a maura, F. This species swarmed over a sheltered
stream at Staines on May 23rd last. I took over 1200 specimens
in a quarter of an hour, two or three strokes of the net being
sufficient to obtain a solid mass of flies at the bottom of it.
Tachydromia candicans, Fall. Dover.
DolichopodidcB.
This group I have not studied, but I have recognised
Dolichopus brevipenniSf Mg., from Birmingham.
Poecilobothrus nobilitatuSf L. Wimbledon, July 12th ; not
uncommon over one clump of bushes.
Argyra diaphanay F. Birmingham.
Lonchopteridce.
Lonchoptera lutea^ Pg. Wimbledon, July 12th.
L. Jiavicauda, Mg. Staines, May 23rd.
? L. trilineata, Zett. I took several specimens at Wimbledon
on July 12th of what appears to be this species. Mr. Verrall
does not give it in his list as British, so I should not like to
answer for its correct identification.
Syrphidce,
PyropJicena rosarum, F. Birmingham.
Xanthogramma citrofasciatum, DeG. Maidstone.
Ascia podagricay F. Dover. A specimen from Staines
appears to be ^. dispar,
Volucella inanisy L. Three from Birmingham.
Sericomyia borealis, Fall. Birmingham.
S, lappona, L. Ivybridge, May, June.
Eristalis horticola, DeG. Plymouth, May 21st — July 4th.
Criorhina oxyacanthcs, Mg. Birmingham.
Xylota abiensy Wied. One specimen of this rare species
from Birmingham.
ChrysocJdamys cuprea, Scop. Hastings ; Dover.
KOTES ON DIPTERA. 125-
Chrysotoxum hicinctum, L. Birmingham.
C. sylvarurriy Mg. Dover.
C. S-maculatum, Cmt Plymbridge, June 25th.
Microdon devius, L. Birmingham. In Verrall's list this is
marked uncertain. As three specimens were taken this year,
this will satisfactorily establish the species as British.
Conopidce.
Conops vitellinus, Loew. Three from Birmingham.
(Estridce,
Gastrophilus equi, F. One from near Birmingham.
MuscidcB.
1, Tachinidce.
Echinomyia grossa, L. Ivybridge, Aug. 11th.
2. Sarcophagidce.
Theria rmiscaria, Mg. I named a specimen of this species
for someone early in the year, but cannot recall my correspondent's
name, and I see the species has been recently introduced to our
lists by someone, so that in this instance I am forestalled. In
Verrall's list it is included among the "probably British"
species. Walker does not mention it.
Cynomyia mortuorum, L. The Eev. F. Walker showed me a
long series of this fly, taken in Iceland, where he found them
lying dead near the windows inside a large building, — if I re-
member rightly, a church.
3. Muscince.
Calliijhora vomitoria, L. Aberdeen ; London. Dr. Walker
has taken it in Iceland. The very common species erythrocephala
is usually mistaken for this species.
C. groenlandicdy Zett. Birmingham. Dr. Walker has taken
it in Iceland. I have not seen a specimen of this species in
London this year, though I took several here in 1888.
4. Anthomyidce.
Lasiops semicinerea , Wied. One taken by Mr. Bradley near
Birmingham. This appears to be new to Britain, not being in
Verrall's list ; but Walker, after his described species of Antho-
myiay adds, with others, an A. semicinerea, Wied. The species
is so distinct that it cannot possibly be mistaken.
Lispe tentacidata, De G. Plymouth, August 12th.
6. Acalypterata,
Norellia sjnnimana, Fall. Staines, May 23rd.
Scatophaga sqiialida^ Mg. Aberdeen.
S, ster cor aria y L. Dr. Walker found it common in Iceland
last summer.
DJfit" THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Leria ruficauday Zett. This species, named for me by Dr. K.
H. Meade, is new to Britain. I took one specimen at Eeading
on May 5th.
Orygma luctuosum, Mg. Salcombe, July 7th, under sea-weed.
Coelopa pilipes, Hal. Folkestone ; Dover, Nov. 2th.
C.frigida, Fall Scotland, Feb. 22.
Heteromyza atricornisy Mg. One specimen from Hazelhead,
near Aberdeen^ taken on May 15th by Mr. Terras, is certainly
this species, which Mr. Verrall gives as a reputed species.
Spilographa zoe^ Mg. Birmingham; London, July 11th.
Tephritis matricarice, Lw. One specimen taken by Mr. Hall
at Dover, in June, appears to be this species, though the wing-
markings do not exactly correspond with Loew's photographic
illustrations. It is not in our British list, though it is fairly
common on the Continent, and I should not like to introduce it
on the evidence of one rather doubtful specimen.
Palloptera parallela, Mr. Hall took one at Dover in July. If
correctly identified, this species is new to our British list.
Sapromyza platycephala, Sw. I have taken several specimens
of this species on the windows of my house in London. It was
identified for me by Dr. Meade, and is new to the British list.
Limosina spp. During June and July I took a good number
of specimens, representing at least five or six species, but I
should not like to answer for the correct identification of any of
them. They appear, however, to be L. sylvatica, Mg. ; crassi-
manaf Hal. ; pusilla, Mg. ; fenestralis, Eond. ; and cilifera, Bond.
— the three latter names not being in Verrall's list. As cilifera
was named for me by Meade, it is probably correctly identified,
and it is an addition to the British list.
Phorida.
1 have taken in London, during June and July, eleven speci-
mens of a small Phora I do not recognize ; and have one from
Kincardine, taken on June 1st, that appears to be P. nigricornis,
a species not given in Mr. Verrall's list.
Trineura aterrima, F. London, June 1st ; Birmingham.
Hippohoscidce,
Hippohosca equina. New Forest.
129, Grosvenor Park, Camberwell.
SUGARING.
By W. H. Blaber.
The question of the frequent failure of '* sugar " in attracting
moths, and what are really the requisites for a successful
•* sugaring " evening, has of late been much in my mind, and I
StGARlNG. 127
was therefore interested to see a note on the subject by Mr.
Anderson (Entom. xxiii. 66), The most successful evenings
that I have experienced have generally been very warm and close,
with heavy, dark clouds, and now and then a few drops of rain ;
and I remember that one of my very best evenings, which was in
August, 1886, had been preceded by a warm day with frequent
showers of rain, while the pitchy darkness of the night was ren-
dered all the more noticeable by flashes of summer lightning in
the distance. On this occasion moths simply swarmed on the
patches of " sugar," and not only there, for numbers were
crawling about at the foot of the trees, and as many again kept
flying round my lantern. Yet, on the other hand, I have fre-
quently set out on what appeared to me to be a perfect evening
for *' sugaring," anticipating a numerous gathering at the trees,
when, to my disgust and amazement, only two — or perhaps three
— moths have deigned to put in an appearance. I believe that
some collectors attribute this failure of " sugar " to the somewhat
cold and wet summers of the last few years, and I have no doubt
but that this has a good deal to do with the matter ; but still the
summer of 1884, for instance, was extremely hot, and, although
I was out night after night, I was far from successful.
The next year, 1885, was also unusually warm, and with the
exception of one or two evenings the majority were dead blanks ;
while in 1886, which was dark and sunless on the whole, I had
some most productive '* sugarings." It would therefore seem
that very hot weather afl*ected the question but slightly, and I
have often found that a continued drought is most conducive to
the absence of moths, while, on the other hand, I am convinced
that much cold and damp, such as was experienced last summer,
must have had a most deterring influence upon the emergence of
many species of Noctuge. It appears to me that, however favour-
able a particular evening may seem, the captures will be nil unless
the previous fortnight or three weeks have been mild for the time
of year, with perhaps a few warm showers of rain, but, above all,
an entire absence of cold east winds, so that the moths may have
had as favourable a time as possible for emergence. I have hardly
ever noticed moths at sugar, however plentiful they may have
been previously, if there is the slightest suspicion of an east
wind, and I think, therefore, we may presume that on such
occasions they do not venture forth from their hiding-places.
The last few summers have certainly been most changeable, with
much rain and wind : what, for instance, could we expect after
the terrific gales and continuous rain of last July and August ?
I was on this account not altogether surprised, when I visited the
New Forest, to find that moths were not to be obtained at sugar,
however often one went out for this purpose, for in spite of
apparently good evenings there was a certain chill and dampness
in the air.
128 *HE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Two other reasons for failure at sugar have also suggested
themselves to me, namely, the increasing mildness of our winters,
and the frequent gales and heavy rains in the spring. In the first
case it seems to me that numbers of larvae must hatch from the
egg long before there is the slightest chance of their obtaining
their particular food, and these therefore doubtless perish in large
quantities ; and secondly, those laivse which are still small must
often be washed off their food -plants and drowned, or are blown
from the trees by the strong winds, only to die of starvation.
The question is an interesting one, and I therefore hope, with
Mr. Anderson, that we may see the opinions of some of our
leading entomologists on the subject.
Groombridge, Sussex, Feb. 18, 1890.
CONTBIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOUES.
By F. H. Peery Coste, F.C.S.
Preliminary Notices.
I.
The experimental investigation of the chemical characters of
those colours whose superb brilliancy or delicate tones, as dis-
played in tens of thousands of insects, never fail to evoke our
enthusiastic admiration and afford us a source of unfliigging
delight, might, indeed, be thought to offer an enticing field for
scientific research. Eeasoning deductively, and as merely ento-
mologists, from the data afforded us by the colour variations
occasional in all insects ; by the different forms that the same
species may take in different countries ; by the existence of
intermediate* species, forming a connecting link between two
quite differently coloured species ; by the comparison of allied
species in which similar markings are dissimilarly coloured ; and
lastly, by the actual evolution of colour in the same individual
insect that we can occasionally observe ; f reasoning, I say, from
all these data alone, we may draw certain conclusions as to the
evolutionary rank of some insect colours. Notably is this
possible with regard to reds and yellows ; and the views already
advanced, for instance, by Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell, in the pages of
the * Entomologist ' and elsewhere, will be found anon to be con-
firmed by the results of direct experiment. But this question of
the evolution of red colour in insects was, perhaps, the plainest
sailing of all ; true we may farther proceed to theorise on the
relations of yellow and white, but here the way is apparently not
so clear ; and the danger of resting satisfied with theoretical
results, unverified, however satisfactory they seem, becomes soon
* I speak here of Colour only.
t E,g., in the newly emerged imagines of atalanta and caia*
1
CHEMisl-RY oi' Insect cotouRS. 129
evident. For although, for my own part, I had always inclined to
the view that I now find supported by the experiments presently
to be described, yet an entomologist who has devoted so much
thought and study to the question as has Mr. Cockerell, arrives
at an exactly opposite conclusion to my own concerning the
developmental relations of these two colours yellow and white.
This at once illustrates the necessity of seeking direct experi-
mental evidence as to the correctness of our theories ; and it is
not a little astonishing — in view of these considerations — that up
to the present this work has been left almost wholly untouched,
and a masterly inactivity allowed to prevail in this quarter. So
far as I can understand, the chemical behaviour of these colours
is veiled in an unlifted cloud of darkness, broken only by the
light of some half dozen statements, which are either va^ue,
misleading, or incorrect. For instance, Mr. Wallace * states that
the red of Zygcence is changed to yellow by muriatic acid, whilst
that of V. atalanta undergoes no such change ; a statement of
which the first half is certainly quite correct, but the second half
very misleading. Again, there is a general statement that the
white of butterflies may be turned yellow by alkalis — a state-
ment based on an experiment of Mr. Coverdale's: so far as
made concerning Pieris it is utterly erroneous. This has
already become known to Mr. Cockerell, who remarks! that
" alkali will not turn a Pieiis white to yellow." He neverthe-
less makes himself responsible for the statement that the white
of several species of Lepidoptera may be changed to yellow
by alkalis,! a statement that demands careful qualification.
And lastly, Mr. Cockerell states that the yellow of a Colias was
changed to red by potassic cyanide ; a phenomenon so extraordinary,
and so utterly opposed to every experimental result yet obtained
by me, that I must be pardoned for emphatically discrediting it;
at least unless Mr. Cockerell can personally vouch for the fact.
This then, so far as I am aware, is the extent of our experi-
mental knowledge of the subject up to the present, and there is
very evidently abundant room for research. At last, too, interest
appears to be awakening, and as generally happens in such cases,
several workers are moving simultaneously. Both Mr. Cockerell
and myself would appear to be (quite independently) interesting
ourselves in this subject; and the colours of the Echinoderms,
Worms, Ascidians, Crustacea, &c., form the subject of a most
elaborate spectroscopic research just recently communicated by
Mr. MacMunn to the ' Quarterly Journal of the Microscopic
Society * ; whereas the colours of plants and flowers have long
since been investigated by Sorby, Hansen, Bachmann, Pringsheim,
Weiss, Church, and various others.
Now before proceeding further I must disclaim any originality
in the first inception of the idea of investigating these insect
* • Tropical Nature.' f 'Entomologist,' xxii. 126. 'Entomologist,' xxii. 2.
(30 fHE EJ^TOMOliOGlST.
colours. Starting from the first idea, I have been led to others
suggesting several lines of investigation which I can fairly claim
as my own, — at least in this sense, that I do not owe them to
others, although very possibly others may have been led to the
same ideas ; with these I hope to deal further on. But this
subject itself was first suggested to me by the remark of
Wallace's that I have already quoted. I was reading * Tropical
Nature ' some three or four years ago, and, being struck by the
statement, made a note of it as a hint for future research. Owing
to press of other work, however, my good resolutions were indefi-
nitely postponed, and finally slumbered in forgetfulness. Some
time since I came upon my old memorandum of the subject, and
my attention was redirected thereto. Although still too busy to
spare time for the work, I kept it in mind ; and while yet thinking it
over, a fresh impetus was indirectly given to my interest in the
matter by Mr. Cockerell's article in the * Entomologist ' of
January, 1889. Soon afterwards, before commencing any experi-
ments, I wrote out at some length my d priori views on the
subject, and the lines of investigation proposed to be followed, as
well as the classes of results that I anticipated; from this statement
I shall have directly to quote some passages. During the spring
I commenced a few preliminary experiments, but want of time
prevented me doing much just then ; and it was not until
September that I was able to settle down into regular work.
Since then I have been following up the subject, but lack both of
time and opportunity have still conspired to prevent any rapid
progress. This may be readily understood when I say that daylight
is essential to this work, and the only possible opportunity of
daylight working that I have is on Sunday mornings; most of
these since August I have given up to the work, and have already
got through many hundreds of experiments.
All of these, however, I regard as merely a preliminary explo-
ration. I have now fairly satisfied myself as to the methods and
reagents likely to prove serviceable, and am not without hope of
soon being in a position to communicate the results of a very
extensive series of investigations. So far as I can at present
foresee, I anticipate having abundant time and opportunity for
this work after next autumn onwards, and nothing will then
be wanting me but material in the shape of insects.
The results already arrived at, although confined entirely
to British insects, and therefore covering a very small field, I am,
nevertheless, induced to publish without further delay, and that
for several reasons. In the first place, they are, so far as they go,
fairly complete ; and although — since most of my results are
negative — very disappointing compared with my a priori anticipa-
tions, yet they may at least guard any future worker from losing
time in experimenting with useless reagents or on immovable
colours.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOUHS. 131
Secondly, since I do not know whether any others might
presently take up the inquiry, I — not unnaturally — wished to
establish my priority if possible ; and I now appeal to any of my
readers who have not yet worked at this, to leave me alone for two
or three years to carry on what I have begun. This is univer-
sally conceded by the scientific code of honour to every worker
on a new line, and I must ask the customary honourable treat-
ment of being left to finish my work myself. Of course if any
others, as for instance Mr. Cockerell, have already struck out the
same line of work as myself, that is quite another thing ; and
although I shall, naturally, be disappointed to find myself not
alone in the field, yet evidently their right to continue the inves-
tigation is every whit as good as mine, and the mere priority of
publication does not entitle me to cry ** hands off!" In such case
we can only continue our collateral investigations in friendly
rivalry. But I do emphatically reserve my rights as against any
who might have their attention directed to the subject by merely
reading this communication.
And, thirdly, there is a very practical inducement to make
known my present results, for I am most anxious to, if
possible, examine the colour of typical Lepidoptera of all the
chief families, and from all parts of the world, so as to arrive
at a fairly comprehensive conclusion concerning the chemical
and genetic relationships of these colours. It has therefore
appeared to me not improbable that many entomologists whose
interest in Lepidoptera is not confined to merely collecting
them, but who rather regard the study from the scientific stand-
point, might feel inclined to assist me by sending material for my
investigations. I have myself none but common English species,
and therefore all brightly coloured Lepidoptera, whether Euro-
pean or tropical, will be most welcome. To obtain the supply
that I want from dealers would be practically impossible, and
furthermore extremely wasteful ; for working as I do, such very
small portions of the wing are used in each experiment, that a single
wing of e.g, atalanta size would, if unicolorous, amply suffice for
my experiment on that species.*
Now there must certainly be numbers of entomologists pos-
sessing damaged and broken specimens that are useless for their
cabinets and exchanging : if they will send me a wing or two each
* Where the winga are mottled with several colours, of course one wing of this
size would not suflBce. Any insects thus sent me will need no packing, but may be
sent in simply a stout envelope ; since the preservation of the body is unnecessary,
the most convenient mode would be to send simply detached wings. To be of real
service all should be named, at least so far as regards genera and family, the specific
name is of less account ; and I would greatly desire the locality (Asia, Africa,
Europe, &c.) to be stated. It must be remembered, however, that a wrong naming
will be far worse than none at all ; and in any case of even uncertainty, it will be
better to let me take my chance of getting the insects named at the Museum or
elsewhere. All such enclosures may be addressed to me at "Kavenshoe," 142,
Burnt Ash Hill, London, S.E.
L
133 ttlE ENTOMotOGISt.
of such Specimens, I shall feel immensely indebted to them, and
think I can promise that such kindness will not be wasted. Now
this appeal I could not well make without first showing " cause
why"; but I hope that the preliminary results to be detailed will
be held to constitute sufficient justification for my request, and to
exonerate me from my charge of presumption in making it.
I might also add that it is not my wish to stop short at the
colours of the lepidopterous imagines, but I hope further to
examine somewhat the colours in Coleoptera, Neuroptera, &c., and
also in the larvce of Lepidoptera. This last will be an especially
interesting investigation in every way. For instance, will there be
found a clear relation between the chemical character of the
larval and imaginal colours in each species ? or will the larval
colours in any genus be related inter se, as those of the imagines,
but independent entirely of the latter ? and what differences may
not arise from the fact that in the imago of the Lepidoptera the
colours are on scales, whilst in the larvae on hair and skin, in the
Coleoptera on horny elytra, and so on? These hints are merely
indicative of the interest presumably attaching to such an enquiry.
(To be continued.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
On the Identity of Dianth(ecia CARroPHAGA and D. cAFsorniLA.
— In the March number of the Ent. Mo. Mag. Mr. W. ¥. H. Blandford
shows good reason for sinking D. capsophila, Dup., as a species, and reducing
that insect to its proper rank as a local form of D. carpophaga, Bork. At a
meeting of the South London Entomological and Natural History Society iu
1888, 1 read some notes on D. nana,l\ott. {= conspersajFtsp.), and D.coiniHa,
Fab., and at the same time made some remarks on the probable consan-
guinity of those insects. In the discussion which followed, other species of
Dianthcccia were adverted to, and I incidentally expressed an opinion that
D. capsophila and D. carpophaga were specificallj identical. This view I
had long entertained, and the better I became acquainted with the various
forms of the latter insect, so much the more was I convinced that capso-
phila was only a specialised form of it. Four or five years ago, Mr. Blandford
very kindly gave me two specimens of a Dianthcecia he had obtained in South
Wales. As regards colour these specimens are not exactly like any example
of D. captsophila or D. carpophaga in my series of these insects; but as
Mr. Barrett has pointed out (E. M. M., 90), there is not the shghtest differ-
ence in the character of markings, and in this respect they agree with both
capsophila and carpophaga. This is a fact which Mr. Blandford may
remember I called his attention to when he compared his insect with my
Dianthceciae. It should be added that there is no character in the larva
of capsophila which will serve to specifically distinguish it from that of
carpophaga. — Richard South.
Dianthcecia cucubali, &c., in August. — I find, on referring to notes,
that whilst in Gloucestershire, on the Cotswolds, last season, I took at
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 133
sugar on August 19th a freshly emerged specimen of Dianthoecla cucubali,
and on August 30th I captured a sohtary specimen of Eminelesia albulata,
disturbed from amongst a great quantity of its food-plant, the yellow rattle.
Would these be deferred emergences or a second brood ? — T. B. Jefferys ;
Bath, March 5, 1890.
[D. cucuhcdi has been taken and bred in August, and E. albulata
captured in September. Vide Entom. xiv. p. 214; vi. p. 459. — Ed.J
Abundance of Vanessa cardui in New Zealand. — Since my last
note (Entom. p. 20), I have observed Vanessa cardui in increasing
numbers. During October I saw over six specimens in different localities
near Wellington ; while on Nov. 3rd sixteen or seventeen specimens were
to be seen in openings in the forest near Karori. I also observed several of
these butterflies in the middle of the month, during a brief stay at Palmerston
North, a locality some eighty miles to the north of Wellington. In England
I believe it is the fashion to attribute the sudden appearance of certain species
of insects to migration from the Continent of Europe, but in New Zealand
such explanations are obviously quite untenable. I am inclined to believe
that the abundance, or the reverse, of a given species, is largely determined
by certain conditions of existence, with which we are at present most
imperfectly acquainted, and that in the case of a periodical insect like
V. cardui, these conditions only recur occasionally, the species being so ex-
tremely rare during the intervening seasons, that it altogether escapes our
observation. It is, of course, almost certain that insect migrations
sometimes occur, but we should always remember, that in animals endowed
with such enormous reproductive powers as insects, any circumstance
tending to lessen the rate of mortality in a given species, would at once
cause its numbers to increase with almost incredible rapidity. — G. V.
Hudson; WeUington, New Zealand, November 20, 1889.
Temperature and Melanism. — At a meeting of the Entomological
Society, on December 4th, Lord Walsingham stated that forcing pupae
produced in the imago a result the opposite of melanism. According to the
theory I have advocated (Cauad. Ent. 1888, p. 86), such colour-changes are
more strictly connected with the rate of development than with heat or cold
as such. If so, forcing throughout the whole or a large part of a
insect's life as a pupa ought, as stated by Lord Walsingham, to produce the
reverse of melanism; but if an insect is subjected to great cold throughout
the winter, and suddenly to great heat in spring, it ought (according to my
theory), as a rule, to show some tendency towards melanism. Now many
of your readers breed Lepidoptera; will not some one try some experi-
ments to prove the point ? An experiment which might be tried by any
breeder of Lepidoptera this spring is as follows: — Take pupae which have
hybernated, and about a fortnight before the normal time of emergence
transfer them to a hot-house, or to some heated place. This might bring
the imagines out a few days earlier; but as the pupae wintered in the mild
English climate, I should doubt whether it would produce any perceptible
effect on the colouring of the insects. But should it produce any effect, a
melanic or dusky tendency would be favourable to my theory, while the
opposite tendency would seem to contradict it. These *' temperature-
forms " are rather fully discussed in Entom. xxii. 27 — 29, to which I would
refer the reader. Temperature " melanisms " are fjenerally small, greyish,
suffused or dusky, and yellow and other bright colours are paler or partly
134 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
suppressed, though there may be a tendency to pink. Ordinary melanic
races, such as occur in the North of England, seem to be entirely dififerent,
and due to different causes. — T. D. A. Cockerell; February 26, 1890.
Phigalia pedaria (pilosaria) in January. — As an example of the
effect of the mildness of January, I may mention that I captured a male
P. pedaria on the night of the lith of that month, at 8.45, the temperature
being at the time 50°. It was at rest on a gas-lamp (at Balham), and
apparently quite recently emerged. Upon referring to my notes of the last
ten years, I find the earliest date I had hitherto taken this species was on
February 19th, 1881, and that the first week in March is the usual time
for its appearance. — F. W. Frohawk; Balham, S.W.
During a short walk on January 26th, I took five Phigalia pedaria and
half a dozen Hyheniia leucophcearia, at rest on the sheltered sides of fences,
excellent evidence this of the mildness of the season ; we have March in
January. — F. W. Biddle ; Lanherne, Albemarle Road, Beckenham.
Phigalia pedaria has appeared here very early this year. I took seven
specimens on January 16th. The earliest date at which I have previously
seen this species is February 16th. — Wm. Reid ; Pitcaple, Aberdeenshire.
[The usual time for the appearance of this species is perhaps between
the middle of March and the middle of April, but it has been observed as
early as November and December, and so late as the middle of June. Vide
Entom. XX. pp. 64, 110; xxi. p. 91 ; xxii. p. 113. — Ed.J
Arctia caia. — I found some thirty larvaB at the beginning of June last
year, and as I had heard that feeding them on coltsfoot produced the best
varieties, I reared them on this plant alone, but of the imagines bred there-
from not one was a variety. Two of the females deposited ova, and when
they hatched I gave the larvae lettuce that was seeding to feed on. This food
getting scarce when they were about half-grown, I fed them on a weed that
grows among the turnips ; the farmers call it *' rednees," a species of Per-
sicaria I suppose it is ; and they fed on it ravenously. Some two hundred
of them refused to thrive, and I planted them out to hybernate. About
200 insects emerged ; a great many were cripples, but 50 of the specimens
were good varieties : hind wings buff to very dark brick-red, approaching a
suffused smoky colour ; some have beautifully marked fore wings. On the
whole I am very well pleased with the result. — William Johnson; Bank-
houses, Aspul, near Wigan.
Gas-lamp Entomology. — As a doubt appears to exist in the minds of
some entomologists as to whether the Sphingidae are prone to the
attractions of the gas-lamp, the following incident may be worth recording.
It is some years since I systematically worked the lamps, but I well
remember an occasion, when having spent the evening in mothing along
the hedge-rows of what was then known as Burnt Ash Lane, — possibly
one of the best suburban hunting-grounds in the district, — and darkness
having some time set in, I was preparing to work the gas-lamps on my way
home. The first few of these stood well out in the open, and on approaching
number one I beheld what had the appearance of a bat suspended from the
top rail of the frame, but on going forward to secure my prize found,
instead of the bat, a couple of Smerinthus populi hanging on to the iron,
side by side, within an inch of each other; on the next lamp visited was
another ; and on the next, a fourth ;— all within a distance of some hundred
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 135
yards. My own experience is that it would be much more difficult to say
which families are not attracted by gas-lamps than which are, even such
sun-loving species as Pieris rapes and Vanessa atalanta having been found
in such situations, the fact of their returning after being driven away
proving, I think, that the bright flame had some fascination for them. A word
as to time : some species of moths will, doubtless, come to light even before
the twilight has died away, but it is not until darkness has long set in that
lamping becomes profitable ; and if we are content to spend the still, small
hours of a warm dark morning in searching the gas-lamps in any suitable
locality, we are not Hkely to return home with many empty boxes ; not
only are moths then more common than in the earlier part of the evening,
but are more easily secured — R. Adkin ; Wellfield, Lewisham, March, 1890.
There are a few very curious facts in Mr. Arkle's article (Entom. 100),
under the above heading, which appear (if correct) to show the habits of
Lepidoptera in the vicinity of Chester to be peculiar to that locality.
I think every collector of experience will admit that nearly all the
nocturnal flying SphingidsB are attracted by light : atropos, convolvuli,
gain, Uvornica, celerio, elpenor, ocellatus, populi, and tili(B are well-known
examples, and Smerinthus populi is often very abundant. The Tceniocampa
in this district are common visitors to the lamps, especially T. gothica and
T. instabilis ; Plusia gamma is generally abundant, and Dicranura vinula
not scarce, the latter sitting on the ironwork of the lamp like many other
large species ; Spilosoma fuliginosa, although by no means common here,
turns up sometimes at light ; and Hepialus lupulinus is a pest, both in
rooms and at the street lamps. Some of the appearances are also a little
peculiar at Chester. I see Mr. Arkle takes Diurnea fagella and Lemnato-
pJdla phryganella at light in July ; we take the former here in March, April,
and May (male). Its popular name used to be the March-dagger. The
latter flies in our woods in November. I see Tortricodes hyemana occurs at
light at Chester in August. This is worth noting, for with us it is one of
the earliest species to occur in our oak woods, and is over by the end of
April. Mr. Arkle's list is long, but, including Tortrices, I think most
metropolitan collectors could easily double it. It is astonishing what
species come to light when that means of capture is steadily worked.
I have taken day-flyitig insects, like Acontia luctuosa and Saturnia pavonia
{carpini), in this way ; and on one memorable evening, I had forty-one
species present themselves between 11 p.m. and 1.30 a.m. — C. Fenn ;
Evenden House, Burnt Ash Hill, Lee, S.E.
During several years' experience, I have never seen a single species of
the Sphingidae at lamps. To the lists already given I can add Dasypolia
templl, Xylina semibrunnea, and Eucosmia certata. I have seen both Tanio-
campa gothica and stabilis, as a further proof that some of the Tcenio-
campa are attracted by light. — T. B. Jefferys ; Bath.
Early emergence of S. bilunaria. — On the 30th January I
chanced to go into the cold saddle-room where I keep my pupae, and
found, to my astonishment, that a male and female of the above had
emerged. Before their wings had dried they paired, and on the following
day the female laid eggs, which are apparently fertile. Subsequently
others emerged, as follows: — February 2nd, one female; 3rd, one male;
6th, one female ; 7th, one female ; 13th, one female ; I4th, one male.
Newman gives April as the date of emergence ! As a further instance of
136 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
this very mild winter, I may add that in the neighbourhood of Weymouth
to-day I saw a sallow in full bloom. —Cha.s. E. Partridge; The Castle,
Portlaud, February U, 1890.
Agrotis ashworthii Doubl. = A. candelarum, Stdgr. — Mr. W.
Gardner is justifiably enthusiastic over the beauty of Agrotis ashworthii
(Entom. p. 5), but as to its individuality it must be confessed that it is
generally admitted to be merely an illustration of the melanism, so com-
monly occurring in Great Britain, of common Continental species, and by
no means entitled to rank as a separate species. The typical representa-
tive A. candelarum Stdgr. = {candelisequa Hb. 397), is of no rare occurr-
ence throughout Europe. — N. F. Dobr^e; The New Walk, Beverley,
E. Yorks, February 3, 1890.
Larvjs of Bombyx rubi. — On the 1st December I found several larvae
of the above, at an altitude of 1100 feet, crawling on the heather amongst
the unraelted snow, though there was no sunshine, and we had had a
week's hard weather. Again on the 15th, on the same ground, I found
larvae, after an exceptionally wet and rough week. Surely this is unusual ?
— Chas. Partridge ; Farchynys, Dolgelly.
Vanessa io at Christmas. — Whilst walking about the New Forest,
last Christmas Day, I had the pleasure of watching a specimen of the above
butterfly on the wing ; it sported about ivy for some time, but did not settle
upon it ; eventually it espied me, and alighted upon the trunk of an oak,
within a foot of my head, fanning its beautiful wings, in which position I
left it. There were numerous hollies around, looking so fresh and green,
and the weather being simply glorious, that really io did not look out of
season. — J. Hy. Fowler; Ringwood.
Variation in size of Coleoptera. — In connection with the variation
in size of certain species of Coleoptera, mentioned in Mr. Cockerell's
recent papers on variation (Entom. xxii. p. 245), it may be of interest to
record the following measurements of two species in my collection, which I
think are unusually divergent in size for specimens of the same insect
taken under almost identical conditions: — (1.) Lasiorhynchus barbicornis,
male 34, 24, and 1 1 Hues ; female, 21 and 14 lines. (2.) Mmona hirta,
female, 12 lines, male, 9 and 5 lines. — G. V. Hudson; Wellington, New
Zealand, November 20, 1889.
Early appearance of Hybernia marginaria, &o. — Myself and a
friend have taken the following moths this year; and as some of them are
much earlier than I have ever taken them before, I thought it would be of
interest to some of your readers. January 10th, Hybernia rupicapraria ;
31st, Anisopteryx cescularia. February 1st, Hybernia marginaria {progem-
maria). I may add that we also took nineteen Phigalia pedaria (pilosaria)
at lamps, January 31st.— W. E. Butler; 91, Chatham Street, Beading,
February 14, 1890.
As an evidence of the great mildness of the month of January, my son
took a fine specimen of Melanippe fiuctuata in our garden on the 2nd of
this month. I think this is an unusually early capture of even this very
common species. It may interest your readers to know that last season I
took a specimen of the black form of Hemerophila abruptaria in this ueij^h-
bourhood.— Douglas A. Onslow; 28, Carlton Hill, N.W., Feb. 22, 1890.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. IS?
Angerona prunaria. — Owing to illness since 1887 I have been
unable to continue the experiments shadowed forth in my article (Entom. xx.
36j, and, as I do not see any likelihood of my resuming them, perhaps
some other entomologist will kindly take up the subject and render it more
j ustice than I have been enabled to do. I have, however, managed to rear
a few more notable aberrations of prunaria described below, viz., a speckled
variety of the male with irrorated spots on basal half of hind wings,
suffused, forming a sooty blotch ; a palish example of the banded variety of
the male, with hind wings, colour and markings resembling the ordinary
female variety ; and a specimen of the common type of the female form of
a very pale straw-colour, with a few indistinct spots of the palest orange
chiefly at costal and outer edges of wings. — Geo. J. Grapes ; Berkeley
Villa," 34, Chad wood Road, Putney, S.W., February 6, 1890.
Chcerocampa celbrio in Queensland. — This insect is fairly common
here, and it is, I think, interesting to note that the imago appears in Sep-
tember (our spring) and October. The larva occurs in the following month,
and feeds up very rapidly ; all mine had pupated before the end of Novem-
ber. A green variety of the larva is found commonly, as in the case of C.
porcelliis and C. elpenor. Here the larva feeds on grape-vine, a species of
wild vine, and on fuchsia. I send this note, because I see that Mr. HelUns, in
Buckler's 'Larvae,' only mentions vine as food-plant, while only the brown
variety of the larva is figured. To the accuracy of that figure I can bear
testimony. — (Rev.) C. D. Ash ; Southport, Queensland, Dec. 16, 1889.
Is CcENONYMPHA ARCANTA, Linn., A CASUAL VISITOR? — On Overlooking
a cabinet containing Rhopalocera collected by me when a boy, and which
had not been added to or even opened, except to add fresh camphor, for
nearly twenty-four years, I found two specimens of the above-mentioned
insect. I cannot account for their presence in my cabinet, except that I
may have caught them, not knowing what they were ; certainly I have no
recollection of buying any as a schoolboy. Most of ray collection was made
on the borders of Dorset and Devon, within a few miles of the sea. — John
H. Still; Langstone, Horrabridge.
[Although it has a wide distribution throughout Europe, Ccenonympha
arcania is a local species, but in nearly all places where it occurs it is
common. Mr. De Vismes Kane, in his * European Butterflies,' says that it
is abundant in most parts of France. A form of the species, known as
satyrion, Esp., affects the more elevated meadows of Switzerland, whilst at
lower altitudes darwiniana, Stand., another form, is found. This last is
intermediate between var. satyrion and the type. Stephens, in * Illus-
trations of British Entomology,* Haustellata, i. p. 69 (18^8), includes
this species, under the name of Hipparchia arcanius, on the slender
evidence of a single specimen in Mr. Plastead's collection, which was sup-
posed to have been captured in England. Wood and Curtis both figure
this specimen, and the last-named author, in his ' British Entomology,' Lep.
i. p. 205, says of it : — *' captured by Mr. Plastead, it is understood, on the
borders of Ashdown Forest." — Ed.].
Variation of Chrysolophus spectabilis. — During a lengthened
stay in Victoria, in the present year, I had good opportunities for collecting
and observing the habits of several species of Australian Coleoptera. Soon
after commencing to collect, in January, I became impressed with the great
ENTOM. — APIUL, 1890, L
13$ . THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
variation of several species, and prominent among them being (7. spectabilis.
In the Nilumbik Valley, eighteen miles north-east of Melbourne, the species
is common, and inhabits the low vegetation ; I obtained all my specimens
on the dark green boughs of the young black wattles [Acacia decurrens).
As evening approaches the beetles ascend the stems of the plants, and
alternately move slowly and cautiously along the boughs, and resting
motionless for some time, when in the latter position the slightest artificial
movement of the bough caused the insect to drop suddenly into the long
grass beneath. It is, however, more the variation of the species than its
habits that I desire to record. I regret that I have not the original
description in my possession, but the species is undoubtedly subject to
great variation, my specimens ranging from a pale green ground to dark
brown or black ; some are richly and regularly dotted with gold on a green
ground, while others are marked with irregular black patches or dull green
and bluish grounds. T have one bright burnished specimen and one black,
and other intermediate forms ; the species also varies greatly in size in
both sexes. When searching for the insects I observed that the dark forms
were more difficult to detect on the boughs than the gold-dotted or pale
green varieties. I may also mention that last spring and summer were
the driest and hottest on record in Victoria, but how such affected insect-
life as compared to previous seasons I cannot say. Mr. Cockerell's appeal
to entomologists to " take careful notes of all varieties they meet with from
time to time, and especially the conditions under which they exist," is
certainly to the point, and all— beginners particularly — would do well to
act on the suggestion. The chemistry of their food-plants in each season
will probably have to be worked out, as having special bearing in all stages
on the variation both of the larva and imago. — W. W. Smith ; East Belt,
Ashburton, New Zealand, Nov. 25, 1889.
Notes on the Season 1889.— On Good Friday I journeyed to Win-
dermere to look for the larvae of Laverna lacteella. Few collectors can see
the difference between this species and L. paludicolellay Doubl. The food-
plant, Epilobium hirsutum, was just peeping above ground, and I collected
all I could find, hoping that either ova or larvae might be thereon ; but
when I examined it at home I could only see two small larvae ; these were
obscure whitish in colour, with black heads, and one of them produced a
moth in June. In trying to force imagines a month or so earlier from the
mines and cocoons T had gathered the previous autumn, I was not eminently
successful, as from about 400 larvae of Nepticula gei and N. splendissimella
I only bred about a dozen specimens. As, in subsequently searching for
them, I could find very few empty cocoons, I concluded that owing to the
cold weather the larvae had not vitality enough to undergo the change. A
similar unsatisfactory result befel a canister-full of Nepticulidae and Litho-
colletis caledoniella from Renfrew. Nepticula aucuparice, N. tityrella, and
N. continuella all did badly. The only species I bred in any number was
N. tllicB and about twenty-five specimens of N. desperatella. Last year I
could not find any larvae of N. minusculella, but six imagines were bred in
1889 from pupae obtained in 1887. Lithocolletis fared badly ; a very few
L. kleemannella and L. stettinensis ; while of L. histentella I only got one
specimen. Among the larger moths I may mention one fine Cabera
rotundaria. During the season I visited Windermere on several occasions,
but scarcely saw a Geometra, and Tortrices and Tineae were very poorly
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 139^
represented. I obtained one example of Penthina caprceana, a species
of which I had not taken a specimen since 1847, when I met with it at
Swanscombe in Kent. Nepticula inthnella were scarce, but on the wing
much before the usual time. About the 20th of May I went on the moor
above Stoneyhurst College and found moths abundant, and quite two weeks
earlier than usual; Hadena glauca, Acronycta memjanthidlsy Nemophora
pilella, Gelechia longicornis, and a fair number of Thecla rubi were flying
about; fortunately I had some 150 boxes with me, and these were quickly
filled. About the second week in June I had a turn on the mosses, where
I found some fine Ccenonymplia typhon ; also Hyria muricata and AcidaUa
fumata, but scarcely anything else, although the mosses usually teem with
insect life. I next had a turn on Arnside for Lyccsna astrarche var. salmaciSf
but only got about half a dozen specimens. There was a high wind
and a bright sun ; they were no sooner in the net than out again. About
this time I brought in my pots, in which I had put fourteen larvae of
Cidaria reticulata, with plenty of food. I did not expect to breed above
three or four ; however, eleven specimens came out, also a few Penthina
postremana and ColeopJwra fuscocuprella. Early in July I went on the
moors several times ; no Macros, only a few large Eupithecia satyrata^ first
time in the district. I think they differ from my other specimens from
various localities. Penthina sauciana and GraphoUtha geminana were
fairly common ; the fine hot weather was favourable for the larva. In
August I spent most of my time among Nepticulae, and found them scarcer
than usual, the commonest being iV. desperatella. I found a good many
extending over two months. On the way to Stoneyhurst N. tilice was not
as common as last year, when I found eight in one leaf; N, cryptella
and iV". serella not many. Of the birch-feeders I found large numbers
were killed in the mine by the hot sun. As far as I hear from my
friends they one and all give a gloomy account of their season's work.
I found Nepticula larvae very sparing, even in October. I went for N.
minusculella larvae on the 1st of the month and only found four. On the
2nd I saw plenty of mines on the oak and nut in our Pleasure Gardens,
and, strange to say, seeing a spotted leaf of the nut I turned it up, and
there was a full-fed larva, with its rugged rough case, of Coleophora fusco-
cuprella. The usual places for me to get this species are nearly forty miles
distant. I must note the capture of a fine Ephestia semirufa by my
wife, in the kitchen, about the 16th of September. — J. B. Hodqkinson;
Ashton-on-Ribble.
liEPiDOPTERA IN Thanet. — It may interest some of the readers of the
' Entomologist ' to learn a few of the more important captures that have
been made within the last few years, by local collectors, in the neighbour-
hood of Eamsgate (Entom. xxi. 322). Leaving out those species which are
of almost universal distribution, we have taken among the Rhopalocera: —
Vanessa c-album (once, at Sevenscore), V. polychloros, Melanargia galatea
(common), Thecla quercus, Lycana alsus, L. medon, Colias edusa, C. hyale
(once), Vanessa antiopa (was undoubtedly seen last September, but was not
captured). Among the moths: — The three species of Smerinthus, Sphinx
ligustri (common), Acherontia atropos, Chcerocampa porcellus, C. celerio,
Macroglossa stellatarumy Deilephila galii (was taken in 1888), Deiopeia
pulchella (has been twice taken), Gastropacha quercifoliaf Dicranura bifida,
Acronycta aceris, Eremohia ochroleuca (by day, on knapweed), Calyninia
diffinis, Cerigo matura {cytherea), Leucania comma, Bryophila perla,
140 TitE ENTOMOLOGlSt.
Aporopliyla australis, Apamea ophiogranima, Miana literosa, Agrotis
sufusa, A. saucia, A. cursoria, Triphcena ianthina, T. fimhria (once),
T. orbona, Xanthia silago, Hadena serena, Polia flavocincta, Calocampa
vetustat C. exoleta, Xylina semibrunnea, Epione apiciaria, Selenia lunaria,
Eugonia alniaria (once), Cidaria miata, Aspilates citraria A. gilvaria,
Strenia clathrataj Fidonia atomaria, Melanippe procellata, Eubolia palum-
baria, E. bipunctata, Mesotype virgata [lineolata), and Anaitis plagiata.
Although Thanet is destitute of woods, there are several snug little clumps
of trees admirably adapted for sugaring. The ivied walls of Richboro'
Castle are truly a magnificent sight, but can with difiiculty be reached after
dusk. — T. Willson; Dudley House, Ramsgate, March 6, 1890.
List of Insects observed on Lundy Island, July 13th, 1888. —
Lepidoptera-Rhopalocera : — Pieris brassiccB, P. rapes, Satyrus ianira,
Cccnonympha pamphilus, Polyommatus alexis, Vanessa cardui. Lepi-
doptera-Heterocera : — Camptogramma bilineata (smaller than on the main-
land), Melanippe fluctuata. Coleoptera : — Ocypus olens, TelepJiorus
welanurus, Calathus cisteloides. Hymenoptera : — Apis mellijica, Bombns
mmcorum, Chrysis ignita, Haliclus albipes, Sphecodes gibbvs, Formica
nigra, F. rubra. Diptera : — Chysotoxwn fasciolatiim, Scatophaga
stercoraria, Musca ccesar, Calliphora vomitoria, Tipnla oleracea, Anthomyia
lucorum. Hemiptera : — Ptyelus. Orlhoptera : — Perotettix pedestris,
Forjicnlaria auricularia. Arachnida: — Epeira diadema. — (Rev.) F. A.
Walker ; Dun Mallard, Cricklewood, March 11, 1890.
Additions to the Newbury List of Macro-Lepidoptera. — Although
the entomological season of 1889 proved to be most unsatisfatory, I was
successful in adding several new species of Macro-Lepidoptera to our New-
bury list. They are as follows : — Eurymene dolobraria, Pericallia syring-
aria, Eugonia erosaria, Acidalia holosericata, Bapta temerata, Emmelesia
adaquata, Eupithecia pulchellata, E. plumbeolata, E. irriguata, Lobophora
sexalisata, Eubolia cervinaria, Chesias spartiata, Nola cucullatella, Trichiura
cratagi, Saturnia pavonia (pupae), Acronycta leporina, Hydrcecia petasitls,
Noctua dahlii, Panolis piniperda, Tmniocampa miniosa (larvae), Tethea
retusa, Dianthcecia capsincola, Asteroscopus sphinx, Heliaca tenebrata. —
M. Kimber; Cope Hall, near Newbury.
Parasites on Moths. — The acarid moth-parasites, referred to by your
correspondents, also occur in America. On August 25th, 1887, I took a
Noctuid by the Blue River, Dillon, Colorado, with a red mite on its abdo-
men. Unfortunately, I did not ascertain what species the mite belonged
to.— T. D. A. Cockerell; February 25th, 1890.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — March ^th, 1890. — Capt.
Henry J. Elwes, F.L.S., Vice-President, in the chair. Mr. G. H.
Kenrick, of Edgbaston, Birmingham, and the Rt. Hon. Lord Rendlesham,
of Rendlesham Hall, Woodbridge, Suffolk, were elected Fellows; and
Mr. J. P. Mutch was admitted into the Society. Mr. C. G. Barrett
exhibited a number of specimens of Dianthcecia carpophaga, Bork., bred by
SOCIETIES. lll'^
Mr. W. F. H. Blandford from larvae collected near Tenby, Pembrokeshire,
on flowers of Silene maritima. He remarked that the series included a
number of forms intermediate between D. carpophaga and D. capsophila,
and established the fact that the latter is only a local variety of the former.
Mr. W. H. B. Fletcher, Mr. Blandford, Mr. M'Lachlan, and the chairman
took part in a discussion as to the identity of the supposed species.
Mr. Barrett further exhibited a specimen of Dlanthcecia luteayo, var.
barrettii, Db., also bred by Mr. Blandford from a larva found at Tenby,
and he remarked that the species had not previously been taken in England ;
also a long series of forms intermediate between Catoptria scopoliana, Hw.,
and its small variety parvulana, Wilk., collected by Mr. E. Bankes, Mr.
Fletcher, Mr. Vine, and others, in Sussex, the Isle of Wight, and Pembroke-
shire ; also a specimen of Botys mutualis, Zell., — a species widely distributed
in Asia and Africa, — taken by Mr. C. S. Gregson near Bolton, Lancashire.
Mr. A. F. Griffith exhibited and made remarks on the following: — two
specimens of Myelois pryerella, taken in the London Docks in 1888, and,
for comparison, a series of M. ceratonim; two specimens of Penthina
grevillana and a series of P.prdlongana, taken in Sutherlandshire, and, for
comparison, a series of P. sauciana, var. staintoniana ; three specimens of
the form oi Exapate named duratella, with two of the ordinary E. gelatella,
bred from larvae taken in Sutherlandshire on Myrica gale; one specimen of
Incurvaria tenuicoriiis and four of Nemophora pilella; three specimens of
Ornix fagivora hom Cambridge; also two specimens from Sutherland and
five from Abbot's Wood, Sussex, of a form apparently allied to Tinea
rustlcella, with specimens of the latter from Sutherlandshire and Brighton
for comparison ; also two specimens of a unicolorous variety oi Hypermecia
angustaiia, from Horning, Norfolk. Mr. H. Goss exhibited several abnormal
specimens of Chelonia caia, bred last December. The object of the exhibition
was to show the effect produced by forcing the larvae, and subjecting
them to unusual conditions. It was stated that the peculiarity of the colour
of the hind wings of the female parent had not been transmitted to any of
the offspring. Mr. Blandford referred to two specimens of a species of
Cardiophorus, from Tenby, which he had exhibited at the August meeting
of the Society as Cardiophorus cinereus, and stated that subsequent
investigation had led him to hand them to Mr. Champion for deter-
mination. Mr. Champion was of opinion that they did not belong to the
same species; that one of them was C. aselliis, Er., and the other,
probably, C. equisetiy Hbst., a species new to this country. Mr. C. J.
Galian read a paper entitled " New Longicornia from Africa and
Madagascar." Capt. Elwes read a paper entitled " On a new species of
Thymara and other species allied to Himaiitopterusfuscinervis, Wesmael."
Mr. M'Lachlan made some remarks on the subject in connection with an
examination and drawing of the type of Himantopterus made some years
since. Dr. Sharp read a paper entitled *' On some Water Beetles from
Ceylon." Mr. J. J. Walker, K.N., communicated a paper entitled " Notes
on Lepidoptera from the Region of the Straits of Gibraltar." Mr. F.
Merrifield, Mr. B. G. Nevinson, Capt. Elwes, and Mr. G. Lewis took part
in the discussion which ensued. It was announced that papers had also
been received from Mr. E. Meyrick, Prof. Westwood, and Mynheer P. C.
T. Snellen ; but in consequence of the lateness of the hour the reading of
them was postponed to the next meeting. — H. Goss, Hon. Sec,
142 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—January 23;-^, 1890.— T. R. Billups, F.E.S., President, in the chair.
Messrs. G. A. Lewcock, of Islington ; W. Gardner, of Liverpool ; and P.
Bright, of Bournemouth, were elected members. The Treasurer having
submitted his balance-sheet, showing a good balance to the Society's credit,
the Secretary read the Council's report for 1889, from which it appeared
that 44 members had been elected during the year, making a total mem-
bership of 223, consisting of 6 honorary, 3 life, 47 country, and 167 full
members. The election of ofl&cers was next proceeded with, and resulted
as follows :— Mr. J. T. Carrington, F.L.S., President ; Mr. W. H. Tug-
well and Mr. J. Jenner Weir, F.L.S., &c., Vice-Pesidents ; Mr. E. Step,
Hon. Treasurer ; Mr. W. West, Hon. Curator; Mr. D. J. Rice, Hon.
Librarian ; Mr. Barker and Mr. D. F. Rice, Hon. Secretaries ; Messrs.
R. Adkin, F.E.S. ; T. R. Billups, F.E.S. ; T. W. Hall, F.E.S. ; J. R.
Wellman ; R. South, F.E.S. ; C. A. Briggs, F.E.S. ; and C. G. Barrett,
F.E.S., Council. The retiring President then read his address, and the
meeting closed with votes of thanks to the various oflBcers.
February ISth. — J. T. Carrington, President, in the chair. Mr.
Barrett exhibited a long series of Phycis adoriiatella, Tr„ from various
localities, and remarked that some fifteen or twenty years ago a form
of this species was obtained from the west of England, which differed from
the specimens obtained at Box Hill, Surrey ; the chief distinguishing
characteristic being that the western specimens had a white fascia ; this
form was considered by Prof. Zeller as a distinct species, and it received the
name of subovjiatella ; in the course of time specimens were obtained from
other localities, which were intermediate between the two forms, and it had
now been decided that subornatdla was only a variety of adornatella.
Messrs. South, Adkin and Tutt made some remarks relative to this exhibit.
Mr. Barrett, on behalf of Mr. Vivian, exhihited Homceosoma siimella, and
a variety of Hesperia lineola, taken in Cambridgeshire. Mr. Moore, a col-
lection of Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, &c., from the coast of Labrador; and
Mr. Weir pointed out that among them was a specimen of Polyommatus
phlceas, which was not a species one would expect to occur at Labrador.
Mr. Tutt exhibited photographs of varieties of Abraxas grossulariata,
Arctia caia, A. villica, Spilosoma lubricipeda, S. mendica, &c. Mr.
Lewcock, larvae and perfect insect of Mesium affine, Boisd. Mr. Carrington,
in his remarks on taking the chair, made some interesting suggestions for
the Society's work during the coming season.
February ^7th. — The President in the chair. Messrs. W. Smith, of
Paisley; W. Bloomfield, of Mildmay Park; and G. A. Farini, of Forest
Hill ; were elected members. Mr. Bloomfield exhibited two specimens of
Hesperia lineola, taken in Essex, 1888. Mr. Watson, a nest of a species
of Mantis with two living examples of the insect; many other specimens
had emerged in transit from Sydney, where the species was said to occur
freely. Mr. Billups, Meopus trispinosus, Wat., from New Zealand ; Poro-
pleura monstrosa, Olivr., from Brazil; and read notes relative to his
exhibit. Mr. Billups also showed galls collected at West Chff, Colorado, by
Mr. Cockerell, who wrote that the rose-galls were of three species: Rhodites
ignata, Osten-Sacken, from which an abundance of a parasitic Cynipid,
Periclustus pirata, Osten-Sacken, would be bred; Ehoditesfusiformis, anew
species, and the Uttle blister-like galls on the leaves would produce Rhodites
rosafolim, Cockerell. Of the willow-galls, the reddish fusiform ones* pro-
SOCIETIES. 143
duced Cecidomyia salicis-siliqua , Walsh., the bud-galls Ceeidomyia salicis-
strobiloides, Osten-Sacken. Mr. Cockerell expressed an opinion that from
the galls many Chalcids, including some rare species, would be reared, in
addition to the gall-makers. An exhibition of microscopical objects was
then given by Messrs. Collins, W. West, R. Adkin, T. R. Billups,
Cameron and others.
March 13th. — The President in the chair. Messrs. A. E. Peake, of
Tooting ; and E. W. Sinclair-Cox, were elected members. Mr. Tutt ex-
hibited typical specimens of Agrotis obelisca, Hb., from Germany; the
variety hastifera, Donz , from Hungary ; and some picked specimens
captured by Mr. A. J. Hodges in the Isle of Wight, of a different type to
the var. hastifera, but much nearer that than the typical obelisca. Mr. R.
Adkin, referring to a series of Mania typica which he exhibited, said that
the larvae were found last autumn, and were fed up in a warm room. The
majority pupated in November, and the imagines emerged in January and
February of the present year. He had found a similar method of forcing
the larvae of some species of TriphcBna equally successful, and he believed
that many other Noctu© whose larvae hybernated might be similarly treated
with good results, provided of course that the larvae could be induced to take
such food as might be obtained during the winter months. Mr. Gerrard
exhibited living larvae and pupae, with set examples of the imago, of a
species of Ephestla discovered in some old samples of rice. At present he
was unable to say where the moth came from, as the samples of rice were
from Japan, Java and Burmah, and these had unfortunately been mixed ; he
would, however, write to the merchant who had forwarded the samples, and
get further information. Mr. Mansbridge exhibited living larvae and
imagines of a Tineae found feeding in samples of fish-guano, and said that
the guano was brought from Brettesnaes, on the N.W. coast of Norway,
and was composed of the flesh and bones of small cod and herrings. The
larvae inhabited a tube or gallery which was formed of particles of the food
united with silk. In all the examples seen, these galleries were beneath
the surface, but before pupating the larva worked its way upwards and
pupated just below the surface. Mr. West (Greenwich) exhibited a fine
collection of Coleoptera from the Columbian Republic. Mr. Billups, a
specimen of Ichneumon haglundi, Holmg., a species new to Britain, bred
by Mr. R. Adkin, from a larva of A rctia fuliglnosa, received, from Scotland ;
a series of Apanteles emarginatus, Nees., bred from Gracillaria omisella, by
Mr. Elisha ; a specimen of an Hemipteron of the genus Pentatonia, taken
alive in the Borough Market, from a package of West Indian bananas ; a
species of Chrysomelidae, found alive in a barrel of grapes from Malaga ; and
a live female specimen of Bombus latreillus, Kirby, found among lettuce
from the South of France. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
City of London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
February 20th, 1890.— J. A. Clark, F.E.S., President, in the chair. Mr.
C. B. Smith was elected a member of the Society. Mr. Whittle exhibited
three specimens of S. fagi from Epping. Mr. J. W. Tutt, the genus
Xanthia, including a long series of intermediate forms of X.fulvago, from
perfectly clear to very dark specimens ; also a selection of Agrotis tritici
from Deal, Aberdeen and Valais, exhibiting variation in ground colour
from pale whitish-grey to deep-brown and black, and the two marked forms,
(a) with pale costa and median nervure, (6) without pale costa. In the
144 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
course of his observations Mr. Tutt said, that the latter reticulated form
had often been mistaken for A. cursoria, and that Newman, in his * British
Moths,' undoubtedly treats it as such, although at the same time he figures
the true cursoria. The exhibits of Coleoptera were : — Mr. Milton, Blaps
similis, Latr. ; Neovphorus interruptus. Mr. H easier, Geodephaga. Mr.
Mr. Raine, preserved larvae of Tenehrio and Ocypus. Mr. Cripps,
Apionidce, &c. Mr. A. U. Battley gave an interesting account of the con-
struction of spiders' webs. He differed from those who affirmed that the
framework was built first, and demonstrated this by means of a number of
models and diagrams taken'/rom webs in actual progress, as witnessed by
him during last year. It appeared, from his observations, that the radii
were first constructed.
March Qth. — The President in the chair. Mr. Whittle exhibited a
series of M. plagiodactylus, and a specimen of B. piniaria captured in the
city ; also D. oo and A. nemoralis. Mr. Battley, dark vars of H. margl-
naria. Mr. Quail, life-histories of C. Ugniperda and Z. pyrina. Mr.
Simes, a pair of E. autumnaria, taken at Southsea in September last.
Mr. J. A. Clark, both sexes of Blatta americana, the female with egg-bag
attached. Mr. Milton, T. apiformis and N. orion ; also Coleoptera. Mr.
E. A. Newbery exhibited two examples of Amara nitidus, which he had
found in an old collection mixed up with A. communis. Mr. Heasler,
Bembidium i-guttatum, Chlenius vestitus, and Stenus bipunctatus. Mr. G.
A. Lewcock, a necklace composed of pupa-cases of a species of Coccus
found in an ant's nest at Cape Colony, received from Mr. P. W. Jarvis.
Dr. J. S. Sequeira, a pair of migratory locusts [Pachytylus migratoriiLs)
picked up on board a vessel in the Mediterranean. — (x. A. Lewcock,
E. Hanes, Hon. Sees,
Birmingham Entomological Society. — February 17th, 1B90. Mr.
W. E. Blatch, President, in the chair. Mr. C. J. Wainwright read a
paper on '* One day's work in Wyre Forest," in which he described an un-
usually good day's collecting. Many species were taken, including larvae
of Endromis versicolor, many oi Asphalia fiavicoryiis, and many other good
species. He urged on the members to devote special energies to the
Forest, which he believed to be the best district, at any rate in the
Midlands. Considerable discussion followed, in which Messrs. G. T.
Baker, W. E. Blatch and R. C. Bradley joined.
March ^rd. — Mr. W. E. Blatch i!i the chair. Messrs. H. M. Lee, A.
Johnson and R. P. Gilbert were elected members. Mr. A. H. Martineau
showed a large exotic Bombyx, bred from an evidently imported larva sent
from Yorkshire. Mr. W. E. Blatch, showed Phibalapteryx lapidata taken
at Shap Fell in September last. This he believed to be the first recorded
capture in England. Rev. C. F. Thornewill remarked that there appeared
to be two forms of Phigalia pedaria found near Burton : — one early, large,
and well-marked, found in the open country ; and one three weeks later,
small and not so well-marked, found in the woods. He wished other
members to record their experience. Mr. Thornewill then read a paper on
the Lepidoptera of Burton-on-Trent, in which he mentioned the most in-
teresting species taken in or near the town. Butterflies were decreasing
in number of species. Sphinges were very well represented ; Bombyces
fairly well, as also the Geometers ; but the Noctuae were not so well. —
Colbhan J. Wainwbight, Hon, Sec.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIIL] MAY, 1890. [No. 324.
EDITORIAL.
Our readers will be glad to learn that the Eeference
Committee of * The Entomologist ' has been augmented by
the addition thereto of the eminent entomologist, Mr. Henry
Walter Bates, F.R.S., F.L.S., F.E.S., &c.
VARIATION OF AGROTIS TRITICI AND A. CURSORIA
FROM LANCASHIRE.
By Richard South.
Fig. 1. — Agrotis tritici, upper and under surfaces.
Fig. 2. — A. cursoria, upper and under surfaces.
I AM indebted to Mr. Baxter, of St. Anne's-on-the-Sea,
Lancashire, for series of Agrotis tritici and A. cursoria, showing
the range of variation of these species in his district.
The thirty -four examples of tritici and forty-five cursoria
selected have been arranged, according to markings, into thirteen
groups. An attempt was made to form colour detachments, but
this was abandoned, as it did not promise to lead to any useful
result. The colour variation of tiitici from this district does not
appear to be very extensive : a few specimens are grey-brown,
others pale reddish brown, and one or two fuliginous brown ; but
the majority of examples would be best described as dark brown.
ENTOM. — MAY, 1890. M
146 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Cursoria is more variable in colour, and the aberration exhibited
may be tabulated as follows :— •
Grey. — a. Whitish grey — leaden grey.
b. Ochreous grey — brownish grey.
Brown. — c. Pale whitish brown — ochreous brown.
d. Pale reddish brown — dark reddish brown.
Except as regards certain specific characters, to be referred
to presently, many forms of tritici are almost identical in marking
with forms of cursoria. In the majority of these parallel instances
there is a colour difference, but it is not always so ; and although
it is quite possible that anyone may readily separate typical
cursoria from tritici by colour alone, it may not always be quite
such a facile undertaking to distinguish correctly between certain
forms of the two species, unless well acquainted with the specific
characters of each species.
The pale transverse lines on the fore wings of tritici and
cursoria are usually bordered by dark lines ; but although these
are, on the disk of the wing, subject to considerable modification
in the direction of complete effacement, they are almost invariably
indicated on the costa as spots and dots. For the purpose of
comparison, however, it is not necessary for us to concern
ourselves with the discal markings, as only those on the costa
are of any real use.
Referring to the woodcut above, it will be observed that
tritici (fig. 1) has a dark bar on the costa between the basal and
inner lines of fore wing, whilst in cursoria (fig. 2) these lines are
each preceded and followed by dark dots, the space between the
lines being clear. The under surface of the fore wing also
affords good specific characters. Cursoria (2) is more or less
fuliginous from base to central transverse line, and pale beyond
to outer margin ; the discal spot is black, and very distinct.
Tritici is suffused with fuscous on the outer half of wing, and the
inner becomes pale towards base ; there is a black discal spot,
and from the outer edge of this a broad pale ray is projected
towards external margin of the wing. These are trustworthy
characters, and in ninety-nine cases out of a hundred tritici
may be distinguished from cursoria by reference to the upper
surface alone ; but if there should be any doubt about the matter,
examination of the under surface will solve the difficulty.
As regards ornamentation, the aberration of tritici and
cursoria^ from St. Anne's, represents the entire variation of these
species, so far as I am acquainted with it. Specimens in my
collection, from other localities, are more striking perhaps, but
they are only extreme examples of one or other of the varietal
groups into which I have divided the Lancashire specimens. As
it may present the matter in an intelligible form, I have attempted
VARIATION OF AQROTIS TRITICI AND A. CURSORIA. 147
to tabulate the variation of transverse and longitudinal markings,
as under : —
A. — Transverse lines distinct.
Section I. — Subcostal longitudinal streak more or less well defined.
Group 1. Streak white 5 triticL 1 cursoria.*
„ 2. „ grey 3 „ 3
„ 3. „ ochreous 1 „ 1 „
Section 11. — Subcostal longitudinal streak ill defined.
Group 4. Streak suffused A. triticL A: cursor ia.
„ 5. „ represented by a basal dash only. 6 „ 4 „
Section III. — Subcostal longitudinal streak absent.
Group 6. An angulated band-like transverse shade
passing between the stigmata 3 tritici. 5 curso7ia,\
„ 7. Without band-like shade 3 „ 2 „
B. — Transverse lines evanescent.
Section I. — Subcostal longitudinal streak fairly well defined.
Groups. Streak white 1 tritici. 1 cursoria.
„ 9. „ ochreous grey S „
Section II. — Subcostal longitudinal streak ill defined.
Group 10. Streak suffused "^tritici. A. cursoria.
„ 11. „ represented by a pale basal dash. 3 „
Section III. — Subcostal longitudinal streak absent.
Groupie. Traces of a transverse band-like shade. 1 tritici. 1 cursoria.
„ 13. No trace of transverse shade 2 „ 2 ,»
Besides the aberrations adverted to in the foregoing tables,
there are several others which it is not possible to group or
tabulate in a satisfactory manner ; but some reference must be
made to variation of the stigmata. In both species the reniform
and orbicular stigmata are usually outlined in white, whitish, or
pale brown, and filled up with the ground colour. All the
examples of tritici have the lower fourth of reniform dark, but
seldom so black and conspicuous as it is in the majority of
the specimens of cursoria. The space between the stigmata is
generally darker in tritici than cursoria.
In the last-named species there appears to be greater diversity
in the colour of stigmata : two specimens have both reniform and
orbicular entirely white ; two have these stigmata narrowly out-
lined in white, and filled up with black ; whilst two others, with
fairly distinct transverse discal lines, have but the faintest
possible trace of any stigmata whatever. Several specimens have
the orbicular more or less completely eliminated, and the reni-
* The specimens figured belong to group 1.
t Two specimens of cursoria in group 5 have the transverse shade more or less
clearly defined,
m2
148 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
form represented by the blackish lower fourth only. These last
modifications of the stigmata are only observed in the pale
coloured specimens, and are generally associated with absence of
longitudinal and transverse markings.
The claviform, sometimes not present in either species, is
usually outlined in black in tritici, and black or brown in
cursoria. In some specimens of each species it is large and well
defined, while in a few it is entirely filled up with black, and only
separated from a longitudinal black basal bar by the inner trans-
verse line.
The pale colour on costal area has been referred to in these
notes as the subcostal streak, because it appears to be the ampli-
fication of a character which exhibits initial development on the
subcostal nervure. In some examples of cursoria from Unst, the
space between subcostal nervure and the costa itself is filled up
with white, and in these specimens the specific characters of upper
surface are of course hidden.
THE USE AND ABUSE OF THE TRINOMIAL SYSTEM.
By Richard South.
To any who may be inclined to confer varietal names, the
numerous forms of Agrotis tritici and A. cursoria will afford
abundant material upon which they can operate with consummate
satisfaction to themselves ; but as I have yet to learn in what
way science in general; and that of Entomology in particular, is
advanced by the imposition of distinctive names on certain links
in the chain of an insect's variation, I have not ventured to take
upon myself the responsibility of adding some fifteen or twenty
names to the perplexing list of aberrations we already have.
I am well disposed towards the trinomial system, as suggested
by Mr. Cockerell (Entom. xx. 150), but the most ardent supporter
of that system must take exception to the wholesale christening
of more or less unimportant aberrations. The lepidopterist is
well aware that with very many species, especially among the
Noctuse and Geometrse, there is a tendency to deviate either in
colour or markings, sometimes both, from a given type. In
some of these species aberration is often of a most extensive
character. The scheme of variation, however, is, with few
exceptions, identical throughout, i. e., there is aberration
(a) in colour, {h) modification of markings. As regards colour,
departure from a fixed type is exhibited in one of two opposite
directions, sometimes both : one graduates in the direction of
melanism, the other towards albinism ; whilst the ornamentation
may be well developed, and consequently conspicuous on the one
hand, or evanescent on the other. In a good series which really
THE USE AND ABUSE OF THE TEINOMIAL SYSTEM. 149
represents the range of a species variation, it is rare to find a
form that cannot be linked up with the type by intermediate
aberrations. Any such exceptions are, perhaps, most likely to
occur among the representatives of a species from isolated
localities. When dealing, therefore, with the forms of a variable
species, it would surely be supererogatory to name all those indivi-
duals which deviated more or less from the typical form of that
species ; but less than this we cannot do, if we essay anything in
the way of varietal nomenclature, and desire at the same time to
be consistent. Haworth and Stephens, among others of the older
entomologists, described and named several forms of A, tritici as
distinct species, but these have long ago been deposed. It would
be interesting if twenty lepidopterists of the present day would
select specimens which they considered to agree with the
descriptions of— say, for example — lineolata, Haw., albilineataf
Haw., cuneigera, Steph., and ocellina, Steph., and submit these to
some competent authority for adjudication. Such an experiment
would be valuable, as it would illustrate individual appreciation
of varietal differences, and possibly furnish a startling exposition
of the general inutility, from a practical point of view, of endea-
vouring to permanently fix that which is unstable.
Charceas graminis has been divided up into twelve named
forms, and at the same time we are told that there are numbers
of intermediate forms. It would seem, then, that anyone
desiring to work out the varieties of this species correctly,
i. e., according to the oracle, must be a clairvoyant, or he will
probably go astray.
The absurdity of variety naming of the hair-splitting order
attains its maximum when the nomenclator takes a coloured
figure for his type, and dubs as var. intermedia a specimen which
is not so highly tinted with a particular colour as such figure.
Suppose we have four specimens of a species, which in the
matters of colour and markings are fairly constant within certain
limits : — A, agrees with the description of the type of the species
in every respect. B, however, differs from A, and of course from
the type, in having a paler tint, but the markings are identical in
both specimens; we therefore name this var. pallida. C, has the
colour of the type, but the markings are not well defined ; so we
will call this var. obsoleta. D, is rather darker in colour than the
type, but the markings are similar to those of C ; as this specimen
does not agree exactly with either B or C, and as it is still further
removed from the type, we must name it also, say, var. obscura.
So far, well ; but someone has a fifth specimen, which in tint is
the same as B, but the markings are less clearly defined than
in C. This example cannot be referred to obsoletaj because that
var. has typical coloration ; and, although it agrees in tint with
var. pallida, the markings won't do, as they are far from typical.
150 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
So, to make things pleasant all round, this individual would have
to be furnished with a name also.
In his ' Code of Varietal Nomenclature,' Mr. Cockerell {L c.)
proposes terms expressive of certain kinds of variation common
to many species of Lepidoptera, and the adaptation of one or
other of these suitable to the occasion would, in the majority of
cases, convey as clear an idea of the form referred to as an
extended description could do. There is, too, this distinct ad-
vantage, that whereas the one refers to a phase of variation, the
other singles out a particular individual, and elevates it to the
dignity of a type, a distinction which in some cases it certainly
does not deserve * It should be remembered that these third names
are really epitomised descriptions ; therefore if we wish to inform
a friend, or the entomological public at large, that we have taken
some specimens of A, cursoria in which all the markings are
absent, we can do so shortly, by writing A. cursoria deleta. In
the case of specimens received from foreign localities, with the
fauna of which we are not quite familiar, it is not only permissible,
but highly desirable, as a check to synonymy, that names should
be given to specimens showing any well-defined aberration.
These examples might certainly prove, on further examination,
to be distinct species ; but then no harm would be done, as all
that would be necessary would be to state the fact, and their
names would go with them in their promotion. At all times,
well defined local forms or races of a known species should be
named; and, when it can be done, it would be well if such
names were framed, with reference to habitat, or, perhaps, better
still, to some striking feature exhibited by the form.
CEITICAL NOTES ON DIPTEEA.
By G. H. Verkall, F.E.S.
As to the five species introduced as new to Britain by Mr.
Brunetti (Entom. 122), Psilocephala ardea, F., is quite properly
noticed; the species introduced by B. Cooke as Thereva fusci-
pennis, Mg., in Ent. Mo. Mag. xv. 19 was really Psilocephala
ardea, F., as I have since ascertained from some of the original
specimens in Dr. P. B. Mason's collection. Consequently
Thereva fuscipennis, Mg., should be erased from my list and
Psilocephala ardea, F., substituted. Lasiops semicinerea, W.,
has nothing to do with the genus Lasiops, and is in my list as a
Hyetodesia ; it is very common in the North, while I have taken
it as far South as Sussex and Devonshire. I have seventeen
localities for it. Leria ruficauda, Zett., is probably correct ; I
* Possibly this is so with HeliopTwhus hispidus var. obsoletus (Entom. xxii. 137).
CRITICAL NOTES ON DIPTERA. 151"
have a number of specimens taken at Plashett Wood, Sussex, on
April 5th, 1870, so labelled, but I have never critically examined
the Helomyzidae. Heteromyza atricornis, Mg., does occur in
my list, but in a place where nobody would expect it ; the species
introduced as Pegomyia rotunclicornisy Zett., is really Heteromyza
atricornis; I caught the species in abundance near Lairg on
June 20th, 1884, but it occurs South, as I had just previously
taken it in Sussex, and I think I have it from Devonshire, while
Dale's specimens of Pegomyia rotundicornis were from Dorset-
shire. I was not sufficiently satisfied with its name to include it
in my list. Sapromyza platycephala, Lw. ; as far as I know this
species exists only upon two injured specimens described in 1847
from Mehadia in Hungary, upon the borders of Eoumania : I should
hardly expect this to be common on the windows of a London
house in 1889, without having been observed in the intervening
42 years. I have been too busy with my own captures this
winter to afford time to name many specimens belonging to
other people, or else I expect I should have been able to examine
some of the specimens ; but even if I had, my critical know-
ledge of Sapromyza is insufficient to enable me to speak with
confidence.
Dicranomyia dimietorum, Mg. The common species, London
and everywhere else, is D. chorea, Mg.
Lonchoptera triliiieata, Zett. I have several specimens which
I believe to be this species, but having never critically examined
the genus, I refrained from adding species; the distinctive
characters of the various so-called species are as yet very
unsatisfactory.
Ascia dispar, Mg. This may be a good species, but I cannot
yet satisfactorily distinguish it from A.floralis, Mg.
Microdon deviiis, L. I have not seen recent specimens of
this, but should very much like to do so, as I have seen a
beautiful specimen of the other species, M. mutahilis, L., caught
last year in Devonshire by Major Yerbury.
Conops vitellina, Lw. According to a recent comparison
made by Mik between this species and C. 4-fasciata, DeG., all
our specimens are yellow specimens of the latter ; types that I
possess point to the same result. Conops is feminine, and in
this genus, as well as in Chrysops, the specific names may well
be made feminine.
Theria muscaria, Mg., was brought forward as British in
July, 1888, by Dr. E. H. Meade in time for me to include it in
my list (Ent. Mo. Mag. xxv. 27) ; further details were given by
Mr. Coryndon Matthews in Ent. Mo. Mag. xxv. 379.
Cynomyia mortuormn, L., was common at Eannoch in June,
1870.
Tephritis matricarice, Lw. I think it would be better in a
152 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
case like this to mention a Tephritis sp ?, rather than repute a
new species to Britain.
Palloptera parallela. Mr. Brunetti gives no author's name to
this species, and I cannot trace that it has ever been described ;
in fact, the name is quite a new one to me.
As to the three species of Limosina said to be not mentioned
in my list, I may say that L. pusilla^ Mg. == L. aciUangula, Zett. ;
L. fenestralis, Fin., is in the list of reputed species; while
L, cilifera, Bond., is an unsatisfactory Italian species, at present
unconfirmed by any subsequent writer.
Now that I am writing I may enumerate a few unrecorded
British Biptera, and corrections to my list : —
Cecidomyia alpina, F. Lw. C, filicina, Kief (= C.pteridiSf
Miill.). C.foliorum, Lw. C. tuhicola, Kief.
Dijdosis hetulina, Kief. D.fraxinella, Meade.
Schizomyia (Kief) gaUorum, Kief.
SciaraJlavipeSf Pz. ; confirmed.
Cordyla crassicornis, Mg. To be omitted and added to List of
Beputed Species : the ? crassicornis, Curt., seems to belong to a
new genus near Anatella, according to a specimen in Mr. C. W.
Dale's collection.
Leia elegans, Winn. ; in Mr. C W. Dale's collection.
Diadocidiaferruginosa, Mg. ; confirmed.
Chironomus flexilis, L. ; confirmed : near Bydal. C. nigri-
manusy Staeg. ; confirmed. C. niiheculosus, Mg. ; confirmed. C
fuscipennis, Mg. ; confirmed. C. hiannulatus, Stseg.
Tanypus guttipennis, V. d. Wulp ; in The Broads. T. 'phatta.
Egg. ; in myriads at Slapton Lea.
Ceratopogon hipunctatiis, L. ; confirmed. C. varius, Winn. ;
confirmed: common in my house. C.femoratus,¥. ; confirmed.
We must be very rich in Chironomidge in England ; I possess
(after excluding, as far as known, all above 12 specimens of a
species) over 2500 specimens, comprising, I believe, at least 270
species, but the ascertaining the correct names is very difficult ;
for instance, Stseger described, in 1840, a Chironomus nigrimanns
from Denmark, which he said was very rare in May and June ;
in 1850 Zetterstedt had never seen this species, but in 1859 he
obtained one female, and says Botts had caught both sexes in the
spring at Bingsjon ; Van der Wulp described, in 1859, two males
caught at The Hague, which he says tolerably, but not thoroughly,
agree with Stseger's description ; in 1877 he notes that Wttewaall
had caught it at Utrecht. These are all the references to the
species with which I am acquainted, except Walker's description
in Ins. Brit. Dipt. iii. 172, which, according to the table on
p. 153, must refer to a very different species. Now, I have had
under my eyes forty or fifty males of one species, probably that
CRIfipAL NOTES ON DIl^TERA. 153
taken by Van der Wulp, and I possess six males of a closely-
allied species, seven males of another which would pass under
Stseger's description, one male of a fourth species, and two large
males of a fifth species with dark tibiae, besides females of
several species. Who can say which of my five species is
Chironomus nigrimanus, Stseg., and what species were repre-
sented in the stragglers previously recorded ?
Limnohia stigma, Mg. ; common in North Wales.
Dicranomyia ornata, Mg. ; in Kev. T. A. Marshall's collection.
Atherix unicolor, Curt. = Ptiolina wodzickii, Frfld. I will not
at present discuss the priority of name.
Rhainphomyia dispar, Curt. = Oci/dromia glahricida, Fin. !
(Edalea stigmatica is a misprint for stigmatella,
Clinocera harhatula. Instead of " Hal." put ** Mik."
Tachydromia stramineipes, Zett., is only a variety of T,
pectoralis, Fin. I caught a long series last August in Tilgate
Forest showing every gradation.
Psilopus ohscurus, Mg., is probably a synonym of P. longidus,
Fin.
Neurigona pallida, Fin. ; confirmed. N. siituralis, Fin. ; con-
firmed. N. Erichsonii, Zett. ; relegated to ** Keputed Species."
Gymnopternus parvilamellatus, Mcq., is a Hercostomus.
Chrysotus angulicornis, Kow.
Argyra atriceps, Lw.
Sympycnus nigritihialis, Zett. = S. ceneicoxa, Mg. S. hifasci-
ellus, Zett. = Lamprochromus elegans, Mg.
Platypeza modesta, Zett., and P. rufa, Mg. Quite correctly in-
troduced in Mr. C. W. Dale's * History of Glanvilles Wootton.'
Chalarus holosericeus, Mg., is only the other sex of C. spurius,
Fin.
Pipizella higuttata, Curt. = P. flavitarsis, Mg.
Chilosia mutahilis, Fin. ; confirmed.
Bhingia campestris, Mg. I am now convinced that there are
more than one species of Bhingia in Europe, and that our common
species is B. campestris, Mg. I am not yet satisfied that B.
rostrata, L., also occurs here, although I expect it does.
Anthomyid^. The four subfamilies I have indicated are
distinguished as follows : —
Myd^in^ : Dorso-central bristles 2 in front of suture, 3, or
more commonly 4, behind suture ; anal and axillary veins both
straight and abbreviated; eyes often hairy. Usually large,
stoutly-built species, with plumose arista and frequently spotted
abdomen.
Anthomyin^ : Dorso-central bristles 2 in front of suture,
3 behind ; anal vein extended (though faintly) to margin ; eyes
very seldom hairy; abdomen never with the characteristic
^'Limnophora" spots, and never stout and rounded, but more
elongate.
154 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
HoMALOMYiNiE : Dorso-central bristles 2 in front of suture,
3 behind ; anal vein short, axillary curved and continued beyond
end of anal; arista nearly always almost bare ; eyes bare. Small
or rather small species ; abdomen shortish, broad, flat, and with
characteristic triangular dorsal spots or modifications thereof.
CcENOsiNiE : Dorso-central bristles 1 in front of suture, 3 behind ;
anal and axillary veins straight and abbreviated ; eyes of male
never nearly touching, always bare ; abdomen tubular, usually
spotted.
In January, 1888, Mik called my attention to a distinction in
the claws of Mydaeinae and Homalomyinae.
Polietes hirticrura, Meade ; confirmed : Kilmarnock.
I need not repeat Meade's additions, unless by way of
criticism, as he has been kind enough to send me nearly all for
examination.
Limnophora albifrons, Bond. ; the specimen was Hydrophoria
socia, Fin., $ .
Hydrotcea parva, Meade ; I think this is H, glabricula. Fin.,
which was previously reputed.
Pegomyia hyoscyami, Pz., and Winthemi, Mg., may be erased,
the exponents being very unsatisfactory.
Homalomyia triangulifera, Meade (nee Eond.), is H. lepida,
W., which by some extraordinary chance I omitted from my
list, but noticed the omission just in time to include it among
the reputed. H. nigrisquama, Meade ; confirmed.
Coenosia scrupulosa, Zett. ; the specimens belong to Spilo-
gaster, as at present constituted. C. picti'pennis, Lw. ; Meigen's
name of costata is more generally accepted, even though he
mistakenly called it a Sapromyza.
Pteropoecila lamed, Schrk. In including this species in my
list I fell into the same error into which Haliday had fallen more
than fifty years before. Our British species is the little-known
Toxoneura muliebris, Harr. (fasciata, Mcq.). Consequently
P, lamed should be excised from my list, and T, muliebris added
from the reputed list and placed next to Palloptera under the
Lonchseidee.
Oscinis rapta, Hal. ; this should be added to the British
species, and 0. rapta, Mcq., excluded from the reputed species.
These are a few notes upon species concerning which I have
arrived at some definite conclusion ; but there are hundreds of
others upon which I am in doubt. When I pubHshed my list
I thought I fairly understood the genus Tanypus with 19 species ;
I now think I possess 40 species. In Simulium I admitted two
species ; I now think I possess about ten species. A vast amount
of work remains yet to be done, but it had better be done with
caution.
Sussex Lodge, Newmarket.
155
CONTEIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTEY of INSECT COLOUES.
By F. H. Pekry Coste, F.C.S.
II. — A PEiORi Anticipations.
It will perhaps conduce to clearness if I now quote briefly a
few extracts from the notes that I drew up for my own guidance
before commencing these experiments. They are not without a
moral — seen in the light of later and experimental knowledge ;
and, anyhow, my readers will thus be travelling along the same
route that I myself pursued.
Now the results that I anticipated were to have a twofold signi-
ficance, viz.f from the phylogenetic and the chemical standpoints.
Phylogenetically, I anticipated finding illustrations of the evolu-
tionary doctrine of the origin of species, and of the various stages
represented by each species in a natural group or genus, — at
least so far as regards colouring, — ^just similarly, for instance, as
Weissmann found in the markings of Sphinx larvae.* Further-
more, I expected to obtain two wholly difi'erent lines of results
with these colours, according to the nature of the reagents used.
I anticipated obtaining (a) progressive, and (b) retrogressive, modi-
fications ; and it also seemed possible that by such results some
light might be thrown on classification. And, lastly, similar
markings in difi'erent colours on allied species might be expected
to yield a common colour (either progressively or retrogressively)
under the influence of the same reagent.
Chemically, I hoped to compile a table of the colours in their
biological rank, and noted it as very interesting, when the appa-
rently same colour occurred in different groups, to determine
whether it would be affected in the same way (c/., for instance,
the yellow of the under wing in the Triphgense and in Heliaca
arbiiti). Only after writing the above did I recollect that Grant
Allen (reasoning, however, not from the results of experiments, but
from observation alone) had drawn up a table of colours, in their
biological rank, for flowers ; and it struck me as very interesting
to see how far my results might accord with his. I expected that
in insects yellow would be found above white (not beloiv, as in
flowers), and belozv red. But what of black (probably above all
these), blue, brown, &;c. ? That remained for experiment to show.
Nevertheless, I wrote, — very likely a linear arrangement of
all the colours may be impossible ; for as to the ranks of colours,
I doubt if there be a universal unity ; but rather suspect that a
colour may rank below a second colour in one group, and above
it in another. I imagine this to be the case from a consideration
of the distribution of colour on various insects ; broadly speaking,
* * Essays in Descent ' (Meldola's translation), I., 223, &g.
156 THE IJNTOMOLOGIST.
I take it that the ground colour of a wing is the lowest in rank,
and primal, whilst bands and markings on it show more highly
evolved colours. If so, in Pieris and Colias, black is above white
andj^ellow; but in Vanessa atalanta, below white and red; and
so on. This were certainly to assume that the rank of the
colours corresponds with their historical order of development.
It remains to be seen whether this be a legitimate assumption.
Moreover, as regarding the identity of ground and primal colour,
one must remember that a high colour may commence as a band,
and end by covering nearly the whole wing, in which case the
original ground colour would eventually appear secondary ;
hence arises a necessity for caution in making such assumptions.
[In view of the experimental results afterwards obtained, I
may be permitted to point out that I had thus foretold before-
hand the priority of white to yellow (antithetically to Mr.
Cockerell's views) ; and of yellow to red, in order of development.
On the other hand, it will appear how utterly fallacious were all
my a priori speculations on the rank and behaviour of black; and
also, I fear, on the relations of band and spot colours to ground
colour.]
Now, as to progressive modifications, I prophesied by far the
most interesting and vitally important results from the use of
such reagents as the organic acids. For my reagents I divided
into two main classes: — 1st, those that are naturally present
in the insect itself, or in the plants that it feeds upon ; and 2nd,
those altogether foreign to the insect and plant. In the first class
were included such reagents as formic, acetic, malic, citric,
succinic, oxalic, benzoic, and tartaric acids, &c. ; also, by an
extension, such oxidising reagents as potassic permanganate,
seeing that oxidation perhaps plays an important part in the
evolution of colours ; although an objection might of course lie
here against such reagents on account of possible chemical
action other than oxidation. In the second class I included all
such reagents as strong mineral acids (sulphuric, nitric, hydro-
chloric, &c.) ; strong alkalis, — ammonia, sodic hydrate, potassic
hydrate ; and any salts that might be tried, as, e.g., potassic
ferro-cyanide, potassic iodide, argentic nitrate, &c. Evidently
none of these could affect the insects in nature, — they are all
foreign reagents; therefore I considered that no progressive
modifications could be looked for from the use of these reagents,
but merely retrogressive ; for it seemed likely that by destroying
the present colourings they would reveal the earlier stages.
Subsequently, however, I noted that possibly these progressive
and retrogressive reagents were too sharply divided, since
" unnatural " reagents might produce the progressive modifica-
tions in experimenting, although in nature such modifications
have been brought about by other means.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 157
Now regarding this progressive modification of colour, —
although carefully guarding myself against expecting too much,
or admitting so sweeping an anticipation as that of producing
artificially all the stages in coloric development displayed in
nature, seeing that such are probably due to the action of more
causes than simply the metabolism of the insect; due, for
instance, to variations of temperature, atmospheric and climatic
conditions generally, — yet I considered that by the external
application of such already mentioned organic reagents, as in
very small and dilute quantities are present in the insects them-
selves, I might produce progressive modifications of colour
similar to those that have occurred already in many species. I
hoped thus to complete changes already commenced in an insect
itself, or displayed by closely allied species : for instance, to
change the ivhite of Pieris into the black, already present as
spots and tip markings ; the white of Euchloe cardamines into
orange, like the tip; the pale yellow of Colias hyale into the
deep yellow of Ediisa ; these yellows into black, like the borders ;
and the yellow of Gonepteryx rhamni into the red of G. cleopatra.
Especially, too, in those species where the males are brilliantly
coloured and the females dull, did I anticipate being able to
change the female tint into the male (cf., Lycsenae, Euchloe, &c.).*
How utterly fallacious and doomed to disappointment were all
these anticipations, will subsequently appear.
Then as to the retrogressive modifications, — here, at any rate,
the event proves me to have been on somewhat safer ground in
my predictions, I have already explained that I expected to find
such reagents as the strong mineral acids and the caustic alkalis
convert the latest evolved colours backwards to a lower colour,
thus giving me the original {sic) type colours ; and this
both as regards the several colours of one species, and the
range of colours in a genus of many species. These results
would form, therefore, an exact counterpart to those that I
fallaciously hoped for in progressive modification. For instance,
in Pieris I expected to turn all the black into white ; in EuchloS
cardamines, the orange back to white ; in Gonepteryx rhamni, the
red spots to yellow; and in Vanessa atalanta, the red into the
ground colour, black.
Supposing these anticipations to be fulfilled, the question
next occurred to me whether it might be possible by diluting a
given reagent, or by taking a less strong one, to retrace retro-
gressively the colour evolution step by step. For example, — I
thought, — a powerful acid may turn Colias all white at once;
but it would be far more interesting if (by using weaker acid) one
* In this way, too, I hoped to throw some light on various isolated observations
regarding the effect of change of diet in producing coloric variation : as, e.g., that
Arctia caia is far darker when the larvce are fed on walnut leaves.
158 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
could first turn its black into yellow, and then the yellow to
white ; although, I should add, that in this particular case I
fancied the black had never come through yellow at all, but
direct from the Pieris black, and that from white ; but, at any
rate, in such an instance as that of G. cleopatra and G, rhamni,
I hoped to reduce the red flush and spots, respectively displayed
by them, to the ground yellow, and then this yellow to the type
colour of the genus, as shown by the lowest forms. Again, in
species displaying so many colours as the Vanessse do, it would
be most interesting to find the lineal order of these, although, no
doubt, some would be collateral, and not all unilineal.
Then, again, regarding the statement I have already quoted
(p. 155, above), that the same markings differently coloured in
allied species might be expected to yield a common colour on
treatment with retrogressive reagents, it appeared to me that a
crucial instance would be afforded by the species of Catocala,
e.g., nupta and fraxini. Was the blue offraxini, I asked, evolved
via the red of nupta (or vice versa), or are not these two colours
more probably collaterally divergent ? In the first case one
might expect this result '.—fraxini, blue reduces to red : this to
"%" nupta, red reduces to "%" ; but in the second case, both the
blue of fraxini and the red of nupta might be reduced by a
common reagent (or by different reagents) to a common colour.
An analogous instance to that of these Catocalse is afforded by
the two species, Euchloe cardamines and E, eupheno, in which
latter the ground colour is bright yellow, and the tip orange.
By thus applying this principle to all genera that display the
same markings in different colours, I hoped to discover the
actual order of coloric evolution in each species, and the genetic
relationship to all the others.
Such were my expectations as regards retrogressive reagents.
It will appear that they have been only partly realised, since I have
not succeeded in destroying highly evolved colours, step by step,
but have never obtained more than one retrogressive change.
That the above- stated opinions may be viewed in their proper
light, I must again remind my readers that I have simply been
quoting to them from notes written out before I had made a
single experiment. I trust that I have not been unduly prolix in
so doing, but it seemed to me that greater coherence and unity
would thus be given to my paper than could obtain, did I omit all
reference to my previous anticipations, and plunge directly into
the experimental results. Moreover, the speculations I had
indulged in of obtaining those progressive modifications appear
to me to carry a moral and a warning, only illustrating once
more the utter futility of relying on any a priori hypothetical
views, — however probable they may seem, — without subjecting
them to the test of experiment. Hypotheses certainly are
J
SOME NEW SPECIES OF CHINESE RHYNCHOTA. 159
indispensable ; no coherent line of work can be pursued without
them ; and to grope blindly through a number of disconnected
experiments without any clear notion of what we expect to find,
or what we are looking for, is to work wastefuUy, half-uselessly,
and stupidly. But hypotheses are valuable only as schemes of
working, and utterly illusory without actual verification. Without
further comment, however, we will now proceed to consider the
actual experiments, and their results.
(To be continued.)
DESCRIPTIONS OF SOME NEW SPECIES OF CHINESE
RHYNCHOTA.
By W. L. Distant.
I PREVIOUSLY described {ante, p. 90) three new species of
Cicadidse, contained in a small collection, placed in my hands by
Mr. J. H. Leech. The following descriptions refer to other
novelties from the same source, and we may confidently anticipate
considerable accession to the number of known species of the
order, when the Chinese insect fauna is more available for stud3\
HETEROPTERA.
Fam. PENTATOMID^.
Subfam. ASOPIN^.
Neoglypsus opulentus, n. sp.
Ochraeeous, thickly covered with dark punctures, and more or less
shaded with metallic green ; connexivum ochraeeous, with a black spot on
each side of the segmental sutures. Body beneath and legs pale ochraeeous,
some small sternal discal spots and the stigmata black. Antennae dark
ochraeeous, with the apical halves of the third, fourth, and fifth joints
black ; joints (excluding basal) almost subequal in length. Head with the
lateral margins distinctly recurved ; pronotal angles strongly produced into
obtuse spines, straight, and directed outwardly. Pronotum and scutellum
very coarsely punctate. Corium finely punctate. Long., 20 mm. Exp.
pronot. angl., 11| mm.
Hab. Chang Yang. (Pratt.)
Allied to the only other described species of the genus,
N. viridicatuSf Dist., from Japan, but differing by the obtuse
pronotal angles, &c.
Subfam. PENTATOMIN^.
Tropicoris illuminatus, n. sp.
Very dark purplish brown, with the following yellow markings : — A
short oblique fascia on each anterior lateral area of the pronotum, and a
small central spot on disk of same, the apex of the scutellum, a spot in each
lateral angle, and a central longitudinal fascia to same. Connexivum
ochraeeous, with large blackish spots. Body beneath ochraeeous ; some
central sternal spots, the under side of pronotal angles, stigmata, and a
160 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
series of large marginal spots blackish. Legs dark ochraceous, tibiae with a
central pale annulation, tarsi pale luteous, with their apices pitchy ; rostrum
blackish, with the base paler. Antennae blackish, with the fourth joint
longest. Pronotum thickly and coarsely punctate, with the lateral angles
strongly produced, their anterior margins rounded and serrated, their
extreme apices terminating in a sliort obtuse spine. Scutellum coarsely
punctate. Corium thickly and finely punctate. Kostrum long, and reaching
the penultimate segment of the abdomen. Long., 16 mm. Exp. pronot.
angl., 10 mm.
Hab. Chang Yang. (Pratt.)
This forms, with T, davidi, Sign., and T, armandif Fallon, a
third Chinese species of the genus.
HOMOPTERA.
Fam. FULGOEID^.
Subfam. TESSAEATOMIN^.
EUSTHENES PRATTI, B. Sp.
Body above dark chocolate -brown ; lateral and anterior margins of
pronotum and the connexivum dark olivaceous green ; head and scutellum
more or less suffused with the same colour; membrane bronzy brown.
Body beneath rather paler in hue; lateral areas of the sternum, and an
abdominal stigmatal fascia, bright olivaceous green; coxse and tarsi
brownish ochreous. Antennae with the first, second, and third joints
blackish ; fourth joint ochraceous, with the base narrowly blackish ; second
joint much longer than the third, and subequal in length to the fourth.
Posterior femora in the male with a long spine beneath at base, and two
shorter spines at apex. Long., ^, 28 mm. Exp. pronot. angl., 13 mm.
Hab. Kiukiang and Chang Yang. (Pratt.)
This species is allied to E. antennatuSy Dist.,* by its
elongate body and pale apical joint of the antennae, but in
E. pratti this joint is black at the base, and the second joint is
much longer than the third ; the scutellum is also strongly
transversely rugose, and its apex is broadly foveate. The colour
is described from a dry specimen ; when alive, the colour is
bright greenish, as with other species of the genus.
Subfam. EUKYBEACHYDIN^.
Frutis sinensis, n. sp.
Head and thorax above and beneath dull ochraceous ; abdomen bright
sanguineous, with the anal appendage ochraceous ; legs ochraceous, tibiae
and tarsi fuscous. Tegmina dull ochraceous, and with a curved transverse
impressed fascia of the same colour near apex. Wings very pale ochraceous,
more or less suffused with creamy white. Long. excl. tegm., 20 mm. Exp.
tegm., 53 mm.
Hab. North China. (From coll. Leech.)
* From N. E. India. By a misprint, the dimensions of this species were given
as "Long., 35 to 3U mm.," instead of 25 to 26 mm. (Trans. Ent. Soc. Lond., 1887,
p. 357).
161
DESCRIPTIONS OF NEW SPECIES OF PHYTOPHAGOUS
COLEOPTERA RECEIVED BY MR. J, H. LEECH, FROM
CHANG-YANG, CHINA.
By Martin Jaooby, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 118.)
Aphthona varipes, n. sp.
Below and the posterior femora piceous ; above metallic blue ; antennae
and the four anterior legs fulvous; thorax scarcely visibly (or finely)
punctured; elytra distinctly and closely semi-punctate-striate. Length,
f line.
Head impunctate, the frontal elevations narrowly oblique, like the
carina, distinctly raised ; antennae scarcely extending to half the length of
the body, fulvous, or with the terminal joints slightly darker, the second
joint thickened, the third and fourth more elongate, nearly equal ; thorax
about one-half broader than long, the sides nearly straight, the anterior
angles slightly thickened, the surface sparingly impressed with minute
punctures ; scutellum black ; elytra rather strongly and closely punctured,
the punctures arranged in somewhat regular rows, the posterior portion
more obsoletely punctate.
Very closely allied to A, Bonvouloiri, Allard, from Syria, but
narrower and rather smaller, the antennae and legs less robust,
and the elytral punctuation much closer and finer ; from
A. modesta, Weise, distinguished by the differently coloured
legs, and the scarcely perceptible punctuation of the thorax ;
from A. trivialis, Weise, by the colour of the under side and that
of the antennae. A. chinensis, Baly, differs by the colour of the
antennsB, the nearly quadrate thorax, and its larger size.
Many specimens.
LuPEROCNEMus, Faivm,
This genus was described by Fairmaire in the Belgian Annals
of 1888. The author has said nothing about the state of the
anterior coxal cavities, nor given the length of the posterior
tarsi, consequently it is impossible to come to a conclusion in
regard to the systematic position of the genus. There are, how-
ever, two specimens contained in this collection, which answer
entirely the description of Fairmaire's L. xanthoderuSt and I
consequently refer these insects to this species ; the anterior coxal
cavities are open, and the posterior tibisB have a distinct spine
(Fairmaire describes them as unarmed) ; the first joint of the pos-
terior tarsi is as long as the two following joints together. In spite
of the distinctly incrassate posterior femora mentioned by the
author, Fairmaire places his genus amongst the Galerucince, which
would put an end to all classification as far as the Halticince are
concerned, since this development of the posterior femora is the
principal character by which this family may be separated from
the Galerucince ; whether the insects have saltatorial powers or
ENTOM. — MAY, 1890. N'
162 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
not cannot affect their systematic position, consequently Lupero-
cnemus must be placed in the HalticincB, probably near Sutrea^
Baly.
Hespera sericea, Weise (PL I. fig. 11).
This genus, the type of which has quite the appearance of a
species of Luperodes is much distinguished by the fine pubes-
cence which covers the entire upper surface as well as by the
shape of the thorax and the comparatively slender legs. I may
add to the description of the author, that the space separating
the basal lobe of the prosternum from the thoracic basal margin
is so small as to be scarcely perceptible, so that the anterior coxal
cavities may almost be considered closed; in most of the speci-
mens obtained by Mr. Pratt, which agree otherwise with the
author's description, the first three joints of the antennae and the
base of the anterior femorse are fulvous.
Crepidodera obscuritarsis (?), Motsch,
The short description of the author agrees sufficiently with
the specimens obtained at Chang Yang to refer them to this
species. The insect is of a reddish-fulvous colour, with the
terminal eight joints of the antennae, the apex of the posterior
femorse and the tarsi fuscous or nearly black ; the antennae have
their third and fourth joints equal ; the thorax is nearly twice as
broad as long, the sides are rounded before the middle, and the
anterior angles are oblique and thickened, the surface is trans-
versely convex with a few extremely fine punctures, but the deep
transverse sulcation is much more distinctly punctured and
bounded at the sides by a deep longitudinal groove. The elytra
are finely punctate -striate, the striae themselves rather sinuate
and very indistinct near the apex, the interstices are not visibly
punctured (which does not agree with Motschulsky's description) ;
the under side and legs are finely covered with greyish pubes-
cence. Apparently rather common.
Chalcoides picipes ?, Weise.
I refer the specimens contained in this collection to this
species, although I do not quite see the differences between it and
C. Moris, Foudr. I referred to the latter species specimens
obtained by Mr. Lewis at Japan, and do not find any perceptible
difference in the Chinese specimens, which are variable in regard
to sculpture and colour. Weise compares C. picipes to C.
aurata, Marsh, from which it is no doubt distinct, but his
description of C. clitoris is almost identical with C. picipes (both
have the first four joints of the antennae and other characters in
common), and but little reliance can be placed on slight varia-
tions in sculpture and colour, as our European varieties show.
NEW SPECIES OF COLEOPTERA FROM CHINA. 163
NONARTHRA NIGRICEPS, Weise (PL II. fig. 1).
Weise has described this species from a form in which the
elytra are entirely pale testaceous and which I look upon as a
variety. Amongst the very numerous specimens contained in
this collection three forms may be distinguished: (1), elytra
with a spot on the shoulder, the apex and a transverse band
below the middle, black ; (2), elytra with the humeral spot
wanting ; (3), elytra entirely testaceous or with a narrow posterior
dark lateral and sutural margin ; all other characters agree with
the description of the author.
Many specimens.
LUPERODES BIPARTITUS, n. Sp. (PI. II. fig. 8).
Flavous ; the head, antennae, tibiae and tarsi, black ; thorax transversely
sulcate, black, the base fulvous. Elytra finely punctured, the basal half
fulvous, the rest flavous. Length, 1^ — 2 lines.
Head impunctate, shining, black, the frontal elevations ill-defined,
clypeus triangularly thickened, antennae extending beyond half the length
of the body, black, the lower three joints piceous, the fourth joint double the
length of the third ; thorax transverse, rather more than twice as broad as
long, the sides slightly narrowed at the base, narrowly margined, the
anterior angles thickened but not produced, the surface with a very distinct
transverse sulcation, extending nearly to the sides, the anterior portion with
a few minute punctures, black, the basal portion fulvous ; scutellum
triangular, smooth, fulvous ; elytra scarcely narrowed posteriorly, very
finely and moderately closely punctured, the interstices slightly rugose here
and there and furnished with a few short pale hairs, the basal portion
fulvous, this colour changing gradually to flavous towards the middle of the
elytra, their epipleurae extending nearly to the apex ; under side and the femora
flavous : the first joint of the posterior tarsi as long as half the tibiae, the
latter with a distinct spine ; anterior coxal cavities open.
The rather peculiar coloration of this species distinguishes it
from any of its allies.
Many specimens.
LuPERODES PR^USTUS, MotSCh,
There is no doubt that this species is the male insect of
Luperodes nigripennis, Motsch., which has already been remarked
by Weise. Numerous specimens of both forms have been obtained
at Chang-Yang, amongst which are some slightly intermediate in
regard to coloration. All the specimens of L. prcsustus, however,
are males, which may be known not only by their different
elytral colour, but by a small but distinct depression placed at
the suture below the scutellum, which is never present in the
female (L. nigripennis) ; the last abdominal segment in the male
has also an incision at each side. L. prceustus is also found at
Japan. From that locality I have, however, two female speci-
mens, which have the coloration of the male (although not
differing in any other way) ; thus proving that the elytral colour
is not always to be relied on in determining the sexes of this
Luperodes,
n2
164 THE ENTOMOLOGIST,
LUPERUS PRATTI, n. Sp.
Black ; the lower portion of the head, the base of the antennae and the
legs, flavons; head and thorax impunctate; elytra scarcely perceptibly
punctured. Length, 1^ line.
Head entirely impunctate, shining, black, the lower portion obscure
flavous or testaceous (sometimes piceous), the frontal tubercles strongly
raised and broad in shape, the carina short; antennae stout and rather
short, about half the length of the body, the three or four lower joints
flavous, the rest black, the third joint scarcely longer than the second one ;
thorax about one-half broader than long, the sides scarcely rounded, straight
near the base, the angles obsolete, the surface entirely impunctate ; elytra
extremely finely punctured, the punctures only visible with a very strong
lens, the interstices smooth, here and there furnished with single erect
hairs; under side black; legs flavous, the base of the femora sometimes
darker, the first joint of the posterior tarsi not longer than the two following
joints together; the tibiae with a small spine.
The pale lower portion of the face, the entirely impunctate
thorax, and the extremely finely punctured elytra separate
L. pratti from several European species with a similar black
upper and under surface and pale legs. Amongst the rather
numerous specimens obtained a variety is present in which the
lower portion of the face and the legs are partly piceous, and it
is possible that specimens may be found in which these parts are
entirely black. The present species cannot be confounded with
L, capita, Weise, on account of the black elytra and abdomen.
LUPERUS HIRSUTUS. (PI. II., fig. 9.)
This species, described by myself from Japan (Proc. Zool,
Soc, 1885, p. 742), was obtained numerously at Chang- Yang.
LuPERUS ^NESCENS?, WeiSC,
I refer very doubtfully a small Luperus to Weise's species.
This and several others, lately described by this author,
are so closely allied to L. flaviventris, Motsch., that it is almost
impossible to determine these similarly coloured species without
a comparison of the types, especially as varieties in regard
to punctuation and even shape have been described by the
same author. The present insect is of metallic-green colour
above, the abdomen being (as in several others of its congeners)
flavous. Weise describes, however, the punctuation of the thorax
in nearly all of his species as obsolete (*' verloschen ") ; in the
insect before me the thorax is closely and distinctly punctured,
the punctures being of different sizes ; the elytra also are very
distinctly and closely punctate, with the interstices slightly
rugose ; the shape of the thorax in this and most of the allied
species is subject to variation, according to the sexes; in the
male it is scarcely broader than long, in the female it is distinctly
broader; the antennas also vary in length, according to the
sexes, and this variation prevents a certain determination, when
iJEW SPECIES OF COLEOPTERA FROM CHINA. l65
SO many closely-allied forms are concerned. The length of the
present species is 1|- line.
LuPERUS CAPiTO, Weise,
Var. The head (the vertex excepted), thorax, and elytra and legs,
testaceous.
Of this very variable little species, Weise has described four
varieties. A fifth is contained in this collection, together with
the typical form. In this variety the entire insect, with the
exception of the apical joints of the antennae and the vertex
of the head, is flavous or testaceous ; some specimens, showing
traces of the metallic blue colour of the elytra in the type, are
also before me. The description of the author agrees with my
specimens, with one exception, in regard to the anterior margin
of the thorax, which is described as being strongly concave ; in
the specimens from Chang- Yang, the same margin is nearly
straight. Apparently common,
LuPERUS BiPLAGiATUS, n. sp. (Tab. II., fig. 10.)
Flavous; thorax transverse, mirmtely punctured; elytra very finely
punctured in rows, each with a black or piceous spot near the apex.
Length, 1 line.
Head with a few very fine punctures at the vertex, deeply transversely
grooved between the eyes ; fi-ontal elevations transverse, strongly raised ;
antennae more than half the length of the body, flavous, the terminal joints
slightly darker and thicker, the third and fourth joints nearly equal,
elongate ; thorax transverse, twice as broad as long, the sides slightly
rounded at the middle, the angles slightly thickened, but not produced, the
surface very finely and not closely punctured, with two or three very
obsolete small depressions, flavous ; elytra closely and more distinctly
(though finely) punctured than the thorax, flavous, each with a piceous
ovate spot near the apex ; under side and legs flavous, the tibiae with a very
small spine; the first joint of the posterior tarsi as long as the three
following joints together ; claws appendiculate ; anterior coxal cavities open.
This small species, although possessing the structural
characters of Luperus, differs from the more tj^pical species of
that genus in the transversely- shaped thorax and the small tibial
spines; its size and coloration will distinguish it from its allies.
Numerous specimens were obtained.
GaLERUCA (AdIMONIA) GRISKO-VILLOSA, n. sp.
Ovate, widened behind, dark fuscous or piceous ; above obscure
testaceous, finely pubescent ; head finely, thorax strongl}?-, punctiu:ed, the
sides subangulate ; elytra very closely punctured without costae, clothed
with greyish long pubescence. Length, 2^ — 3 lines.
Head rather broader than long, finely rugose-punctate throughout ; the
clypeus with a distinct longitudinal ridge, extending upwards between the
antennae ; palpi but slightly incrassate, the terminal joint acutely pointed ;
antennae fiUform, extending to half the length of the elytra, black, the basal
joint testaceous below, the second one shghtly shorter than any of the
following joints ; thorax transverse, about twice and a half as broad as long,
the sides distinctly emarginate below the middle, the upper portion forming
166 TflE ENTOMOLOGIST*
a rounded angle, the posterior margin sinuate near the posterior angles, the
surface with a shallow lateral and a more distinct longitudinal central
depression, closely and somewhat rugosely punctured, the punctures larger
at the sides than at the middle of the disc ; scutellum broad, finely
punctured ; elytra punctured like the middle portion of the thorax, and
sparingly clothed with long greyish white hairs ; legs and under side more
or less fuscous, the femora sometimes dark fulvous at the base ; the tibiae
unarmed ; the first joint of the posterior tarsi as long as the two following
ones together ; claws bifid ; anterior coxal cavities closed.
In the shape of its thorax, the present species resembles
somewhat G. tanaceti, but its much smaller size, the absence of
any elytral costse, and the apparently unarmed tibiae (even when
seen with a powerful lens), will distinguish G. griseo-villosa.
Four specimens.
Galeruca chinensis, n. sp.
Ovate, convex, rufous ; the antennae, scutellum, and the apex of the
femora and the til3iaB and the tarsi, black ; thorax and elytra finely rugose-
punctate, clothed with short yellow pubescence. Length, 2 lines.
Var. Legs entirely black.
Head finely rugose, opaque, the clypeus raised into a strong triangular
ridge, labrum partly black, palpi rather slender; antennae rather stout,
scarcely extending to half the length of the body, the lower two joints
shining, stained more or less with fulvous below, the others black, opaque,
the third joint the longest (except the first), the following nearly equal and
shorter ; thorax more than twice as broad as long, the sides strongly rounded
at the middle, the angles in shape of a small tubercle, the surface with a
shallow depression at the sides, and a deeper longitudinal groove at the
middle, closely and rather finely rugose-punctate, and sparingly clothed with
very short yellow pubescence ; scutellum black, finely punctured ; elytra
sculptured and pubescent, like the thorax; posterior tibiae with a small
spine ; the first joint of the posterior tarsi scarcely longer than the second
one ; claws bifid.
In shape and colour this species resembles greatly G, rufa,
Germ., and several North American forms, from all of which it is
separated by the finely, not coarsely, rugose thorax and elytra,
and the colour of the scutellum and legs.
Three specimens.
Cneorane apicicornis, n. sp.
Fulvous; antennae (the terminal joints excepted), the mesosternum and
abdomen, the tibiae and the posterior legs, blackish blue; elytra closely
semi-rugose punctate, violaceous. Length, 3 lines.
I am obliged to describe this species as new, since it does not
agree with any of the rather numerous and closely allied forms
of which it may possibly be a variety. It will be sufficient to
point out its principal distinctive characters. There are only
about four species with which C. apicicornis can be compared, on
account of the dark colour of the posterior legs and anterior
tibiae ; these are C. elegans, Baly, C, rufo-ccerulea, Fairm.,
C. intermedia, Fairm., and C, femoralis, Jac. From these and
all others (C.fulvicollis, Baly, excepted, which has also fulvous
terminal joints of the antennae, which are, however, incrassate in
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 167
the male) C, apicicornis differs in the (generalljO three fulvous
apical joints of the antennae (in some specimens the apical one
only is of that colour). It is a much smaller insect than
C. femoralisj Jac, and the elytra are much more shining, less
strongly rugose-punctate, and violaceous instead of blue. G, rufo-
ccerulea, Fairm., is described as being smaller than (7. elegans,
Baly (4j to 5 mill.), which is one of the smallest species; all
others differ in the colour of the breast, and partly of the legs.
The thorax in the present species is broader than long, the
sides are rather strongly rounded at the middle, and the surface
is not visibly punctured ; the antennae, which are longer than
half the length of the body, have the three basal joints more or
less fulvous below.
More than twenty specimens which were obtained agree in
the above particulars.
Cneorane abdominalis, n. sp.
Dark violaceous blue ; the antennse black ; thorax extremely finely
punctured ; elytra distinctly punctate ; abdomen fulvous. Length, 2 — ^2^
lines.
Head impunctate, the frontal tubercles narrow, oblique ; carina acutely
raised ; palpi slender, piceous ; antennse filiform, black, more than half the
length of the body, the third joint one-half longer than the second, but
shorter than the fourth ; thorax scarcely broader than long, the sides
widened at the middle, the anterior angles slightly thickened, but scarcely
produced, the surface with a few very minute punctures, only visible with a
powerful lens ; scutellum broad, black, impunctate ; elytra nearly parallel,
very finely, closely, and irregularly punctured ; tibiae unarmed ; the first joint
of the posterior tarsi as long as the two following joints together; claws
appendiculate ; anterior coxal cavities closed.
C, abdominalis, which may be known from any of its congeners
by its uniformly dark blue colour and the flavous abdomen,
possesses all the structural characters of Cneorane. It greatly
resembles Luperus flaviventris, Motsch., in coloration, but is at
once distinguished from that species by the unarmed tibiae and
other structural differences.
Half a dozen specimens.
(To be continued.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Chemistry of Inskct Colours. — The kiud response that my request
for specimens for this investigation (Entom. 131) has already met with,
emboldens me to ask if any readers of this journal can let me have a speci-
men or two each of the following British species, which I should like to
examine in time to tabulate and publish the results in their proper con-
nection with those already to hand. As previously explained, broken
specimens will answer perfectly ; and I need only the wings. It will be
noticed that several of these present desiderata are green, — a colour
l68 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
sufficiently uncommon to make me anxious to examine it in as many and
as unrelated species as possible, in order to supplement the not altogether
uninteresting results that 1 have already obtained from green Lepidoptera.
The species desired are ; — L. pectinitaria, C. psitticata, C. miata, D. orion,
A. prmcoxy A. aprilina, A. herbiday also B. parthenias or B. notha,
P. chrysitis (or any allied metallic-marked species), T. fimbria, P. hamula,
F. conspicuata, T. amataria, C. ferrugata, C. munitata, N. russula,
L. avion, and — were it not asking too great a rarity — H. auroraria and
A. rubricata. — F. H. Perry Coste.
Gas-lamp Entomology. — As the question whether the Sphingidse are
attracted by the hght from gas-lamps is still being discussed in the
• Entomologist,' it may be of interest to mention that I have on more than
one occasion taken Smerinthus populi at gas-lamps in this neighbourhood.
It may also be worth mentioning that in August, 1887, I took a specimen
of Macroglossa stellatarum on the window of a public-house on the road
from Broadstairs to St. Peters, in the Isle of Thanet. The insect had
evidently been attracted by the gas in the public-house, and had got caught
between the glass of the window and a sliding piece of glass running
parallel to it about half an inch away, and extending about two feet up the
window, on which the name of the establishment, or some other notice, was
engraved.— Henry A. Hill; 182, Haverstock Hill, N.W., April 2, 1890.
With regard to taking Sphingidse at light, I may mention that the
electric-light at Davos Platz is often visited by Sphinx convolvuU and
DeilepJiila euphorbia, but owing to the height of the lamps it is very hard
to work them successfully. Last year a friend showed me a great many
Sphingidse taken at light in the Engadine, chiefly D. euphorbicB. — Leonard
S. Sellon ; Thusis, Grisons.
Notes on Lepidoptera from Aberdeen and Kincardineshire. —
During the last three seasons 1 have collected in the above two shires of
Scotland, and have done my best to become acquainted with all the species
to be obtained in those counties. With the help of some of my fellow-
collectors, I have managed to compile a very respectable list, as follows : —
Pieris brassicoe, P. rapcB, P. napi, all common. Argyrmis selene, A. aglaia,
common in marshy places. Vanessa polychloros, occasionally ; F. urticcB,
common in spring and autumn ; F. atalania, V. cardui, occasionally
common. Erebia epiphron, scarce ; I have not taken this species myself.
Satyrus semele, common on the coast. Epinephele ianira, common every-
where. Coenonympha typhon, common, but local ; C. pamphilus, common.
Thecla rubi, common, but local. Polyommatus phlceas, common in spring
and autumn. Lycmia astrarche, var. artaxerxes, common, but local ;
L. icarus, common ; L. minima, common along the coast. Acherontia
atropos, one taken by a fisherman last year ; I have heard of others being
taken before I collected. Sphinx convolvuU, five taken ; two of these I
have. Deilephila galii, four taken ; three by other collectors, and one by
myself. Chcerocampa celerio, one taken by myself in a clothier's shop in
George Street, Aberdeen, during my first year; I have not heard of any
other specimen being taken ; C. porcellus, occasionally common along the
coast. Smerinthus populi, larvse, very commqn. Zygmia exulans, not
uncommon; I have not taken it myself; Z. filipendulce, common along
the coast. Hylophila prasinana, occasionally. Nudaria mundana, common
along the coast of Kincardineshire. Lithosia lurideola, occasionally.
I
i^OTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 16^
Nemeophila plantaginis, common. Arctia caia, common. Spilosoma
menthastri, common, but local. Hepialus humuli, common ; H. velleda,
common ; H. lupulinus, common, but local ; H. hectus, occasionally.
Dasychira fascelina, not uncommon in marshy places. Orgyia antiquay
larv8B, common on sallows. Bomhyx rubi, B. callunce, common on the
heath. Saturnia pavonia, also common on heath. Dicranura furcula,
larvae, occasionally ; D. vinula, larvse, common. Lophopteryx camelina,
larvae, occasionally. Notodonta dictcsa, sometimes very common ; N. dro-
medarius, larvae, occasionally. A^. ziczac, larvae, common. Thyatira hatis^
occasionally common at sugar. Bryophila perla, occasionally at light.
Demas coryli, larvae, occasionally. Acronycta psi, common ; A. rumicisj
occasionally ; A. menyanthidis, A. myriccB, not uncommon at sugar.
Leucania conigera, common along the coast ; L. lithargyria, occasionally
common: LAmpura, L. pallens, common. Tapinostolafulva, not common.
Hydrcecia nictitans, common ; H. niicacea, also common, mostly at light.
Xylophasia rurea, very common ; X. litlwxylea, common, but local ;
X. monoglyplia {polyodon), very common. Charceas graminis, common on
the ragwort. Cerigo rnatura, not common. Luperina testacea, common at
sugar, and also at light. Mamestra albicolon, not uncommon along the
coast; M. furva, not very common; M. brassicce, common. Apamea
basilinea, common ; A. gemina, also common ; A. unanimis, rare ;
A. didyma, very common. Miana strigilis, not common ; M. fasciunculaf
very common ; M. Uterosa, not so common as the former. Celcena
haworthiiy sometimes common. Stilbia anomala, rare ; I have not taken
it myself. Caradrina quadripunctata, common all the year round. Rusina
tenebrosa, males common, but females rare to find. Agrotis vestigialis,
common on the ragwort along the coast ; A. suffusa, sometimes common in
spring and autumn; A. segetuniy yevy common, mostly along the coast;
A, exclamationis, also very common : A. cursoria, A. nigricans, A. tritici,
very common along the coast on the ragwort, also at sugar ; A. agathina,
rare ; A. strigula (porphyrea), flying very commonly when beginning to get
dusk ; A. simulans, occasionally, but not common. Noctua glareosa,
N. augur, N. plecta, N. c-nigrum, always common ; N. triangulum, some-
times common ; N. brunnea, N. /estiva, v. confiua, N. dahlii, N. rubi,
N. umbrosa, N. baia, N. neglecta, sometimes very common where there is
heath ; N. sobrina, occasionally, but not common ; N. xanthographa, very
common everywhere. TriphcBua ianthina, occasionally ; T. fimbria, rare ;
T, comes (orbona), very common ; I was informed of one of the rare
2\ orbona [subsequa), taken near here, but when I saw the specimen I found
it was only an uncommon form of T. comes ; T. pronuba, common ; I have
seen this species on the wing from June to October. Amphipyra tragopo-
gonis, not common. Mania typica, common. Panolis p)iniperda, not
common. Pachnobia rubricosa, common. Tceniocampa gothica, common.
Orthosia suspecta, common, but local ; 0. macilenta, also common and
local. Anchocelis riifina, very common ; A. litura, sometimes common.
Cerastis vaccinii, common in spring and autumn. Scopelosoma satellitia,
common and local. Xanthla fulvago (cerago), sometimes common ;
X. flavago {silago), not so common ; X. cir cellar is, common. Calymnia
trapezina, not common. I have one of the DianthcecicB that was named for me
as D.compta, but has been doubted ; D. cucubali has been taken here, but not
common. PoZiac/u, common, but local. Dasypoliatempli, occas'ionfiWy. Apo'
rophyla lutulenta, not common, mostly along the coast; A. nigra, sometimes
170 *HE EJ^TOMOtiOGlSf.
common. Miselia oxyacanthcB, occasionally. Agriopis aprilina, not common.
Euplexla lucipara, sometimes common. Phlogophora meticulosa, occasion-
ally, but not common. Aplecta prasina, A. occulta, A. tincta, has been
taken here, but not common. Hadena adusta, very common ; H. glauca,
not common ; H. dentina, common, mostly on the coast; H. oleracea, com-
mon everywhere ; H.pisi, fairly common, the larva is found commoner than
the insect ; H. thalassina, not common ; H. rectilinear sometimes common,
but has been scarce this 3'ear. Calocampa vetusta, 0. exoleta, common in
spring and autumn. C. solidaginis, common at rest on trunks of fir trees,
and also comes freely to sugar. Cucullia umbratica, not common.
Gonoptera libatrix, very local, and not common. Hahrostola tripartita, -
common. Plusia chrysitis, common amongst nettles ; P. bractea, rare ;
P. festuccB, rare ; P. j)'^lchrina, common ; P. gamma, common in spring
and autumn ; P. interrogationis, sometimes common. Anarta myrtilli,
flies commonly when the sun shines. Chariclea umbra, rare. Phytometra
viridaria, occasionally. I have been informed of one Catocala fraxini,
taken at sugar in Aberdeen about the end of September this year. Rumia
luteolata, common everywhere. Metrocampa margaritaria, common and
local. Ellopia jirosapiaria, also common and local. Selenia bilunaria,
common. Odontopera bidentata, common. Crocallis elinguaria, common.
Boarmia gemmaria, very common. Gnophos obscuraria, local and not
common. Geometra papilionaria, common, but local ; I have not taken
this species myself. Acidalia aversata, common, but local. Cabera
pusaria, also common, but local. Macaria liturata, occasionally. Scodiona
belgiaria, scarce. Fidonia carbonaria, rare. Ematurga atomaria, common.
Bupalus piniaria, very common. Abraxas grossulariata, common in gardens.
Cheimatobia brumata, C. boreata, common. Oporabia dilutata, common ;
0. autumnaria, not common. Larentia didymata, L. multistrigaria,
L. ccBsiata, L. viridaria, always common. Emmelesia albulata, common
along the coast ; E. minosata, not common. Eupithecia oblongata,
common ; E. satyrata v. callunaria, common, but local; E. indigata, also
local ; E. nanata, E. vulgata, E. lariciata, common ; E. pumilata, common,
but local. Thera variata, common ; T. Jirmata, not common. Hypsipetes
ruberata, rare ; H, trifasciata, fairly common, but local ; H. sordidata,
common everywhere. Melanthia bicolorata, common, but^local ; M. ocellata,
common. Melanippe sociata, common ; M. montanata, M. fluctuata, also
very common. Anticlea nigrofasciaria, rare. Coremia munitata, common ;
C. designata, scarce. Camptogramma bilineata, common everywhere.
Cidaria miata, occasionally; (7. truncata, C. immanata, C. suffumata,
C. silaceata, C. primata, C. testata, C. populata, C.fulvata, C. dotata,
always common. Eubolia limitata, common ; E. plumbaria, common, but
local. Anaitis plagiata, common. Chesias spartiata, common ; C. rufata,
not common. Tanayra atrata, common along the coast. I have not yet
done much in collecting Micro-Lepidoptera here, but I intend to work these
next year, and hope to be able to give a good report of the species that occur
here. — L. G. Esso^' ; 46, North Charlotte Street, Aberdeen, N. B.
Hypsipetes sordidata (= elutata). — It would be interesting if ento-
mologists, working districts where both the sallow and bilberry forms of this
species occur, would make notes of the times of appearance of each form.
In North Devon, I noticed that the smaller specimens, whose larvse feed
on bilberry, had passed their zenith before the larger, sallow-feeding speci-
Notes, captures, etc. l7l
mens were out in any number. Observations bearing on this question
would be valuable. — Kichard South.
Hesperta lineola. — I find that I have a very much worn specimen
of this butterfly, which was captured within a few miles of Sudbury,
Suffolk, in July, 1886.— V. Gerrard ; 47, Foulden Koad, Stoke New-
ington, N., April 22, 1890.
Early appearance of Dasychira pudibunda. — On Jan. 28th I found
a male Dasychira pudibunda, flying against the window inside the billiard-
room. I suppose the larva must have got inside the house and pupated
there, and been " forced " by the warmth of the room, unless the unusually
mild weather had induced it to emerge from the chrysalis out of doors, and
the moth had got into the house afterwards, which I should hardly think
hkely. — W. M. Christy; Watergate, Emsworth, Hants.
British Diptera. — Mr. Brunetti, in his notes on Diptera(Entora. 122),
has in several cases given incorrect localities. The following should be
Wyre Forest, not Birmingham : — Scenopinus fenestralis, DolicJiopus brevi-
pennis, Pyrophcena rosarum, Xylota abiens, Microdon devius, Lasiops
semicinerea. I have also taken Sapromyza i^latycephala. — R. C. Bradley;
252, Mosely Road, Birmingham.
Locality Labels for Specimens. — Although many entomologists in
this country make a practice of affixing labels, bearing locality and date of
capture, to the insects in their collection, it is rather the exception than the
rule that specimens one receives from, or sends to, correspondents have any
such data attached. The reason for this is obvious. To write the necessary
number of tiny labels for our own cabinet specimens entails the expenditure
of considerable time and patience ; so if we were to supply the pins of our
duplicates also with "tickets," the time we have to devote to entomological
work would be seriously encroached upon. Of course information concern-
ing localities and dates are generally obtainable, and are to be had from our
correspondents for the asking ; but this often means additional letter
writing and postage, even if one ignores the possible element of doubt which
may enter into the matter. It is, perhaps, not too much to say that the
custom of "localising " specimens would be more general than it is if the
business could be done with greater facility and expedition. Writing these
labels is tedious work, but to have them printed in small quantities would
be expensive. If, however, they could be obtained in England, as on the
continent, in sheets, it is probable
'• That some would label then who never did before,
And those who had begun would label many more."
If these remarks should come under the notice of anyone connected with
printing, perhaps he might conceive the idea of publishing a series of labels
as an experiment. If so, I would suggest that unless he is prepared to do
the thing in a large way, it would hardly be worth doing at all. The first
step would be, of course, to ascertain as far as possible the locahties most
likely to be required. This could be done by inviting entomologists io
furnish lists of places that would be useful to them, and which they would
use if printed. When a sufficient number of localities were received, they
could be arranged in series representing the following divisions of Great
Britain ;— Scotland : L Highlands; 2. Lowlands; 3. Isles. England and
ITS f^E ENTOMOtOGIS*.
Wales : 1. North; 2. South; 3. East ; 4. West; 5. North-east; 6. North-
west; 7. Midlands, N. ; 8. Midlands, S.; 9. South-east; 10. South-west.
Ireland: there are, unfortunately, so few collectors in Ireland, that one
series for this country would probably suffice, even, perhaps, if the Isle of
Man were included therewith. The dates could not be printed on labels
in series for general use, but these could be quickly and easily written,
either on the back or face of the label, thus: — 4.90 = April, 1890. — E. S.
Errata.— P. 132, Hne 6 from top, for " my " read " any." P. 160, line 11,
for " Fallon " read " Fallou " ; line 13, " Homoptera. — Fam. Fulgorid^ "
should be placed so as immediately to precede " Subfam. EuRYBRACHYDiNiE."
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — April 2nd, 1890. — Mr. Fred-
erick DuCane Godman, M.A., F.R.S., Vice-President, in the chair.
Mr. G. Bryant, of 6, Oakley Crescent, Chelsea, S.W. ; Mr. A. E. Hall,
of Norbury, Pitts Moor, Sheffield ; Mr. J. J. F. X. King, of 207,
Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow ; Mr. H. C. Oakshott, of De Beauvoir
House, Falmouth; Mr. A. E. Stearns, of the Lodge, Upper Halli-
ford, Walton-on-Thames ; and Mr. G. Vigers, of Hersham, Surrey,
were elected Fellows ; and Mr. A. B. Earn was admitted into the
Society. Mr. Godman announced the death of Mr. Joseph S. Baly,
of Warwick, the well-known coleopterist, who had been a member of
the Society for the last forty years. Dr. Sharp exhibited and made
remarks on a female specimen of a coleopterous insect — TemnocJiila
quadricollis, Reitt. — which was the subject of a very unusual malform-
ation of the nature termed " ectromelie" by Lacordaire. Mr. R. W.
Lloyd exhibited three specimens of Elater pomonce, taken at Brocken-
hurst, in the New Forest, about the middle of March last. Colonel
Swinhoe exhibited, and read notes on, a number of butterflies of the
genus FAithalia, He pointed out that the specimens described as a
species by the name of Euthalia sedeva were only the females of E,
halarama. Mr. T. R. Billups exhibited male and female specimens of
Cecidomyia salicis-siliqua, Walsh, which had just emerged from galls
received from Mr. Cockerell, who had collected them on a species of
sallow in Colorado. He also exhibited three species of IchneumonidsB
new to Britain, viz., Ichneumon haglundi, Holmgr., bred by Messrs.
Adkin and Barker from Arctia fuliginosa; Pliygadeuon rufo-niger,
Bridg., taken in Ashdown Forest in November, 1885 ; and Phygadeuon
sodalis, Tasch., taken at Dulwich in June, 1889. Mr. C. G. Barrett ex-
hibited si^ecimens oi Bryotropha obscurella, Hein,?ind. DorypJwra elo7igeUa,
Hein, two species of Lepidoptera new to Britain. Dr. Thallwitz,
of Dresden, contributed " Notes on some species of the genus
Hilipus.''' These notes had reference to a paper on the genus Hilipus,
by Mr. F. P. Pascoe, published in the * Transactions ' of the Society
for 1889. Mr. E. Meyrick read a paper entitled '' The Classifica-
tion of the Pyralidina of the European Fauna." Mr. Kirby, Mr.
M'Lachlan, Mr. Stainton, Capt. Elwes, and Mr. Barrett took part in
the discussion which ensued. Prof. Westwood communicated a paper
SOCIETIES. 173
entitled ** Notes on certain species of Oetoniidge," Mynheer P, C. T,
Snellen, of Rotterdam, contributed a paper entitled *' A Catalogue of
the Pyralidina of Sikkim collected by H. J. Elwes and the late Otto
Molier," and Gapt. Elwes read certain notes on the foregoing paper as
an Appendix. Mr. W. L. Distant, Colonel Swinhoe, Mr. M'Lachlan,
and Mr. Jacoby took part in the discussion which ensued. — H. Goss,
Hon. Sec.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—March 2,7th, 1890.— J. T. Carrington, F.L.S., President, in the
chair. Mr. C. G. Barrett exhibited a series of Dianthmcia carpophaga,
Bork., showing fully its connection with its variety D. capsophila Dup., a
specimen of D. luteago, Hb., v. harrettii, Dbl., all reared by Mr. Blandford,
from larvae found in South Wales ; specimens of the original Catoptria
parvulana, Wilk., taken by Messrs. Bond and M'Lachlan, with recent
specimens reared and taken by Messrs. Fletcher, Bankes, and Vine,
with intermediate forms, which Mr. Barrett stated proved its identity
with C. scopoliana, Haw. ; also a specimen of Botys mutualis (a native
of Asia and Africa), taken by Mr. Gregson some years ago, in Lan-
cashire, doubtless accidentally introduced. Mr. Adkin, examples of
Hibernia riipicapraria, Hb. Mr. Joy, an immature specimen of Mantis
religiosa, , from the Suez Canal. Mr. T. R. Billups, several
species of Ophionides, bred by members of the Society; amongst
others Paniscus testaceiis, Gr., and P. cephalotes, Holmg. and Ophion
luteum, L., bred by Mr. Barker from the larvae of Dianthcecia capsincola,
Hb., the latter species also being reared by Mr. Wellman from
Hadena pisi, L., and by Mr. South from Toxocampa cracccB, Fr. Mr.
Billups called particular attention to the fact that the cocoons of
Ophion luteum differed considerably according to the host from which
bred. He also called attention to the extreme variability in size of
Paniscus cephalotes, two females taken by himself at Hayling Island in
1866 being not above one-third larger than the female bred by Mr.
Barker. In the same box were shown Banchus moniliatus, Holmg.,
bred from the larvae of Panolis piniperda ; also both sexes of Exetastes
osculatorius, Fab., from the larvre of Retinia pinicolana, Dbl., by Messrs.
South and Adkin. Among Mr. Billups's other exhibits were a specimen
of Phygadeiion sodalis, Tasch., taken in his own garden, June 1st, 1889,
and a female of Hemiteles macrurus, Tasch., taken at the same place,
August, 1889, both species being new to Britain ; Phggadeuon [Micro-
cri/ptus) rufoniyer, a species new to science, one of several females
taken by Mr. Billups in Ashdown Forest, November, 1885, was stated
to have been described by Mr. Bridgman in the * Transactions ' of the
Entomological Society for 1889. Mr. Perks showed pond-life from
Barnes Common, and Mr. Tugwell and Mr. Step exhibited botanical
specimens and contributed remarks on their respective exhibits.
April 10th. — The President in the chair. Lieut. E. W. Brown and
Mr. R. McAllan were elected members. Mr. Tugwell exhibited a
series of Tephrosia crepuscularia, W. V., and T. biundularia, Bork.,
with water-colour drawings of both larvae from life, and remarked that
after breeding both insects, he was perfectly convinced as to their
being distinct species, although evidently closely allied. T. crepuscu-
laria appeared from the last week in March to the middle of April, and
174 I'HE ENTOMOLOGIST.
was always partly a double-brooded species ; T. Uundularia appeared
early in May until the first week in June, and was only single-
brooded ; in every case the insect remained true to the parent type ;
and although the markings were somewhat alike in both species, yet
there were characteristic differences as shown in the series exhibited ;
this also applied to the larval stages. Mr. Barrett and Mr. Tutt made
some observations on this exhibit, the latter gentleman agreeing with
Mr. Tugwell, but the former was of opinion that crepuscular ia and hi-
undularia were not distinct. Mr. Turner showed a very light form of
Nyssia hispidaria, Fb., from Richmond. Mr. Carpenter also exhibited
varieties of the same species. Mr. Fenn, a long series of Larentia
multistrigaria, Haw. Messrs. Skinner, B. W. Adkin, and Mr. West
exhibited Coleoptera, the latter gentleman a very interesting collection
from the Colombian Republic. Messrs. E. Step, W. Manger, C. G.
Barrett, Tugwell, Billups and others, also exhibited. — H. W. Barker,
Hon. Sec.
City of London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
March '20th.— J. A. Clark, F.E.S., in the chair. Mr. Quail exhibited
a specimen of D. galii, Schiff., captured at Stoke Newington in July,
1888. Mr. Simes, a remarkably small E. cardamines, L., taken in
Epping Forest, May, 1889. Mr. J. A. Clark, two varieties of T.
fjothicina, H.-S., the wings of one specimen, although having the
markings of this species, strongly resemble T. incerta, Hufn., in shape.
Mr. Whittle, a series of Catoptria Juliana, Curt., and Pmlisca oppress-
ana, Tr. Mr. Lewcock read a paper on behalf of Mr. Robert Gillo, of
Bath, on the occurrence of aquatic Coleoptera at Burnham, Somerset,
in September, 1889. It appeared therefrom that Mr. Gillo, by per-
sistently working the district, day after day, had obtained forty-two
species ; included in this number were Pelohius hermanni, F. ; Hali-
plu^ mucronatus, Steph. ; Hi/drophilus piceus, L. ; Dytiscus circumfiexus,
F., and B. punctulatus, F. ; in addition to these, he also found several
species of Elmis, Latr., and Parnus, Fabr. Mr. Lewcock also read a
paper on behalf of Mr. P. W. Jarvis, of Cape Town, on the *' Cole-
opterous Fauna of South Africa." The number of species taken
south of the Zambezi amount to upwards of 8000 ; Madagascar,
having a distinct fauna of its own, is not included in the South-
African list. The district appears to be very rich in Cicindelidae,
having about 50 species. The genera Carabus and Pterostichus are not
represented, but in place of them are twelve species of Anthia, which
are larger and far more powerful than our largest Carabus beetle, and
twelve of the genus Polyhermia, which also are highly voracious
insects ; three species of the latter are so deeply pitted as to give the
elytra the appearance of being perforated. A species of Brachinus
found near Cape Town is three quarters of an inch in length, and the
explosion emitted by it is in proportion to its size. Aquatic species
are fairly represented ; but Staphylinidae are not quite so numerous as
in Britain, although M. Fauvel has recently described fifty new
species. Necrophagous beetles are not numerous, but several species
of HisteridsB exceed three-quarters of an inch in length. Upwards
of five hundred Lamellicorniae are found. Some species of Helioropris
REVIEWS. 175
attain two inches in length ; the genus Onthophagiis (thirty species)
contains many gaily-coloured beetles, — 0. rangifer is of a brilliant
ruby. The one hundred species of Buprestidas are generally large in
size. Elateridas are not common. The genera Teleplwrus and Mala-
chilis are extensive, and most of the species common. The TenebrionidaB,
numbering over 400, inhabit the sandy veldt. Cantharidse, some of
which are prettily marked, find sixty-two representatives. South
Africa also possesses a vast quantity of weevils, many of which are not
found in other parts of the world. The Longicornia are much finer
than the British insects, especially the Transvaal species. Chryso-
melid® are moderately common, some very showy. The genus
Donacia is conspicuous by its absence. Cassidse are large and
numerous. The Hispidse (twelve species) are very strange -looking
creatures, being covered with spikes about two lines long. Mr. Jarvis
also gave information respecting the best time for collecting, and the
names of the coleopterists of Cape Town.
April B)'d. — The President in the chair. Mr. Eaine exhibited a
bred specimen of P. rap(B, L., without black tips to the wings. Mr.
Clark, a series of Ehodaria saugui7ialis from north of Ireland. Mr.
Smith, a bred specimen of A. atropos, L., from Dartford. Mr. A. U.
Battley read a paper on the entomology and geology of the London
Basin. The discussion which followed was taken part in by Messrs.
Clark, Cripps, Lewcock, and others. — G. A. Lewcock and E. Hanes,
Ho7i. Sees.
BiKMiNGHAM ENTOMOLOGICAL SociETY. — March 11 th^ 1890. — The
President, Mr. W. E. Blatch, in the chair. — Messrs. C. R. Parsons
and H. R. Hodgkinson were elected members of the Society. Mr.
R. C. Bradley showed Asphalia fiavicornis, from Solihull, in one of
which the stigmata had coalesced. Mr. H. M. Lee showed three
Hesperia, apparently lineola, which he had found in a collection, and
which he believed had been taken in Jersey. Mr. C. S. Wainwright
showed a collection of insects from Columbia, S. America, including
some fine Morphos, Papilios, Heliconias, &c. Mr. W. E. Blatch read
a note on a new species of the family Scydmaenina, which he proposed
to call Neuraphes planifrons. It was taken under bark of birch-
stumps, in company with ScydincDnus godarti and >S'. exilis, at Sherwood
Forest. — Colbran J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
REVIEWS.
Larva Collecting and Breeding : a Handbook to the Larvce of the British
Macro-Lepidoptera and their Food-plants, both in nature and con-
finement; with Authorities. By the Rev. J. Seymour St. John, B.A.
Pp. 165. London : Wesley & Son. 1890. Post 8vo.
From the title, it might be gathered that some hints on collecting and
treating lepidopterous larvae would be found in the work ; but, as a fact,
there is nothing of the kind, and the second part of the title alone would
have sufficed.
Although it treats only of the Macro-Lepidoptera, the author of this
little book deserves the thanks of British lepidopterists for the painstaking
176 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
way in which he has accumulated, prepared, and presented in handy form
a large amount of interesting data concerning the larval food-plants of
species occurring in this country. The book is divided into two parts. In
the first, the larvae are enumerated in classified order, and, where known,
the food-plants upon which they feed are given. In the second part, the
plants are arranged in accordance with the * London Catalogue of British
Plants,' 8th ed. ; and the larvae known to feed on each plant are mentioned.
Reference to the work or works where the larva is described, or some
observation on its economy recorded, enhances the value of this portion of
the book ; and it is to be regretted that in the first part, where it could
have easily been done, no mention is made of the month or months in
which each larva occurs.
For the benefit of those who may not be botanists, the common English
names of the plants are added in both divisions, and an index to the second
part provided. The lepidopterous genera of the first part are also included
in this index. Altogether Mr. St. John is to be congratulated upon the
production of a work which will certainly prove useful alike in the field or
study.— K. S.
The Coleopterous Fauna of the Liverpool District. By John W. Ellis,
M.B., F.E.S., &c. One vol. 8vo. Liverpool: Turner, Rout-
ledge & Co. 1889.
This is a reprint from the * Proceedings ' of the Liverpool Biolo-
gical Society, vols, ii., iii. Unfortunately, the original pagination has
been retained, the first part commencing on p. 182, and the second
part on p. 46.
The area dealt with is ** that portion of Lancashire and Cheshire
falling within a circle having a radius of fifteen miles from the Liver-
pool Town Hall." The systematic arrangement is very nearly that of
the ' Catalogue of British Coleoptera,' by the Rev. Canon Fowler and the
Rev. A. Matthews. In compiling his list the author has been careful to
produce something more than a mere enumeration of the species of
Coleoptera occurring in the district. Where necessary, exact localities
are given, frequently accompanied by observations on habits, &c. ; the
published records, entomological diaries of, and information otherwise
conveyed by, local workers, together with his own special knowledge,
are the sources from which such data have been obtained.
Altogether, about 30 per cent, of the British beetles appear to be
found in the Liverpool district, the exact number being 990 species as
against 3227 species of Fowler and Matthews's List. This number is
divided among the several groups as follows : — G-eodephaga, 163 ;
Hydradephaga, QQ ; Palpicornia, 49 ; Brachyelytra, 250 ; Clavicornia,
156 ; Lamellicornia, 42 ; Serricornia, 50 ; Longicornia, 8 ; Mouili-
cornia, 51 ; Heteromera, 31 ; Rynchophora, 124. — R. S.
OBITUARY.
Joseph S. Baly. — It is with regret we have to record the death of
Mr. Joseph S. Baly, of Warwick. A notice of his entomological work will
appear next month.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIIL] JUNE, 1890. [No. 825.
ON THE OCCASIONAL ABUNDANCE OF CERTAIN SPECIES
OF LEPIDOPTERA IN THE BRITISH ISLANDS.*
By R. Adkin, F.E.S.
The sporadic appearance in these Islands of certain species
of Lepidoptera is a subject that has received a large amount of
attention, and many theories have been advanced to account for
the phenomenon : these may be grouped into two great classes,
which may for present purposes be termed the *' migration " and
the ** local causes " theories.
The British Islands, as we now know them, have a superficial
area of some 121,000 square miles, and enjoy a temperate
climate, but such favourable conditions were not always existent ;
at some former period this country was a land of snow and ice,
probably not differing much from what Greenland now is, and
the majority of our present species could not have lived under
such climatic conditions : it is probable that at this time these
Islands formed a portion of the continent of Europe, and that
upon the glacial conditions giving way to a period of milder
temperatures, a fauna suitable to the altered circumstances of
climate would follow in due course. If we compare represent-
atives of our more generally distributed species with those
inhabiting Continental Europe, we find the majority of them are
identical, and we arrive at the conclusion that they are of common
origin. Further, the conviction is forced upon us that our present
insect fauna has been derived from the Continent, and that it has
been brought about by the several species gradually extending
the area of their distribution. This would appear to indicate an
initial migratory condition which it is easily conceivable would
be subject to such modification as became necessary from time to
time in the economy of a species; and the cutting off of the
* Abstract of a Paper read before the South London Entomological and Natural
History Society, April 24, 1890.
ENTOM, — JUNE, 1890. O
178 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
British Islands from the mainland of Continental Europe cannot
be regarded as imposing an obstacle that would not be easily
overcome by migratory instincts thus engendered. If, however,
the sphere of our observations is confined entirely to these
Islands, we have great difficulty in detecting cases of probable
immigration; for although the evidence may strongly favour
migration, it may not be conclusive, and the circumstance might
be referable to other causes. But if we find insects moving in
numbers in situations where their presence cannot be accounted
for in any other way, we may safely conclude that they are in a
state of migration ; the meeting with a swarm of Deiopeia pul-
chella in Mid- Atlantic is a case in point, and many other instances
are on record referring to other species, and extending even to
our shores. The reports furnished, through the courtesy of
Mr. Cordeaux, by sundry Lighthouse keepers, although not
numerous, are of great importance ; those from Guernsey and
Heligoland, referring to vast flights of Plusia gammas Hyhernia
defoliaria^ &c., passing frequently in a westerly direction, have a
distinct bearing upon the subject.
On the other hand, there is the probability that the sur-
roundings of a species during its metamorphoses would affect its
subsequent abundance or scarcity : the evidence under this head
is at best incomplete, but as far as it goes it is of importance.
The females of many species deposit large numbers of ova, yet we
do not find a corresponding annual increase in the number of
the imagines of such species ; their natural enemies hold them
in check. If, therefore, we are to account for the cases of occa-
sional abundance by purely local influences, we must find some
irregularity in the working of Nature. It has been suggested
that the insect may remain in one of its quiescent stages for an
unusually prolonged period, — for instance as pupa, numerous
cases are on record, but they tend to show that the second year
is seldom exceeded, and in such cases as it is the number of
emergences are proportionately smaller. But perhaps the most
important of local causes is that of meteorological conditions :
mild winters and cool summers are said to be detrimental to
Lepidoptera, while hard winters and sunny summers are held to
be favourable, and so forth ; observation appears to prove that
such is the case, but that the effect is upon Lepidoptera generally
rather than upon a few species, and it is worthy of remark that
some of the cases of greatest abundance of Vanessa cardui and
Plusia gamma have occurred in cold wet seasons, when other
species have been actually much less common than usual.
As examples of species exhibiting tendencies to occasional
great abundance the following may be mentioned: — Hyhernia
defoliaria, H. aurantiaria, Oporahia dilutatay Cheimatobia hrumata,
0. boreata, and Orgyia antiqua. These all have apterous females,
CHALCOPHORA IN THE SCRUBS OF CENTRAL QUEENSLAND. 179
the abundance is more often noted in the larval than in the
perfect state, and the districts affected are generally of small
area, — all facts tending to the probability of local influences
being the immediate cause ; but we must not overlook the report
from Heligoland Lighthouse, which distinctly mentions large
flights of H. defoliaria, &c. It must not be supposed that these
would include the wingless females ; but it is far from improbable
that the arrival of numbers of the opposite sex would materially
affect the status of the species here, and possibly become a factor
in the occasional abundance of the larva. Pieris hrassicce has
been observed moving in immense numbers, both at sea and on
our coasts, and the migratory swarms of Vanessa cardui that
passed through many parts of Continental Europe in 1879 were
the forerunners of an abundance of the species in this country
in the same year. Colias edusa^ Acherontia atropos, Sphinx
convolvuli, Deilephila galiiy and Plusia gamma, also furnish a
considerable amount of evidence, which, however incomplete it
may be, tends to the conclusion that immigration is a chief factor
in the causes of great abundance occasionally observed, and in
some instances the direct and only cause.
4, Lingard's Road, Lewisham, S.E.
CHALCOPHORA in the SCRUBS of CENTRAL QUEENSLAND .
By Geo. Barnard.
One hot day in January, the thermometer at 94° in the shade,
we — that is, I and my sons — determined to have an entomological
hunt for some of the fine Chalcophora inhabiting the scrubs in
our neighbourhood. A hot bright day, though unpleasantly warm
for us, was just the time for the sun-loving beetles, to be showing
in abundance. We started, therefore, in anticipation of a good
day's sport, and, as the sequel will show, we were not disappointed.
A walk of little over a mile brought us to the edge of a large
scrub, fringed by what is commonly called oak, a species of
Casurina. This was the feeding- ground of Chalcophora vittata,
which eats the leaves of the oak. A heavy thud with a tomahawk
jars the tree, and causes any vittata to fly off with a loud buzz,
and if it flies low, — which it generally does at the first drop, —
being a heavy flyer it is speedily netted. Many escape by flying
too high, the bushes always hindering more or less and making it
heavy work ; so after catching about a dozen we decided to move
on and look for C. ajax, one of the finest of our Chalcophorse,
This insect feeds on the leaves of a broad-leafed species of
Eucalyptus y—B. heavy gnarled tree, putting one in mind of the
grand old oaks at home. These trees are scattered singly in the
02
IBO THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
dense parts of the scrub, and the close heat made forcing our
way through very tiring work.
On our way we flushed some '* Wonga-wonga " pigeons, and
presently put up a pair of green-winged pigeons {Chalcophaps
chrysochlora), and a little further on some wallaby (a small species
of kangaroo which only lives in the scrubs), were sitting up viewing
us very suspiciously. The boys began regretting leaving their
guns at home, and I had to remind them that we were looking for
insects, not birds or animals.
Having found a likely tree, the next question was how to get
at ajaXi which would be found feeding on the topmost leaves.
This was speedily solved by the boys taking off their boots, and
with a tomahawk cutting notches in the bark, by which they
easily ascended the butt of the tree, black-fellow fashion, hauling
up the net afterwards and proceeding to business. When seen on
the leaf, the net is gently placed underneath ; a slight upward
movement and the beetle drops quietly in, and is then transferred
to a small box, each being kept separate on account of a yellow
pollen matter covering the wings, which if rubbed off takes away
a great deal of the beauty of the insect. After getting some two
dozen, and the sun reminding it was time to look after the inner
man, we made for a water-hole, where we proceeded to eat our
lunch and discuss the probability of finding C. superha on our
way home. Finishing our repast, we endeavoured to pass half
an hour away in resting, not, as my readers may suppose,
enjoying the " Dolce far niente " in the tropical shade, but trying
to imagine we were getting a little cooler by keeping quiet, the
perspiration meanwhile standing out in beads on our faces and
hands, and a few mosquitoes gently intimating that it was not the
time to sleep, — so to work again and forward. Not far off, a tree
commonly called a *' mess-mate " appeared in full bloom, the
flowers, in clusters, much resembling those of the Eucalyptus,
This was a prize, for here was the haunt of the flower-loving
Buprestidse. The tree was soon scaled, and an exclamation of
delight escaped one of the boys as he extracted from his net a
large lovely Stigmodera (since found to be new), closely resembling
S, similiSf about an inch and a half in length, straw-coloured,
with lower part of elytra and thorax metallic -blue. This was the
great find of the day. Five specimens were taken, besides some
seven other species of Stigmodera, all small and mostly known to
us, besides a host of smaller beetles, but no Lepidoptera, which
was rather surprising considering the apparently favourable
season. Pretty well satisfied so far, and the day wearing on, we
retraced our steps, making for a patch of *' lance-wood " that lay
on our way home. Soon after reaching this patch a large
G. superha was espied walking down a tree (a peculiarity they
have), a splendid fellow ! the golden green lines glistening in the
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 18 i
sun, and his large eyes— seemingly endowed with reason — intently
watching us. Cautiously we approached, net in hand, preparing
to strike, but he was not to be had. As we drew near he began
to move round the tree, always keeping us at the same distance,
and moving upwards, until with a rush we tried to secure him,
only to see him fly off to the top of another tree, safe in his
glory for the time being, and leaving us lamenting his non-capture.
This is about the most difiicult Buprestid to secure, for, though
of large size, it is as nimble as a mouse, and really like that
animal in its movements. A dull day is best for them, as they
are then more lethargic. However, to return, after spending a
considerable time and meeting with many disappointments, we
got seven amongst us, — not bad, considering all things. By this
time the sun was low, and we were still some distance from home.
We had wanted to go through some trees near the edge of the
scrub, where quadrisignata is usually to be found, but it was
getting late, and these insects as well as persons go to bed, the
former generally before sunset, so there was not much chance of
getting any, still we determined to have a try. The wallaby were
now on the move, going, like ourselves, towards the edge of the
scrub where they feed at night, and other tokens gave warning
that the tropical night would soon be on us. Hastening on, we
came to the trees in question, but almost too late. However, by
dint of hammering on the butts (they were only trees of six or
eight inches through), a few quadrisignata were dislodged and
easily secured, as they dropt almost to the ground. Completely
wearied we now made for home, where we arrived hot, tired, and
dirty, but not altogether dissatisfied with our day's work.
So ended one of my many rambles in the Queensland Bush
for the purpose of collecting all kinds of Nature's specimens.
Their arrangement and keeping has given me many a pleasant
hour, especially when, in a time of drought and threatened ruin,
one's spirits were inclined to go below zero.
Should anyone from the *' Old Country " be tempted to pay
me a zoological visit, we, or rather my boys (I am getting too
old), would be only too happy to put him through his facings and
make the Bush as interesting as they could.
CoomooboolaroG, Duaringa, Queensland, Feb, 25, 1890.
CONTEIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTEY op INSECT COLOUES.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S.
Ill* — Method of Working.
The first consideration was to ensure absolute uniformity in
my experiments, in order that they might all be strictly com-
parable inter se. Now it seemed very evident that the effect of
182 THE eNtomoLogisI:.
reagents on the colours might well he a function, partly, of the
duration of action. After a few preliminary trials, I determined
to leave the colours under the action of the reagents for one liouVt
in every case. (I may add, however, that in all the cases where
the most striking results were ohtained, the action was very rapid,
or often instantaneous ; nevertheless, the time effect was apparent
in many cases, and, anyhow, the safeguard was there.)
The various colours required were cut out from the wing,
placed in watch-glasses and covered by the reagent, being left
thus exposed — as already stated — for one hour. But at the very
outset I was encountered by a difficulty here : " Like water off a
duck's back" is an ancient proverb, and exactly describes the
way in which the liquids gathered up in spherules and rolled off
the scaled wings ; in fact it was impossible to wet these ; and it
immediately struck me how very stupid I had been in not
expecting this certain result. The question then arose, how to
overcome this difficulty. One obvious solution was to first touch
the wing with alcohol, which of course soaks it thoroughly, and
so enables watery solutions to wet it ; but I was unwilling to use
alcohol, except as a last resort; (for that would necessitate a
complete set of blank experiments with alcohol alone ; and
should it be found of itself to act in any cases, the problem
would become complicated). After a little consideration, I deter-
mined to try gumming the bits of wings on to a watch-glass.
This answered admirably, — at least when I left them some hours
to dry in ; but if the reagents be applied too soon, some of the
wings become detached, and swim about half-dry on the surface
in the most intolerably exacerbating manner; — a "superfluity
of naughtiness " on their part scarcely conducive to sweetness of
temper on the experimenter's.
It will be understood, then, that these wings were not merely
wetted by the various reagents and then left, but were actually
submerged in the reagent for one hour.
Recording the results. — Here I encountered another difficulty ;
one, too, which cannot be said to have been really overcome at
all, — and this is the want of a colour standard. The natural
colours of the wing are themselves not always easy to describe
accurately and uniformly; some, of course, maybe disposed of
at once, as blue, yellow, green, and so on ; but in very many cases
it is very difficult to decide whether a colour shall be designated
.yellow or orange ; brown, chestnut, or chocolate ; and so on. As
concerns this, however, I have been to great extent guided by the
results, and — as will be seen — have not scrupled to divide certain
colours (in what may at first sight seem a somewhat arbitrary
manner) from certain others that look almost identical, but really
are found to have a different constitution. As an example, I may
refer to tabulations to be given hereafter, where the colours of
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 183
L. quercus, M. oleracea, 0, antiqua, &c., are all classed as brown,
in distinction to chestnut, which not only includes— naturally —
the colours of Epinephele tithonus, Coenonympha pamphiluSy and
ArgynniSy but also such apparently un-chestnut colours as
L. phlceas and V, urticce. The behaviour of these colours, under
the influence of various reagents, demonstrates, nevertheless,
that they are essentially the same as the colour of E. titJionus,
which seems most accurately described as chestnut. So, too, it
seems best to class the pink of Smerinthus and the ambiguous
purplish reddish of Xanthia with the reds, since their behaviour
is the same. Unfortunately, however, I am compelled to class
together, under one name, all greens, although there are several
differently constituted colours here, but all apparently green.
Exactly a parallel case is found among the yellows ; but I had no
choice in such cases, since it is impossible to call a pronounced
yellow or green by any other name.
By far the gravest part of this difficulty lay, however, in
naming the changed colours. Everyone can satisfy himself at
once, by a glance at his cabinet, what colour I intend when
referring to the natural colour ; but the only conception possible
to him of the colour-change produced in my experiments
must derive from my description, and I found it a very serious
difficulty to name these changes with anything like clearness,
distinction, accuracy, and uniformity. It will be readily under-
stood that when a colour, say red (not in itself a very distinct
name to start with), treated by a dozen different reagents,
undergoes several different degrees of change, — each of which
suggests at the moment some description, such as "reddish
orange," "orange-red," "faded red," "orange," "deep yellow,"
" lemon-yellow," " pale flesh," and so on ; and then several
weeks later a more or less similar red is found to change in
more or less similar ways, — it is exceedingly difficult to pre-
serve anything like uniformity in the description of the colours
produced. In fact, without some kind of tintometer or colorimeter,
applicable in such work, all such names must be looked upon as
more or less " fluid " and approximate. Without doubt, I have on
one occasion described a new colour as deep flesh, and on another
as reddish orange, and so on, in numberless instances. Too rigid
interpretation of the colour-names would be, therefore, inaccurate ;
but, nevertheless, I hope that these are sufficiently descriptive
and uniform to make all my results intelligible and available. I
think that the difficulty will be quickly appreciated by anyone
who may try to name a few score of even natural colours
uniformly, without any standard.
Reagents used. — This is a chronicle of disappointments. No
one, who had not learned by experience, would imagine how
stubborn and callous to powerful reagents are many — as one
181 'tHE Et^TOMOLOGlST.
would suppose unstable and delicate— insect colours; neither
would he be prepared for the dolorous monotony in the
changes produced by most dissimilar reagents, — when they
have any effect at all. At starting, I divided my reagents
into several different classes, viz., "mineral acids, organic
acids, alkalis, various salts, and various organic reagents," the
last two classes being of a somewhat heterogeneous character.
This division turns out to be all nonsense : there are (so far as
my experience goes) only two classes of reagents, viz., those that
destroy or alter the colours, and those that have little or no
effect; and the majority belong to the latter class. I had started
off with great enthusiasm, experimenting with about two dozen
different reagents, and tabulating my results on separate sheets,
drawn up for '* mineral acid " reagents, " alkalis," &c., respectively ;
but, wise from experience, I propose in future to work with only
half a dozen reagents, such as have proved serviceable already.
I will now give a list of the various reagents that have been
tested, first making one or two preliminary explanations for the
benefit of any non-chemical readers who may possibly not under-
stand entirely some of the expressions used. The acids (and
ammonia) described as " strong," are such as are customarily
supplied for laboratory use ; a 50 per cent, acid, is one of these
diluted with its own bulk of water, and so on; a 50, 25, 10 per
cent, solution of any salt, &c., implies that 100 cubic centimetres
of the solution contain 50, 25, 10 grammes of the salt.* (In the
case of the caustic hydrate solutions used, this is not strictly
accurate, since in making up these the ordinary *' stick " caustic
was employed, and this contains a percentage of water. This
fact is, however, of no importance, so long as uniform solutions
are always used.) Many acids are solid at the ordinary tempera-
tures, and therefore they were dissolved in water, like salts, and
made up to various per cent solutions. In some instances,
saturated solutions were made ; that is, of course, as much was
dissolved as the water could take up. In only two or three cases,
by careless oversight, were my reagents unquantitative; but, except
in one instance, such reagents were, fortunately, unimportant.
All the solutions are aqueous, unless expressly stated otherwise.
I.f Sulphuric acid 40 per cent. (?)
Nitric acid 50 per cent.
I Hydrochloric acid Strong.
Hydriodic acid Solution of S. G., 1-500.
Phosphoric acid 25 per cent.
Hydrofluosilicic acid The usual analytical solution.
Boric acid Saturated alcoholic solution.
* In the metric system, 1 gramme is the weight of one cubic centimetre of dis-
tilled water at standard temperature and pressure.
t I very stupidly omitted to note the strength of this reagent.
\ Popularly known as muriatic acid.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 185
11. Acetic acid Strong.
Oxalic acid Saturated solution.
Tartaric acid 25 per cent, solution.
Gallic acid , Saturated alcoholic solution.
III. Ammonia Strong {i.e., the usual solution of
the gas).
* Sodic hydrate 25 per cent.
Ditto 10 per cent.
f Potassic hydrate 35 per cent.
Ditto 5 per cent.
IV. I Phenol 60 per cent, alcoholic solution.
§ Trinitrophenol Saturated solution.
Tannin (Strength of solution unknown.)
V. Potassic cyanide Strong solution; exact strength
not known.
Argentic nitrate 25 per cent, solution in 50 per cent.
alcohol.
Potassic permanganate About 7 or 8 per cent., probably.
Potassic dichromate x Abandoned very quickly, as being
quite useless.
I
Potassic iodide ,
Potassic ferro-cyanide ....,
I might add that, having originally delusively anticipated the
most important results from the organic acids, I had proposed to
use various others of these, such as succinic, malic, citric,
benzoic, lactic, formic, &c. ; but finding quickly how useless the
organic acids were, I relinquished this intention.
Now, regarding the action of these various reagents, the first
thing to note is that most of them are either useless or super-
fluous. Beginning at the bottom of the list, the salts are either
quite without action, or— e. g., potassic cyanide — very feebly
imitative of stronger reagents, and therefore wholly superfluous.
A peculiar eff'ect produced on one or two colours by a strong
solution of argentic nitrate will be referred to subsequently.
In the next class (IV.), I had hoped to find some striking
results; but the action, where any occurred, was simply feebly
imitative again, and so superfluous. Among the alkalis, ammonia
was somewhat disappointing. I had expected it to be by far the
most active reagent of the set, but it proved often less efficacious
than the others. The action of all these five reagents was the
same, and therefore several of them are evidently superfluous.
But the most surprising result was that (with, I think, one
exception) the action of these alkalis was identical with that of the
acids. By this, I do not mean that the same colour in the same
insect was always afiected equally by acid and by alkali, but that
whenever any action followed it was always the same, and difi'ered,
* Caustic soda. f Caustic potash.
J " Carbolic acid." § "Picric acid."
186 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
if at all, only in degree or rapidity. Some colours are instantly
and completely altered by certain acids, and only slightly or
slowly by the alkalis (e. g., Zygcena and Euchelia, reds). In other
cases, both classes of reagents are about equally efficacious (e. g.,
urticcBy chestnut) ; and in others, again, the alkalis are the most
efficacious {e, g,, the chestnut of tithonus and C, pamphilus). But
the noteworthy point is that in (almost) no case does an alkali
produce one result and an acid a different result ; the action (when
not nil) is uniformly destructive, producing a retrogressive colour.
This appears to me a somewhat significant phenomenon, and I
shall have occasion to allude to it later, when discussing the
bearing of my results on the subject of natural variations. This
similarity of action is somewhat surprising, from a chemical
point of view. As I have already said, the similarity of action of
the organic and the mineral acids was a disappointment to me;
but still it is not at all surprising, for, comparing their action on
vegetable colours, of course litmus is turned red by acetic acid,
&c.,* as well as by the mineral acids ; but that alkalis, which
affect litmus, &c., diametrically oppositely to acids, should
have the same effect on insect colours, is an unlooked-for
result. As to the next class — of organic acids — I have already
said sufficient. They are wholly useless or else superfluous ;
their action, when not nil, being simply the same as that of
weak mineral acids. Lastly (or firstly !), as concerns the mineral
acids, the most valuable is hydrochloric. It is simply an in-
valuable reagent,t and many colours are changed by it instantly.
Next in value to it, is probably the diluted nitric acid. Sulphuric
is rather peculiar and erratic in its behaviour sometimes; in
some cases it seems to fail in getting at the colours, as it were.
The 25 per cent, phosphoric acid has a feeble action, comparable
with that of acetic ; and the hydrofluosilicic is about the same.
Boric acid is useless, or feeble. Hydriodic is also of no service ;
it affects some colours somewhat feebly, but with some whites
produces apparently startling results by dying them a deep brown
or purple ; this, however, is of course in no way comparable with
the results that we are here concerned with, and may at once be
put aside. I It might, however, be interesting to reinvestigate the
behaviour of all the white Lepidoptera when tested with either
hydriodic acid or a solution of iodine, since possibly some
differences of constitution might thus be detected ; and I therefore
intend taking an early opportunity of looking into this.§
After this resume, it will hardly be denied that, as I said, the
* Not exactly the same red, however ; but that is immaterial in this relation.
t There is a very peculiar a/fer-phenomenon, which I must describe later,
connected with the action of hydrochloric and several other acids on red colours.
I Gonepteryx rhamni was stained a magnificent purple by this reagent.
§ Since this was written the investigation referred to has been made, and the
details will therefore be given in their proper connection next month.
keW species of rhopalocera from china. 187
majority of my reagents were eminently disappointing, and my
original expectations altogether too jubilant. It is only by
experience, however, that one can learn ; and, acting on mine, I
propose in my future researches to limit the number of reagents
very materially. It may, perhaps, be convenient to group those
that I have found of real use, stating them in order of merit, as
near as may be : —
Hydrochloric acid. Ammonia.
(Nitric acid (50 per cent.) Sulphuric acid (25 or 50 per
(Potassic hydrate (25 per cent.) cent.)
10 per cent, potassic hydrate.
(To be continued.)
NEW SPECIES OF RHOPALOCERA FROM CHINA.
By J. H. Leech, B.A., F.L.S , &c.
The following species are, I believe, new to Science, and were
obtained last year by my collectors Messrs. Pratt and Kircheldorff,
in the province of Setchuen, North-west China.
Erebia ruricola, sp. n.
^ . Dark brown : central area of primaries blackish, outer third paler ; a
large black spot with two white pupils and faintly encircled with pale brown
towards apex : there is often a white dot towards anal angle of secondaries.
Under surface grey-brown : on primaries the ocellus of upper surface is
reproduced, and is ringed with pale fulvous ; below it is a smaller ocellus,
and there is sometimes a still smaller one between them, placed on the edge
of the former ; below apex there is a reddish brown cloud, and there are
indications of a band of the same colour between large ocellus and discal
cell : the secondaries are traversed by reddish brown lines, the most con-
spicuous being two broad ones from middle of costa which terminate just
before median nervure, and one from middle of abdominal margin to outer
margin ; there is a submarginal series of white dots ; the outer margin and
centre of the wing are also dashed with white. Expanse, 58 mm.
Four specimens taken at Ta-Chien-Lu, and two at Wa-Shan,
in July.
Nearly allied to E, saxicola, Oberth. (Etud. d'Ent. ii. p. 32,
pi. iv. fig. 1), but the white pupils of apical ocellus are placed
more directly one under the other ; the antennae are pale brown,
and the clubs are black beneath. On the under surface the colour
of primaries is different, and there is an additional ocellus towards
outer angle ; the markings are more distinctly defined on the
secondaries.
Erebia rurigena, sp. n.
<^. Dark brown, with a slight yellowish tinge in certain lights.
Primaries have a blackish cloud-like fascia from inner margin to centre of
the wing ; the ocellus towards apex is large, conspicuously ringed with pale
188 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
ftilvoua, and the lower of the two white pupils is very faint or entirely absent.
Under surface brown, dusted with ochreous along costal half of primaries ;
the ocellus is brighter than above, both pupils are well defined, and it is
followed by a reddish brown cloud extending nearly to first median nervule :
secondaries ochreous-grey, clouded and dusted with darker scales, and
traversed by a number of wavy brown lines, the most distinct of which are
the two central and the submarginal ; preceding the submarginal line is a
series of white points. Fringes pale grey-brown. Expanse, 62 mm.
Several males taken at Ta-Chien-Lu, and three at Wa-Shan,
in July.
Allied to E. ruricola, but distinguished at once by the fulvous
ring of ocellus. In some specimens there is no trace of white
points before submarginal line on under surface of secondaries ;
in others the central lines assume band-like proportions, and the
submarginal line is not clearly defined.
Pararge PRiEusTA, sp. n.
$. Fuliginous-brown. An angulated and interrupted fulvous band
traverses the primaries from costa to outer angle ; towards apex are two
paler fulvous spots with a black one below them. Fringes whitish, chequered
with black at extremities of nervules. Under surface: — Discal area of
primaries reddish brown; fascia as above, but broader and paler; apical
spots white, the black one below them is distinctly ringed with pale fulvous
and has a white central dot : secondaries greyish, with some marks near the
base and two transvere angulated central lines reddish brown ; there is a
submarginal series of six ocelli, — that on the costa is the largest and is pre-
ceded by a whitish crescent, the third is the least of the series, and the sixth
has two white pupils.
$ . The fascia is broader, there is a fulvous flush in the submedian and
second median interspaces, and the fringes are pale fulvous but chequered
with black, as in the male ; the black apical spot has a white centre.
Expanse, ^ 68 mm., $ 62 mm.
A very fine series, including both sexes, taken at Wa-Shan in
June, and one female specimen from Huang-mu- Chung.
Closely allied to P. episcopalis, Oberth. (Etud. d'Ent. xi. p. 22,
pi. iv. fig. 24), but the fascia on primaries is more angulated, and
fulvous instead of white. The apical spots of P, episcopalis,
when present, are white and very small. On the under surface
of primaries the points of difference are as well defined as above,
but colour and markings of secondaries appear to be almost exactly
alike in both species.
Argynnis zenobia, sp.n.
^ . Fulvous with black markings, as in ,4. childreni, Gray, but the outer
magin of secondaries is without the bluish tinge of that species, and the
sinuses are not nearly so deep. On the under surface of primaries there is
not the least tinge of red of any shade ; the silvery lines at apex are sinuate
and enclose three black spots, the upper one more distinct than the other
two : on the secondaries there is more blue in the composition of the greenish
ground colour ; the basal and discal lines are very similar to these characters
in A. childreni ; the central band is sinuous and interrupted at the end of
cell, where there is a large black dot ; marginal and submarginal silvery Unes
are more indented, and towards costa the opposing angles of these hnes meet
NEW SPECIES OF RHOPALOCERA FROM CHINA. 189
and form rings ; before submarginal line is a series of black spots, each with
a centre slightly paler than ground colour.
? . Rather paler than the male ; base of inner margin of all the wings
suffused with greenish ; there are some spots and a transverse line termi-
nating in a large subquadrate spot in cell of secondaries.
Antennae of the male brown, club black with fulvous apex ; of the female,
as in same sex of A, cliildreni. Expanse, ^ 84 mm., $ 87 mm.
Two specimens of each sex, Ta-Chien-Lu, in July.
In size and in the ground colour of upper surface this species
closely resembles my specimens of A, childreni from N.W. India,
but they are much smaller and paler than specimens I have from
N.W. China; these last measure, ^ 94 mm., $110 mm.
Grapta gigantea, sp. n.
5 , Primaries fulvous, thickly sprinkled with black scales at the base ;
costal margin spotted with black and yellow ; discal and costal black markings
arranged as in G. c-album, but larger ; external margin broadly black, inter-
sected by two fulvous waved transverse lines. Secondaries ftdvous, thickly
dusted with black scales at the base and lower half of the wing ; below a
large black patch on the disc is a blackish cloud extending to abdominal fold,
and beyond is a broad black transverse band, the outer edge of which forms
a series of points on the nervules : external margin broadly black, intersected
by two fulvous lines as in primaries. Under surface ochreous-brown, marbled
with pale violet-brown, and intersected by indistinct black lines ; before the
external margin of all the wings are two dentated black lines, — these are
interrupted by the nervules, and the space between them is leaden grey ;
preceding these lines, on the primaries, is a series of eight dots, the third
seventh and eighth with pale centres ; on the disc of primaries is a silvery
white spot placed on the third median nervule ; the silvery white mark on
secondaries is large, and in shape represents three sides of a square.
Expanse, 72 mm.
One female example taken at Ta-Chien-Lu, in July, at an
elevation of 7500 feet.
This species is allied to G. c-albunif Linn., but it is much
larger, and the margins are more decidedly indented. The
mark on under surface of secondaries is very like the same
character in some of my specimens of G. c-album from Japan, but
in the marbling of the under surface of all the wings G, gigantea
more nearly resembles V. charonia, and it also agrees with that
species in having a white spot on under surface of primaries, — a
character not usual in the Vanessidse.
Helcyra superba, sp. n.
Closely allied to H. hemina, Hewitson, but it differs from that species in
the position and size of the black markings on upper surface* Nearly the
whole of the apical half of the primaries is black, and this has its inner edge
more deeply indented ; the discal spots are two in number, but the larger is
broadly linear. On the secondaries there are eight black spots, arranged one
below the other in a transverse series ; the second of these is the largest, and
the first, third, fifth and sixth are often faint and sometimes entirely ehmi-
nated : the submarginal line is broad and dentate throughout from costa to
anal angle. Fringes white, preceded by a narrow fnliginous grey Hne.
Under surface shining white, apical and discal markings of primaries
190 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
faintly showing through from above : on the secondaries is a transverse
series of black lunules ; those in the first subcostal and second median
interspaces are followed by black spots edged internally with orange.
Expanse, 3^ 82—90 mm., ? 92—98 mm.
A splendid series taken at Chia-Kou-Ho, in July.
In a few examples there is, on the under surface of primaries,
an orange-bordered black spot in the second median interspace,
Sephisa princeps, ? .
Apatura princeps^ Fxsn. Rom. sur Lep. iii. p. 389, pi. xiii.
fig. 7a,b (1887).
Apatura cauta, Leech, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1887 (p. 417, pi. xxxv.,
fig. 2).
The female agrees with the male, but the wings are rather
more ample. This sex has not been previously mentioned.
Among the specimens of this species lately received by me
are three female examples from Chang-Yang which have nearly all
the fulvous markings of the male replaced by white ; the only spots
of the typical colour are the two in discal cell of primaries and
one on costa of secondaries, whilst below the median nervure of
primaries there is a bluish longitudinal streak instead of a fulvous
one. In size, shape, number, and position of the spots and
dashes, this form agrees exactly with the female type, and, as the
difference is one of colour only, I propose the name of albimacula
for this variety.
Apatura pallas, sp.n.
^. Blackish brown, with black, white, and pale ftdvous markings.
Primaries thickly sprinkled with fulvous scales on basal third, beyond which
is a transverse series of four fulvous spots preceded by an irregular black
band, the spot nearest the costa is darker than the others, and is followed by
a large triangular black spot ; there are three fulvous spots at outer extremity
of discal cell, and below these a fulvous spot in each median interspace, —
that in the first has a whitish centre, the other is preceded by a round black
spot, before the apex there are two whitish spots (the upper one is round),
the spots forming the submarginal series are fulvous, but not well defined
towards costa. Secondaries : — Basal half clothed with silky grey-brown
hairs, and limited by a fulvous transverse interrupted band ; the inner portion
of this band becomes indistinct after passing the second median nervule, but
the outer, though most broken up, is continued to the first median nei*vule,
enclosing a well-defined black spot in nervular interspace ; a black band,
broad towards costa and tapering to anal angle, precedes a fulvous submar-
ginal band which is intersected by the nervules, as also is a broad fulvous
line on outer margin. Fringes white between the nervules. Under surface
pale olive-green ; the markings of primaries are as above, but the fulvous
gives place to white or whitish, and the black spot in second median inter-
space is encircled with fulvous : secondaries pale olive-green ; basal area
washed with greyish, and bounded by an olive-brown transverse tapering
band ; from the inner edge of this band, which is broadly bordered with
silvery white, a spur runs inwards and upwards above the median nervure ;
there is a well-defined ocellus on the second median interspace, and above it
is a series of silvery white spots, the interrupted submarginal band is of
the same colour, as also a fainter line which traverses the pale olive-brown
outer margin. Expanse, 39 mm.
NEW SPECIES OF RHOPALOCERA FROM CHINA. 191
One male specimen taken at Chia-Kou-Ho, in July, at an
elevation of 1700 feet.
On the upper surface this species is not unlike A, iris var. hieti,
Oberth. (Etud. d'Ent. xi. p. 18, pi. iii. fig. 15), but the fulvous spots
are much paler, and the black spot on primaries is not ocellated
and is less conspicuous ; the fascia on secondaries is narrower,
and has the inner edge curved, and there is no purple reflection
on these wings. On the under surface A, pallas is quite unlike
any species of the genus with which I am acquainted, but bears
a superficial resemblance to Argynnis paphia,
Thecla cjelestis, sp.n.
<^ . Bright blue. Primaries with broad black band on outer margins,
the apical portion extending nearly to middle of the costa ; from this point
to the base the costa is edged with black. Secondaries : — Two black spots
just above anal angle (one on each side of submedian nervure) ; the ante
marginal band is black and fairly broad at apex, and this colour is continued
half-way up the whitish abdominal margin. Fringes greyish, preceded by a
black line on the secondaries ; tail black, tipped with white, tinder surface
russet-brown ; on the primaries there is an indistinct discal spot, and beyond
it an oblique silvery white line extending from costa to first median branch ;
submarginal line bluish white, ill-defined towards apex, and edged internally
with black towards the inner margin, which is broadly grey : secondaries
have a silvery white central transverse line and a bluish white sinuous sub-
marginal line ; the latter is edged internally with blackish, and the former is
twice angulated above the anal angle and terminates about the middle of
abdominal margin ; anal angle is black, and above it is a broad orange-red
patch extending fi:om first median nervule to end of central line on abdominal
margin ; the black spots are reproduced, but that nearest the anal angle has
a blue centre ; fringes as above, but the black line at their base is preceded
by a bluish one towards anal angle.
? . Similar to the male, but the black band of primaries is much
broader, and contains an orange patch, which is bisected by the second
median nervule ; the costa and fringes are tinged with fulvous ; the marginal
band of secondaries is also broader. Expanse, 42 mm.
A very fine series taken at Ta-Chien-Lu, in July.
In the male the marginal band of secondaries varies in width ;
in some specimens it is only represented by the costal portion.
One example has this band broader than the female, whilst the
black on primaries is of the same width as in the female.
Aporia procris, sp.n.
2 . Yellowish white, with the neuration black and conspicuous ; sub-
marginal line of primaries dentate, extending to first median nervule ; on
the secondaries there are indications of bifurcated streaks between the
nervules. Under surface of primaries whitish, costa and apex yellowish ;
secondaries yellow, with a patch of orange at base ; neuration and Hues as
above. Expanse, 25 m.m.
One example, Ta-Chien-Lu, in July.
Allied to A. saracta, Moore, but differs therefrom in colour and
in the absence of black patch beyond discal cell. It is perhaps
most readily distinguished by the black neuration.
193 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
PlERIS LOTIS, Sp. n.
Black with white markings ; these on the primaries are very similar to
P. larraldei (Oberth. Etud. d'Entom. ii. p. 19, pi. 1, fig. 2 a, h) ; the basal
two-thirds of secondaries are white, with a broad patch of black scales at the
base and extending along the median nervure ; there are no white or whitish
submarginal spots on either primaries or secondaries, but the latter have a
series of more or less lunulated spots on the outer margin. Under surface of
primaries also similar to P. larraldei as regards the white markings, but the
costa and apical third are pale yellowish ; the latter is intersected by the
black nervules and some thin black bifurcated streaks between them:
secondaries are pale yellowish ; neuration black, a bifurcated black streak in
each nervular interspace. As in the same sex of P. larraldei, the female
has the white markings suffused with greenish yellow. Expanse, ^ 74 mm.,
$ 78 mm,
Four male specimens taken in a marsh near Wa-shan, June ;
and two examples of each sex, Ta-Chien-Lu, July.
PiERis cissEis, sp. n.
<y . White ; apex of primaries broadly black ; at the outer extremity of
discal cell is an elongate black spot, and towards external margin of the wing
are two black spots, — the upper one is the largest, and is connected by some
scattered black scales with the apical bands. Under surface : — The black
spots of primaries are reproduced, but the apex and costa are yellowish :
secondaries clear pale yellow. Expanse, 76 mm.
One specimen taken by a native collector at Chang- Yang.
This species resembles the female of P. hrassicce, but the black
discal spot at once distinguishes it. The secondaries are without
darker scales on the under surface.
Papilio scmoN, sp.n.
^ . Velvety brownish black, base of primaries sprinkled with yellowisl
scales, markings of all the wings bright orange-yellow ; these on primaries
comprise a broad central fascia, a blotch on costa at the extremity of cell,
a central row of four spots, and a submarginal series of spots : the
secondaries have a central fascia and submarginal row of spots, margins
of anal angle tinged with chestnut, and above it is a short streak of bluish
grey scales.
2 . Agrees with male, but the markings are rather paler. Under sur-
face : — Basal third of all the wings rich chocolate-brown, central third
yellowish white, and outer third fuscous with paler interrupted submarginal
band ; there is a patch of chocolate-brown at the extremity of discal cell on
all the wings, and one at anal angle of secondaries. Expanse, 3" 102 mm.,
$ 116 mm.
Four specimens of each sex from Chia-Kou-Ho, July ; two
from Huang-mu- Chung, August.
Allied to P. gyaSf Westw., from Sikkim (Arc. Ent. i. pi. 11,
fig. I, 1841).
193
DESCRIPTIONS OF NEW SPECIES OF PHYTOPHAGOUS
COLEOPTERA RECEIVED BY MR. J. H. LEECH, FROM
CHANG- YANG, CHINA.
By Martin Jacoby, F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 167.)
Cneorane rufipes, Weise. (PL II., fig. 11.)
Numerous specimens answering to the description given by
the author were obtained, all differing from C elegans, Baly, by
the entirely rufous legs. So many closely allied species of
Cneorane have lately been described by Fairmaire and AUard,
that it is almost impossible to determine any species with
certainty without comparing the types ; and there can be little
doubt that many of them are either identical or varieties, as the
insects seem subject to great variation in size, sculpture, and
colour. It is to be regretted that new species are continually
described without consulting specialists as to their opinion of
their specific distinction, since short descriptions can give but
little assistance in the determination of these closely- allied
forms. C, de la touchit Fairm., seems certainly identical with
CfemoraliSt Jac.
EUSTETHA NIGROPUNCTATA, Faivm. (PL II., fig. 4.)
I must refer, although somewhat doubtfully, the specimens
obtained by Mr. Pratt to this species. Fairmaire seems to have
forgotten to mention the colour of the elytra and of the abdomen,
which is flavous; the former have five black spots each, —one at
the shoulder, two placed transversely near the middle and of
small size, and two larger ones (one before, the other at the
extreme apex). It is obvious that the elytra cannot be black
(according to the description) with black spots, but curious that
the colour of the abdomen should have been overlooked as well
by the author. I think in regard to this genus, that it might very
well be united with Galerucida, with which it has all structural
characters in common ; this is also the opinion of Herr Weise.
EuSTETHA THORACICA, JaC.
Of this species a few specimens were obtained, which differ
from the type in having an unspotted thorax, but in no other
way ; these specimens all belong to the fulvous variety, the type
having dark bluish elytra. E, thoracica has an entirely smooth
and impunctate thorax.
Sphnenoraia cupreata, n. sp.
Below fulvo-piceous, above metallic dark cupreous ; thorax sparingly
punctured, with a deep depression at each side ; elytra finely punctured,
semipunctate-striate ; abdomen obscure fulvous. Length, 1^ — 2 lines.
ENTOM. — JUNE, 1890. P
194 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Ovate, slightly widened posteriorly ; head impunctate, with a deep fovea
between the eyes ; antennae about half the length of the body, the second
and third joints very small and equal, the intermediate ones compressed.
Thorax twice as broad as long, the sides nearly straight, the anterior angles
thickened and prominent, the surface with a deep but short transverse
depression at each side, finely and sparingly punctured ; elytra with a
longitudinal groove within the shoulders, as finely punctured as the thorax,
except within the humeral depression, where the punctures are stronger, the
punctuation arranged in rather regular rows ; abdomen more or less fulvous.
This species resembles somewhat S, fulgiduj Bedt., in its
metallic cupreous colour, but is very much smaller, and is
distinct by the fine punctuation of the thorax and the elytra ; the
colour of the upper side is a dull reddish cupreous, that of the
head is more bluish.
Two specimens.
Leptarthra intermedia, n. sp. (PI. I., fig. 12.)
Oblong-ovate, dilated posteriorly, metalUc blue or violaceous ; thorax
with transverse and longitudinal depressions ; elytra pale fulvous, finely
punctured with semi-regular double rows of larger punctures ; abdomen
pale fulvous. Length, 5 — 6 lines.
Closely allied to L. dohrni, Baly (Merista rufipennis, Harold), but quite
distinct ; much smaller, and less convex and dilated ; the first three joints
of the antennae metallic blue, the rest black, extending to more than half
the length of the body ; thorax scarcely perceptibly punctured, metalhc blue
or violaceous, the sides with a deep transverse depression, the middle of the
disc with a longitudinal groove, which assumes the shape of a fovea near the
base ; scutellum dark blue ; elytra dilated, with a very faint depression
below the base, the surface finely and closely punctured, with more regular
rows of larger punctures partly arranged in pairs near the suture.
The punctuation of the elytra in L, intermedia^ of which
three specimens are before me, will at once distinguish this
species from L. dohrni, in which the elytra are finely and evenly
punctured throughout, and have also a deep transverse depression
below the base, besides being very strongly widened posteriorly ;
all other characters are very similar in both species. L. abdo'
minaliSf Baly, has the elytra strongly and irregularly punctured.
Leptarthra grandipennis, Fairm,
This species seems to me to be identical with L. dohrni,
Baly.
Taphinella longicornis, n. sp.
Black, the head, thorax, and legs pale fulvous ; antennse as long as the
body ; thorax finely punctured, transverse ; elytra black, finely punctui-ed.
Length, 1^ line.
Head with a few, extremely minute punctures ; eyes large and pro-
minent, the frontal elevations broadly trigonate, nearly contiguous, bounded
behind by a deep transverse groove ; palpi slender ; antennae as long as the
body, slender, the third joint smaller than the second, both very small, the
others elongate, nearly equal, the three basal and the terminal one fulvous,
the rest black : thorax transverse, the sides nearly straight, the anterior
angles oblique, thickened, the surface with an obsolete depression at each
side, finely and sparingly punctured j elytra black or piceous, finely but not
NEW SPECIES OF COLEOPTERA FROM CHINA. 195
very closely ptmctured ; tibiae unarmed, the first joint of the posterior tarsi
much longer than the following joints together ; anterior coxal cavities
closed.
This species exhibits all the structural characters (with the
exception of the filiform antennae) of the genus Taphinella,
described by myself in the 'Annals of the Genoa Museum,' 1889.
The very small second and third joints of the antennae in
connection with the transverse thorax, long metatarsus of the
posterior legs, and the closed cavities, are the principal charac-
teristics of the genus. T. longicornis almost entirely resembles
T, nigripennis, Jac, in coloration, but differs in the black
under side, the filiform antennae, and the much smaller size ;
this difference in the structure of the antennae (which in the type
have their intermediate joints dilated) is, I think, not sufficient
to separate the present insect generically.
A few specimens.
BrACHYPIIORA, n. gen. (GALERUCINiE.)
Narrowly elongate; antennae filiform, their joints gradually lengthened;
thorax transverse, the sides nearly straight, the surface obsoletely impressed
at the sides ; elytra irregularly punctured, their epipleurae continued below
the middle ; legs slender ; the four anterior tibiae armed with a small spine,
the posterior ones unarmed ; the first joint of the posterior tarsi as long as
the three following joints together ; claws appendicuJate ; anterior coxaJ
cavities closed.
The insect, for which I propose the present genus, and
which I am unable to place satisfactorily in any of the numerous
genera of GalerucidcB, has the general appearance of a species of
Luperus ; the closed anterior cavities and the prolonged elytral
epipleurae would place Brachyphora near Zermyla, but the general
shape of the insect and the unarmed posterior tibiae separate the
present genus from that and other genera.
Type. Brachyphora nigrovittata.
Brachyphora nigrovittata, n. sp. (PL II., fig. 12.)
Fulvous ; the terminal joints of the antennae and the abdomen black ;
head and thorax finely punctured; elytra very distinctly and closely
punctured, flavous, the sutural and lateral margins black. Length, 2 lines.
Head broader than long, the vertex with a few very minute punctures,
fulvous, the frontal elevations not very strongly raised, broad and transverse,
clypeus strongly swollen and triangular, the penultimate joint of the palpi
scarcely incrassate, the terminal one acutely pointed ; antennae about half
the length of the body, the five lower joints fulvous, the others black, the
first joint as long as the fourth, the second one but slightly smaller than the
third, the fourth and following joint very slightly increasing in length.
Thorax about twice as broad as long, the sides scarcely perceptibly rounded,
the angles not produced, but in shape of a very small tubercle, the surface
with a very obsolete small depression at the sides, finely and rather closely
punctured, the interstices extremely minutely granulate ; scutellum rather
broad, trigonate ; elytra flavous, more strongly punctured than the thorax,
the punctures closely arranged and distinct to the apex, the interstices
slightly raised, a sutural broader stripe (suddenly and strongly narrowed
p3
196 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
near the apex) and another more narrow one at the lateral margin, extending
to the epipleurae and to the apical angle, black ; the breast and legs fulvous,
abdomen black ; prosternum invisible between the coxse.
Many specimens.
Antipha nigrofasciata, n. sp. (PI. II., fig. 6.)
Fulvous; antennae (the basal joints excepted) and the tibiae black;
thorax transverse, strongly punctured; elytra flavous, strongly and semi-
regularly punctured, the sutural and lateral margins, and a transverse
narrow band below the middle, black.
Var. The elytral bands nearly obsolete, or fulvous.
Mas. The second and third joints of the antennae extremely small.
Fern. The third joint of the antennae longer than the second.
^. Ovate, convex, scarcely widened behind; the head fulvous, im-
punctate, deeply foveolate between the eyes, the frontal tubercles narrowly
oblique, the clypeus broadly triangular ; antennae extending beyond half the
length of the elytra, black, the lower three joints fulvous, the second very
small, the third still smaller, the following joints slender, elongate ; thorax
more than twice as broad as long, the sides slightly rounded, the angles in
shape of small tubercles, each furnished with a single hair, the surface
fulvous, distinctly but not very closely punctured ; scutellum fulvous ; elytra
flavous, more strongly punctured than the thorax, the punctures arranged in
close and rather regular rows, the sutural and lateral margins (including a
larger spot on the shoulders), and an oblique narrow band below the middle,
black ; under side and the femora fulvous ; tibiae and tarsi black ; prosternum
narrow, but distinct ; anterior coxal cavities closed.
The female, in which the elytra show a slight transverse
depression below the base, has the third joint of the antennae
nearly three times as long as the second, but does not differ in
any other way. In the variety, the elytral markings are obscure
fulvous, or sometimes scarcely perceptible.
Many specimens of the type and of the variety.
Antipha bipaetita, n. sp. (PI. II., fig. 6.)
Fulvous ; the head, antennae (the basal joints excepted), thorax, and the
tibiae, black; thorax remotely punctured; elytra strongly semipunctate-
striate, dark fulvous, the posterior portion black. Length, 2^ — 3 Hnes.
Var. Elytra entirely fulvous.
(^ . Head impunctate, black, the middle impressed with a deep fovea ;
antennae nearly as long as the body, the second and third joints very small,
the fourth as long as the three preceding joints together, the lower three
joints fulvous, the rest black; thorax twice as broad as long, the sides
slightly narrowed towards the base, the anterior angles prominent, the
surface rather sparingly punctured, a little more closely at the sides, the
latter with a small depression ; scutellum fulvous ; elytra very strongly and
closely punctured, the punctures semi-regularly arranged in rows, the apical
portion more or less black, the rest fulvous ; under side and legs, with the
exception of the tibiae and tarsi, fulvous.
This species, of which many specimens are before me, is
subject to variation in regard to colour, the head and thorax
being sometimes stained with fulvous, while the elytra in some
specimens are entirely of that colour. The female, like the
preceding species, has a much longer third joint of the antennae.
THE LATE JOSEPH SUGAR BALY. 197
Antipha(?) elongata, n. sp.
Elongate, black, the base of the head and the thorax fulvous ; antennae
slender, black; elytra flavous, closely and rather strongly punctured, the
extreme sutural margin black; prosternum very narrow, but distinct.
Length, 3 lines.
Mas. The second and third joints of the antennae very short.
Fern. The third joint twice as long as the second one.
Var. a. The head and thorax black.
Var. b. Head and thorax fulvous.
Of elongate, posteriorly slightly widened shape; the head not longer
than broad, the vertex fulvous, the lower portion black, eyes large and
prominent, the intermediate space impressed with a deep fovea, clypeus
strongly raised into a triangular ridge; labrum broad, obscure piceous;
palpi not much thickened, the terminal joint acute ; antennse rather closely
approached, black, two-thirds the length of the body, the second and third
joints in the male extremely short, the third one rather shorter than the
second, both moniliform, the fourth longer than the three preceding ones
together; thorax transverse, twice as broad as long, the sides scarcely
rounded, the anterior angles acute and prominent, the surface obsoletely
depressed near the base, nearly impunctate, fulvous ; scutellum piceous,
trigonate, broad ; elytra flavous, rather strongly and very closely punctured,
their epipleurse extending to the apex ; under side and legs black, the latter
slender, the tibiae unarmed, the first joint of the posterior tarsi as long
as the following joints together ; claws appendiculate ; anterior costal
cavities closed.
In shape and the structure of the antennae, this species differs
a good deal from most of its congeners ; but as the principal
characters peculiar to Antipha (the distinct prosternum, the
unarmed tibiae, and the shape of the thorax) are present, I have
included the species in that genus ; the very short third joint is
peculiar to the male insect only. In one specimen the entire head
and the scutellum are fulvous; in another, the head and the
thorax are black, and the anterior angles of the latter are not
prominent ; but as I cannot see any other difference whatever, I
have preferred to look upon this specimen as a variety.
Two specimens.
(To be concluded.)
THE LATE JOSEPH SUGAR BALY.
At the meeting of the Entomological Society, on April 3nd,
the President alluded to the decease of one, — who had been for
many years a member of the Society, and had published much in
its ' Transactions,' — Mr. J. S. Baly, who died at Warwick, on
March 25th, 1890, aged seventy-three years. The leading
features in Mr. Baly's career have been sketched in one of the
local papers in an article, from which we make the following
extract : —
** His illness only commenced on Wednesday in last week, but
he became rapidly worse, and ultimately succumbed to an attack
i9& THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
of jaundice. He died in harness, being fully engaged with his*
official duties as long as he was able to go about. He was a
member of an old Warwick family, being the eldest son of the late
Mr. Joseph Baly. His only brother, Mr. Price Eichard Baly, was
a pupil of Brunei, the engineer, and was extensively engaged in
the construction of railways in Brussels, Russia, and the Caspian,
until he retired about fifteen years ago. Mr. J. S. Baly, born at
Warwick in 1816, and educated at the Grammar School, under
the Rev. George Innes, was a student of St. George's Hospital,
Hyde Park (at that time the leading hospital) ; and when he
passed his examination there, he received ' the compliments of
the court.' He was also, during his earlier years, a pupil at the
Shrewsbury infirmary, under Dr. Burd. After gaining his
diploma, he pursued his studies in Paris. He settled down for
a time in Leamington, and held the appointment of medical
officer of the Union for that district. But his scientific tastes
attracted him to London, where he secured a very large practice,
and formed the friendship of many of the scientific men of the
day, including several of the chiefs at the British Museum. He
came to be acknowledged as a leading authority on Coleoptera
(the beetle family) ; and a portion of his unique collection, which
was of world-wide reputation, was purchased for the British
Museum with a large sum of money. He was Fellow of the
Linnean and of the Entomological Societies, and a member of
all the foreign Entomological Societies, by whom he was con-
stantly applied to for his wide experience in his favourite study.
The books he has published on the Coleoptera generally, and
especially the family of Phytophaga, to which he gave his chief
study, are valuable as the accepted authority in this particular
branch. He was hard at work on his favourite pursuit to the
time of his death, naming and describing collections sent from
foreign Entomological Societies, and preparing a paper, which he
has not been permitted to finish. His health first broke down
from over-work in London, and he was compelled to give up a
large and lucrative practice. He came back to his native town
twenty-two years ago, and held the appointments of medical
officer of heath for Leamington, and also medical officer for the
Union Infirmary. These offices gave him ample time for the
indulgence of his scientific tastes, and he was one of the hon.
curators of the Warwick Museum. He was a man of very
extensive research, and his great natural ability would have
entitled him to have claimed a far higher position in the medical
world than that which he occupied. But his retiring and studious
disposition prevented him from reaping the full reward of his
merits. Immersed in his favourite pursuits, which he followed
with remarkable patience and devotion, he realised the modest
ambition of his life, with a full knowledge that his worth was
acknowledged by men of the highest scientific eminence, who
i-HE LATE JOSEPH SUGAR BALY. 199
will mourn his loss as a colleague and a friend. The deceased
gentleman leaves behind him a widow, one son (Mr. Price Baly),
and five daughters."
The above information is, we believe, correct, except in one
or two minor entomological points, and we are able to add some
details about Mr. Baly as an entomologist.
He was not a field-collector, and seems to have paid little or
no attention to Entomology till he was approaching middle life.
After he commenced medical practice, he was much interested in
microscopic work, and possessed what was at that time a splendid
instrument, fully provided with all the apparatus for the investi-
gation of opaque objects, and he was expert in its manipulation.
This it was that led to his becoming an entomologist. About the
year 1850 he visited Mr. S. Stevens, in Bloomsbury Street, in
search of objects for his microscope, and he purchased a small
collection of Indian Hymenoptera. He entered into a corre-
spondence with Mr. H. W. Bates, who was then in the Amazon
Valley, and in the course of this informed Mr. Bates that the
marvels of insect-structure revealed by his microscope led him
to devote himself more exclusively to Entomology. At that time
the collections made by Wallace in the Malay Archipelago and
by Bates in the Amazon Valley were arriving in this country,
and Baly having a series of the phytophagous Coleoptera from
them, found full occupation for his leisure time in the examination
and description of the crowd of novelties contained in these and
other acquisitions. There was in the Phytophaga, alone, more
than work for one man, and Baly appears to have endeavoured
to do this work, so far as it was in his power. He was a patient
and enthusiastic entomological worker ; and when in practice in
the suburbs of London, and called to see a patient in the small
hours, he would on his return home spend the remainder of the
night in his study, instead of going to sleep.
He joined the Entomological Society of London in the year
1850, and he also became a member of the Entomological Club.
His writings on Phytophaga are known throughout the world,
and he described an enormous number of new species of the
group. At the time he commenced amassing a collection, little
was known of the Entomology of the tropics ; and it is probable
that neither he nor anyone else realised the enormous number of
species that would have to be dealt with. As these continued to
arrive, in apparently ever-increasing numbers, an ordinary man
would have been dismayed, and might have abandoned the task
he had undertaken as being hopeless of accomplishment; but
Baly worked on quietly and steadily, and has, undoubtedly,
accomplished much.
Many years ago, Mr. Baly disposed of his collection of
CassididoG to Mr. E. W. Janson ; and about the same time, or
subsequently, the Sagridse, Chrysomelidse, Eumolpidse, and
2 do triE EJNTOMOLOGtst*
other groups, including the Halticidae, were purchased for the
National collection in the British Museum; and the Hispidse
subsequently became part of the entomological property of the
nation. After parting with these portions of his earlier
collections, Baly chiefly worked at the Galerucidse, and has left
a large collection of these insects in the possession of his family
at Warwick.— D. S.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
The Chemistry of Insect Colours. — I need hardly say that I am
quite delighted that Mr. Coste has taken up this subject, and I wish him
all success. If the facts prove in any cases contrary to my hypotheses, so
much the worse for the hypotheses ; and certainly I desire to get at nothing but
the truth. With regard to my statements quoted (Entom. 129), I believe it is
true that the white of several Lepidoptera may be turned yellow by a caustic
alkali ; at all events, Melanargia and Lyccena spp. But the best account of
this is the original one of Mr. Coverdale's (Entom. xvii. 204). I believe T
was quite accurate, also, about the Colias being turned red by cj^anide, and
I beg Mr. Coste to experiment again with the cyanide in a closed heated
bottle. At a meeting of the Brooklyn Entomological Society, October 6th,
1885 (Ent. Amer. I., 159), Mr. Hy. Edwards exhibited a Colias eurydice
thus turned red. On a similar effect produced on Hymenoptera, see
R. H. Stretch, ' Canadian Entomologist,' 1886, pp. 55, 56. There is one
way in which Mr. Coste 's diflQculty about the effect of the damp cyanide
bottle on Colias may possibly receive an explanation, namely, that the red
colour was produced by an impurity in the cyanide, perhaps some
ammoniacal compound. Mr. Geo. Gore (" Electro-Metallurgy ") says that,
according to Messrs. Glassford and Napier, commercial white cyanide of
potassium generally contains about 35 per cent., and often as much as
60 per cent., of impurities, in the form of carbonate and sulphate of potash,
chloride of potassium, cyanate of potash, ferrocyanide of potassium, and
silica; and if the mixture of salts from which it is made is not dry,
ammoniacal compounds are also formed. Thorpe and Fresenius refer also
to potassium sulphide as an impurity. Mr. Coste, in regarding himself as
practically alone in his new line of research, has apparently overlooked the
excellent investigations of Mr. F. Gowland Hopkins, recorded in the
* Chemical News,' August 2nd, 1889, p. 57 ; and also the researches of
A. Berge, ' Compt. rend. Soc. Entom. Belg.,' November, 1885.— T. D. A.
CocKERELL ; Wcst Cliff, Colorado, April 18, 1890.
The Sallow Season of 1890. — Sallows were in full bloom as early
as the middle of February in the South-west of England (Entom. 136),
but at the time when florescence of the Salix was more general, the nightly
meteorological conditions were not altogether favourable. It was thought,
therefore, advisable to ascertain if the usual lepidopterous visitors to the
sign of " The Catkin " were less numerous than in other years ; and with
this object in view, some thirty entomologists, residing in various parts of
Britain, were invited to report their experience at "sallows" this season.
The majority of the gentlemen written to were courteous enough to reply ;
some, only to say that they had not attempted work at sallows this year ;
Notes, captures, etc. SOI
others, who had interviewed the revellers at the aforesaid hostelry, give
the following accounts of the state of affairs in their respective districts : —
Portsmouth. — Mr. T. H. Larcom gives me the following account of his
work at the sallows this season. T was, unfortunately, too busy to visit
them myself. March llth : At Alder Marsh, near Gosport, TcBiiiocampa
cruda, one ; Hybernia marginaria [progemmaria), common. March 14th :
In the Forest of Bere, near Barn Green, T. cruda, abundant ; T. gothicaf
common ; Cerastis vaccinii, C. spadicea, Oonepteryx UhatriXy and Scopelo-
soma satellitia, common. The sallow (one bush only) was crowded; a sheet
was obtained and the insects shaken into it, and taken into the house to be
examined ; a strong and cold north-east wind was blowing at the time.
On March 15th, at the same place, a specimen of Nyssia hispidaria was
found on a trunk by Mr. Larcoui ; this is the first record of this insect in
this district that I have met with. March 26th: In company with two
members of the P. and G. Natural Science Society, at Alder Marsh,
T. gothica, common ; T. stabilis, two ; T, instahilis, one ; T. rubricosa, one.
April 10th: In the Forest of Bere, Anticlea badiata, one, on sallow;
H. marginaria YSLT.fuscata, one male. — W. T. Peakce; 111, High Street,
Gosport.
Bristol. — Owing to illness, I did not begin night-collecting till the
36th of March, when I found some of the sallow-blooms already partially
over, but a good deal of it was in full blossom. Common moths were cer-
tainly abundant enough. Tcsniocampa stabilis, T. gothica, and T. cruda
were in profusion, especially the last-named : and T. munda much commoner
than it usually is here. T. instabilis was rather scarce, Pachnobia rubricosa
not rare ; these, and hybernated specimens of Orthosia vaccinii, were the
only Noctuse I met with on this and the two succeeding nights. The same
species came to sugar on the 29th of March, with the exception of
P. rubricosa. As to Geometrse, I took a few specimens of Eupithecia
abbreviata; Larentia multistrigaria and Anticlea badiata were common.
Though not directly connected with sallows, I may mention that I met with
L. multistrigaria, as early as February 17th, at light; and until quite
recently have been taking wasted specimens of A. badiata. From the
appearance of some of the moths on March 26th, I should imagine that
they had been out some time ; I know that sallow was in bloom here on
the 12th March. I shortly after left this neighbourhood for a few weeks,
and since my return here have met with specimens of Tceniocampa cruda,
T. gothica, and Pachnobia rubricosa at light ; yesterday evening (19th)
seeing a specimen of T. stabilis on a gas-lamp. — R. M. Prideaux ;
9, Vyvyan Terrace, Clifton, Bristol, May 20, 1890.
Devon. — The sallows in Devon were in bloom so early this year that, to
me, they were useless. I was quite unable to be out at dusk. The few that
blossomed as late as April were not attractive to moths. All I took were a
few specimens each of T. gothica and T. rubricosa. Last year the list was
T. gothica, T. rubricosa, T. gracilis, T. munda, and T. cruda. D. rubiginea
has not yet fallen to my lot. — M. Craske ; Newacott, Bridgerule, Hols-
worthy, Devon.
Chester. — I consider 1890 as one of the most disappointing years for
sallow-work that I can remember. In the Chester district the catkins were
well open, in sheltered spots, on the 15th of March. At night I examined
the flowers, first with the aid of a lamp, and then by beating the higher
branches, whilst an inverted umbrella was held beneath. My captures^
^di THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
arranged according to frequency, were Tceniocampa gothica, T. stabilis,
T. incerta (many forms being almost as grey as T. populeti), and
T. pulverulenta {cruda). This was my most successful night with the
Tseuiocampidse, for cold east and north-east breezes set in, and lasted, with
little intermission, till April 21st, when the catkins were over. Star- and
moon-light also unusually clashed with the sallows, and materially aided in
keeping the moths "at home." I did not see T. gracilis at all, or, I might
add, Triphosa duhitata, which usually shows itself on the sallow-bloom, with
a brilliancy and gloss certainly not suggestive of a hybernated insect. On
the night of March 28th, Anticlea badiata was unusually abundant with
us ; and Cidaria suffumata, another catkin Geometer, appeared in force on
April 18th. Larvae, probably of Xanthia fulvago (cerago), have been
common this season. I usually got one or two in the changing the catkins
I used as food for larvae oi Agrotis ashworthii. — J. Abkle; Chester.
Botherham. — As there are no sallows within ten miles of this place, I
have not been able to devote more than one night to them this season. The
following insects were observed at the catkins: — Scopelosoma satellitiat
Cerastis vaccinii, Tcsniocampa cruda, T. gothica, T, instabilis, T. stabilis,
these were very abundant ; T. rubricosa, T. munda, T. populeti, fairly so ;
and of Pachnobia leucographa, four or five were taken. A few trees sugared
in the neighbourhood of the sallows were visited by T. munda, T. stabilis,
S. satellitia, and C. vaccinii. — J. N. Young; 85, Fitzwilliam Road,
Rotherham.
North Wales. — I have worked sallows on four evenings this spring ; the
captures were as follows : — March 27th and 28th : two very favourable
evenings, T. gothica was abundant, T. stabilis and G. vaccinii fairly so ; I
also took a few T. pulverulenta, two T. munda, and two T. gracilis.
April 6th : I did not get out till after midnight, when I found two
T. gracilis, one T. dubitata ; with gothica, stabilis, and vaccinii, as before.
The above were captured near Ruthin. J spent the remainder of April at
Bolton, Lancashire. East winds prevailed till the end of the month.
April 29th was a favourable evening, although the sallows were very nearly
over ; I took about two dozen P. rubricosa, and a few T. gothica. —
J. E. R. Allen ; Ruthin, North Wales.
Aberdeen. — So far as my experience goes, this appears to be a poor
district for early moths. My captures at the sallows in April were : — ■
Pachnobia rubricosa, Tceniocampa gothica, Cerastis vaccinii, and Calocampa
exoleta. Larentia muUistrigaria, Cidaria suffumata, Diurnea fagella, were
common, but did not occur at the sallows. — L. G. Esson ; 6, Stafford Street,
Aberdeen, N.B.
Hypsipetes soedidata. — Mr. South, in reference to Hypsipetes
elutata, writes (Entom. 170) of '* the sallow and bilberry forms." I assume
the Editor to be exact in his terms, but has he been explicit enough in his
paragraph ? He speaks of '* the smaller specimens, whose larvae feed on
bilberry," and of "the large sallow-feeding specimens"; and he asks his
readers to make certain observations. But, surely, when collecting elutata in
a district where both sallow and bilberry occur, one is not to put down all the
small specimens as the "bilberry form," and the large specimens as " the
sallow form." 1 collect elutata in a locality where both sallow and bilberry
occur, but could make no useful observation as to whether one " form " has
passed its " zenith " before the other, if size alone is to be the criterion. If
there be any other mode of differentiating these forms, I should be grateful
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. ^0^
for a further description of the " bilberry form," as I must confess my
ignorance of it. — A. B. Farn ; Fairlawn, Stone, Greenhithe.
I have not particularly noticed the difference in the times of emer-
gence between the bilberry and sallow forms of Hypsipetes sordidata
{= elutata), as they do not vary very much here, except on the moorlands,
where almost everything is later in its appearance. The most curious
thing about this species here is that sallow nearly always produces the
perfectly black variety, infuscata; and bilberry, especially on the moors,
beautifully marked varieties. In a wood close by, in which no bilberry
occurs, I annually take a goodly number of larvae, which always produce
the black form, and never any other. I hope this year to have larvae both
from bilberry and sallow, both from the moors and woods, and will pay
attention to Mr. South 's observations (Entom. 170). — A. E. Hall;
Norbury, Sheffield, May, 1890.
Heptalus lupulinus in August.— On the 1st of August last, I took
a specimen of Hepialus lupulinus at Lyndhurst, Hants ; and another speci-
men of the same insect on the 17th of August at Broadstairs, Kent. Are
not these dates very late for this species ? The authorities give May and
June as the months for its appearance. I may add that both insects were
in good condition. — H. A. Hill ; 133, Haverstock Hill, N.W., May 4, 1890.
Spilonota pauperana. — 1 had the pleasure of taking a pair of this
insect on the 23rd April ; from their condition I should say they had
recently emerged. I believe it is more than twenty years since this species
has been taken in the London district, and I know of none from elsewhere. I
beat them from rose, and I am sorry to say I failed to take more. S. pauperana
is evidently a very sluggish insect, as they made no attempt to fly when
beaten out. The locality is not open to the public, which must be my
excuse for not mentioning it. It is in the neighbourhood of the south of
London. — C. Fenn ; Evenden House, Burnt Ash Hill, Lee.
Deilephila livornica near Manchester. — I have recently added to
my collection a fine specimen of D. livornica [lineata), kindly given to me
by Mr. Herbert Massey, who took the moth at rest in his garden in
Burnage, near Manchester, on June 15th, 1878. The rarity of the insect,
together with the fact of not recollecting any other record of its having been
taken in this locality, must be my apology for mentioning a capture made
twelve years ago. — B. H. Crabtree; The Acacias, Levenshulme, Man-
chester. [The capture of four other specimens in 1878 will be found
recorded as follows : — Knutsford, June 11th, Ent. Mo. Mag. xv. 72 ;
Glamorganshire, August, Entom. xi. 190 ; near Morpeth, August 18th,
Entom, xii. 18 ; near Hartlepool, July, Entom. xii. 19. — Ed,]
The PuPiE OF Hybocampa milhauseri and Cerura. — When I
wrote ray note on H. milhauseri [Kntom. 91), I was under the impression that
the pupa of Cerura was always rounded and dome-shaped in front, and though
I have no note on the subject, I believe as regards the British species this
impression is correct, and this is confirmed by an examination of the pupa of
bicuspis, the only British species of which I happen to have a living pupa, and
which is smoothly rounded in front ; but on examining a pupa of multiscripta,
a North-American species, I find that it has a keeled projection in front, that
is a very fair rough blocking out of the special structure of milhauseri. From
the oral region there originates a ridge reaching forwards, then at a right
JJ04 'THE fiNToMOLOGIST.
angle it proceeds backwards, merging again in the general surface at the
extreme top of the pupa ; on either side of this ridge is a slight hollow.
The angular point of the ridge is rough and rounded, and is quite unsuited
for such use as that of milhauseri ; but there would appear reason to believe
that this is really a rudimentary form of the *' sardine-opener " of that
species, and very possibly it has some use in more accurately directing the
action of the cocoon-softening fluid; the cocoon contains wood-chips, just
as those of our own Ceruras do. I must leave it to American entomologists,
if they have not already done so, to define the function of this process,
unless some one will generously send me a supply of cocoons, when I will
do my best to make the observation. — T. A. Chapman; Firbank, Hereford.
FooD-PLA¥T OF Plusia ikterrogationts. — The larva of P. interroga-
ttonis has never been found feeding on the nettles here ; they are always
found on heather. It seems that some entomologists do not know the
proper food-plant of this species, so I thought I would make it known. —
L. G. EssoN ; 6, Stafford Street, Aberdeen, N.B.
[Mr. McArthur says that Plusia interrogationis has the habit of resting
on birch stumps, in places where the heather has been burned down during
the previous year, and that the female moths deposit their ova on the
young heather growing in such spots. He adds that larvae of the species
may be swept off the older heather, but these are almost invariably
ichneumoned. — Ed.]
Plusia iota Larva feeding on Hawthorn. — It is probably not
generally known that the larva of P. iota will feed and thrive on hawthorn
(Cratcegus oxyacantha). This fact was indeed new to me until about a week
ago, when I received fifty larvae of the insect in question from East York-
shire. Among other plants which, as the leaves were more or less consumed,
I failed to recognise, was a sprig or two of hawthorn, and with this plant
the larvae have since been supplied. Several are now in pupse, and all are fast
approaching maturity. I may add that I have occaRionally found larvae of
P. iota on hedge wound-wort [Stachys sylvatica). — R. S. ; May 20, 1890.
DiANTHCEciA CARPOPHAGA, Bork., var. CAPSOPHILA, Dup. — Referring
to D. capsophila, in the * Entomologist's Annual ' for 1864, Dr. H. G.
Knaggs says : — " It is by no means unlikely that this species may
eventually prove to be a variety of D. carpophaga ; but it seems advisable
to hear what the continental authors, who have so unanimously adopted it
as a * good species,' have to say in the matter, before rashly expunging it
from our lists." — R. S.
Macroglossa stellatarum.— My brother and myself took thirty-one
larvae of Macroglossa stellatarum^ in vaiious stages of growth, between the
1st and 5th of September, last year, in South Devon. Four of these died,
but the rest turned into pupae, from which the moths emerged at different
periods, between October 20th and November 26th, nearly always in the
afternoon. We also captured thirteen P. actceon in the same locality. —
C. M. Wells; Hurstfield, The Avenue, Gipsy Hill, April 28, 1890.
Small example of the early brood of Tephrosia crepuscularia.
' — Of Tephrosia crepuscularia, I captured on 19th April, here, a very
diminutive specimen, only measuring l-^'g inch from tip to tip of the wings,
it is one of the brown forms, and the markings are much suffused. I
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 206
have, before, occasionally seen small forms at this season of the year. That
this moth is certainly afifected by locality, as stated during the Tephrosia
controversy, is very evident the more one observes it, and that even in
southern forms themselves. — T. B. Jefferts ; Clevedon.
Is EUPITHECIA ABIETARIA, GoZe, IDENTICAL WITH E. TOGATA, HubuJ
— Some of the specimens comprised in my series of E. togata agree very
well with E. ahietana, Goze, whilst other examples connect these with
typical E. togata. All the specimens are from Scotch localities, and the
majority were bred from pupse. The variation in size is considerable ; some
examples hardly expand three-quarters of an inch, others measure one inch
and a quarter. In the large specimens the tips of the wings appear rather
more pointed than they do in the small specimens. Some had very bright
red bands when they were fresh, but these have now lost their brilliancy.
The central black spot of fore wings is always present, but varies in size ;
in some specimens it unites with one on the costa, and forms a short black
fascia. The first and second lines are much nearer together in some speci-
mens than in others, and in a few examples these lines exhibit a tendency
to unite below the middle. From all I can ascertain of the appearance and
habits of the larva of E. abietaria, there is nothing to separate it from that of
E. togata, and I certainly fail to find that the two insects are specifically
distinct in the perfect state. Compared with abietaria, togata is said to be
larger, with bright red bands and larger central black spots, but none of
these differences appear to hold good, as there are gradations in expanse
and modification of markings. On the Continent, togata is much less
frequently met with than abietaria. — Richard South.
Vitality of the Larva of Spilosoma fuliginosa. — In the January
and February numbers of * Insect Life,' — a periodical edited by Professor
Riley, and published by the U. S. Department of Agriculture, — is an
interesting account of the life-history of S. fuliginosa, Linn. The writer,
Mr. 0. Lugger, says that in the district of St. Anthony, Minn., the species
occurs commonly. Late in the autumn, *• when the side-walks are covered
every morning with a thick layer of frost, the larvae are rather abundant.
They leave their hiding-places and crawl over the side-walks ; at this time
they are frequently themselves incrusted with crystals of ice. Some few
days ago, with the thermometer ranging from 6° to 3° below zero, I found
several of them crawling slowly through the snow. When the side-walks,
made of boards, become warmed up by the rays of the sun, the caterpillars
crawl away to the shady and cooler part." As an instance of the remarkable
vitality of the larva, Mr. Lugger observes that on December 3rd, 1889, he
found *' in a little depression of the soil a clear cake of ice, and embedded in
it the larva of the above species. By means of a hot iron I separated a
cube of ice with the enclosed larva, and took it to my ofl&ce. The cater-
pillar was entirely and solidly enclosed by the ice ; no air-spaces could be
detected among the hair. How long the caterpillar had been enclosed I
could not say. Left the cube of ice in front of my window, where the tem-
perature sunk for two days to 11° below zero. Later the weather moderated,
and during the day a little ice would melt near the caterpillar, but never
exposing it to the air. After being enclosed for fourteen days, I carefully
melted the ice, and removed the caterpillar to a piece of blotting-paper. In
less than thirty minutes the larva was crawling about, not injured in the
least. Yet, to escape further experimentation, it has shown good sense and
206 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Spun up, and transformed into a pupa, healthy to all appearances." From
the description of the imago it would seem that the American representative
of S.fuliginosa is identical with that from Scotland ; both are referable to
var. borealis, Stand. — R. S.
Locality Labels for Speotmens. — I have often wondered this
question has not been raised before, as I am convinced any publisher
would make it pay if it was done in a large systematic way. Would it not
be advisable to have a label printed for each county, and, where a large one,
indicated by N., S., &c., for north and south, &c. ; also, such as London,
Manchester, Aberdeen, &c., for the towns where there are a considerable
number of entomologists residing. It would be a good plan to leave a
space for the strata on which the insects were taken, — chalk, clay, &c. ;
and of course a place for the date. Size, too, is a most important item, as
they cannot be too small, for labelling the Micros, very well. About f in.
by I- in. would be ample for any insect, if not too large. Some collectors
prefer an excessively minute label, which they pin underneath the
specimen ; this means the insect being taken up each time reference is
made, which does not improve the specimen. In rare cases this can be done
as well : but the label pinned at the side of the specimen or series from a
particular locality facilitates reference considerably, and is, I think, the
better plan.— A. E. Hall; Norbury, Sheffield, May, 1890.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — May 7th, 1890. — Capt. Henry
J. Elwes, F.L.S., Vice-President, in the chair. Mr. W. G. Blatch, of
914, Green Lanes, Birmingham ; Mr. F. J. S. Chatterton, of 132, Queen
Victoria Street, E.G. ; Mr. Charles Fenn, of Burnt Ash Hill, Lee, S.E. ;
and Mr. George B. Routledge, of 50, Russell Square, W.C., were elected
Fellows ; and Mr. A. E. Stearns was admitted into the Society. The
Secretary read a letter from the Vicar of Arundel, asking for advice as to
the course to be taken to get rid of the larvae of a beetle which were
destroying the beams of the Parish Church. Mr. C. 0. Waterhouse said
he had already been consulted on the question, and had advised that the
beams should be soaked with paraffin oil. Dr. Sharp, Mr. M'Lachlan,
Dr. P. B. Mason, and the Chairman made some remarks on the subject.
Dr. Sharp exhibited specimens of Caryoborus lacerdcB, a species of
BruchidgB, and the nuts from which they had been reared. He stated that
three of these nuts had been sent him from Bahia by the late Senor Lacerda,
about six years ago ; that one of the beetles had effected its exit from the
nut during the voyage ; a second had recently emerged, after the nuts had
been in this country for five years ; and that a third had undergone its
metamorphosis and died within the nut. Dr. Sharp also exhibited several
specimens of Diptera collected by Mr. Herbert Smith in St. Vincent, and
read a letter from him to Mr. Godman on the subject of the vast number
of species of this order which he had recently collected in that island.
Mr. M'Lachlan, Dr. Mason, Mr. Waterhouse, and Capt. Elwes took part
in the discussion which ensued. Mr. R. F. Lewis, on behalf of Mr. W. M.
Maskell, of Wellington, New Zealand, exhibited and read notes on about
twenty-five species of Coccidae from that colony. He also exhibited some
specimens of the larvae and images of Icerya purchasi, Maskell, obtained
SOCIETIES. 207
from Natal, where the species had proved very destructive to orange, lemon,
aud other fruit trees. He also showed specimens of the larvae of an allied
species from Natal, originally assigned by Mr. Douglas to the genus
Ortonia, but which Mr. Maskell was inclined to regard as a new species of
Icerya. Mr. M'Lachlan aud the Chairman commented on the interesting
nature of the exhibition, and the importance of a knowledge of the parasites
of injurious insects, in connection with which special mention was made of
the researches and discoveries of Prof. Riley. The Secretary exhibited, on
behalf of Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell, of Colorado, a large collection of insect-
galls, and read a letter from Mr. Cockerell on the subject. Dr. Mason said
he should be happy to take charge of these galls, with a view of rearing the
insects and reporting the results. Mr. H. W. Bates communicated a paper
entitled " On new Species of Cicindelidse." — H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—April ^ithj 1890.— J. T. Carrington, F.L.S., President, in the chair.
Mr. F. Warne exhibited a melanic variety of Hemerophila abruptaria,
Thnb., taken in the London district. Mr. Barrett asked whether this
species had been recorded for any other neighbourhood. Mr. Briggs, in
reply, said it was generally known that it occurred in the north and east of
London only. Mr. Carrington, referring to the variety hadita of SpUosoma
luhricipeda, Esp., remarked that between 1860 and 1870 this particular
variety only occurred in a timber-yard close to the railway station at York ;
he had recently visited the neighbourhood, and was interested to find that,
although the timber-yard had been taken by the railway company, the
variety now occurred in fair numbers throughout the whole district, showing
the gradual establishment of certain forms of variation. Mr. Tugwell
exhibited specimens of the common butter-burr (Petasites vulgaris, Desf.),
and made some remarks thereon, mentioning that it was the food-plant of
Hydrcecia petasitis, Dbl. Mr. Tutt said that at Sheffield the species was
taken in the factory yards on the plants growing among the refuse, but very
rarely among the larger plants growing on the river banks. Mr. Rice, on behalf
of Mr. H. Syer Cuming, exhibited, among other documents, the original
rules and constitution of the Aurelian Society, bearing date June 1st, 1801 ;
the rules and objects of the Entomological Society of London, founded on
the Aurelian Society, and dated May Ist, 1806,— both being signed by the
founders of the two Societies; a printed book of bye-laws of the latter
Society, date 1807; an autograph letter and circular, signed by A. H.
Haworth, dissolving the Entomological Society of London, date April 10th,
1806; a priced catalogue of Haworth 's collection, sold at Stevens', June
23rd, 1834, and ten following days ; and a catalogue of insects belonging
to the Entomological Society, sold at Stevens', April 16th, 1858. Mr. R.
Adkin read a paper on the " Occasional Abundance of certain Species of
Lepidoptera in the British Islands." [See abstract of this paper on first
page of the present number.] Messrs. South, Tugwell, Barrett, Carrington,
and others took part in the discussion which followed.
May 8th, 1890.— The President in the chair. Messrs. S. G. C. Russell,
of Balham ; G. C Dennis, of York ; and J. H. Rowntree, of Scarborough,
were elected members. Mr. Charles Fenn exhibited Hedya pauperana,
Dup. Mr. Moore, galls of the so-called whistling tree, Acacia fistula, from
Lower Egypt. Mr. Clarke, two series of plants from Cambridge and
Penzance. Mr. Step, Arum maculatum, L., and gave an interesting
account of the economy of the species. — H. W. Barker, Uon. Sec,
208 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
BlEMINGHAM ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. — April 21sf, 1890. — Mr. W.
G. Blatch, President, in the chair. Mr. E. C. Rye showed Brephos
parthenias from Cannock, &c. Mr. R. C. Bradley showed Diptera,
including Thereva ardea from Wyre Forest, new to Britain; Sapromyza
platycephala from Moseley, also new to Britain ; and Microdon devius
from Wyre Forest, confirmed as British. Mr. W. G. Blatch showed
Coleoptera from Cannock, — Cymurdis vaporariorum, Agathidium globosum,
Homalota diversa, and Stenus guynimeri, all new to the district. Mr. R.
Freer read a paper on " Sexual Dimorphism," in which he contended that
the pigment in the wings of insects was a development of waste energy ;
that females, which required much energy fo: the reproduction of species,
and the development of the larger size necessary for that purpose, had little
to spare for pigment, and were usually light ; while males, which were
smaller and used less energy in the reproiuction of species, were usually
darker. Much discussion followed the paper, in which Messrs. W. G.
Blatch, Neville Chamberlain, H. Stone, E. C. Rye, and 0. J. Wainwright
took part.
May 6th, 1890.— Mr. W. G. Blatch, the President, in the chair. Mr.
John Galbraith, of Harborne, was elected a member. Mr. Neville
Chamberlain showed Ennomos quercinaria and Ematurga atomaria, in
both of which species the males are larger than the females, and which,
therefore, weighed against Mr. Freer 's theory of sex, as given at the last
meeting. Mr. R. C. Bradley showed Diptera, — Xylota signis from Sutton,
and Xabiens sylvarum from Wyre Forest. Mr. W. G. Blatch showed
Coleoptera, — Calodera cBthiops, Oocypoda lentula, Dimopsis erosa, and
Homalota diversa, all from Knowle. Mr. G. H. Kenrick read a paper on
" South African Butterflies," in which he gave an account of a recent
journey there, and exhibited the species taken, which included Danais
chrysippus (the commonest of all), many Acraeas, Papilios, Pieridas, &c. ;
also the moths, Deiopeia pulchella and Sterrha sacraria. He showed
several very interesting cases of mimicry. Mr. Chamberlain said he had
been in Egypt at the time Mr. Kenrick was at the Cape; there he saw
very few butterflies, but of those few Danais chrysippus, as at the Cape,
was much the commonest. — Colbean J. Wainwkight, Hon. Sec.
OBITUARY.
Entomology has lost an able, ardent, and most unselfish student in
Mr. William Berry Farr, J.P. and Town Clerk of Maidenhead, who
died on the 17th instant. Mr. Farr's collection of insects is large and in
admirable order. Though of late years Entomology has supplied the
chief occupation of his leisure time, and has carried him to almost every
district in England, he was in fact an all-round naturalist of wide know-
ledge and experience. A fourteen years' residence in India afforded him
an exceptional opportunity of studying in particular the habits of insects,
birds, and reptiles, very many specimens of which attest the energy and
success of his pursuit. Of late years Mr. Farr has been in failing health,
but his favourite quest afforded him gratification till the last days of his
earnest, manly, and well-spent life. We understand that his large col-
lection, both of arms and objects illustrative of various branches of Natural
History, may be acquired by the town of Maidenhead on the sole condition
that a proper place is provided for its reception.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIIL] JULY, 1890. [No. 826.
COLEOPTEEA COLLECTED BY MR. PRATT ON THE UPPER
YANG-TSZE, AND ON THE BORDERS OF TIBET.
By H. W. Bates, F.R.S., F.L.S.
The following is a list, with descriptions of new species, of
the Coleoptera belonging to the three sections Geodephaga,
Lamellicornia, and Longicornia, lately received by Mr. Leech,
from his collector Mr. Pratt, in the interior of China. The
greater number were collected at Chia-Ting-Fu, on the Min River,
a tributary of the Yang-tsze, near the eastern border of Tibet
and on the Wa-shan mountains, fifty miles south-west of that
city. The two localities are near Mou-pin, a district in which
French missionaries have long been settled, and whence numerous
collections have been received in Paris and described by French
entomologists. Many of the most striking forms enumerated in the
following list are consequently already known, though until now
wanting in English collections.
Family CICINDELID^.
* CiCINDELA JAPANENSIS, Chaudoiv,
Ichang. Found also near Fu-chau.
The examples sent are intermediate between the typical G,
japanensis of Nipon and the form G. maritima of the widely -distri-
buted G, hyhrida. They differ from the Japanese species in the
reddish coppery colour of the upper surface, though they agree with
it in the subparallel form and rather fine granulation, and in colour
of under-side and legs. The middle fascia of the elytra is less bent
towards the apex, and the humeral lunule is generally entire,
though sometimes interrupted.
CiCINDELA SUMATRENSIS, Herhst,
Ichang.
Family CARABIDiE.
Nebria pulcherrima. Bates, Trans. Ent. Soc. 1873, p. 236.
Ichang. Found also in Japan, and constant in its coloration,
ENTOM. — JULY, 1890. Q
310 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
— testaceous-yellow, with a round black spot on each elytron a
little behind the middle and contiguous to the suture.
Carabus tientei, Thomson.
Chia-ting Fu (1000 feet), and Wa-shan (6000 feet).
Mr. Pratt had previously taken this species at Ichang and
Kiu-Kiang, lower down the Yang-tsze. At Ichang it is smaller,
and the peculiar sinuation of the elytral apex in the female, with
tooth-like projection of the outer angles, is much less developed.
Kiu-Kiang examples measure 37 millims. ; those from Chia-ting
Fu and Wa-shan are from 36 to 40 millims., but Ichang speci-
mens are only 27 — 30 millims. Thomson gives 30 — 32 millims.
as the size of the insect he described. The colour is nearly
always black, with a slight silky gloss, but individuals occur of a
bluish hue, and some have a purple-coppery tinge on the sides of
the thorax and elytra. In the largest individuals the sides of the
striae are generally free from the row of minute granules which
are seen in the smaller ones and in C, protenes, and which
give the appearance of punctured strise, the striae proper being
constantly impunctate.
Carabus protenes. Bates, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1889, p. 217.
Wa-shan and Chia-ting Fu. Taken previously at Ichang.
This species is apparently closely allied to C. clelavayi
(Fairmaire), from Yunnan. The thorax varies considerably in
outline, being sometimes — as in the description above cited —
elongate, slightly dilated before the middle, and thence narrowed
to the apex, but in other examples broader anteriorly, and in others
decidedly but gradually narrowed behind, with sinuated margin,
and narrow, acute, and deflected hind angles. Occasionally the
side carinae of the triplets of the elytra are depressed and sub-
interrupted, as occurs in C, monilis and allied species.
Carabus fiduciarius, Thomson,
Chia-ting Fu. A widely-distributed Chinese species.
Carabus prattianus, n. sp.
Closely allied to C. tientei, and of the same greatly elongated form,
with (in female) strongly simiated and dentated apices of elytra ; the thorax
is also similar in being broadly rotundate-dilated in front and strongly nar-
rowed behind, with very little sinuation and obtuse deflexed hind angles, the
surface minutely and irregularly rugulose. But it differs conspicuously in the
sculpture of the elytra, which consists on each side of three rows of large
convex tubercles, separated from one another, and from the sutural and
lateral spaces, by a strongly elevated carina ; the lateral marginal space has
a shorter row of similar but smaller tubercles, followed by a minutely gran-
ulated margin; the sutural area is depressed and transversely rugulose.
Long. 38 millim. $ .
Ichang. A single example.
COLEOPTERA COLLECTED ON THE BORDERS OF TIBET. 311
Carabus mecynodes, n. sp.
Allied to C. davidis (DeyroUe). In form the male, though relatively
equally elongate, is more cylindrical than that of C. tientei and C.protenes,
the elytra not being perceptibly widened behind, and the convexity sloping to
the apex. The thorax is very similar in form to that of C. iientei, being
broad and rounded in front and narrowed behind, with little sinuosity, to the
subobtuse hind angles, but the surface is much more faintly rugulose. The
elytra have the same type of sculpture, viz., three chain-striae on each,
separated from one another, and from the sutural and marginal spaces, by
three carinae, but the striae are much less deeply incised. The lateral space
exterior to the three carinae is minutely granulated in lines. The apex (in
the male) is sinuated rather more strongly than in the same sex of C. tientei.
In colour the species is very different, the head and thorax being dark
bluish green and the elytra purple-coppery. The palpi, dilated anterior
tarsi, and ventral grooves are as in C. tientei and allies. Long. 30 millim. ^ .
Wa-shan. Three examples, all males.
Carabus vigilax, n. sp.
A species of the same group as C. tientei (subg. Morphocarabus, Gehin),
but distinguished from all the others by its very prominent eyes and cordate -
quadrate thorax, strongly sinuate and narrowed behind, with outstanding
and subacute hind angles. Elongate, slender, elytra moderately elongated,
convex behind the middle, and flattened at the sides and apex ; black, neck
constricted ; thorax faintly coriaceous ; elytra obliquely subtruncated at the
apex, each with three chain-striae, and with four series of triple carinae, the
lateral one granulated and less regular, the striae very faintly punctured ; the
large foveae of the chain-striae impinge in some cases on the adjoining carina
on each side, and therefore show an approximation to the type of sculpture
characteristic of the sylvestris group (subg. Oreocarabus, Gehin). The legs
are elongate ; the anterior tarsi of the male have four nearly equally dilated
joints ; the 4th to 6th segments of the abdomen have a curved transverse
groove : the terminal joints of the palpi are very slightly dilated, even in the
male, and the antennae in the same sex are simple and elongated. Long.
22 millim. <^ , ? .
Wa-shan, alt. 6000 feet ; Chia-ting Fu, 1000 feet.
CoPTOLABRus PUSTULiFER, Lucas, Ann. See. Ent. Fr. 1867 and
1872, p. 293, t. 14, f. 12.
Mr. Pratt obtained a fine series of this very remarkable species
both at Chia-ting Fu and at Wa-shan, all the examples being con-
formable to the description and figure given by Lucas above cited.
CoPTOLABRus PRINCIPALIS, Bates, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1889, p. 216.
Ichang. Further specimens of this species, distinguished by
the elegance of the elytral sculpture from the allied species of
similar emerald-green and golden-coppery colours, have been
received from the same locality, the neighbourhood of Ichang,
whence came the original examples.
COPTOLABRUS LONGiPENNis, Chaudoiv, Ann. Soc. Ent. Fr. 1863,
p. 449.
Ichang. In the ' Proceedings Zool. Soc' 1889, p. 217, I have
given the reasons for referring the insect previously taken by
Mr. Pratt, at Ichang, to the species described by Baron Chaudoir.
Q 2
212 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Calosoma chinensis, Kirhy.
Many examples from Wa-shan and Chia-ting Fu. The spe-
cies is common in eastern China, and in the north as far as the
Amur.
Calosoma thibetanum, Fairmairef Ann. Soc. Ent. Belg. xxxi.
p. 92.
Apparently an abundant species at Wa-shan and Chia-ting Fu ;
there is also one example in the collection received from Ichang.
The species was first met with by the French missionaries at
Moupin, near the Tibetan frontier, and is distinguished from
C. lugens (Chaud,), and other species of the G. investigator
group, by the angular dilatation of the sides of the thorax and
the non-metallic fovese of the elytra.
Chl^nius n^viger, Morawitz.
Wa-shan, alt. 6000 feet ; Ichang. Found also in Japan.
CHLiENius cosTiGER, Chaudoiv.
Wa-shan, alt. 6000 feet. A widely-distributed insect in
Eastern Asia, occurring from Japan to Cambodia. Sze-chuen
examples resemble those from Cambodia in the thorax being
brilliant green, with little trace of coppery reflections.
Harpalus vicarius, Harold.
Wa-shan, 6000 feet ; also Eastern Siberia and Japan. A
species closely allied to the common European H. ruficornis (Fab.).
The differential characters relied on by Harold are, however, not
constant, some of the Chinese examples having the hind angles
quite as rectangular as British specimens. In Japan individuals
occur with smooth head and centre of thorax ; but others have
finely punctured thoracic disk and the head faintlj^ punctured.
All the Wa-shan examples are like the last mentioned.
Harpalus tridens, Morawitz.
Wa-shan. Found also at Ichang and Kiu-Kiang, and in
Japan as far north as Hakodate.
Harpalus chalcentus, Bates, Trans. Ent. Soc. 1873, p. 263.
Ichang. A common species throughout Eastern China, Japan,
and Korea.
Curtonotus nitens, Putzeys,
Ichang. Also a widely distributed species throughout the
Pacific sea-board of Asia.
Pterostichus (?) prattii.
Very near P. simillimus (Fairmaire) , differing in its larger size, more
elongate, though robust, form, and the longer, squarer thorax, with nearly-
rectangular hind angles. Black ; head moderate, much narrowed behind
COLEOPTERA COLLECTED ON THE BORDERS OF TIBET. 213
the eyes ; frontal furrows faintly impressed, flexuous ; antennae nearly half
the length of the bod5^ Thorax as long as broad, gradually and slightly
narrowed behind to the apex of the nearly rectangular angles ; lateral rim
accompanied by a sharply incised furrow ; basal foveas sharply impressed,
two on each side, the inner one long, the outer very short and communicating
with the inner one by a short basal furrow. Elytra elongated, rounded at
the shoulders, obliquely sinuated at apex, broadest far behind the middle,
deeply striated ; scutellar striole null, except a short oblique incision close to
the basal fold ; interstices moderately convex, much narrowed near the apex,
and the 9th narrow throughout ; one dorsal puncture only on the 3rd inter-
stice far behind the middle ; the 8th stria regularly ocellate-punctate.
Beneath nearly smooth. ^ . Terminal ventral segment with a central sharp
carina strongly elevated in the middle. Long. 23 — 26 millim. (^ , ? .
Wa-shan. A large series of examples. The species, like
P. simillimus (Fairm.), is allied to the European P. melas, but it
is a much larger insect than either, and the thorax is differently
shaped. The palpi in the male are somewhat dilated, especially
the labials, and truncated at the apex. The middle episterna are
short and broad.
Trigonotoma dohrnii, Chaudoir.
Ichang. A species of South-eastern China, found at Hong
Kong, and also at Saigon in Cambodia.
DoLiCHus FLAvicoRNis, Fabr,
Wa-shan. Found in the warmer temperate latitudes through-
out Europe and Asia.
CoLPODES AMCENUS, Chaudoir,
"Wa-shan. A widely distributed East Asiatic species. C. su-
perlita, Bates (Proc. Zool. Soc. 1888, p. 883), from Kiu Kiang,
is probably only a variety, in which the produced apex of elytra
is truncated and spined at the sutural angle ; the thorax is, how-
ever, a little shorter and more sinuated behind. The single
example from Wa-shan is nearly intermediate between the two
forms.
Family COPRID^,
Synapsis davidis, Fairmairey Ann. Soc. Ent. Fr. 1878, p. 96,
pi. 14, f. 5.
Wa-shan. Originally taken by Pere David in ** Central
China." The species is very distinct from the Indian forms pre-
viously described, by its subopaque and finely reticulated elytra,
in which the strise are scarcely visible.
Enoplotrupes sinensis, Lucas.
Wa-shan, alt. GOOO feet. Taken by Pere David in the district
of Moupin, Eastern Tibet.
Enoplotrupes variicolor, Fairmaire,
Wa-shan, alt. 6000 feet. Kecorded by Fairmaire as taken in
the interior of China.
(To be concluded.)
214: THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
DESCRIPTIONS OF NEW SPECIES OF PHYTOPHAGOUS
COLEOPTERA RECEIVED BY MR. J. H. LEECH, FROM
CHANG- YANG, CHINA.
By Martin Jacoby, F.E.S.
(Concluded from p. 197.)
Antipha varipennis, n. sp. (PL II., fig. 7.)
Ovate, widened posteriorly, black ; the head, thorax, and the anterior
legs testaceous; elytra strongly punctured, testaceous, the sutural and
lateral margins metallic dark blue. Length, 2 lines.
Var. Entirely dark blue or violaceous ; the head and thorax sometimes
margined with pale fulvous.
Head impunctate, with a deep fovea between the eyes ; antennae rather
more than half the length of the body, black, slender, the second joint very
short, the third slightly shorter than the fourth joint; thorax narrowly
transverse, more than twice as broad as long, the surface rather convex, the
sides somewhat rounded, the angles slightly thickened but not produced, the
anterior ones rather oblique, the disc nearly impunctate ; scutellum black ;
elytra with a scarcely perceptible depression below the base, distinctly
punctured in closely approached rows, testaceous, the sutural margin
narrowly, and the lateral one more broadly, metallic bluish ; under side
black; legs more or less testaceous, the tibise dark, unarmed; anterior
coxal cavities closed.
Of this species two forms are before me, which differ in no
other way from each other except in that of colour ; and although
I have taken the paler form for the type, there are as many speci-
mens of the darker variety contained in this collection. That
both really represent the same species is proved by those speci-
mens of the variety which show traces of the pale colour of the
type, either at the head, thorax, or elytra. From A, pretiosa,
Baly, and most of its allies, A, varipennis differs in the more
convex shape and rounded sides of the thorax, the black
antennae, and entirely or almost impunctate thorax; the much
more transverse thorax and its rounded sides distinguishes the
species from A. puncticollis and its blue varieties.
Numerous specimens of both forms.
Antipha flaviventris, n. sp.
Elongate, piceous below ; above metallic blue ; thorax strongly
punctured {^), or nearly impunctate and bifoveolate (?); elytra closely
and strongly punctured ; abdomen flavous. Length, 2^ — 3 lines.
Mas. Head smooth, impunctate, dark blue (sometimes with a fulvous
tint), frontal elevations transverse ; the clypeus strongly raised, triangular;
antennae half the length of the body, black, the fourth joint one-half longer
than the third, the terminal joints rather shorter and thicker ; thorax nearly
twice as broad as long, the sides straight, the angles tuberculiform, the
the surface with two foveas, rather strongly but sparingly punctured, the
punctures stronger within the depressions ; scutellum black ; elytra but
slightly widened posteriorly, without any depression below the base, dark
metallic blue, strongly punctured in closely : approached rows ; under side
and legs piceous ; abdomen flavous or fulvous ; tibise unarmed, the first joint
of the posterior tarsi as long as the following three joints together ; prosternum
distinct between the coxae ; anterior coxal cavities closed.
NEW SPECIES OF COLEOPTERA FROM CHINA, 215
Feyn. Thorax nearly impunctate, the two depressions deeper; elytra
with a lateral ridge below the middle.
This Antipha has the same coloration as so many species of
Luperus, and the differences between the sexes are rather
considerable, as pointed out above. The flavous abdomen and
more elongate shape separates A, flaviventrls from its allies
inhabiting the same regions.
Six specimens.
LiROETEs, Weise,
The author, who lately has established this genus on a
species of Galeruca allied to Thyllohrotica, does not mention the
distinctly incrassate palpi, nor the length of the first joint of the
posterior tarsi, which is as long as the three following joints
together. Besides the typical form, L. ceneipenniSy two other
species are contained in the present collection.
LiROETES LEEGHI, n. Sp.
Pale fulvous ; the vertex and the scutellum black ; thorax trifoveolate,
nearly impunctate ; elytra metallic green, closely and semi-rugose punctate,
the basal portion raised. Length, 4 lines.
Closely allied to L. ceneipennis, Weise, but at once distinguished by the
black vertex of the head, and the more transversely-shaped thorax ; head
nearly impunctate, the vertex black, shining, the lower portion flavous ; the
clypeus in shape of a transverse swollen ridge ; palpi incrassate ; antennae
two-thirds the length of the body, flavous, the basal joint sometimes stained
with black above ; thorax rather more than twice as broad as long, the sides
nearly straight, the anterior angles rounded and thickened, the posterior one«
obUquely shaped, the surface impressed with some scarcely perceptible
punctures, flavous, the sides and the middle of the base with a more or less
distinct depression ; scutellum black ; elytra metallic green, very closely
punctured, the interstices slightly wrinkled, the basal portion distinctly
raised, the sides with an elongate broad depression, commencing below the
shoulders and not extending to the apex; elytral epipleurse extremely
narrow ; anterior coxal cavities open.
The specimen, which I look upon as the male, has the
abdomen in a too shrivelled-up state to judge of its construction,
but there seems to be the same deep longitudinal cavity as is
found in L. ceneipennis.
A single specimen.
LiROETES FULVIPENNIS, n. Sp. (PI. II., fig. 2.)
Reddish fulvous ; antennae and legs black ; head and thorax impunctate ;
elytra extremely finely punctured, the basal portion scarcely raised.
Length, 4 — 5 lines.
Elongate, scarcely widened posteriorly ; the head impunctate ; antennae
black, two-thirds the length of the body ; thorax twice as broad as long,
impunctate, the posterior angles oblique ; elytra minutely punctured, their
epipleurae extremely narrow ; legs black.
Of this species many specimens were obtained. It agrees in
every respect with the type of the genus, and the male has the
same deep elongate cavity at the abdominal segments, the last
ending into a triangularly -shaped point ; the fourth segment has
Jil6 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
also a small incision at the middle of its margin ; in many speci-
mens the sides of the head are stained with piceous ; but the
general colour of the insect is uniformly darker or paler fulvous,
and shining.
LiROETES -ENEIPENNIS, WciSe. (PI. II., fig. 3.)
A dozen specimens.
MONOLEPTA LEECHI, n.Sp.
Black; the head, the basal three joints of the antennae, the thorax, and
the anterior legs, fulvous ; thorax finely punctured ; elytra closely punctured,
black, a transverse narrow band at the middle, yellowish white. Length,
1^ line.
Var. The abdomen (the last segment excepted) flavous.
Head impunctate, the frontal elevations broad, trigonate, the clypeus
broadly triangular, smooth, labrum and palpi piceous ; antennae extending
to rather more than half the length of the body, black, the basal three joints
fulvous, shining, the second and third joints short, subequal ; thorax twice
as broad as long, the sides very slightly rounded towards the base, the basal
margin regularly rounded, the anterior one straight, the angles not produced ;
scutellum black, impunctate ; elytra very closely and finely punctured, their
epipleurae disappearing below the middle ; the under side and legs black, the
anterior legs falvous ; tibiae with a long spine, the first joint of the posterior
tarsi half the length of the tibiae ; anterior coxal cavities closed.
Closely allied to M, alhofasciata, Jac. From Burmah, but
differing in the colour of the antennse, that of the legs, and the
want of the red colour at the apex of the elytra. In the variety
the abdomen is partly flavous.
A few examples.
Sepharia, Fairmaire,
The author, who established this genus on two species from
China (*Annales de France,' 1889), has said nothing about the
length of the posterior tarsi, which is as necessary to mention as
any other structural character, considering the enormous mass of
described genera of Galerucidse. I have lately received, from the
museum of Calcutta, an insect which answers completely Fair-
maire's description of his Tepharia rubricata from Moupin, with
the exception of the size and colour. The Indian specimen
labelled " KuUu," instead of being 8 mill, is only 6 mill, in
length, and the colour of the upper surface is not fulvous
(*' rougeatre clair "), but very pale testaceous ; all the structural
characters, spots on the elytra and under side agree, however,
exactly with the description ; to which I may add, that the first
joint of the posterior tarsi is much longer than the following
joints together. In the Indian specimen there is also a small
piceous spot at the under surface of the head and the under
side of the thorax at each side, and the abdominal segments are
testaceous, with a black triangular spot at each side (Fairmaire
describes them as black, broadly margined with flavous),
Allophyla, Weise.
This genus is, without doubt, identical with Charidea, Baly
CHEMISTEY OF INSECT COLOURS. 3 1*5'
(Journ. Linn. See, vol. xx. p. 157, 1888), and the species
described by Weise as A. aurora synonymous with C. fortunei,
Baly, likewise from China. The type of the genus was originally
described by Motschulsky as Galeruca punctato-striatat and by
myself as G. multicostata,
Galerucella (Galerucida) nigrimembris, Fairm.
The generic name of Galerucella should evidently be substi-
tuted for Galerucida^ since the author compares his species with
my Galerucella semifulva, and his description agrees with a
species of the latter genus, but certainly not with the genus in
which he places it.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY op INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S.
IV. — Kesults.
In this section the bare results of my experiments will be
found ; whilst in succeeding sections I shall have to explain at
some length what is, in my view, their significance, adducing at
the same time various details that do not appear now, but may
most conveniently be discussed in a resumi after the broad facts
have been stated.
Now I may explain that the result of every experiment was
noted down at once, — that is, as soon as the hour's exposure was
completed. From these notes there were afterwards compiled, in
systematic form, complete tabulations of all the results yielded
by these some thousand or two experiments. I do not propose,
however (having regard to the exigencies of space, and to the
tempers of the compositors), to inflict these tabulations in their
entirety on readers of the ' Entomologist,' who might, too, find
their patience sorely taxed by an attempt to wade through such
a mass of details. Fortunately these results, which it seemed
necessary to have thus tabulated for my own use, admit of being
very greatly condensed for publication. As regards the effects on
black and white, and several minor colours, they may be better
described without formal tabulation ; whilst for the rest, remem-
bering that most of my reagents employed were superfluous, it
will be easy enough to tabulate the results for the half dozen
reagents which I have selected for final use. I will give, first of
all, the bare results, leaving comment and explanation until after-
wards, and taking the colours under the following headings : —
Black, white, yellow and orange, red and pink, chestnut-brown,
green, blue ; and, lastly, a few minor colours, as greyish, brown,
and metallic colours [sic),
1. Black. — Insects experimented on : — Pieris hrassicce, Colias
edusa, Argynnis paphia, Melitcea athalia, Vanessa atalanta,
218 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
V. cardiiif V, urticce, Melanargia galatea, Pararge megara,
P. egerides, Epinephele tiihonus, E. hyperanthes, Coenonympha
pamphiluSf Lyccena artaxerxes, Polyommatus phloeas, Arctia caia,
Spilosoma mentliastrif A crony eta psi^ Triphcena pronuha, Catocala
nupta, Moma orion, Agriopis aprilina, Venilia maculata, Abraxas
grossulariata, Amphidasys betularia, Larentia fluctuataf Tanagra
(Odezia) atrata.
These, it will be noticed, include representatives of all the
great divisions of Macro-Lepidoptera, except the Sphingidse.
The reagents used were, on the average, 14 or 15 to each
insect, making, therefore, a total of nearly 400 experiments on
this colour (sic) ; and there is the most complete unanimity possible
in the behaviour of black throughout all these divergent families,
for in every single instance the result has been nil. In about
seventeen instances I have recorded as the result, "little
faded," " trifle faded (?)," "browner," &c. ; but practically, and
to all intents and purposes, we may say that, so far as these
experiments go, black is utterly unassailable by any reagent
yet used.*
2. White. — Species experimented on: — Pieris brassicce,
Vanessa atalanta^ V. cardui, Limenitis sibylla, Melanargia galatea,
Arctia caia, Spilosoma menthastri, Leucoma salicis, Hepialus
humuli, Acronycta psiy Catocala nupta, Abraxas grossulariata,
Amphidasys betularia, Larentia fluctuata.
Here, also, are included representatives from each of the main
divisions of Macro-Lepidoptera, except the Sphingidse.
The reagents used were, on an average, 16 to each species,
making a total of over 200 experiments on white colouring. The
results are almost as perfectly unanimous as those with black,
and, similarly, the result was always nil. White is as unalterable
as black, and defies equally the action of all my reagents. One
honourable and most interesting exception to this otherwise
universal sullen indifference must, however, be emphasized,—
the white of M, galatea is changed to a deep lemon-yellow by
ammonia, and is affected similarly to a greater or less extent by
potassic hydrate (sodic hydrate), nitric acid, a little by potassic
cyanide, and also by 30 per cent, hydrochloric acid ; but under
the influence of this last reagent the yellow was only temporary,
as the wing went transparent. No other reagents yellowed it. In
a few species with white wings the wing became more or less
* It may, possibly, cause some surprise that I have said nothing of any attempt
at bleaching these colours. As a matter of fact, however, I have— since the first
portions of this article were written — tried a few experiments in that direction,
using as a bleaching agent hydrogen peroxide, which I thought would be in many
ways preferable to chlorine. The results, however, were such as to persuade me
that but little was to be gained by the method, and I therefore have not referred to
it in the text, although contemplating some further experiments therewith before
abandoning it for good.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 219
transparent under treatment ; and in Hepialus hmmili nearly
every reagent removed the white appearance, and left a more or
less transparent wing. Of a doubtful reaction with Amphidasys
betularia I will speak later, when discussing these results.*
There is also a special and independent series of experiments
that I have made as a forlorn hope of discovering something
about this uncompromising pseudo-colour. It was intimated in
section iii. of my paper, which appeared last month, that an attempt
would presently be made to discriminate between the various
whites by staining with iodine. Since that passage was written,
I have conducted a set of experiments with this reagent ; and in
order to make the investigation more thorough, I made parallel
sets of experiments with four other staining reagents, viz.,
logwood, rosein, methyl aniline green, and methyl aniline violet.
These experiments were made under the same conditions as all
previous ones, except that the wings were first damped with
alcohol. After one hour's exposure, the staining fluids were
thoroughly washed off (no such easy matter), and then the
staining effects on the wings were noted.
Logwood. — The results with this were so negative and un-
satisfactory as to deserve no record.
Eosein, — Since this stained everything red indiscriminately,
it is also useless to detail any particulars.
Methyl aniline green and violet, and iodine. — The results
yielded by these reagents are recorded in the annexed table.
The iodine was a 16 per cent, solution in absolute alcohol, but
the working was rendered less quantitative owing to the partial
evaporation of the alcohol after being exposed some time, and
the consequent necessity of adding either fresh alcohol or fresh
iodine solution. In all probability, however, the total staining
effect was produced in the first very few minutes. As to the
strength of the two methyl aniline stains, I cannot speak. They
were originally obtained by me, as solutions, for use in botanical
histological work, and are such as are always sold by microscopic
dealers. I found it necessary to dilute them in these experiments.
The significance of the results will be discussed later, in the
proper connection; and I need merely draw attention here to the
effect on P, hrassicce and on M. galatea.
* I noticed in one or two cases, when experimenting on other colours, that the
very delicate white fringes which often border the wing were turned yellow by
ammonia, potassic hydrate, and even one or two acids. Instances are afforded
by Lyccena artaxerxes and L. corydon (and also by Melitcea athalia, with one or
two reagents, anyhow). This yellow did not seem to me, however, in all cases so
permanent as was the yellow produced in M. galatea. I may as well add to the list
given above the name of a tropical butterfly, Papilio menesthenes, one of a number
kindly sent to me by Mr. Geo. C. Griffiths. The wings of this are marked beneath
by large patches of white, represented by cream colour on the upper side. The
appearance of this white led me to suspect that it might give the galatea reaction,
and I therefore tested it with the usual reagents. To my disappointment the results
were all nil; and galatea is, for the present, left in her almost unique position.
220
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
t^
'73
QJ
• <u S
3
S
J=
S3 c3^
. • . 3
3
.25
li blue, not d
htly stained
enderish blu
slightly blu
ish blu
regular
ish blu
in part
d.
1
ender
iue ir
ender
, and
tiute
1-^
^
•^ aJ
CUD
Blue.
Greenis
Only lig
Pale lav
In part.
^^
'm
(T> <» (D -S. 2
pLi O P-l CO C/2
C«S
.2^
P<1
t" a
-»^ is
(D 00
't; P-t
g en
w CD
i3 6
-^ t
DO S
.a
O Q
fe ^3 o
O
'>
>^
♦J
•a
no
CD
(D
a
_l .u -1-^ -t-s -M
O C3 03 o <n
'^ "o "o "o 'o
>^'> '> '> '>
■♦J
J-j J3 fl fl C
-^ 5 Oj (U (D
-3 S >^'^
_^ CO o3 o3 03
CO O^ &4 Cu CI4
GO QO CO OQ
>^ p a P fl
|>HHHH
CO O
§•>
S-i -t->
■^ p
fP ;h
&0 03
b 2.-S.-S
5^
O P
O CO
_ O) o
•5f
P
o
^-H Sa ^
43 ^j ^* 03 «
& P "S
> > pp
P- I'M
W)
o .
o ^ >-•
:'p
: o
•T3 ^ 4f
^^ is
= ^00
^ 2 :s o o o ^1^ 5
tJ CiD GO.-M .-j^ 3 "3 .5P SP SP
^
S SS S
•e
e 2 S'^
§ « s g ^
•g ;sg ^ rS -^
^'1
^ s
CO ^ i? ?2
§^ § ^ g :^
§ « ^ « a-
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 221
As a matter of convenience, in publishing, we will reserve the
tables of results in yellow, red, chestnut, blue, and green, until next
month (although naturally they follow on here), and take the
results afforded by the remaining and far less important colours.
First as to hroivn. This class is really intended as a sort of
appendix to chestnut ; for under the latter term are included all
brown or chestnut colours that are affected by my reagents,
whilst as brown are grouped together all the " indifferentists."
It is, perforce, a somewhat heterogeneous assemblage, including
many different browns, and two or three odd chocolates that I
hardly knew how to dispose of, and therefore finally grouped with
the browns.
The insects experimented upon were the following : — Orgy'ia
antiquay Bomhyx quercus (male and female), Orthosia 7nacilenta{?) ,
Mamestra oleracea, Cidaria suffamata, Coremia ferrugatay
G, munitata, and the chocolate (a) blotches and (6) lines on (a)
Eumia cratcegata and {b) Phalera hucephala.
On the average twelve or thirteen reagents were used to test
each of these species ; and, in spite of their heterogeneity, they
agree admirably in being a most thoroughly unsatisfactory assem-
blage. There is nothing really definite to report of any of them,
except that in nearly every case the effect was nil.
The most especially impervious were P. hucephala^ B. quercus,
and C. suffumata. In one or two instances 0. antiqua faded
somewhat, and ammonia left it " darker and duller.'' R. cratce-
gata faded a good deal, too, under the influence of the alkalis.
0. macilenta was changed to lighter and yellower, and M, oleracea
to a duller brown than the normal.
Metallic spots and markings, — I had looked forward with very
great interest to experimenting on these colours (sic), but they
have proved wofuUy disappointing. Unfortunately I had only
two or three metallic marked specimens on which to experiment,
and it would be somewhat premature to conclude that all would
behave similarly ; but at any rate there is complete unanimity in
the few results that I have, and I shall hope for an opportunity
of supplementing these later.
The species experimented on were Argynnis paphia, Plusia
gamma, Euplexia lucipara, and Dione passiflorae.
A, paphia. This was tested by twenty-four reagents, and
the silver was left unaffected in each case, with a doubtful excep-
tion as regards nitric acid, which perhaps removed a little.
D. passiflorcs,* Tested by the chosen seven reagents (see
* A Floridan species of the Nymphalina9, with magnificent blots of silver on
under surface of hind wings. This was one of a large number of specimens for
which I am indebted to the kindness of Mr. Geo. C. Griffiths, of Bristol. I am
also heavily indebted to Dr. Crowfoot, of Beccles, for similar generosity ; and gladly
take this opportunity of acknowledging the kindness of these gentlemen, as well as
222 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
p. 187*), and also alcohol, and quite unaffected by any; except
that nitric acid (50 p. c.) seemed to have removed much of the
" silver," and exposed the brown wing beneath.
P. gamma. Eight experiments were made on this, and all with-
out effecting any change.
E, liicipara. The doubtful bronzy markings on this were
also tested, and without any different result.
Of the remaining colours equally there is nothing satisfactory
to report. There are various half-tints and indeterminate shades
very difficult to classify, and yielding nothing but negative results
when treated. There is, for instance, what I have called greyish,
under which head I placed the fore wings of Acronycta psi and of
Phalera bucephala. These have been examined by means of most
of the reagents, and with practically no results, except that the
first seemed in several instances to become a trifle lighter ; and
the second certainly assumes a very sickly, washed out, indefinite
appearance.! One somewhat interesting exception may, however,
be noted : the grey of A. psi is turned quite black by argentic
nitrate ; but this (like the reactions of white wings with hydriodic
acid) is probably due to simple staining.
Cream. An example of this is afforded by the hind wings,
and also by the *' buff tip," of Phalera bucephala. I have examined
their behaviour with about a score of reagents each, and the results
are all negative. In some cases the cream of the hind wing
was a trifle " gone," or the wings partly transparent, — but that
was all ; and the buff tip was still more obdurate.
In concluding the list I may point out that hundreds of Lepi-
doptera, chiefly among the Noctuse and Geometrae, display colours
(save the mark !) that would defy any attempt to classify, — half-
of several other correspondents — viz., Messrs. J. Anderson, jun., Carlier, Farren,
Jackson, Jones (of Delawarr), and J. J. Weir.
With regard to these tropical species, I have decided not to tabulate any of the
results with those previously obtained from English species ; for it seems very un-
desirable to mix up a few tropical species with these now, while reserving for some
later date the main body of results that I hope to obtain from extra-British Lepi-
doptera. On the other hand, several colours very sparsely represented by British
species are common in exotic, and it seemed equally foolish to pay no heed to these
when discussing the present results, and to be hampered by the limits of unnecessary
ignorance. I therefore picked out for immediate experiment, from the specimens
sent me, some that appeared likely to afford specially interestmg results ; and these
results, although untabulated, I shall quote in their proper connexion when
discussing the various colours. I seem to owe this explanation alike to my corre-
spondents, who might perhaps be surprised at finding so little apparent use made
of the specimens that they sent me, and to the general reader, who might be
puzzled by^ finding tropical species alluded to in subsequent pages, whilst not
mentioned in the tables.
* After the list of " six" reagents, add " and acetic acid."
t Apparently this is due to the bluish grey scales flaking off, and thereby
exposing a lower stratum of scales of lighter hue.
TWO days' collecting in NORMANDY. 223
shades of a dubious brownish greyish hue, that can be called
nothing in particular. These I have, at least for the present,
left alone, feeling fairly certain (a view quite confirmed by the
experiments on bucephala, 0. macilenta, A.psi, &c.) that no results
— at least of a very definite character — would be forthcoming.
The number of heads under which I have grouped the colours
may seem very few ; but there are only a few distinct colours,
and under yellow or red, e. g., are included many different shades
and hues. I have endeavoured, in these preliminary trials, to
examine types of each chief colour in each of the large groups,*
so far as possible, and intend now to extend my investigations to
foreign representatives of — more especially — Ehopalocera and
Bombycidse (and Sphingidse), since in these divisions there chiefly
occur the brilliant colours : some interesting results may be expected
perhaps among some of the Geometrse, but I have small hopes of
the Noctuse, among which bright colours are scarce, and indefinite
half-shades the rule.f Some further reference will be made to
this below ; and it now remains to discuss the significance of the
foregoing results, and offer such interpretation of them as we
can. I propose to consider them under two heads : first, taking
their chemical aspect ; and secondly, their biological or phylo-
genetic, — in which connexion I shall explain what seems to me
their bearing on Variation,
(To be continued.)
TWO DAYS' COLLECTING IN NORMANDY.
By John Henry Leech, B.A., F.L.S., &o.
I HAVE been frequently asked by British entomologists if I
knew of a good collecting-place on the Continent within easy
reach, affording a pleasant change for a short holiday, and the
prospect of yielding a good return in the way of rare British
insects, in addition to a few that have not as yet been recorded
from England. The task of combining a short journey, a good
collecting localit}^, and a modest expenditure, was by no means
an easy one. As a boy I was fairly well acquainted with some
parts of the coast of Normandy, especially the neighbourhood of
Havre, and having very pleasant reminiscences of Tancarville
(about 25 miles from Havre) I determined to give it a trial this
season. Accompanied by Mr. South and Mr. H. McArthur, I
left London at 9.45 on Friday night last (June J 3th), and arrived at
Tancarville by mid-day on Saturday. At first sight the locality bids
* I.e., of course, as represented in England.
t A few experiments have already been made on Coleoptera, Neuroptera, and
Diptera.
224 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
fair enough to produce no end of rarities in their season. The
little village nestling at the foot of the wooded hills, and over-
shadowed by the noble ruins of the old castle from which it takes
its name, faces the River Seine, and is separated therefrom by a
broad stretch of marshy meadow land reclaimed from the river.
On both sides are high limestone (?) cliffs rising several hundred
feet sheer from the plain, and crowned with forest growth. Except
on the low ground near the river, extensive woods meet the eye in
every direction. The woods explored by us are in all stages of
growth, some having been apparently cleared this year, while other
parts appear to have been left untouched for ages. All the usual
forest trees abound. In some parts birch — accompanied by bil-
berry, heather, and brake-fern — is luxurious ; in others Euphorbia ,
hemp agrimony and foxglove form a striking feature. The ground
at the base of the cliffs, especially towards the river, affords good
collecting, and is very sheltered and warm. Sugaring was found
to be most productive higher up the hills, especially the hill-side
facing the castle. Behind the village is a swampy valley, full of
willows, sallows, sedges, reeds, &c., that should produce, among
other things, many species of Leucania. Although the weather, for
the most part, was cloudy, and the nights rather raw, and
succeeding a long spell of bad weather, we managed in our two
days to get together a good long list of captures. The season
was evidently a late one, judging by the species taken and the
large proportion of freshly-emerged specimens. I can recollect,
as a boy, taking, amongst other species in August, Papilio
machaoUf Argynnis latonaj Vanessa antiopay Grapta c-alhum, Colias
edusa and (7. hyale, Satyrus semele^ Melanargia galatea, and Calli-
morpha hera, — the last common on the flowers of hemp agrimony.
The following notes may be of assistance to anyone who
proposes to visit the locality during the season : — Leave Waterloo
9.45 p.m. for Southampton, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday ; the
train runs alongside the steamer, which leaves at midnight,
arriving at Havre between 8.30 and 9 the following morning.
Return fares, 1st class, 40s. ; 2nd class, 30s. Take no luggage
except such as can be carried by hand. Drive at once to the
railway-station, and catch the 9.28 a.m. (next train 12.28 p.m.) to
St. Romain : 1st class, 2 f. 20 c. ; 2nd class, 1 f. 65 c. An omni-
bus takes you from the station to the town of St. Romain for 30 c.
At the hotel * Du Nom de Jesus ' an excellent lunch can be had
for 2 f. 50 c. or 3 francs, and a carriage obtained to drive to Tancar-
ville (about 11 kil.) for 6 or 7 francs, or, if informed beforehand,
the landlord of the hotel at Tancarville will send a carriage to
the station of St. Romain for 8 francs, which would save time.
At Tancarville there are several inns, the best of which is the
* Hotel du Havre' ; the charges are 7 to 8 francs per day, including
excellent cooking and very good cider. The travelling expenses
TWO days' collecting in NORMANDY. 225
for the complete return journey, 1st class, for one person, amount
to exactly £S ; of course it would be something less for two or
more people, as the cost of carriage, &c., would be shared ; a
considerable saving could also be effected by travelling 2nd
class. It would be well to advise the landlord of the hotel at
Tancarville, so that he could reserve rooms, as the accommoda-
tion is rather limited, but no doubt beds could be obtained
outside. For the return journey, trains leave St. Romain station
at 4.5 p.m. and 7.30 p.m., the latter allowing plenty of time to
catch the steamer, which starts at 9 p.m. on Mondays, Wednes-
days, and Fridays. The train arrives at Waterloo by 10 a.m.
The entomologist ought to be able, by leaving London at 9.45 on
a Friday night, to spend from 11 a.m. on Saturday to 6 p.m. on
Monday at Tancarville, and arrive back in London by 10 a.m on
Tuesday.
List of Lepidoptera taken at Tancarville,
June 14th to 16th, 1890.
Ehopalocera. — Fieris brassier and P. rapcB. Euchloe cardamines,
Gonopteryx rhamni, a few small larvaB on buckthorn. Argynnis selene,
Vanessa urticce. V. cardui, one very worn female ; deposited seven eggs in
a chain. Melanargia galatea, larva. Pararge egeria and P. megmra. Epi-
nephele ianira. Thecla rubi. LyccBna icarus. SyrichtJius malva. Nisoniades
tages, " Hesperia sylvanus.
Heterocera.
BoMBYCEs.—Zi/^^wa filipendulcB, one larva about half-grown. Hy'
lophila prasinana, two specimens : these, from their splendid condition,
appeared to have just emerged from pupae ; one example has very
distinct streak and blotches of red on the costa and inner margin of
fore wing. Calligenia miniata, a female ; deposited a number of eggs.
Lithosia sororcula (= aureola). Euchelia jacobace. Arctia villica. Spi-
losoma lubricipeda and 8. menthastri. Hepialus hectus. Porthesia similis
(=zauriflua). Leucoma salicis. Dasychira pudibunda. Orgyia antiqua, Isirva,,
Bombyx neustria, larva, common. B. quercus, larva. Odonestis potatoria^
larva. Dicranura vinula, one very small larva. Pygmrapigra (= reclusa\
larvae, also very small.
NocTU-E. — Thyatira batis, at sugar. Moma orion, sitting among
herbage. Acronycta psi, at sugar. A. rumicis. Gortyna ochracea, larvae
in stems of hemp agrimony. Xylophasia rurea, at sugar. Pachetra
leucophcea, one very fresh example taken at exuding sap of birch tree ; on
each side of this birch were other trees which had been sugared. Apamea
basilinea, at sugar. Miana strigilis, at sugar. Rusina tenebrosa, at sugar.
Agrotis exclamationis, at sugar. Noctua brunnea and N. festival at sugar.
Triphcena pronuba, at sugar. Tethea retusa, larva, on willow. Euplexia
lucipara, at sugar. Aplecta prasina (= herbida) and A. nebulosa, at sugar.
Hadena thalassina and H. contigua, at sugar. CucuUia verbasci, larvae
common on Verbascum and Scrophularia ; many very small, a few nearly
full grown. Chariclea umbra, at sugar. Erastria venustula, beaten out of
undergrowth in the wood above Castle. E.fasciana {—fuscula), disturbed
ENTOM, — JULY, 1890. R
226 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
from herbage at the edge of wood below Castle. Euclidia glyphica.
Rivula sericealis. Zanclognatha grisealis. Pechypogon harbalis. Hypena
prohoscidalis.
Geometr^e. — Epione advenaria, among bilberry above the Castle.
Rumia luteolata (= cratcegata). Metrocampa margaritarla. Boarmia
repandata, not common ; one example of var. conversaria sitting on the
cliff, but quite beyond reach. B. consortaria. Tephrosia luridata
(= extersaria). lodis lactearia. Zonosoma linearia (= trilinearia). Asthena
iuteata and A. candidata. Acidalia omata. Cabera pusaria and C. exan-
themata. Bapta himaculata (= taminata). Panagra petraria, almost passe.
Minoa murinata {= euphorbiata). Abraxas grossulariata. Lomaspilis
marginata. Larentia viridaria [= pect'mitaria). Eupithecia linariata, E.
plumbeolata, and E. castigata. Hypsipetes trifasciata {= impluviata).
Melanippe montanata, M. galiata, and M. fluctuata. Anticlea rubidata.
Camptogramma bilineata. Cidaria corylata. Anaitis plagiata.
Pyralides. — Scoparia ambigualis, S. cembrcB, and S. dubitalis. Pyrausta
aurata (= punicealis) and P. purpuralis. Ennychia octomaculata.
Eurrhypara urticata {=■ urticalis). Scopula oUvalis. Botys fuscalis.
Ebulea crocealis. Perinephele lancealis.
Pterophori. — Platyptilia bertrami and P. gonodactyla. Mimceseoptilus
pterodactylus (= fuscodactylus). Leioptilus mdcrodactylus. Aciptilia penta-
dactyla. Alucita hubneri ? Crambus pratellus, C. pascuellus, and C. hor-
tuellus. Bodophcea consociella, larvae.
ToRTRiCES. — Tortrix ribeana and T. viridana. Argyrotoza conwayana.
Penthina pruniana and P. ochroleucana. Hedya ocellana and H. dealbana.
Aspis udmanniana, larvae. Sericoris urticaria. Boxana arcuana. Ortho-
tmnia striana. Sciaphila subjectana. Phoxopteryx myrtillana and P.
lundana. Grapholitha penkleriana. Batodes angustiorana, one worn male
specimen. Padisca profundana. Ephippiphora brunnichiana. Carpo-
capsa grossana, Stigmonota nitidana (= redimitana) and S. fiexana.
Dicrorampha poUtana, D. petiverella, and D. plumbagana. Catoptria hyper-
icana, common. SymcBthis oxyacanthella. Xanthosetia hamana. Chrosis
alcella (== tesserana, fine and well marked). Conchylis straminea.
TiNEiE. — Endrosis fenestrella.
Besides Lepidoptera, many species of insects belonging to
other Orders were met with ; but, excepting the beetles, we did
not secure as many samples as we might have done. Mr. Billups
has been good enough to identify the specimens taken, and has
reported on them as follows : —
The Coleoptera are represented by 3{> species, ranging from
the Cicindelidse down to the Chrysomelidse.
Cicindela campestris, L., was the only species met with repre-
senting the first-named Family, and appeared fairly plentiful.
Anchomenus parumpunctatus, F., Amara lunicollis, Schiod., and
Harpalus ruficornis, F., being the representatives of the Carabidse :
of these there was only one specimen of each taken. Of the
Staphylinidse two species only were met with, — Philonthus
politus, F., and P. marginatus, F., and these sparingly; the
Coccinellidse being represented by several specimens of Coccinella
14-punctata, L. Among the Scarabseidse, Aphodius fossor, L.,
ENTOMOLOGY OF THE PORTSMOUTH DISTRICT. 227
and A, hamorrhoidalis, L., two specimens only, but the deficiency
was well made up by the abundance of Hoplia philanthus, Sulz.
A type of Agrilus angustuluSt 111., represented the Buprestidae ;
whilst a specimen each of Atlious hcemorrhoidalis, F., and Limo-
nius minutus, L., did duty for the Elateridse ; the representatives
of the Telephoridae being a solitary male oi Drilus fiavescens, 01.,
male and female of Telephorus flavilabris, Fall., and a male of
Malachius bipustulatuSy L. Helops striatus, Fourc, was some-
what plentiful among the Tenebrionidse, while the Pyrochroidae
had a single representative in a male of P. serraticornis, Scop.
Several specimens of both sexes of CEdemera nohlis, Scop., and
(E, lurida^ Marsh, appeared for the QEdemeridse ; the deputies
of the Curculionidse being Otiorhynchus tenebricosus, Hbst., 0.
picipes, F., Phyllobius alneti, F., Liophlceus nubilus, F., Barynotus
obscurus, F., and Attelabus curculionides, L., several specimens of
each. The Cerambycidae were represented by five species, —
namely, Agapanthia lineaticolliSf Don., of which there were seve-
ral examples of both sexes ; Saperda cascharias, L,, a type only ;
S. populnea, L., several specimens ; and one each of Rhagium
inquisitor, F., and Pachyta cerambyciformiSf Schor. The Chry-
somelidaB were represented by a pair of Timarchia laevigata, L.,
and one specimen of a species closely allied to it, but which I
have not yet been able to determine ; a single specimen of
Cryptocephalus aureolus, Suf., also a type of Chrysomela polita, L.
Of the genus Lina there were several specimens of L. populi, L.,
while the remainder consisted of one specimen each of Gonioctena
olivacea, Forst., Haltica coryli, All., and H. ericeti, All.
Several fine specimens of Homoptera were also met with in
Triecphora sanguinolenta, Panz.,* while the Diptera had a repre-
sentative in a beautiful specimen of the genus Syrphidce, A very
fine female of Tragus alboguttatus, Gr., represented the Family
of Ichneumonidse.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ENTOMOLOGY OF THE
PORTSMOUTH DISTRICT.
By W. T. Pearce.
Could we compare a list of the fauna of this district of fifty
years ago with one of th^ present time, we should find that
modern improvements (?) had exterminated many interesting
forms of life from our midst.
Fifty years ago Portsmouth and Portsea were surrounded
by a wall, on which seven species of ferns were to be found ;
Southsea and Landport, by fields and market gardens. Southsea
Common was a marsh, the home of rabbits and occasional hares ;
* This insect is abundant all over the district.
r3
228 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
in summer the haunt of the nightjar and many warblers ; and in
winter a hiding-place for the majority of our species of ducks.
Lyccena corydon could then be taken here, and Aporia cratcegi
was common in Elm Grove. {Vide a paper read by Mr. H.
Moncreaff before the P. and G. Natural Science Society.)
The wall was demolished nearly twenty years ago; of the
ferns I have only found three species on the island. Southsea
has become a well-known watering-place, and Landport the
busiest part of the town. The rabbits have a feeble hold on the
north of the island; hares are very scarce; the nightjar I have
never seen or heard here. L, corydon occurs very sparingly on
Portsdown Hill, and A. cratcegi has been extinct for twenty years.
My notes are taken from a list of the fauna of the district,
compiled by myself and members of the Portsmouth and Gosport
Natural Science Society. The district proper is the whole of the
land south of Portsdown Hill, enclosed by parallel lines drawn
from the east and west ends to the shore ; but I shall not confine
myself strictly to these limits, as very little has been written on
the insects peculiar to this district.
The Rhopalocera are divided among the several families, as
follows : — Pieridse, 8 species ; Nymphalidse, 13 ; Apaturidee, 1 ;
Satyridse, 8 ; Lycsenidse, 10 ; Erycinidse, 1 ; Hesperiidse, 5 :
total, 46 species. Two of them are now extinct, thus reducing
the total to 44 species, all of which are to be found within ten
miles of Portsmouth Town Hall.
PlEEID^.
Aporia cratagi. — Once common in Elm Grove, Southsea, but has now
been extinct for about twenty years.
Pieris brassiccB. — Common. In the evening of August 8th, 1887, in
Alder Marsh, near Gosport, Mr. T. H. Larcom and myself stood on one
spot, and without moving counted, within a space of not more than six
square feet, over two dozen (I believe it was twenty-nine) specimens of this
species and P. rapcSy which were resting for the night on the bramble
bushes. A few days previously I counted over fifty white butterflies in the
Bury Road ; they were, no doubt, a portion of the swarm that visited the
southern counties during the autumn of that year. The larvae of P. brassiccB
and P. rapcB were very numerous in October and November, 1888, at
Gosport. P.rapcB. — Quite as common as P.brassiccB. P.napi. — Common,
but rarely so common as brassicce and rapes. P. daplidice. — Portsdown Hill
is the only locality in the district where this insect has been taken. Mr.
J. J. Moore took two specimens here ; Mr. H. Moncreaff, one; Mr. Taylor,
one ; a fifth is said to have been taken by another collector ; and a sixth
was seen by Mr. Larcom and myself on some chalky ground, August 22nd,
1886. I am unable to obtain the dates of the above captures, but none are
very recent.
Euchlo'e cardamines. — Generally common throughout the district. I
have several specimens with the inner margin sulphur-yellow. A few years
ago Mr. Larcom obtained a male with an orange blotch on the under wing
near the hind margin ; so far as I can discover it is not a pupal stain.
ENTOMOLOGY OF THE PORTSMOUTH DISTRICT. 229
Colias edusa. — May be met with throughout the district nearly every
year. It was very abundant during the last edusa year, and since then was
most abundant in 1885, when Mr. Larcom and myself met with seventy-
five specimens. In 1886, twenty-seven specimens were taken, but none in
1887 ; in 1888, eight only, and those not in the district; in 1889, thirteen
specimens. C. hyale. — Scarce; a specimen on Portsdown, August 16th,
1885, Mr. Larcom.
Nymphalid^.
Argynnis selene and A. euphrosyne. — Common in woods north of Ports-
down Hill. In May, 1887, Mr. Larcom found a variety of A. euphrosyne
in Stakes Wood, the silver spots en the hind wings being very large and
almost confluent ; the black spots on the upper side formed lines, converging
from the centre. A. adippe. — Occurs some years rather freely in Stakes
Wood. In 1881 it was almost impossible to walk through the coverts and
see a thistle-head unoccupied by one or more specimens. It also occurs in
Havant Thicket and Scratch-face Lane, Stakes. The woods at Southwick
and the Forest of Bere are also probable localities. A. paphia. — In the
same localities as A. adippe. An old collector, Mr. H. Shelston, tells me
he once found the variety valesina in Stakes Wood; neither Mr. Larcom
or myself have found it nearer than Lyndhurst. Several specimens of the
type were taken years ago at Great Salterns, by Mr. J. J. Moore. I am
sorry to say Great Salterns and Highgrove, the only happy hunting-grounds
left on Portsea Island, were closed to the public in 1889.
Melitcea aurinia {artemis). — The only locality in this district is Purbrook
Common. In 1883, it was abundant ; in 1884, it was scarcer ; in 1885 and
1 886, not one was to be seen ; in 1887, about twelve females were seen by Mr.
Larcom and myself; in 1888 and 1889, none; on May 26th of the present
year, I hunted for more than an hour, and did not meet with a single speci-
men, and I have not heard of any being seen this season.
Vanessa poly chloros. — This insect appears to be disappearing altogether
from this district. In 1880, Mr. Larcom took a brood of larvse at Gosport,
and neither of us have seen the species there since. Although stray speci-
mens have occasionally been reported to me from other parts of the district,
I have not observed poly chloros since August, 1883, when I saw two speci-
mens at Warblington, near Havant. V. urticce. — U usually common; often
abundant. V. io. — Often common ; but rarely so numerous as V. urticce
and V. atalanta. V. antiopa. — One caught at Cosham, by Mr. Tranton,
July 29th, 1872. Recorded by Mr. Taylor, Entom. vi. 192. F. atalanta.
— Common ; often abundant. V. cardui. — Most eccentric in its appearance.
Very abundant in 1879, common in 1880 and 1881, very scarce in 1882
and 1883, common in 1884 and 1885, scarce in 1886, none in 1887, a few
in 1888, and a few hybernated specimens only in 1889 (the above are my
own experiences only). V. c-alhum. — Recorded in Newman's ' Butterflies
and Moths,' by the late Mr. Buckler, as occurring at Farlington. The larva
was taken at Purbrook, by Mr. J. J. Moore, in 1886. Neither Mr. Larcom
or myself have yet met with this species in any part of the district.
Limenitis sibylla, — This species is probably to be found in all the woods
in the district. It is sometimes common in Stakes Wood; I know a
collector who took over forty specimens there in one day. The other
localities are Havant Thicket ; Scratch-face Lane, Stakes ; the woods at
Southwick ; Forest of Bere ; and the Grange Wild Grounds, Gosport.
230 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Apaturid^.
Apatura iris. — Mr. R. Stent has seven specimens, taken by himself at
Southwick ; it has been seen bj Mr. Larcom and myself, and captured by
Mr. Leech, in Stakes Wood. In 1888 a specimen was taken by Mr.
Larcom in the Forest of Bere.
Sattrid^.
Melanargia galatea. — I have but one record of this species from
Gosport, and that only of a single specimen met with many years ago by
Messrs. Lacey, Woodman, and Stevens, and captured by the latter. It is
common at Fort Purbrook, Portsdown Hill ; it occurs in Stakes Wood and
Scratch-face Lane: I once met with it near Leigh Park. There are
probably other places in the district that I am not yet acquainted with.
Pararge egeria. — Local, and rarely common. Stakes Wood ; Scratch-
face Lane, Stakes ; Havant Thicket ; and Southwick. P. megcera. —
Common throughout the district.
Satyrus semele. — Portsdown Hill, not common ; Hayling Island and
Browndown, common.
Epinephele ianira. — Common throughout the district. I have a very
curious male, taken on Portsdown Hill in 1888; the right upper wing
appears to have been tied round the centre in some way whilst developing.
E. tithonus. — Common in every hedgerow. E. hyperanthes. — Common in
the woods and lanes north of Portsdown Hill. The variety arete has been
taken at Crook-horn, by Mr. Larcom and myself.
Ccenonympha pamphilus. — Common throughout the district. Specimens
having the ocelli on the under side of the lower wings well developed are
occasionally taken
Ltcjenid^.
Thecla quercus, — In woods throughout the district. It occurs, or used
to occur, in a small copse at Great Salterns, Portsea Island. T. w-album.
— One at Southsea many years ago, Mr. H. Moncreaff. T. rubi. — Local.
Grange Wild Grounds, and Browndown, Gosport ; Stakes Wood. One at
Eastney, W. T. P.
Polyommatus phloeas. — Generally distributed, and common in places.
A specimen of the var. schmidtii was taken some years ago by Mr. King,
at Highgrove ; it has since been destroyed by mites.
Lyccena cegon. — Mr. Stent tells me this species used to be common on
Portsdown Hill ; it is now very scarce. L. astrarche (agestis). — Portsdown
Hill, not common ; Scratch-face Lane, Stakes, one, W. T. P. L. icarus
(alexis). — Common. I have two males, with the wings partly white, from
Portsdown. Mr. Larcom has a specimen of what I take to be the var.
icarinus from the same locality ; examples showing some variation in the
markings of the hind wings are occasionally taken. L. corydon. — This
species used to occasionally occur on Southsea Common ; it is now only to
be found on Portsdown Hill, and there only in small numbers. In August,
1888, I counted fourteen females and three or four males; and on
August 4th, 1889, 1 saw eleven females, but no males ; this was the only
date last year that corydon was met with, so that I believe there is reason
to think this species will soon be entirely eliminated from our district.
Mr. Mc Arthur told me of another place on the hill where it was said to
occur, but neither Mr. Larcom nor myself could find it there. L. argiolus.
• — Sparingly. Scratch-face Lane, Stakes ; common. Grange Wild Grounds,
A SUCCESSFUL MOTH-TRAP. 331
Gosport. A few years ago Mr. Larcom had a brood of larvsB on the ivy
in his garden, in Shaftesbury Road, Gosport. L. minima {alsus). — Ports-
down Hill, common, but rather local.
Erycinidj:.
Nemeohius lucina.—Jn glades in Stakes Wood, not common. A few
years ago Mr. Larcom and myself met this species in a meadow between
Stakes and Purbrook, but only once.
HESPERIlDiE.
Syrichthus malvm (alveolus). — Purbrook Common, few ; Stakes Wood,
and Scratch-face Lane, Stakes, common.
Nisoniades tages. — Portsdown Hill, few, eastern end, north of Portsdown
Hill ; common, in woods and lanes. I have never found it south of the hill.
Hesperia thaumas [linea). — Most abundant throughout the district in
and near woods. H. sylvanus. — Generally distributed, and generally more
abundant throughout the district than H. thaumas. H. comma. — Used to
occur on Portsdown Hill, near Paulsgrove. The spot where it was most
abundant was taken into the chalk-pit about ten years ago, and the insect
has now disappeared. Mr. Larcom and myself paid several visits to the
spot during the past six years in hopes of finding this species, but were
always unsuccessful.
The Heterocera of this district I estimate at about 800
species. A list of these I hope to publish at no distant date ;
that is to say, as soon as I can obtain definite information
respecting doubtful species, rarities, and other species not on
my list.
101, Mayfield Koad, Seafield, Gosport, June, 1890.
A SUCCESSFUL MOTH-TRAP.
By W. M. Christy, F.E.S.
During this and the last three seasons I have used a moth-
trap which I had constructed from my own designs, and as it
has proved so useful in obtaining me many specimens of Lepido-
ptera, I thought some account of it, and the work it has done,
would interest the readers of the * Entomologist.' The accom-
panying diagram of the trap, I think, explains itself; I will,
however, venture to describe the details, a, b, c, d, is a box,
having a partition, e, p, to separate the lamp-chamber from the
moth-chamber. In the centre of this partition is a glass window,
G, through which the lamp shines. The box is open at b, c, and
there is a door in the back, a, d, through which the lamp may be
taken out for cleaning and trimming. There is a chimney, h,
coming out through the top to carry off the heat and smoke of
the lamp ; around the lower part of the lamp-chamber there are
ventilation holes to admit air to the lamp and prevent the box
becoming very hot.
233
the: entomologist.
B, K, and c, K, are two sheets of glass converging from the
front of the box, down from the top corner, b, and up from the
lower corner, c, toward a point, k, iu the centre where they do not
quite meet, but provide a long narrow entrance across the
centre of the box through which the moths can pass in the
direction of the light, towards which they are guided and assisted
by the converging plates of glass. The opening I find most
convenient is about Ij in. wide. When inside the box the moths
are not very likely to find their way out again through the slit k.
The moth-chamber referred to above is the space, e, f, c, k, b;
and having got the moths in, the next thing is how to get them
out when the trap is examined next morning. At first I had
the roof of the box to open as a lid, and the plates of glass in
the front to slide out, but the objection to both these plans is
that the opening is so large that the moths may fly out while you
are trying to box them inside the trap. I now have small
sliding doors, (l, l), two on each side, only large enough to admit
the hand and killing-bottle. This arrangement is safer than the
other, but not very convenient. I have no arrangement for
automatically killing the moths like that described on p. 103 of
Dr. H. G. Knagg's little book, but I am thinking of trying the
effect of a bag of bruised laurel leaves placed inside the moth-
chamber. The killing- drawer attached to the American moth-
trap above alluded to seems to me too intricate for practical
A SUCCESSFUL MOTH-TRAP. ^33
work, and any one setting up a moth-trap which has to stand out
of doors in all weathers will soon find that the more simple it is
in its construction the better. The doors, drawers, lids, &c., are
sure to warp, and either stick or become loose, and, in fact, to be
a general source of trouble and annoyance.
The lamp I use is an ordinary paraffin duplex lamp with
reflector, such as are used to hang up against walls. Care must
be taken that the flame of the lamp should be in the centre of the
box, and on a level with the opening, k. It may be asked. What
condition are the moths in when you visit the trap in the morn-
ing ? To this I reply that, taking them all round, they are in
better condition than I expected they would be before I had tried
the trap. On an average the specimens are nearly as good as
those attracted by light into a dwelling-house ; these last have
to be netted in the room, and are liable to damage themselves
against the ceiling and about the lamp before they are caught.
Looking at my section of the box it will be seen that a good
deal of the moth -chamber is in shadow, owing to the partition,
E, F, being opaque, i. e., wood, and only having a small window in
its centre. This gives the moths a chance of settling down
quietly out of sight of the lamp, and I think that many of them
do so. Many of the moths taken in the trap are absolutely
perfect. I do not think that, as a rule, the Geometers injure
themselves at all inside the trap. Of course there are exceptions:
Melanippe montanata, for example, generally flies about and spoils
itself.
On the other hand I have this season taken about twenty
specimens of Odontopera bidentata ; most of these were absolutely
fresh, and none of them were worn, so that I believe I found
them in the same condition as when they entered the trap. Most
of the Bombyces and Noctuse spoil themselves more or less.
Still, there are a good many to be found quite perfect, without the
fringes being in the least frayed.
As to numbers caught, the trap is very seldom empty ; I often
find a dozen moths within and not unfrequently more. I have
taken as many as fifty in one night.
I consider this kind of moth-trap a most valuable adjunct to
the usual means of collecting Lepidoptera ; and as it can be used
every night, and all night, with only the trouble of lighting it
once in the evening, the advantages are obvious.
I append a list of moths taken in my trap, which has been
set either in or close to large woods of oak, beech, and the usual
kinds of copse and underwood growing upon a chalk soil.
At Emsworth, in May, June, and July, 1887 — 90 : —
S. ligustri, N. mundana, E. jacobcecB, S. lubricipeda, S. menthastri,
Hepialus, one, June 5, (sylvanus or lupulinm), D.pudibunda, D./alcataria,L,
camelina, N. trepida, P, bucephalus, D. coryli, A. ligustri, L. conigera, L.
lithargyria, L, pallens, X. monoglypha, M. persicaria, R. tenebrosaj A,
234 tMe entomologist,
segetitm, A. c'merea, N. trlangulum, N. /estiva, T. gothica, D. carpophaga, A.
advena, H. dentina, H. adusta, T. pastinum, E. advenariay M. margaritaria,
E. dolobraria, P. syringaria, S. bilunaria, 0. bidentata, C. lichenaria, H.
abruptaria, B. repandata, B. roboraria, C. biundularia, or C. crepuscular ia,
C. luridata, C. punctularia, O. vernaria, I. lactearia, E. porata, E. lineariat
E. annulata, L. didymata, A. remutata, A. aversata, A. marginepunctata, T.
amataria, C. pusaria, A. pictaria, P. petraria, N. pulveraria, L. viridaria,
E. plumbeolata /, E. nanata, E. satyrata, M. albicilata, M. unangulata,
M. montanata, M. fluctuata, A.badiata, A. derivatUf C.ferrugata, P. tersata,
P. vitalbata, C. corylatUf C. russata, C. dotata.
The following moths were taken with the trap on the coast of
Kintyre, Argyllshire, between Aug. 3nd, and Sept. 2nd, 1889 : —
L. impura, T. fulva, H. nictltans, H. micacea, C. graminis, L. testacea,
M. literosa, 0. alsines, A. tntici, A. cursorial A. prcecox, N. xanthographa,
T. janthina, X. fulvago, X. Jiavago, E. lutulenta, P. chrysitis, S. anomala,
JR. luteolata, C. elinguaria, A. bisetata, 0. Jiligrammaria, L. didymata, E.
subfulvata, T. variata ?, C. immanata, C. testata.
There are generally some Micros in the trap but I cannot
name them ; neither can I specially refer to the various kinds of
flies found therein.
Watergate, Emsworth.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &o.
Captuees at the " Sallows." — The sallows in this district were out
early this year, some bushes being in full bloom by the 15 th March. I was
not able, unfortunately, to pay them a visit till the 8th April, and then the
insects had become scarce, my only captures being 1 Tceniocampa gracilis ,
3 T. stabilis, 1 T. gothica, and 1 T. pulverulenta (cruda). Some friends of
mine, however, went to High Beech on the 15th March, and found insects
in great abundance and fine condition, the captures being T. stabilis (very
common), T. instabilis (common), T. gothica (very common), T. cruda (very
common), T. vaccinii (common), T. munda (rare, 2 or 3 specimens only).
Solitary specimens of T. stabilis, T. gothica, T. gracilis, and T. instabilis,
have also been taken with the net, during this month, and in fine condition.
— C. Nicholson ; 202, Evering Road, Upper Clapton, N.E., May 30, 1890.
The Chemistry of Insect Coloues. — I am much obhged by the
references quoted by Mr. Cockerell, in his note on the subject last month
(Entom. 200), some of which references he had already been kind enough
to apprise me of by a private communication. Regarding Mr. Hopkins'
investigation, it is quite true that I had overlooked the account given in the
* Chemical News ' of last August, and this owing to the fact that I was out
of England when the number in question appeared, and had apparently
omitted to look up the back numbers on my return. Mr. Hopkins' paper
was read before the Chemical Society, but has not, so far, been published
in their journal ; otherwise, of course, I should have seen it in full there.
I did, however, see a brief extract of it in one of the scientific journals, but
this abstract was so meagre as to have given me a very imperfect knowledge
of the nature and extent of Mr. Hopkins' work. Had I been better informed
on the subject, I should have made some reference to his work in the first
I
soclEtilss. 235
section of my article. As it is, however, we seem to be working on by no
means the same lines. Of M. Berge's work, I am at present entirely
ignorant. With regard now to the questio vexata of the cyanide effect. As
Mr. Cockerell will have seen by last month's contribution, my experiments
have all been made with solution; and a solution of potassic cyanide ought,
of course, to be far more efficacious than a cyanide-bottle. However, acting
on Mr. Cockerell's hint, I have made a set of experiments in a damp and
heated cyanide-bottle. The details will be best reserved until, in my article,
I come to speak of the Colias colours. At present it is sufficient to say that
I have got no red, so far. Mr. Cockerell's little theory of the impurities
does not, I am afraid, help matters much. Such substances as carbonate,
sulphate, or chloride of potash, &c., would, even in concentrated solution,
have probably no effect at all on insect colours ; how they could act when
in a solid mixture, either cold or warm, I am at a loss to understand ; and
this remark applies with still more force to silica. As to potassic ferro-
cyauide, I may refer Mr. Cockerell to my last month's contribution ; if it
had any effect at all in solution, it would turn Colias white ; mixed with
solid cyanide, it would be as harmless as the carbonate, &c. As to
ammoniacal compounds, similar remarks would hold good ; but ammonia
itself in solution has a very powerful effect on Colias yellow, but it turns it
pure white (see next month). The mere vapour of strong ammonia is very
slow to act, but eventually a similar effect is produced. So far, therefore,
we seem no nearer getting concordant results as to this reddening of Colias.
Finally, with regard to the white of Ijycsenidae, I think Mr. Cockerell will
find that dealt with in this month's section of my article (see p. 319). —
F. H. Perry Coste ; Ravenshoe, Burnt Ash Hill, June 8, iSOO.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London.— Jmie ^th, 1890. — The Right
Hon. Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair. Mr. George
William Carter, M.A., F.L.S., of Lime Grove, Knottingley, Yorkshire ;
and Mr. R. Newstead, of The Museum, Chester, were elected Fellows ; and
Mr. Oliver Goldthwait and Mr. John W. Downing were admitted into the
Society. The Secretary exhibited, on behalf of Mr. J. Edwards, Norwich,
two specimens of Ilyhius suhmneus, Er., and a single specimen of Bidessus
unistriatus, Schr. Mr. Champion alluded to the fact that the only recorded
British specimens of the first-mentioned beetle had been taken many years
ago at Peckham. The species is very closely allied to I. fenestratus, F.,
but the posterior tarsi of the male have the joints externally margined at
their lower edge, whereas in the male of the last-mentioned species they are
not margined ; this character was very plain in the male specimen sent by
Mr. Edwards. Lord Walsingham, in alluding to the exhibit, referred to
the list of Norfolk Coleoptera compiled some years ago by Mr. Crotch,
which appears to have been lost sight of. Mr. Verrall exhibited a specimen
of a fly in amber, belonging to a genus allied to the genus Psychoda. Mr.
M'Lachlan alluded to the damage done by insects to orange-trees in Malta,
and stated that the Rev. G. Henslow had lately been studying the question ;
one of the chief depredators was the widely-spread *' fly," Ceratitis citriperda,
well known as devastating the orange. He found, however, that another
and more serious enemy was the larva of a large Longicoru beetle {Cerambyx
236 T^fi EJ^TOMOLOGIST.
miles f Bon.), which bores into the lower part of the stem and down into the
roots, making large galleries ; in all probability the larva, or that of an
allied species, is the true Cossus of the ancients. Lord Walsingham stated
that a species of Prays, allied to P. oleellus and our common P. curtisellus,
was known to feed in the buds of the orange and lemon in Southern Europe.
Mr. Pascoe, Mr. Champion, and others took part in the discussion which
followed. The Secretary, on behalf of Miss Carr, exhibited a portfolio of
drawings of Indian Lepidoptera and their food-plants. The following
papers were communicated, and were read by the Secretary : — " Notes
on the species of the families Lycidas and Lampyridse contained in the
Imperial Museum of Calcutta, with descriptions of new species, and a list
of the species at present described from India," by the Rev. H. S. Gorham ;
and " A Catalogue of the Rhopalocerous Lepidoptera collected in the Shan
States, with notes on the country and climate," by Mr. N. Manders,
Surgeon, Medical Staff. The latter paper contained a very interesting
description of the chief physical features of the Shan States and
neighbouring parts of Burmah. — H. Goss & W. W. Fowlee, Hon. Sees.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—May ^2nd, 1890.— J. T. Carrington, F.L.S., President, in the chair.
Mr. S. Edwards exhibited Lepidoptera from China and India, including
examples of Papilio nigarus; also Coleoptera, belonging to the family
Sagra, from Africa. Mr. Hawes, ova of Gonopteryx rhamni, L., and
made some interesting remarks on the way the eggs were deposited. Mr.
Frohawk also showed a microscopical drawing of the ovum of the same
species, and a coloured drawing of a small plant of buckthorn about three
inches in size, upon which he had found seven ova. Mr. Nussey exhibited
living larvae of Geometra papilionaria, L. Mr. C. Fenn, a very long series
of Saturnia pavonia, L., reared from eggs obtained by a female captured
at Bournemouth : the specimens were exceptionally large, and the males
very brilliantly coloured. He also showed long series of both sexes of
Spilosoma mendica, Clerck., which he stated were reared by him from ova
obtained from a female taken at Eltham, the larvae being fed on the common
broad-leaved plantain ; forty-three imagines were bred — twenty-one male
and twenty-two female. The females varied little from the ordinary type,
with one exception, which was curiously blotched with dark grey on the
left superior wing ; the males varied from the usual English type up to a
dull pale yellowish grey, and quite 50 per cent, diverged more or less from
the usual form. The pupae had been exposed to the weather in a very cold
and damp spot, which he thought rather bore out Mr. Tutt's theory that
moisture is the cause of melanism or colour variation. Mr. R. Adkin
remarked that these specimens showed more variation than was usually
found in specimens of this species from English localities, and asked
whether anything was known of the male parent, and whether the female
differed from the type. In answer, Mr. Fenn said he knew nothing of the
male, and there was nothing special about the markings of the female
parent. Mr. Tutt pointed out that the variation in the male was somewhat
similar to the Irish form known as var. rustica. Some observations were
made by Messrs. South, Tutt, Carrington, Adkin, and Fenn, on pupae of
Lepidoptera laying over for two or more years.
June l^th, 1890.— The President in the chair. Messrs. G. B. Rye, of
Putney; H. McArthur, of Brompton; and A. Ward, of Brighton, were
elected members. Mr. Wellman exhibited Acronycta strlgosa, bred from
SOCIETIES. 237
pupee received from Cambridge ; Nemeohius lucina, L., bred from ova ; and
Eupithecia venosata, Fb., which had been two years in pupas, and were
received from the Isle of Man. Mr. Nussey, Acronycta myriccB, Gn., from
Eannoch. Mr. F. Warne, Nemeohius lucina, L., Macroglossa fuciformist L.,
&c., from Horsley. Mr. Robson, a banded variety of Zonosoma punctaria,
L. Mr. Tugwell, Nemoria viridata, L., and a prettily marked male
resembling the Rannoch form of Biston hirtaria, Clerck. Mr. R. Adkin,
small and brightly marked specimens of Herbula cespitalis, Schiff., from
the Land's End, on behalf of Mrs. Hutchinson ; also larvae of Larentia
ccBsiata, Lang, from the Grampian Hills, feeding on heather ; and cases and
imagines of Psyche villosella, Och. Mr. R. Adkin further showed nests of
a species of wasp attached to heather from Bournemouth, and from which
the imago had just emerged. Mr. Billups said the species was Eumenes
coarctata, L., one of the solitary wasps, and the only representative of the
genus in Britain : he then described the habits of the insect, and exhibited
various parasites belonging to the families Ichneumonidse, Chrysididae,
Syrphidae, and Staphylinidae, to the attacks of which insects the Vespidae
are particularly subject. Mr. Billups also exhibited nests of solitary wasps
from Borneo, with their maker ; also a very fine nest of a social wasp,
PalopcBus architectus, St. Farg, with imago from Kentucky. Mr.
Henderson, some abnormally large specimens of Paniscus cephalotes,
Holmgr., bred from larvae of Dicranura vinula. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — May IQth, 1890. — Mr. R. C.
Bradley in the chair. Mr. P. W. Abbott showed Trachea piniperda and
Eupithecia abhreviata from Sutton Park. Mr. G. W. Wynn showed Trachea
piniperda from Marston Green, from which place it had not hitherto been
recorded. A number of local captures of Lepidoptera were reported for
entry in the book provided for the purpose of recording them.
June 'Und, 1890.— The President, Mr. W. G. Blatch, in the chair. Mr.
G. W. Wynn showed Bomhyx ruhi from Sutton Park. Mr. H. M. Lee
showed a small wasp, which was taken carrying off a large Tipula. Mr.
R. C. Bradley showed a box of Tortrices. Mr. W. G. Blatch showed
Coleoptera from Ludlow, new to the Midland list, as follows: — Trechus
longicornis, Perileptus areolatus, Homalota fragilis, H. lontjula, H. deli-
catula, H. subtilissima, Acobius signaticornis, Lathrohium angusticolUy
Medon ripicola, Thinobius linearis, T. longipennis, Acrulia injlata,
Trichonyx mdrkelii, and a species of ScopcBiis, which may be new. Mr.
Blatch also showed Homalota fallaciosa, Acidota crenata, and Mycetoporus
angulatus, from Sutton Park, the last being new to the Midland list. Mr.
H. Stone showed galls on yew, also some on a species of Abies, the latter
being apparently produced by a number of minute Acari, seated at the base
of the leaves and causing the stem to swell. — C. J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
Penarth Entomological Society. — This Society, formed in 1888,
held its second Annual Exhibition and Conversazione on April 10th, in
the Public Hall, Penarth. C. T. Vachell, M.D., of Cardiff, presided.
The growing importance of the Society was manifested by the large
gathering of scientists from the surrounding districts. The locality of
Penarth is particularly rich in its Fauna and Flora ; this, and the fact of
there being no entomological section in the Cardiff Naturalists' Association,
has contributed to the rapid growth of this Society, so as to render its re-
organization on a larger basis desirable. Several gentlemen of position and
238 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
influence in the county have consented to become Vice-Presidents, and
arrangements are in progress which — with the zealous prosecution of
research shown by the members hitherto — augur a successful and useful
future. At the meeting referred to a very large number of cases, containing
specimens of local and exotic Lepidoptera and Coleoptera, were exhibited.
Sir J. T. D. Llewellyn, Bart., contributed some of the gems of his magnifi-
cent collection, supposed to be the most complete in Wales, or the West of
England ; Mr. Evan John, J. P., of Llantrissant, sent a collection of the rarer
Lepidoptera of Glamorganshire ; Mr. G. C. GrifiQths, of Bristol, forwarded
some cases of exotic Lepidoptera : these, added to the extensive collections
of several of the members, formed an Exhibition which has not hitherto
been equalled in this part of the kingdom. During the evening the Rev.
J. H. Hodson, B.A., gave an interesting address on the uses and pleasures
of Entomological study, and referred to the destruction of the Scale Insect,
in the orange groves of California, by the importation of CoccinellidaB.
He also alluded to the pleasure derivable from the study of the habits of
ants and beetles, and to the interesting topic of insect mimicry. Mr. J.
Storrie, Curator of Cardiff Museum, displayed, by the aid of several
microscopes, a number of beautifully prepared sections of insects, and other
microscopic objects. The members of the Society are actively engaged in
preparing a list of local Lepidoptera, which it is hoped will be of some
value as a contribution to Entomological Science.
OBITUARY.
Dr. R. C. R. Jordan, late of Edgbaston, Birmingham, died on the
24th of May, at Teignmouth, Devon, his native place. His grandfather
was a banker in that town ; his father a solicitor, the head of a firm which
still flourishes there. Dr. Jordan himself was born in 1825, and had
therefore nearly completed his 65th year. He received his early education
at Exeter Grammar School, whence he proceeded to King's College, London.
Here he soon distinguished himself, carrying off, among others, the Warne-
ford prize, and was shortly appointed house-physician to King's College
Hospital. Later on, when in 1852 he took his M.B. degree, he was
awarded the gold medal for proficiency in physiology. For thirty-three
years Dr. Jordan practised as a physician in Birmingham, winning the
esteem and friendship of high and low alike. For the necessitous poor,
indeed, he had especial tenderness and regard; he often would return
professional fees when he thought the circumstances of his patients
rendered payment onerous ; and there were perhaps few men in the
profession — so writes the ' Birmingham Daily Post, ' from which many of
the particulars about Dr. Jordan's life have been derived — who did more
gratuitous work. Such a habit, though it brought practice and ensured
gratitude, did not lead to an adequate professional income ; and when at
last his health gave way, and it became necessary for him to leave the
Midlands, and seek rest and invigoration from the balmy air of his native
place, the affection felt for him by his friends found vent in a private sub-
scription, as a parting testimonial to the man who had spent himself so
freely for the general good. Unhappily, as the event proved, the change
came too late, and the hopes that had been indulged in of bis recovery
OBITUARY. 239
have been disappointed. As a naturalist, perhaps, Dr. Jordan's name was
not very familiar to the outside world ; to those who knew him best his
loss will be great. From his early boyhood he had been a lover of Nature,
and a careful observer also. His father and grandfather before him were
both good ornithologists, and began a work with coloured illustrations of the
birds of Devon, but only one or two volumes were published. He himself
had a thorough knowledge of the birds of his native county, particularly of
the coast species. His first contribution to entomological literature was
nearly fifty years ago, in Newman's old * Entomologist ' for 1842, being
simply a record of insects, principally Micro-lepidoptera, taken by him
when a boy on the coast near Teignmouth. Since then he had been
steadily observing the habits not only of Lepidoptera, which was his
special branch, but also of Hymenoptera, and had gradually, in conse-
quence, amassed a goodly collection, both British and Palsearctic. He
travelled abroad a good deal at various times, first trying Germany, then
Switzerland, &c., and more recently Norway. He was, however, never
what is known as a Collector. It would give him quite as much pleasure
to see a rare creature alive as to have it in his collection, and much more
to watch its habits in its native haunts ; and he was thus much more a
practical worker (if a quiet one) and a field naturalist than a cabinet
naturalist. He was an old correspondent of Zeller's and Wallengren's,
and also of other Continental entomologists, and never entertained the
*' insular preference " until recently so common among British entomologists.
Dr. Jordan was also an excellent botanist (he took the gold medal for this
in his College course in London), and has left a considerable herbarium of
British and Swiss plants. His contributions to entomological literature
were not voluminous : the principal ones that I have come across are
enumerated below; but though his fame as an entomologist may be
limited, to those who knew him best and mourn him most the memory of
the man will remain.
" Ever the ashes of the just
Smell sweet and blossom in the dust."
Note on the singular situation of a bee's nest in snail-shells. Zool.
1843, p. 336, pi. 1.
Galls produced by Cynips quercus-petioli. Trans. Ent. Soc. Lond. 1854,
Ser. 2, pi. 3 ; Proc. p. 40.
List of Lepidoptera captured in the vicinity of Teignmouth. Entom.
1842, pp. 394—396.
Varieties of Lepidoptera and their causes. Ent. Mo. Mag. i. p. 53.
Aquatic habits of a Hymenopteron. E. M. M. i. p. 186.
Description of the larva of Pt. brachydactylus. E. M. M. i. p. 215.
A few days among the Micro-lepidoptera of South Devon. E. M. M.
ii. p. 193.
Notes on double-brooded insects. E. M. M. iii. p. 20.
On the similarity of the insects of North America and England.
E. M. M. iii. p. 41.
Notes on variation in Lepidoptera. E. M. M. iii. p. 251.
Note on Pt. isodactylus. E. M. M. iv. p. 30,
Notes on the larva of Pt. plagiodactylus, and on Ellopia fasciaria var.
prasinaria. E. M. M. iv. p. 185.
240 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
On the abundance of certain insects in certain years. E. M. M. v.
p. 134.
Scoparia zelleri in South Devon. E. M. M. vi. p. 14.
Parasites on Pterophori. E. M. M. vi. p. 138.
Notes on the Skandinaviens Fjadermott of H. D. T. Wallengren.
E. M. M. vi. pp. 119, 149.
Four days at the Drachenfels. E. M. M. vii. p. 174.
On the origin of British Lepidoptera. E. M. M. viii. p. 45.
On a probably new species of Platyptilus. E. M. M. viii. p. 137.
Notes on mimicry. E. M. M. viii. p. 251.
On mounting small objects for microscopical observation. E. M. M.
ix. p. 273.
Note on the first recorded occurrence of Thalpochares parva in England.
E. M. M. X. p. 40.
Note on the purchase of European Lepidoptera. E. M. M. xii. p. 188.
Notes on some Swiss Lepidoptera. E. M. M. xiii. p. 57.
Notes on the Butterflies and Sphinges of Zermatt and vicinity,
observed in June and July, 1878. E. M. M. xvi. p. 86.
Irruption of Vanessa cardui and Plusia gamma into Devon. E. M. M.
xvi. p. 196.
Notes on the Lepidoptera of the Valais. E. M. M. xvii. p. 207.
Comparison of the Pterophori of Europe and North America, suggested
by Lord Walsingham's Pterophoridge of California and Oregon. E. M. M.
xviii. pp. 73, 117.
On European species of Lepidoptera with apterous or subapterous
females. E. M. M. xx. p, 219.
Appeal on behalf of Danaus chrysippus and Hypercompa hera,
E. M. M. xxii. p. 211.
Review of ' British Butterflies and Moths,' by the late Wm. Buckler,
Ray Society, vol. i. E. M. M. xxiii. p. 18.
Note on the larva of Notodonta torva. E. M. M. xxiv. p. 9.
Note on Sesia conopiformis and Flatyptilus fischeri. E. M. M. xxiv.
p. 42.
Mamestra brassicce feeding on oak ; Note on migration of insects.
E. M. M. xxiv. pp. 63, 64.
Note on small birds and the Lepidoptera eaten by them. E. M. M.
xxiv. p. 86.
An entomological ramble at Bergen, Norway, August 20th, 1887.
E. M. M. xxiv. pp. 127—130.
Note on Farnassius delius in Wales. E. M. M. xxiv. p. 185.
Note on Ephestia semirufa in Devon forty years ago. E. M. M.
xxiv. p. 274.
A walk in Jersey. E. M. M. xxv. pp. 49 — 52.
Melanism in Birmingham and South Devon. E. M. M. xxv. pp. 102,
103.
Note on Triphosa duhitata. E. M. M. xxv. p. 136.
Note on Acidalia immorata. E. M. M. xxv. p. 213.
Tinea pallescentella in Birmingham. E. M. M. xxv. p. 213.
Lepidoptera of Norway. E. M. M. xxv. pp. 362, 363.
Notes on some Lepidoptera captured in Norway. E. M. M. xxv.
pp. 439-444.
W. W.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIII.] AUGUST, 1890. [No. 827.
THE LIFE-HISTORY OF DECLANA FLOCCOSA.
By G. V. Hudson, F.E.S.
On August 19th, 1889, I obtained a female of this common
insect, at rest on a fence, which I conjectured had either
hybernated during the winter or else recently emerged from a
pupa. From this female I determined to try and obtain ova and
rear the insect right through, in order, first, to learn the com-
plete life -history ; and, secondly, to observe the effect of different
food-plants on the variation of the imago. For this purpose I
divided the ova, of which I was fortunate enough to obtain about
100, into two equal lots, placing them in two separate cages,
nos. 1 and 2, and feeding no. 1 on Aristotelia racemosa, and no. 2
on Leptospermum ericoides. The eggs of this insect when first
laid are oval in shape and light green in colour, becoming bronzy
a few days before the emergence of the larva.
The young larvae, which appeared on September 20th, were
very attenuated, with only ten legs. In colour they were greenish
ochreous, striped with brownish pink, which was most apparent
near the segmental divisions. Length, If lines. They were very
active, and did not eat the egg-shells after emergence.
On October 3rd, the larvae in cage 1 showed a decided advance
over those in cage 2, and had developed a pair of rudimentary
prolegs on the fifth abdominal segment ; otherwise there were no
observable differences between the two lots of larvae. On October
14th, the larvae in cage 1 had the two additional prolegs completely
developed, and showed distinct traces of the fleshy filaments ;
those in cage 2 being about as far advanced as the others were
on October 3rd. On October 25th, about one half of the larvae
in cage 1 had passed their last moult, and the following description
was then made: — The body is subcylindrical in shape, much
flattened underneath. In colour the larvae are pale brownish
pink, with numerous irregular brown markings, which in some
individuals tend to form two broad subdorsal lines. The under
ENTOM. — AUGUST, 1890. S
242
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
surface of the larva is pale green. Between this pale green under
surface and the dorsal and lateral surfaces the fleshy filaments
arise ; they are pinkish brown in colour, and, as the larva lies
closely attached to the stem of its food-plant, these filaments
embrace it on either side, and thus help very materially to render
the insect like a swelling in the stem. This is the invariable
position of the larvae when at rest. The larvae in cage 2 are, on
the average, considerably behind the others. They feed chiefly
on the opening buds of the food-plant ; they are somewhat paler
in colour than those fed on Aristotelia.
On November 3rd, the larvae in cage 1 were preparing to
descend into the earth, while the others were just passing their
last moult ; so that it can be safely said that the Leptospermum
had had the effect of retarding the majority of the larvae to the
extent of one moult behind those fed on the more succulent and
nutritious Aristotelia.
The difference in colouring between the two lots of larvae
thus treated were, however, of the most trivial description ; and
I must say that this somewhat surprised me at first, as I had
often taken the caterpillars of Declana floccosa from both plants
in a state of nature, and observed the greatest divergence between
them, those off the Leptospermum being a very pale ochreous
brown, while those from the Aristotelia were very much darker,
and often mottled with grey, like the stem of the plant. I am
inclined to think that these differences have been gradually
brought about by the larvae feeding on the same plant for many
generations, and thus the protective resemblances have been
inherited and constantly improved through natural selection
acting on each lot separately. I should mention that Lepto-
spermum, and Aristotelia do not generally grow near one another.
The former plant is found in dry situations, such as the sides
and tops of hills ; while the latter grows in the damp gulleys,
generally on the borders of streams. This circumstance would,
of course, tend to prevent two races of Declana floccosa — one
feeding on Leptospermum and the other on Aristotelia— hom.
interbreeding, and thus the larval peculiarities adapted to each
food-plant would naturally become still more pronounced. The
imago of D. floccosa is extremely variable in a state of nature, as
the following table will show : —
Var. 1.— Which I assume to be the type, has the fore wings pale
greyish white, with numerous small brownish black streaks, exhibiting a
slight concentration towards the tip of the wing.
Var. 2. — Has, in addition, several large round spots on disc of fore wing.
Var. 3.— Has numerous black spots on fore wings (formerly known as
D. nigrosjmrsa).
Var. 4. — Has two conspicuous curved lines on fore wing from costa to
inner margin (formerly known as Declana junctilinea).
THE LIFE -HISTORY OF DECLANA FLOCCOSA.
243
Var. 5. — Has these two lines joined by two others running parallel to
inner margin and costa.
Var. 6. — Has curved lines and black spots [nlgrosparsa Siud junctilinea).
Var. 7. — Has fore wings suffused with dark greyish black, except two
broad bands of the original light colour extending from costa to inner
margin ; hind wings also darker than usual.
Var. 8. — Has a broad dark central band on fore wing.
The moths which resulted frona the above-described larvae
only belonged to three of the varieties. The following table,
showing the dates of emergence, sex, and variation of the insects
from each lot of larvae, may perhaps be of some scientific interest.
Kesults of a batch of ova deposited by a female Declana
floccosa of var. I, and divided into two equal lots : —
Cage 1.
Fed on ArlstoteUa raceinosa.
12 males and 16 females of these —
1 male belonged to var. Q
1 female „ „ 4
11 males „ ,, 8
5 females „ „
10 females „ „
Date of first emergence, Dec.
,, last ,, ,,
8
1
10
25
Cage 2.
Fed on Leptospennwn ericoides.
15 males and 9 females of these —
2 females belonged to var. 4
6 males „ „ 8
5 females „ „ 8
9 males „ „ 1
2 females „ ,, 1
Date of first emergence, Dec. 1 8
„ last „ Jan. 3, 1890
From this table it will be seen that there was a much greater
mortality among the larvae fed on Leptospermum than those on
Aristotelia, and also that the proportion of males was much
greater in the former group, but the variation does not appear to
have been materially effected. A large number of both sexes
belonged to var. 1, and evidently inherited the characters of the
female parent ; while from the great preponderance of var. 8 over
the others, I think we may fairly assume that the male parent
belonged to that form. Of course I am aware that such experi-
ments as these should be carried out on a much larger scale to
give really reliable results, and also extend over several gene-
rations ; but this I have not at present the opportunity to do. In
the meantime I offer the above in order to awake more interest
in such observations, which are, I think, much needed at the
present time, when the laws governing the formation of species and
varieties are attracting so much attention among entomologists.
Wellington, New Zealand, May 30, 1890.
S 2
244 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
COLEOPTEEA COLLECTED BY MR. PRATT ON THE UPPER
YANG-TSZE, AND ON THE BORDERS OF TIBET.
By H. W. Bates, F.R.S., F.L.S.
(Concluded from p. 213).
Family MELOLONTHID^.
Melolontha cuprescens, Blanchard, Comptes Rendu, Acad,
Sci., vol. Ixxii. (1871), p. 811.
This metallic species of Melolontha was originally taken in
Moupin by the French missionaries. Mr. Pratt's example agrees
well as to colour and sculpture with Blanchard's short description.
It is a male, Blanchard's being apparently a female. The antennal
club (of black colour) is greatly elongated, three times the length
of the remaining (1 — 3) joints, approaching in this respect the
genus Polyphylla, and the pygidium is prolonged at the apex
nearly as in M. vulgaris S" . The elytral costae (five on each side,
including the sutural, the 4th much abbreviated anteriprly) ; two
subparallel wheals on the disk of the thorax, the occiput and the
legs are shining dark coppery ; the rest of the dark brassy brown
integument is clothed with very dense tawny-brown tomentum.
Edcheirus parryi. Gray,
Chia-ting Fu. A single female specimen, agreeing with others
with which I have compared it from Darjeeling, except in the
much fewer reddish spots of the elytra. A rather large basal and
a subhumeral spot are seen in nearly the same position, and there
is a fine line running parallel to the suture, as in most examples
of E, parryi; but there is also a broadish submarginal vitta
extending from before the middle nearly to the apex, which I do
not see in the examples examined of the Himalayan species.
Family RUTELIDiE.
Anomala (Euchloea) truncata, n. sp.
Resembles A. viridis (Fab.)? and A. martini (Hope), but the under-side
golden green (not coppery), with the legs, especially the tibiae and tarsi, ruddy
golden. The upper surface differs also in being apple-green, with but slight
gloss, owing to the denser and rather stronger punctuation, which in places
coalesces and forms short transverse wrinkles. The scutellum, sides of the
head and thorax, and marginal rims of the elytra, are metallic, light golden
green. The elytra show faint traces of punctured striae, one sutural and two
pairs on the disk, but they are not strongly impressed as in A. martini. A
distinguishing character of the species is the strong oblique truncature of the
apices of the elytra, the lateral margins of which, distinctly flattened out to
the apical curvature, abruptly cease (without forming an angle), the rest of
the apical margin being straight and immarginate to the subobtuse sutural
angle. The pygidium is closely granulate-strigulose. The under-side of the
body is smooth in the middle, and densely punctulate and tawny pubescent
on the sides of the sterna and hind coxae, arcuate-punctate (and thinly
pubescent) on the sides of the ventral segments. Long. 21 — 25 millim. <^ j ? .
Chia-ting Fu.
COLEOPTERA COLLECTED ON THE BORDERS OF TIBET. 245
MiMELA POMACEA, n. Sp.
Of oblong form (at least in the female, the only sex known) ; elytra
relatively elongate. Above dark apple-green, without metallic lustre ; the
clypeus and lateral border of the thorax yellow. Eather strongly punctured,
more finely and sparsely on the crown and thorax, which are hence more
glossy than the clypeus and elytra ; on the latter the punctures lie very close,
without coalescing, and are arranged in numerous rows on the disk and sides.
The antennae, legs, and under-side are reddish, with a coppery tinge ; the
femora paler ; the tarei nearly black, and the sides of the abdomen very dark
metallic green. The breast is clothed with longish tawny hairs ; the abdomen
and legs more scantily hairy ; the pygidium is closely and finely confluent-
punclate, subopaque, and hairy on its borders. The mesosternum has an
acute process, reaching a Uttle further than the coxae. Long. 20 millim. ? .
Wa-shan.
Family CETONIID^.
Neoph^dimus auzouxi, Lucas, Ann. Soc. Ent. Fr. 1809 ; 1872
p. 280, pi. 14, f. 1—3, ^, ?.
Wa-shan, 6000 feet. Previously found by Pere David at
Moupin ; on leaves of Indian corn, in August, according to Lucas.
Khomborhina japonica, Hope.
Wa-shan and Chia-ting Fu. Differs in no respect that I can
discover from Japanese examples.
Cetonia marmorata, Fahr,
Var. cathaica.
Belongs to the series of species and local varieties closely allied to the
European C. marmorata, in which the clypeus is nearly straightly truncated
in front, the pygidium slightly and evenly convex in both sexes, and the
abdomen in the male longitudinally grooved and depressed. The colour
above and beneath, including the legs, is dark green, with strong brassy or
golden reflections, and with the usual short depressed transverse lines and
spots on the elytra clothed with chalky tomentum. The head and thorax are
generally spotless, but the latter in some examples has four small white spots
arranged in a wide quadrangle, and other white streaks in the marginal
grooves. The form is always relatively broader than in either C. marmorata,
or C. suhmarmorea, and the surface more polished. The sides of the clypeus
are not sharply elevated, the front margin is acutely reflexed and without
sinuation, and the forehead is broadly convex down the middle and only
sparsely punctured. The thorax is rather sparsely punctured, and on the
sides only, the praescutellar sinuation strongly marked. The elytra are
strigulate on the sides and near the shoulders, and in the usual postmedian
depression, elsewhere smooth. The pygidium is very slightly convex in the
middle in both sexes, and loosely transversely strigulose. The hind tarsi are
robust, in the male as long as the tibiae, in the female shorter. The femora
and tibiae are strigulose, like the pygidium ; the hair fringe of the femora and
inner side of hind tibi£e is orange-tawny. The mesosternal process is broad
and arcuated in front as in C. marmorata. The sides of the metasternum
are strigose and spotted with chalky tomentum, and the abdomen has two
rows of transverse tomentose spots on each side, which are smaller in the
female than in the male, and sometimes wanting. Long. 21 — 25 millim.
Wa-shan and Chia-ting Fu. Many examples.
246 THfi ENTOMOLOGIST.
This species is probably sometimes mistaken for (7. confuciana,
Thomson, which it resembles in colour and sculpture. But the
description of that species clearly refers to another Chinese form
in which the apex of the clypeus is reflexed and bifid. At least
this is the only way in which we can interpret the phrase "Caput
antice bituberculatum," as applied to a Cetonia. The C. confu-
ciana, Thorns., will therefore be a local form of C. suhmarmorea,
or a species closely allied to it, which belongs to a distinct group
distinguished by the gibbous apex of the pygidium in the male.
Among the more northerly species or races G. marmorata var.
cathaica comes nearest to C, insperata, Lewis, differing from it
chiefly in colour and size, and especially in its much broader
form.
Cetonia submarmorea, Burmeister.
Chia-ting Fu.
A dark brassy green, and less closely punctured variety, re-
sembling therefore the above-described C. cathaica ; but the bifid
clypeus and the gibbous pygidium and scarcely depressed abdo-
men of the male leave us in no doubt that it belongs to the C.
submarmorea group.
Cetonia viridi-opaca, Motschulsky.
Chia-ting Fu. A single example, agreeing in form and colour
with examples of Motschulsky's species from the Amur, but
differing somewhat in sculpture. (7. viridi-opaca is known to
belong to a very variable series of the genus, the specific limits
of which have been subject to much discussion.
Family LAMIID^E.
Lamiomimus gottschei, Kolbe, Archiv. fur Naturgesch. 1886,
p. 324, tab. xi. fig. 39.
Two examples from Ichang, differing in nothing, except the
darker (brassy blackish brown) ground colour, from those found
in Korea and the neighbourhood of Peking.
Cyriocrates horsfieldii, Hope,
Ichang. One small example.
Melanauster chinensis, Forster,
Chia-ting Fu.
Coscinesthes, nov. gen.
A Monohammid form, with a sharp and complete margin to the cicatrice
of the scape, rather narrowly divaricated tarsal daws, and simple outer edge
to the intermediate tibige. These characters bring it into near relationship
with Eut(Bnio;psis (Gahan), but the facies and other structural features are
very different. The head is rather narrow, the front parallel-sided, but the
antenniferous tubercles contiguous at the base and separated above by a
narrow cleft ; the lower lobe of the eyes narrow, and barely reaching half-
way to the base of the mandibles. The antennae ( ? ?) are a little longer
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. S47
than the body, very scantily fringed at the base ; the scape rather short,
obconical ; the 3rd and 4th joints equal, each about one-third longer than the
scape, 5th a little shorter, 6th to 11th decreasing in length and thickness.
The thorax is cylindrical, much narrower than the elytra, constricted near
the base, but not narrower behind than in front, as in Eutceniojpsis ; the
lateral spines sharp, their basal dilatation very slight. Elytra moderately
elongate, somewhat flattened above, rounded at the apex ; shoulders rectan-
gular. The anterior haunch-sockets are rather widely open behind. The
tarsal claws small and weak ; they are not so nearly parallel as in Eutceni-
opsis trifasciella, but at the same time they are not strictly divaricated.
COSCINESTHES POROSA.
Black, thinly clothed with coarse adpressed, reddish brown pile ; antennal
joints 3rd to 11th grey at the base, the length of the grey ring increasing
towards the apex. Head rather strongly punctured ; thorax coarsely granular ;
elytra granulated close to the base and on the shoulders, the rest of the surface
cribbled with mostly large, rounded and contiguous punctures or foveai ; the
elevated parts of the surface are black and shining, and the under surface is
minutely spotted with black. Long. 21 millim.
Wa-shan, alt. 6000 feet. One example.
Batocera lineolata, ChevrolaU
Chia-ting Fu. Described by Chevrolat from examples received
from Shanghai. The species is found also in Japan and in
Formosa, and is subject to considerable variation both in form
and markings.
Batocera davidis, Deyrolle, Ann. Soc. Ent. Fr. 1878, p. 131.
Chia-ting Fu. One example referred with some hesitation to
this species.
Apriona rugicollis, ChevrolaL
Like Batocera lineolata^ recorded originally from Shanghai and
subsequently proved to be not uncommon in Japan, Occurs also
at Amoy and other places in Eastern China.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S.
IV. — Eesults {continued),
EXPLANATION OF THE TABLES.*
" 0 " signifies that the colour was unaffected. A single or double
bracket enclosing the cipher, thus (O) ((0)), slightly qualifies it; such
must be read as " practically unaffected," &c.
A dash signifies that no experiment was made in such cases.
" Gone," is given as the result in some cases ; these were cases in
which no definite colour change could be noted, but the original colour
had certainly disappeared. Hepialus hwnuli may be taken as a strikingly
unsatisfactory instance in point.
* There are included in these tables several species not really British (see
footnote, p. 222) ; but these are either occasional visitors or closely allied to native
species, which I was unable to obtain.
5r>
Sr3 S S S P
'a) O eg O Qj
:^h1 O O O Ph O Ph
2 CD
e3 e3 si _ S -^ 5
tX)
^Sg"
?? -J-!-^
!^ rh rh r^ I
: : :.-§2Sg
; • • rd ffl •« ^^■
• © I ^ '^ Id =5
• e3 <D <D " .
Ti -i^ „ ."73 ^ ^
^ w .]
mop
^, : o
o >» .
?^ rrt •
c^ :
o --^ •
,o a o)
• PS
ooo
!^00 ^
4
o if
•?^r^rfl
'3*3 "3
C^^OCG^O"
IJI.P '■■
S -1
O) "
: ^
!43
g^^O^O'^
§3:2 >^2-
-'^ o S E? is
S (H C2 03
't;1 s t3 t»
<J 0)
• Q) ^'^H "^ ©
OOOOh^OO
OOOOOOft
c3
I i^ ©
III
/TV W O
o : >*
a :g
O • -(J
^ M ^
3
OOfi
O M
-(J
- „ ^ s '^ a -a
I
S.15 o
u ^ % a
©©©©©" >sge3
rS ."S .~S ."S ."S „, © rfl
1!^
©:ii'«
r^©43
3 O o
„ niJ b .-<
"3 >-j ._, M c3
C ri JTi -t^ !h
O '^ S C O)
Cj O -^ © S
0000000
.i5 10 -r^
o(?q h;zj ^
-2 05-0 ^,
■" -^ -^ -2 "S
ca ,-1 1-1 1^ tj
§;sS
W ^ OQ <J Ph <J OQ !z;
« 2
© fi
tiC ©
c3 W
o o
00 • o _s _
• r^ 51 ©
> 5PS'^
o o
ri C3 ©
: 2 S.^
3 5?-^
ci r3 o ©c;
Co : : . . . • r^
ns O nS -+3 © 2 ^-^ ^r! ri
S f^ '^orfl03r1©
i'^^^-sl^a ^"^
Wlz; OQ <1 Ph "^ OQ !2J
c3 &0
e -
§1 -3
O
fcD
g tog fcp
'^ o o 9
W S O s
^Xi 08
pq ;>H pq O p^ O P^
•g^
CD
a
o
rrt" S
Q) O
ft M >hOcqO O
S:a^
o ^
II o
pq M CO M
■$ '^ '3
o o fe
a
.2 rl.2
^ <u l^^ (D .S M
pH ;h pq o >H pL, pq
3 «
« c3
Oi
^
^ 03 13 fi!
>( ft « pq Q O fi
pq
s >
S o
• 2 <u fl :=! •
-.Sheila •
:^ =3 9 o^
>^ r-<
«
fl O c riij o O a>
03 :S 03 fcf r^ c3 'TS
sm .t^ 5h ;z! 03 f-^ o3
Oft OcoPiH Ofi<
o
O)
H
•.2 0
• (D o3
<» 5:! M
CD O
fcC(M
c3 .
M CO sw u/ - — s
OPHp^OP^O
CH
O O O O c3
0 00:::^P:hO I
iS
03
fl
a
J3
cc
"fn
o
t^
a
m
^
03 O
Co • r*
«
•^
e
o-g o
W (>j-:0
P5 ,' 03
aa
S 03 •
'oj n3 •
>^ 03
'^"^^
03 QJ J^
, . . >5 >> >^
» ^B 03 03 a .a
Oi-q<ioP^t>o iz;
s a
-1-= .H .M -t^
e3,j::J ' A &
■*^ m _ ^ -^
^•a^-a^
gag
• -Zl o3 > c6
O O fe'^ > 'rt
i^i^ o a 6 o
•jT "j:? ^ OJ '-^ <i>
ftftpipp^MPn
o ;
s •
'^ -4-3
Hi
"^ <=3 5!
TS 03 ^
03 r1 O
O
il
q=;
g PM
p- <3 • -^ ->J J_i o
e3 "^ e3 o3 03 03
Ph - OPhPh>h eh
o . o -^ — -
§ r§--S "^ g S
§■^^^•3
-Q 03
^.t5 3 o o g o 3
W ^2; c« <tj PL, <i CO :z;
03 O 03
« 2^ 2
g fl 03 C
-I) O r^ O
03 03 03
CX) tsD tJD
G fl fl
* rC *
. 03 rf
• s?a ^
go
O 03
sa
03 "I
.a o
^ : o -^ ^ '3 =^
: aojr^
s ^ s * ^ Ej Eij
OOOOHOO
15 i=l
H
tU
r1 "-1 -M
^.1:5 C
H += ' — I cJ
03 ."S S ,-^ S E3
tHftftOftOft
2 ^
w ft
.y 10 -ri M
o o
^ "3 .2 o
^ C8 M ce
2 2^-2
W 123 02 <i1
• pii ft
Qr2
M
c3
o fl o
P-t-<icQ
i =
..0.0 - — '— ^
^ M
• to ft ft o -g
.'S 1 3 2 03-^ ^
-^ "o .2 "3 ^ «8
03 fl
2.2
ft-u c3 H "-> « ci_i
s o o 0 o 3 '-^
cc <: pin <j1 oQ Jz;
03 W 'Xi ^,a
'^ a ^ 03 ^ CQ
s ^ s — i^
s2 OJ cu
n3 ITS
.0? e3
3 f* o S
OMfS^^Sft S
Xi
S-^
. <D a>
>?S
S.2^
• • • 02
f^ O 2.:=^pL< piH ;> Ph
•" to
o ■*
tS CO
rCj c3 03 o -i? li: • -r"
'^ rd ni
MOM
,2 r3 "
o
O
o
O ^^^ S Q) 03 OJ ..
H nS 5 pj a fl d
!^ {^ Q Pm CCCP^
^=8
m^^
.1
e"5 ^ g^"
So 2 oj ^ 2
^ . >> OS ^ 'rrt W3 fl
H *-( d *^
'o o'55 ^"©.t^ S
S « fl ^ «
r!3 • O
.2 Its
. 03
. 03 q:3
P^^ 03
• ^ _C0 _M
.,£3 g 03
t^-:2 "^-2
^ =s
1-1 .rt ,J-( CO Ah ^
Oi^OOPhOO'
P^
'T3
03
< ^ 03
S ^ .^ "P,
: : : :6%^
' a3r^p^^'*-' "
1 1^ O) 03 • -12 ~
^
. do
, »-5 rj r3 _
o PL, ^ o P^ ^ ;z; C
e<5 O
•'^ I— c
•ie
I
d
S ^ S E3 to
^ s § § :o
d
W 'TIS s
'0 o
Sft
S •« d
rrJ'^nS . 03 s
03 03 QJ . S, O
- - ! to ,w
o d ^ d 73 ±
-^^-^
S 03 ,i^
±3
n-< 03 te 03
03 O O O
d M -M M
d CO -+3 M
OQ P ft ft
S .2 M.2
s ^ vs ^
C3 ;5 o
O eS
;^
o
.2 'TS 03
^':3 o
03 03 03
d d d -^ ;^- ^
0000 O'g P
a 03
Is
03 O
^ CO
U rS 03 q 03
s :
I ;
>^ •
d
'^ ^
^^ •"^'^ s o^
^ 03 03 03 "^ 03
U V :^ .t3 ^ .15
PmHh:;h:1P^P
o
5-< d
03 ^
rd d
c3 O
P^P^
a^,
*co A'^
t>^ 03
UB
S'd'^> o
9w
• tiO
p^ • ft
d cj
do .2
'2 "^
il
cS ^
i^ S 03-
o >>.S ^
03^ d ?
|W Iz; 02 <^ Pm <j oQ
rc5 'S Ph
3 o
'f c3 g ce ^' _
^•r ci.-^ 2 1.2
^^..^ d o o d o
K ^ OQ <! PL, <^ OQ
d o
2 ^
-P 03
5P"5 boo
S<N d»H
'S g :S 2 03- 2
2.2-3 o 2 § 2
>^^ d o o d o
ffi ^ CQ <J Oh <i uQ
m o
^;3
ft
o (o o o o a
c^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
SoSwSSS
o tsD O
53 ^
o ^e
0) O 03
fH
e3 a c3
qj --H , — , a> Q oj
t>ftoo:z;o^
M 2 o --< o
.s.s --2
« CO ^w to °o
PPkHccOPOO
i:s,§^^'^:3
C2 -e
•15 ;3 ^' ft-^ fl Q
> .-t? CO fl <D °
. ^ .
'.'^ :
• 00 •
P <D O p
5:J '^ 5:J 5S
_, -^ CL) r^ i i
o o o 5P o o
MpqpqcQpqm
^
:|
i3 ^ s-"
>> C5
.-+5 £H O CU O fH gj
g: ea G O -5 Q^ 03
t^ ^ pL| flH ft Iz; PL|
>>>»>.>»
•03 a
fl d fl a cj '^=1
03 o3 ca c3 > • o3
-<^ -M -(-3 -M i^ • rl
CO CO M CO o . b
ii! jri fl d^ .y^
y _c a a ^
c fl fl fl S a a
^ ^ ^ ^ fl ^ ^
o o o o o o o
U }-< 1-t U f^ U f-i
pq pq pq pq pq pq pq
:5* ^3^
a-2
. CO ?-l
fl O" M
o o
i< > > ter ■;h "^ CO
03 2 2 2 ?i;a "
Opqpqpqn
fl . fl ..a
o S •
1-^ W -(-3 O
W ^-' .^ .„ .^
03 03 03 03
c C3 :
p ^H :
03 .
bCP^ P^
"o
g lO tco
^
03
g
^.
,^3
s^a^
<1AH<1a2
52;
S ^ jj- CO
w*"3 3 o o a o 3 o
fl « * ! .
:§S.ll||o3^
:3 -3 .2 o %,^ "^ ,
2.sl-2co I o-g
W 55 CQ -<1 PL| •
O 53
"^
sh traces
bluish"" ^
Lsh blue
one
alt;
left
'Sa
o
o
e
O
03 £ d >>
1 i^S & :2
^
.2 ^ ft a w)
Sb^ teg fl U)M
1
1 1 !
;^
^ '3 oj la '—v'ci
olg;§go'l
«
.0, . .
ri3
§3a
1
S 0) a> oj (D ai • <D
« >»>,>>>:.>, . >:»
o o o o o . o
;h ^ ^ »H vi . ^
-M -J3 -M +3 -u • -4J
tn 03 M a) CO • t«
Q^ Q^ C^ O O ^
1
OftCQ
g
1
ftOftO>
a
c2
S3 §,§ : y.^J^
1^
^
lillliiP^
o
1
•2
e3 e3 <U <I> 13 H* fC.
1
^
(Sf5p->0'P>^ 1
MWpqofsiHlo
1 ^'
• 1
<" • • • -2 ^ ®
f
^1^-3 :^3 11.2
o
§ += ^ iili^ : ^ S ;i5 j:^ S
;^
,J1 O ft H^ O h^ t^ 02
1
; : :
rvl
?
e
'-% •
z
' -^= •
• • >->
o
I M !
.^ .
: >> !
I ^ .
'.2 •
si
MO)
5o.^^c
5 2l
1
jS
OOOOOOO'IU ' 1
3
ft O O :^0 O ft •
§
. o . ■ o S >>
•g
• !^ o;
•2
s
•2
2h
- i; ^ • i; M
1
1
:i
! m
CO
Os
§p :§^'&
• • • •§ •
::^Opu -Opi^O
ooooooo
OQftHftOOO
M
^6 : :^ :« -T^
S « - CO
g ^ . tea fto-g
.-•■■^
Es
11
iiliipl-
2*-^ 3 O O W O !3
i3 iz; DQ <i ph <i M iz;
W ;z; GQ <1 PU <Jl DQ ^
lllliiil^
W ;z; QQ <j Ph <l 02 ;2;
( 253 )
DESCRIPTIONS of TWO NEW SPECIES of PHYTOPHAGOUS
COLEOPTERA FROM THE EAST.
By Martin Jaooby, F.E.S.
ChRYSOMELA BELLA, 11. Sp.
More or less elongate, metallic cupreous, varied with blue or green;
thorax deeply punctured near the lateral margin, the latter scarcely
thickened, the basal margin, a narrow middle line and lateral spot, blue ;
elytra finely punctured, the suture and a band at the sides, violaceous blue.
Length, 2^—4 lines.
Of rather elongate shape and resembling Orina s^peciosissima, but
without the deep lateral thoracic depression of that species; the head
sparingly and very finely punctured, with a central narrow groove, cupreous
or metallic greenish, the base with a larger or smaller violaceous spot ; palpi
nearly black, the third and foui'th joints equal, the last one truncate ;
antennae extending a little beyond the base of the elytra, metallic dark
violaceous, the lower six or seven joints shining, the rest opaque, pubescent,
the third joint elongate, the others short, nearly equal, the terminal joints
gradually thickened ; thorax transverse, rather more than twice as broad as
long, the sides nearly straight or very little rounded, the anterior margins
straight at the middle, produced into a blunt point at the angles, the sides
but slightly thickened with some irregularly distributed deep punctures, the
rest of the surface finely (sometimes scarcely perceptibly) and closely
punctured, metallic cupreous, a large spot at each side near the basal
margin, the latter itself and a narrow central line, metalUc violaceous ;
scutellum bluish ; elytra finely punctured, the punctures arranged in rather
close and irregular rows, which become indistinct towards the apex; the
sutural margin narrowly and a broad sublateral stripe from the base to the
apex, violaceous, the intermediate spaces, reddish cupreous ; under side
metallic green or blue, the breast and the margins of the abdominal
segments, as well as the femora, more or less cupreous ; the first joint of the
anterior tarsi longer than the second one, all closely pubescent below ; the
male organ strongly curved, shallowly hollowed, the apex deeply excavated,
the extremity slightly truncate.
Hab. Ichang, China (Pratt).
According to Mr. J. Weise, this species, of which many
specimens were obtained, is the representative of a new genus,
allied to Melasoma ; in my opinion, however, the differences in
the structural characters in the present insect are not sufificient
to justify a separation from Chrysomela, the numerous species of
which differ frequently to a similar degree.
Sepharia, Fairm.
I refer to this genus of Galerucidse, described by Fairmaire
in the * French Annals,' 1889, an insect from Kaschmir, which
seems to possess all the structural characters, as pointed out by
M. Fairmaire. This author has, however, not mentioned the
shape of the thorax, nor the length of the tarsi. I, therefore,
add here that the thorax in the present species is transverse, more
than twice as broad as long, and its disc obsoletely transversely
depressed ; the tibiae are all armed with a distinct spine, and the
first joint of the posterior tarsi is nearly half the length of the
254 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
tibia; the anterior coxal cavities are closed. Sepharia, on
account of the long metatarsus of the posterior legs, seems allied
to Luperodes and Ochralea ; the shape of the thorax separates
the genus from either ; the closed cavities, from Luperodes ; the
broad, concave, and entire elytral epipleurse distinguish Sepharia
from Monolepta.
Sepharia frontalis, n. sp.
Oblong-ovate, testaceous ; the scutellum, a spot at the basal margin of
the elytra, their extreme apex, the breast and sides of the abdominal
segments, and a spot at the apex of the pygidium, black; thorax
impunctate ; elytra scarcely perceptibly punctured.
Mas. — Head with a deep excavation and a triangular black projection,
the clypeus with two smaller depressions ; the last abdominal segment
trifid, the middle lobe slightly longitudinally concave. Length, 3 lines.
Of a pale testaceous colour, the head broader than long, the eyes
prominent and large, the space between them excavated, the upper margin
of the excavation fringed with hairs, the interior furnished with a triangular
projecting black pomt; antennae testaceous, two-thirds the length of the
body, the first joint very elongate, curved and thickened towards the apex,
the two following joints small, the fourth as long as the first, the following
joints smaller, furnished with some stiff hairs; thorax narrowly transverse,
the sides narrowly margined, slightly rounded and narrowed towards the
base, the anterior margin straight, the angles not prominent, the surface
obsoletely transversely depressed, not visibly punctured ; scutellum triangular,
black ; elytra convex, but little widened posteriorly, the apex rather truncate,
their epipleurse broad, concave, continued to the apex, the surface extremely
minutely punctured, testaceous, a narrow streak or spot (sometimes absent)
is placed on the extreme basal margin near the shoulders, and another small
spot at the extreme sutural apex; the breast, the sides of the abdominal
segments, to a greater or smaller extent, and a spot at the apex of the
pygidium, as well as one at the flanks of the thorax, black ; legs long and
slender, testaceous, the tibial spines black.
In the female the head is only obsoletely depressed between
the eyes, and simple, as well as the last abdominal segment.
Several specimens obtained by Mr. Leech in Kaschmir.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
OccuRKENCE OF Plusia moneta IN BRITAIN. — Mr. W. M. Chnsty
informs me that he has lately taken a specimen of Plusia moneta, Fabr.,
in his moth-trap. The insect is now on the setting-board, but the fortunat6
captor has kindly promised to lend me the specimen to figure in the
September number of ' The Entomologist.' — R. S.
A Day at Tilgate Forest. — On Whit-Monday, May 26th, the South
London Entomological and Natural History Society held their first field-
day at Tilgate. Meeting at Three Bridges station, the line of route
selected was almost parallel to the London and Brighton railway, passing
through the Tile yard, Cinder Valley, on to Balcombe tunnel. This is,
perhaps, the best collecting-ground of the district, being well wooded
with oak, ash, beech, larch- and spruce-firs, alder, and birches, the lovely
growth and foliage of the latter being at their best, and worth the journey
NOTES AND CAPTURES. 255
to see : you have miles and miles of birch, with an undergrowth of heather and
fern, and here and there boggy splashes, all splendid collecting-ground, and
producing many good and rare species. Tiie spruce-firs produce Eupithecia
togata, the larvae being found feeding in the cones in the autumn ; the
birches yield Notodonta carmelita, Endromis versicolor, Cerura hicuspis,
Notodonta dictmoides, &c. ; the beech, Stauropus fagi ; the alder, Sesia
sphegiformis, &c. To name all the good species that may be taken here by
diligent working would indeed make a long list. Those of our party that
arrived by the earlier morning train found Lepidoptera flying freely.
Fieris brassiccB, P. napi, and P. rapcB all fairly common ; Anthocharis
cardamines were very numerous ; hybernated Vanessidse and tattered
Gonopteryx rhamni scuttled hurriedly along; Argynnis euphrosyne in
numbers ; whilst a few Syrlchthiis malvcB, Nisoniades tages, and Hesperia
sylvanus flitted about in the bright sunshine. The beating-stick applied to
the alders dislodged a few Hypsipetes impluviata and Eupisteria obiiterata
(heparata), with several commoner Geometridae ; whilst by a closer search at
the alder stems, a few larvae of Scsia sphegiformis were found feeding (it feeds
for three years), but only two spun- and fed-up specimens were met with;
evidently the species is by no means common. The two pupae found
produced two fine males on June 6th, and were the best captures of the day.
Venilia macularia and Fidonia atomaria were in profusion, and a few pretty
forms of either could be selected. Zonosoma pendularia and Tephrosia
punctulata were fairly common on the tree stems, although less numerous
than most years. The blue-bells and ferns in the Cinder Valley looked most
charming, many white varieties of the former [Scilla nutans var. alba)
occurred; and by the side of the little stream, Athyrium Jilix-fcemina
and Lastrea cemula (the hay-scented fern) grew in great luxuriance; and the
variable L. dilutata was much in evidence. Lomaria spicant adorned every
wet rill, and on the dryer ground, Lastrea oreopteris looked beautiful in its
shuttlecock tuft, and profuse abundance. The delicate little ivy-leaved
bell-flower. Campanula hederacea, in places carpeted the ground, although
not quite in flower; and in one spot masses of the stag's-horn moss,
Lycopodium clavatum, grew amongst the Sphagnum and heather. By four
o'clock our party (fourteen) found that the inner-man required recuperating,
80 tracks were made for the ' Norfolk Arms.' An alfresco wash from the
cool water of the old well and a light tea refreshed us all for our return
through the forest. Unfortunately, as the sun went down the cold north-
east wind quite stopped any evening flight, so that our captures were not
much augmented, — a few Tortrices, Eupitheciae, and Eudoriae ; but nothing
of much consequence. Our attention was diverted to the twisted-up leaves
for larvae. Asphalia flavicornis, Cheimatobia boreata and Phycis betula were
fairly common on the birch, although much less so than some years ; and
a few Tethea reclusa larvae were found neatly spun-up in the top shoots of
sallows. Although during our ramble we had made no specially rare captures,
the day was thoroughly enjoyed by all. — W. H. Tugwell; June 23, 1890.
June Outing of the S. London Entomological and Natural History
Society. — On the 21st of June about twenty members of this Society and
their friends went by train to Leatherhead, where they were met by
Mr. C. A. Briggs and his brother Mr. T. H. Briggs. The former gentle-
man kindly conducted the party to Mickleham. After a sharp walk through
the town, and a pleasant jog-trot along the lanes and over the Downs,
a convenient halting-place was reached about 4.45 p.m. Here the party
256 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I
was broken up, the members wandering away singly, or in twos and threes,
to collect what they would or could for the space of one hour by the clock.
All appeared to have made good use of their sixty minutes ; and if some had
not made many captures, they had at least travelled far, as it was some-
thing beyond the appointed time ere the last straggler had reached the
rendezvous. Mr. Billups was busy among the Diptera, &c. (see list below), and
the Lepidopterists had some sport with Setina irrorella, Acidalia ornata, and
the usual pot-pourri of the " hilly field " at this season of the year, com-
prising various Pterophoridse, Crambidse, and Tortrices. The members
being again assembled Mr. Briggs resumed command, and marched them
back to Leatherhead, where he most hospitably entertained the whole party
at his house.
At the meeting of the above Society held on the 26th of last month
Mr. Billups exhibited types of the insects taken at Mickleham by himself ;
and although, as previously stated, the actual working time was limited to
some sixty minutes, still Mr. Billups managed to get a considerable number
of insects of many Orders together ; and to show what may be accom-
plished with a little energy, in a comparatively short time, it may not be
uninteresting to enumerate some of the captures. Diptera was the most
largely represented Order, there being twenty-nine species, consisting of
the following : — Scatopse notata, L. ; Dllophus fehrilis, L. ; Bibio marci, L.,
and johannis, h.', Simulium reptans, h.; one species of Chironomus, not
determined ; Pachyrrhina crocata, L. ; Tipula oleracea, L. ; Pachygaster
leacliii, Curt. ; Nemotelus nigrinus, Fin. ; Berts clavipes, L., and chalybeata,
Foerst. ; Hcematopota pluvialis, L.; Chrysops cmcutiens, L. ; Leptis scolo-
pacea^ L. ; Leptogaster cylindricus, Deg. ; Dioctria rufipes, Deg., and
baumhaueri, Mg. ; DysmacJiius trigonus, Mg. ; Rhamphomyia sulcata, Fin. ;
Empis tessellata, F., and livida, L. ; DoUchopus ceneus, Deg. ; Leucozona
lucorum, L. ; Conops vitellinus, Lw. ; Tetanocera punctulata, Scop. ; Platy-
stoma seminationis, F. ; Acidia heraclei, L. ; and Spilographa zoe, Mg.
Hymenoptera, twenty-three species, among which were types of the
following sub-famiUes: — Three species of Diploptera, namely Odynerus
parietum, L. ; Prosopis communis, Nyl. ; and Nomada alternata, Kirby :
the Ichneumonidae having ten representatives, i. e. Chasmodes motatorius,
Fab. ; Ichneumon vaginatorius, Lin., I. luctatorius, L., and /. latrator, Fab. ;
Colpognathus celerator, Gr. ; Dicoilotus pauiilus, Gr. ; Phceogenes planifrons,
Gr., and fulvitarsis, Gr. ; Hemiteles bicolorinus, Gr. ; and Pezomachus dis-
tinctus, Foerst. : while Proctotrypes ater, Hal., Codrus apterogynus, Hal.,
Lagnodes pallidus, Foerst., and Chelogynus lapponicus, Hal., filled a gap
in the Oxyuradse : Callimome regius, Ns., and Syntonaspis caudata, Ns.,
were the only species of Chalcididee obtained; while Rhodites rosa, L.,
and JR. eglanterice, Hartig, represented the gall-makers, or Cynipidae.
Two species of sawfly, or Tenthredinidse : — Lophorus pini, L., and Hylo-
toma cyanea-crocea, Cam., bringing up the balance of Hymenoptera.
Only five species of Coleoptera were taken, these being — ScapJiisoma agari-
cinum, 01.; Cistela tnurina, L. ; (Edemera lurida, Marsh. ; Magdalinus
aterrima, L. ; and Clytus arietis, L. Hemiptera had three representatives,
in Pantilus tunicatus, Fab. ; the not common Stiphrosoyna leucocephalumf
L. ; Plagiognathus arbustorum. Fab. Philceuus exclamationis, Thuub.,
being the only species of Homoptera ; one solitary species also represented
the Neuroptera, Stenopsocus cruciatus, L. In all 104 insects were captured
by Mr. Billups, representing 10 families ; in addition to which there were
NOTES AND CAPTURE g, 257
three species of Arachnida — Marpera nervosa^ Clerck ; Dysdera cambiidgiiy
Thor. ; and Nemastoma bimaculata, Meig.
A Day in Hertfordshire. — The Metropolitan Railway extension to
Chesham affords a convenient means of reaching some very excellent
collecting-ground in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire. Since this line
has been opened I have explored the country around the two stations between
Rickmansvvorth and Chesham. Although, so far, 1 have not been able to
properly investigate its entomological fauna, I am satisfied that the whole
district is one which would well repay careful work, and, considered from a
collector's point of view, may be regarded as a land of promise. The
following notes refer to the Rickmans worth section : — During an autumn
stroll in the direction of Harefield, I last year took a good number of the
larvae of EupUhecia albipunctata from off flowers and seeds of Angelica
sylvestrls. On the 28th of May, of this year, I made the same journey,
accompanied by Mr. R. W. Thompson. We commenced work by searching
for ova of Euchlo'e cardamines, and by close and careful examination of the
flowers of Cardam'ine pratensis, and another member of the Cruciferae of
whose name I am unfortunately ignorant, we found the little orange eggs
singly here and there. By the time we had tired ourselves with this back-
aching amusement we had obtained a fair number of ova. We next tried
our luck at beating the herbage for larvae, but the only species obtained in
any quantity was Gldarla dotata (= pyraUata) from Galium. The larva
of Plusia chrysitis being a desideratum, we paid particular attention to
likely-looking patches of nettles, but only obtained four chrysitis and two
iota, — a poor return, certainly, for the amount of energy put into the work ;
so we determined to cease operations until we arrived on the heath across
which the road we were following would pass, and where we hoped to find
plenty of occupation. The first moth to engage our attention on reaching
the heath was Stigmonota internana ; hundreds of these pretty little insects
were flying about the furze bushes in company with Catoptria ulicetana.
Farther on an occasional Eupoecilia maculosana was netted as we passed
near some wild hyacinths. An attack was then made on the trees for larvae,
but the beating-stick failed to persuade anything better than Phigalia
pedaria, Oporahia dilutata, and Hyhernia defoliaria to drop into the
umbrella. Searching rewarded us with larvae of Tethea subtusa between
leaves of white poplar ; T. retusa, on sallow ; Phycis betulcB, in a web at the
ends of birch twigs ; and Padisca opthalmicana, on white poplar. After
leaving the heath we noticed some yellow rattle [Rhinanthus crista-galii) in
a grass meadow : as there was a convenient footpath through this field, we
entered, and were pleased to find Enniielesia a Ibulata just out, and in some
abundance ; some pretty forms were secured. One or two examples of
Heliaca tenebrata (= arbuti) were also observed. Altogether very few
imagines came under our notice during the morning, but, in addition to
those already mentioned, we saw Venilia rnacidaria, Panagra petraria, and
Melanippe sociata. Towards evening, when we returned to the heath, the
last-named species appeared in considerable numbers, and, at the same
time, odd specimens of Emmelesia decolorata, E. affinitata, and Coremia
unidentaria, were captured, as also were single examples of Argyrolepia
liartmanniana (= baumanniana) and Catoptria albersana. As the light
waned we packed up our traps and turned towards Rickmansworth. At
one time we were disposed to think that we had been unwise in not
providing ourselves with lamps and sugar; but after sunset there was a
ENTOM. — AUGUST, 1890. T
258 . THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
sudden decrease in the temperature, and scarcely an insect to be seen on
the wing, so we consoled ourselves with the philosophical reflection that we
were not losing much by our omission. — Richard South.
A Week in the New Forest. — Although the season is not as yet
very far advanced, a few notes on the result of a week's collecting at
Lyndhurst may perhaps be of interest to those readers of ' The Entomo-
logist ' who intend to work the New Forest later in the summer. I arrived
at Lyndhurst on June Slst, and immediately called upon a well-known
local entomologist of great experience. His report was not encouraging,
and, unfortunately, was fully borne out by my subsequent experience.
After a futile night's sugaring, and a day's rest on the Sunday, I began
work in earnest on the 23rd. The weather was very hot, but the sky was
thickly clouded over all day, and in consequence everything had to be
beaten up. The only insects which put in an appearance were Argynnis
seJene on the heaths, and the ubiquitous Epinephele ianira, whose mission
in life seems to be to " come out strong " under depressing circumstances.
However, by hard work at beating, I managed to secure by one o'clock
some fine Metrocampa margaritaria, Boarmia rep)a7idata (including some
pretty varieties), Bapta taminata, Fararge egeria, EuhoUa plumbarla
[palumbaria], Ephyra Unearia {triUnearia), and a beautiful pair of Drepana
falcataria (falcula), which were taken from birch. I afterwards worked
the heath, and got Nemeophila russula in fine condition, Bupalus jnniaria
(the latter was very abundant), Macaria liturata, and other common things.
The evening work was, as usual, a complete failure. On the 24th 1 was
joined by a friend, but, though we worked the woods and heaths hard, we were
only rewarded with A^. russula, Gonepteryx rhamni, (very battered in nearly
every instance), some clouded varieties of Boarmia repandata, B. piniaria,
a pair of Hepialus hectus, and other insignificant captures, up till the 27th.
All this time sugaring proved absolutely fruitless, the mixture seeming to
be far more attractive to sundry slugs, of vast bulk and forbidding appear-
ance, than to Noctuse. On the 27th we tried larva beating, in the absence
of all imagines, but with no result worth recording. At last we were
favoured with a gleam of sunshine, and saw Argynnis paphia, evidently
only just out, one Thecla rubi, a few Lyccena icarus (cdexis) and (Bgon, and
Ccenonympha pamjyhilus, as well as the usual swarms of P. egeria, B.
piniaria, &c. I also got one Drepana lacertula, in fine condition, close to
the spot where I had previously taken D. falcula. In the evening a few
moths came to sugar, including Aplecta nehulosa, Thyatira batis, and
Noctua biunnea. This was the wind-up to our visit, and we left next
morning. I attribute our failure to three chief causes — bad weather, a late
season, and the scarcity of Lepidoptera in general. For the most part the
Sun refused to show himself, and the weather was ungenial. The fact that
on our last day's excursion we found more variety in the species taken,
coupled with tlie first appearance of Noctu* at sugar, induces me to think
that we should have done better a week or ten days later. Still it was only
too painfully apparent that there was a deplorable dearth of Lepidoptera.
Other orders of insects were largely represented, the flies in particular, to
an extent which rendered them very troublesome ; while the Stag Beetle
by night, and Libellula splendens by day, literally swarmed. An ominous
fact was the absolute dearth of Diurni, even of the commonest hinds, and
Limenitis sibylla did not cross our path at all, though it should certainly
have been out during the latter days of our stay. I believe a sohtary
NOTES AND CAPTURES. 259
specimen actually was seen, but not taken, by an entomologist staying in
the village. On comparing notes \Yith him I found that, badly as we had
fared, his bag was still scantier, and all the resident collectors with whom I
conversed were unanimous as to the dearth of Lepidoptera this year. —
E. G. Alderson ; Worksop, Notts.
Captures in the Brighton District. — With the primary object of
obtaining specimens of Agrotis cinerea this year, I went down to Brighton
on the 26th of May, and again on the 7th of June. On the first occasion I
could only find one example of the particular insect I was in quest of, and
this was a male specimen. The second expedition was attended with better
success, as I found several pairs of the species, in splendid condition, sitting
about on the Downs. I also captured a few more or less worn males, which
were attracted to the light of my lamp. I may mention that the usually
common species of Pieris appeared to be curiously rare, but Euchlo'e
cardamines was neither more or less common than in other years when I
have collected on the same ground. Nemeobius lucina and Thecla rubi were
common on the 26th of May, but Macroglossa fuciformis and M. homhyli-
formis were both very scarce on that date. — H. McArthur; 35, Averill
Street, Fulham, S.W.
Lepidoptera in Oxfordshire. — So far the season has been below
the average, but some few species have been abundant. Thecla rubi
appeared in abundance ; so plentiful were they at the end of May that it
would have been possible to have taken hundreds in a day. Ino geryon
also was fairly plentiful. I captured about 200 specimens in a few evenings,
and then left the remainder to breed. I failed to find this species on the
hills attaining a height of 800 feet; but the lower slopes, especially the
glades in beech woods, were the places for it. Among the butterflies plentiful
this season have been Argynnis eiiphrosyrw, N. tages, S. malvcd (alveolus),
L. astrarche [agestis), L. minima [alsiis). L. argiolus appeared sparingly.
The July Fritillaries have not yet put in an appearance, owing probably to
the wet weather. I caught over 200 N. plantaginis last week. This
species is also very local, and frequents one wood only ; searching in other
woods proved a failure. In its particular haunts, however, it was a grand
sight to see any number at the same time on the wing, and I am sure I do
not exaggerate when I state that some thousands must have been hatched
this year in that locality. — A. J. Spiller ; Chinnor, Oxon, July 3, 1890.
Abnormal Epinephele ianira. — I see that Mr. Pearce, in his " Con-
tributions to the Entomology of the Portsmouth District " (Entom. 230),
says of Epinephele ianira : — " I have a very curious male, taken on
Portsdown Hill in 1888 ; the right upper wing appears to have been tied
round the centre in some way whilst developing." About a fortnight ago,
on the 5th of this month, I captured a male of this species in Enfield, with
the right upper wing wrinkled up round the centre in precisely the same
manner. It was unable to fly much but kept on fluttering along in the
grass, which drew my attention to it.— H. D. Sykes ; " The Cedars,"
Enfield, July 19, 1890.
Note on the Life-History of Bombyx quercus v. callun^. —
A few observations concerning the life-history of this species may be in-
teresting to entomologists. On August 15th, last year, a female was
captured at rest, which deposited a large batch of ova. After hatching
260 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
the larvsD were divided into four portions, three of which I gave to my
friends, reserving the fourth for myself. Number 1 batch was kept in
the hving room all throughout their metamorphoses, and were fed on crab
until September, when bramble was given. Growing rapidly, they attained
their full growth and commenced to spin up at Christmas, the first imago
(a female) appearing on July 1st, and one or more every day up to the time
of writing. No. 2 batch were treated in a similar way to No. 1, but kept
in the cellar of the house : this lot did not actually hybernate, as my friend
told me that, when giving them fresh food (bramble), he found them crawling
about ; they commenced to prepare their cocoons May 27th, and up to the
time of writing no imago had emerged. No. 3 batch were treated in a
similar manner to No. 2, but, owing to some cause or other (probably damp),
died off one by one. No. 4 batch (my own) were kept in a kind of shed
sheltered from rain, and fed on crab up to the end of September; the crab
then failing, the larvae were placed out of doors, in a large cage specially
prepared for them, with a good growing plant of bramble : they were
examined from time to time, and it was noted that they only partially
hybernated ; they appeared to eat very little, and became a trifle smaller.
The last winter, being very mild, not one died. About the middle of
March I took them out of the cage, and placed them in the shed. When
placed out for the winter they were about 1^ in. long, and, although they
had not grown during the winter, they were very lively, and to all appear-
ance healthy. When the weather got warmer, and hawthorn and crab
came into leaf, they were supplied with these, as well as bramble ; the
majority grew rapidly, attaining their full growth, and spun up by June 1st.
The others are still feeding, and I do not expect they will pupate much
before August, the usual time in a perfectly natural condition. — John N.
Young; 85, Filey Koad, Rotherhara, July 3, 1890.
EUPITHECIA TOGATA, E. VENOSATA, AND EmMELESTA ALBULATA, TWO
YEARS TN Pupa. — I have been breeding imagines of Eupithecia togata and
E. venosata, also Emmelesia albulata, which were collected in Shetland as
larvsB by the Messrs. Salvage in 1888, and have thus been two years in
pupa. The first to emerge was E. venosata, on May 5th ; E. togata made
its appearance on May 19th ; and the first E. albulata showed itself on
June 17th. I can corroborate Mr. South's observations, in his interesting
note on E. togata in * The Entomologist ' (No. 325, p. 205), as to the dis-
crepancy in size, and colours, and markings of this species. One specimen
which I have measures very little over half an inch, my largest insects
being just an inch. Several had bright, claret-coloured bands when alive,
fading in tint considerably after death. One specimen — my largest— has
a broad, and dark red, band along the outer margins of both the fore and
hind wings, making the white zigzag line more than ordinarily conspicuous.
In some specimens there is scarcely any indication of this band. Kirby
gives the following as a distinction between E. ahietaria (Goze) and E.
togata (Hiibn.). He says E. togata is " most readily distinguished by its
much shorter palpi, which are only a little longer than the head." There is
a difference in the length of these organs in my specimens ; but I could
not pretend to separate them myself by this character. — Joseph Anderson,
JuN. (Chichester).
A Flag u 10 of Caterpillars. — A correspondent states that it is many
years since the fruit trees of Cheshire were so seriously damaged by cater-
NOTES AND CAPTURES. 261
pillars. Tn the Kelsall district there will be little fruit of any description,
the apple, pear, and gooseberry trees especially being affected. The
disappointment among market gardeners is all the keener, as there was a
magnificent show of bloom. A serious plague of caterpillars has broken
out in the rural districts around Southampton, doing immense damage to
the fruit crops, which in many cases are totally destroyed.
[The above cutting, from a London weekly newspaper (May, 1 890),
is inserted here as it may thus come under the notice of entomologists
residing in the districts mentioned, who will perhaps be good enough to
give us further particulars. — Ed.]
Small example of Tephrosia biundularia. — I have never seen an
example of T. crepuscularia smaller than the one mentioned by Mr. T. B.
Jefferys (Entom. 204); but my friend Mr. George Rose, of Barnsley, took
a specimen of T. biundularia on a cottage window, near Barnsley, in June,
1887, that measures only ha?/ an inch from tip to tip. This insect was
given to Mr. C. S. Gregson by Mr. Rose, and an account of it appeared in
' The Young Naturalist,' vol. viii., p. 181.— A. E. Hall ; Norbury, Sheffield.
Saturnia pavonia (= CARPiNi) Larva feeding on Oak. — I had a
pair of Saturnia pavonia emerge, and obtained about 150 eggs. Some
forty of these proved fertile. As I was unable to obtain heath for the
young larvae I gave them bramble and oak together, but they would only
eat the oak for the first fourteen days or so ; at the end of the first fortnight
they took to the bramble, and although I have offered them heath and oak
several times since they will not touch it, but stick to the bramble, the
flowers of which, when well open, they seem very partial to. The larvae, at
the present time about thirty in number, appear to have fed up very
equally and to be quite healthy. — Mark H. Winkley ; 9, Glen Eldon
Road, Coventry Park, Streatham, July 10, 1890.
ACIDALIA RUSTICATA IN THE NORTH OF LONDON. As this SpCcieS
seems to be of very local occurrence, it may be of some interest to the
readers of * The Entomologist ' to mention that I took a specimen on
Hampstead Heath in 1884. Unfortunately I was quite a beginner at the
time, and consequently the specimen is not in such good condition as one
could wish, being minus its abdomen : the wings, however, are not damaged
in any way. 1 am afraid I cannot give the date of capture, as in those
days I did not keep any regular diary. I see that Newman gives Darenth
Wood and the Isle of Portland as the only localities for the species, and
Stainton mentions only the Isle of Portland and Northfleet. — Henry A.
Hjll; 132, Haverstock Hill, London, N.W.
Lepidoptera attracted by Light at Shepherd's Bush. — Although
this has been to me a somewhat blank season, yet I have taken, for the
first time in Shepherd's Bush, two good specimens of Amphidasys betidaria,
which flew into my bedroom on June 26th, attracted by the gaslight. I have
also taken, through the same means, several specimens oiEuplexia lucipara,
in June; Mamestra persicaria, commonly; Triphmia pronuba, in July,
fresh and beautifully marked ; MeUmippe Jluctuata; Agrotis corticea, one
specimen ; and Acronycta aceris, with well-defined black wing rays. I
might mention that the hedges in North Acton, near Twyford Abbey Lane,
were alive with Camptogramina bilineata on Sunday evening, July 6th,
rarying in shade from pale yellow to dark brown. — Chas. E. M. Ince ;
11, St. Stephen's Avenue, Shepherd's Bush, W.
262 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Captures at Light : Devonshire. — I beg to report the capture here,
at light, of Acronycta alni on June 13th, and of Dianthcecia alhimacula on
June 15th. Both are perfect male specimens. — Allan Nesbitt ; Calvcrly,
Seaton, Axminster.
Treatment of PuPiE during the Winter. — Can anyone advise me
as to the best way of keeping pupae alive through the winter? For my part
I find the pupae of many Lepidoptera a great deal harder to keep alive than
the larvae are to rear. 1 usually keep my pupae in a wooden box or breeding-
cage, with perforated zinc at the sides, upon some earth, with a layer of
moss over them, and, for the sake of experiment, I have from time to time
moistened some of the pupae, others I have kept dry. The result of my
experiments is that some pupae — e.g. those oi Dicranura vinula, Smerinthus
ocellatns, Phalera bucephala — have nearly always duly produced imagines,
under whatever conditions I may have kept them, and whether moist or
dry. On the other hand, others — e.g. S.populi, and various kinds of
Noctuae and Geometrae — have nearly always died. T have consulted the
Rev. J. Greene's * Insect Hunters Companion,' and find that he advises not
moistening them ; but I cannot account for the fact that scores of pupae of
various kinds, including many of the genus TcBiiiocampa that I dug up last
autumn, all died in the spring, although T had not moistened them. I opened
some of them when the moths were about three weeks overdue, and found
the imago perfectly formed, but dead and dried up. I have now, amongst
other larvae, about fifty of Notodonta trepida and three of N. cliaonia, all of
which I have reared from the egg, and they are perfectly healthy. I shall
be extremely disappointed if I fail to get these through to the perfect state. —
T. H. WoLLEY DoD ; Wellington College, Wokingham.
Captures at Sallows in Ireland. — During the last few days of
March and the first two of April, I took the following species at sallows in
Co. Donegal : — TcBiiiocampa gothica and T. stabilis, several ; T. incerta, 2 ;
Calocampa exoleta, Scopelosoina satellitia and Xylina socia (= petrijicata),
a few specimens of each. T. gothica, T. stabilis, and S. satellitia also occurred
at sugar, and were accompanied by Cerastis vaccinii. 1 do not see X. socia
mentioned among the insects taken at sallows this year by your various
correspondents (Entom. 200, 202, 234). — George Hart; Woodside,
Howth, Co. Dublin, June 23, 1890.
Sesia sphegiformis in Essex. — On June 16th I took a fine, freshly-
emerged female of S. sphegiformis in Essex. It was quietly resting on an
alder leaf. — J. A. Cooper; 1, Sussex Villas, Leytonstone, Essex.
CUCULLIA ABSINTHII AND AciDALTA CONTIGUARIA NEAR BaRMOUTH.
While staying at Arthog, near Barmouth, the first week in July, I took a
specimen of CucuUia absinthii, which, I believe, has not been previously
recorded from Wales. I also took one Acidalia contiguaria, which appa-
rently is not recorded from anywhere else. — Neville Chamberlain;
Highbury, Moor Green, Birmingham.
Saperda carcharias at Cambridge. — I have to note the capture of
t«vo specimens of S. carcharias, at Cambridge, during the later months of
1889. This species, I am told, only occurs in this neighbourhood, and has
not, I believe, been taken at all recently. — F. A. Hort; 6, St. Peter's
Terrace, Cambridge.
NOTES AND CAPTURES. 263
The successful Moth-trap. — Having read Mr. Christy's interesting
article on his moth-trap, I must say it seems to be very much like the
American moth-trap ; but I think the latter has an advantage in the
drawer at bottom, as, by having this filled with fresh fine-cut laurel-
leaves, the trapped insects are stupefied, if not killed ; whereas without this
the moths have full run of the trap. Another advantage I think rests with
the American moth-trap — i. e., Mr. Christy's trap allows the moth access
to the portion k to b. In the American trap this k to b glass runs down
into the trap, and joins the lamp protective glass at about figure g : thus
the moths have no choice but to go downwards and inhale the poison.
On the other hand the shadow partition, running from f up to the larap-
wick, is clearly an advantage, the moths below being nearly in darkness
still I think, instead of the side-doors and shutters as in Mr. Christy's, a
drawer should be added from d to c, running the whole size of bottom of trap.
In this case it would not want the dark shutter of the American trap, but
simply a deep drawer, — say 2i inches, quite plain, with J-inch bed of
chopped laurel-leaves at bottom. As Mr. Christy says, the wood warps, and
causes the drawers and doors to fix ; this is not so in the American trap,
as it is all metal and glass only. I am not for one moment trying to run
down Mr. Christy's trap in favour of the American, as I think that, with
the drawer I mention and no side-doors, Mr. Christy's is even better than
the American ; but the addition of the poison-drawer is absolutely necessary
to make it perfect. — Edward Cooke ; 30, Museum Street, W.C.
Larvae of Triph^na fimbria. — For some years past it has been a
puzzle to me why the mortality amongst the larvae of Triphcena fimbria
should be so great. Last year I had a score or more of these larvae, but I
did not rear one imago. I believe that I have now solved the pr6blem to
some extent. This year, having collected a good number of the larvae, I
placed twenty in a cage by themselves ; they all fed up well, and were down
by the 20th of May. Contrary to my usual custom, I yesterday emptied
the cage to examine the pupae, and found five large cocoons of some
ichneumon fly. Four of these I herewith send to you, and shall be glad
if you can determine what they are. — John M. Young ; Rotherham.
[The ichneumon is Gampoplex mixtus, Grav. — T. R. B.]
Phibalapteryx vittata and Amphidasys betularia at Yeovil. —
On the 12th instant a fine specimen of Phibalapteryx vittata (= lignata)
came to light; and on the 22nd a large female Amphidasys betularia was
picked up from the pavement near the centre of the town. Both are, I
believe, new to the neighbourhood. — Thomas Parmiter ; 12, Camborne
Grove, Yeovil, June 24, 1890.
Stauropus fagi near Reading. — On May 26th T took Stauropus fagi
(female) in an old beech wood near Caversham. It was at rest on the trunk
of a beech tree, some seven feet from the ground. I may add that one
other specimen has been taken in the same wood this year, and one imago
and one larva last year. — J. Clarke : Carey Street, Reading, June 17, ISDO.
DiLOBA c^ruleocephala FEEDING ON Cherry Laurel. — I have just ,
had larvae of Diloba cceruleocephala brought me, found feeding on cherry
laurel ; and as it seems to me a very unusual food for these larvae, I should
like to know if any of your readers have ever found them feeding on this
shrub.— W. E, Butler; 297, Oxford Road, Reading, June IG, 1890.
264 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Heterogenea (Limacodes) asella in Devon. — Whilst out beating
for larvae with a friend, on the afternoon of June ^Oth, in the Plym Valley,
I was surprised to find in my umbrella a male and female of the above
species in cop. According to Newman, Westwood and Humphrey, and
Stainton's * Manual,' this species has only been taken in Hampshire.-!' If
this be still the case this species is new to the Western counties. — F. J.
Briggs; Fursdon, Egg Buckland.
Note on Crabro interruptus. — lam happy to say this wasp has again
appeared in the garden here, driving holes in the old elm stump in which it
took up its abode last year, and in another old elm stump about one hundred
yards away. It is a curious sight to see the wasps carrying bluebottle flies,
which seem to be their principal, or at any rate, favourite diet, into their
borings. The fleshy parts of the bodies are the parts fed upon, and the
wings and hard external parts are thrown out of the borings, and may be
seen amongst the heap of wood-dust outside. Last year the Crabro was
present in fair numbers about the latter end of August and September, and
judging from the quantity of wood-dust now being thrown out in making
the borings, I should think it will be plentiful again this year. I am in
doubt whether the insects have one common nest, and whether the various
borings converge on one point, or whether each Crabro and its family have
their own habitation ; but certainly more than one Crabro, even at this
period of the year, enter the same hole, and there seems to be one principal
entrance larger than the others ; moreover they are using some of the
holes made by their ancestors last year. Perhaps some of your correspon-
dents acquainted with the insect's habits will kindly give me this information.
From the report in the ' Entomologist ' of last December of the Entomo-
logical Society's meeting, held on November 6th last, at which a specimen
caught by me was exhibited, it would appear that the Crabro exhibited was
a solitary specimen found by me in "a hole in a log ;" but this is not so, as
I merely caught the specimen exhibited for the purpose of having the
species identified, and I could have captured a good many had I so desired. —
Francis C. Woodbridge ; ** Old Bank " House, Uxbridge, July 17, 1890.
Ino geryon in Berkshire. — Amongst moths captured here, within the
last few days, a male specimen of Ino [Procris) geryon has been taken ; and
a nearly full-grown larva of Dasychira fascelina was found on an oak. —
J. M. Bacon ; Eagle House, Sandhurst, Berks, June 3, 1890.
SiREx GiGAS NEAR PLYMOUTH. — To-day I sccurcd a fine female of the
above species, which flew into a greenhouse in the garden here. I thought
at first that it was a hornet, from the loud buzzing noise it made, but soon
saw that I was mistaken. I had never previously taken or seen it here. —
F. J. Briggs; Fursdon, Egg Buckland, June 22, 1890.
Hesperia lineola. — The third excursion of the South London Ento-
mological and Natural History Society was to Leigh, in Essex, where,
conducted by Mr. Carrington, the party, twenty in number, had a good
time with Hesperia lineola, the newest English thing in the way of butter-
flies. The individual " takes " varied from twenty specimens to a single
example. So far as I could learn there was only one gentleman who failed
to secure the coveted species. Although he netted a good number of
'• skippers," they all proved, on inspection, to be H. thaumas, — R. S.
* [Stainton gives Lyndhurst and Worthing. — Ed.]
265
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — July 2nd, 1890. — Prof. J. O.
Westwood, M.A., F,X.S., Hon. Life-President, in the chair. Mr. J. B.
Hodgkinson, Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston, Lancashire, and Mrs. Bazett,
Springfield, Reading, were elected Fellows ; and Mr. Henn was admitted
into the Society. Lord Walsingham exhibited some rare Micro-Lepidoptera
collected by himself at Cannes, including Eudemis helichrysana, Conchylis
ruhricana, Milliere ; a new Depressaria from Opoponax cheironium, which
is about to be described by M. A. Constant, and Bucculatrix helichry sella ;
and also a volume of drawings of larvge of the genus Eupithecia, by Mr.
Buckler, which formerly belonged to the late Rev. H. Harpur Crewe. Mr.
M'Lachlan exhibited larvae and cocoons of Mecyna deprivalis. Walk., sent by
Mr. W. W. Smith, of Ashburton, New Zealand ; the species feeds commonly
on Genista capensis, an introduced plant. Mr. M'Lachlan remarked on the
curious nature of the larva, and suggested that as the species was so closely
allied to M. polygonaUs, so extremely rare in this country, they might be
interesting to British lepidopterists. Mr. Jacoby exhibited abnormal
specimens of a phytophagous beetle, Metaxonycha tridentata, Jac, in which
one side of the thorax was furnished with teeth as in the type, whereas the
other side was quite simple, and presented no trace of teeth. The Secretary,
on behalf of Mr. J. Edwards, exhibited specimens of Gyrlnus colyinbiis, Er.,
with specimens of G. elongatus, Aube, for comparison ; he also exhibited
drawings of the cedeagus of both species proving their distinctness. Mr.
Bower exhibited Phoxopteryx upupana, bred from larvae feeding between
united birch leaves at Chiselhurst, Sept., 1889; and Scardia picarella,
bred from fungus collected in Durham in May, 1870. Mr. S. Stevens, in
speaking of a tour which he had lately made in Devonshire, remarked on
the extreme scarcity of insects on the coast of that county as compared
with the coasts of Kent and Sussex; there were very few larvae, and the
vegetation was very luxuriant and very little eaten ; he thought it possible
that the reason of the scarcity was the heavy rainfall of South Devon, which
washed off and destroyed the young larvae. Mr. Barrett said that his
experience had been the same, and that he put it down to the violence of
the winds, which beat the insects from the trees. Mr. Blandford remarked
that he had found Coleoptera abundant on the Braunton Burrows, near
Barnstaple, but very scarce in other localities. Mr. Mason and others took
part in the discussion which followed. Mr. Stevens further said that when
at Exeter he visited the Museum, and was pleased to see the original speci-
men of Pliisia ni in the late Mr. H. Dorville's collection, taken at Alphington,
near Exeter, in August, 1868, and a specimen of Callimorpha hera, taken
also at Alphington in August, 1871, which is about six miles from the
locality in which the latter insect is now said to occur ; both the specimens
are in fine condition. Prof. Westwood read a paper on a species of Aphis,
received from Mr. E. Ernest Green, of Ceylon, affecting the bread-fruit
tree, which he had named Siphonophora artocarpi; at the conclusion of
his paper he alluded to the use of Paris-green as a destructive agent
for insects. Mr. Blandford then made some remarks as to the use of
London-purple (another arsenic compound) as an insecticide in the place
of Paris-green ; he stated that the compound was a waste product and
one-tenth the cost of Paris-green, and further that it was more soluble and
more easily applied ; he was also of opinion that arsenic compounds do
ENTOM.— AUGUST, 1890. U
2 no THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
not greatly affect sucking insects, such as Aphides, the ordinary kerosene
preparations being more suitable for their destruction. Several Fellows
took part in the discussion that followed. — W. W. Fowler, Hon. Sec.
The South London Entomological and Natueal History Society.
— June 2dth, 1890. — J. T. Carrington, F.L.S., President, in the chair.
Mr. Hawes exhibited larvae of Thecla rubi, L., feeding on broom, upon
which Mr. Hawes stated he saw the ova deposited. Mr. R. Adkin, a bred
series of Epione advenaria, Hb., &c. Mr. Turner, the gracilis form of
TcBiviocampa stabilis, View. Mr. Robinson, a long series of Sesia sphegiformis,
Fb., from Sussex, about half of them having been taken by " assembhng,"
the remainder being bred by him. Mr. Mansbridge, a fine variety of
Ccenonympha pampJdlus, L. Mr. South, on behalf of Mr. Leech, a
number of Micro-Lepidoptera collected in Normandy, and commented on
the fact that, with one exception, all the species occurred in this country.
Mr. C. Fenn, two dark specimens of EupitJiecia rectangulata, L. ; also Tor-
trices taken and bred by him this year, from the South of London, including
a fine series of Tortrix branderiana, St. Mr. Cockerell, a larva of TcBiiiocampa
incerta, Hufn., found feeding on the leaves of mulberry. Mr. BiUups, on
behalf of Mr. Leech, types of forty species of Coleoptera, one of Ichneu-
monidse, one of Diptera, and one of Homoptera, from Normandy, nearly
the whole of which were represented in this country. Mr. Billups' other
exhibits were twenty-nine species of Diptera, twenty-three of Hymenoptera,
five of Coleoptera, two of Hemiptera, and one each of Homoptera and
Neuroptera, — in all 104 insects, representing ten families, taken at the
Society's excursion to Mickleham, on the Slat of June. (See list of species,
ante p. 256). Mr. Mansbridge, Leptida brevipennis, Mils., and in reply
to Mr. Billups said he believed there were some wicker baskets stored
where they were captured. Mr. Billups said that the specimens had
probably been brought here in these ; some years before a number of Dutch
baskets were stored in the Borough Market, and from these a quantity of
the species now exhibited were bred. Mr. Tugwell showed a collection of
plants from the North. A discussion on the effect of temperature affecting
the emergences of Lepidoptera, in which Messrs. Carrington, Fenn, Tutt,
Tugwell, South and Adkin took part, brought the meeting to a close.
July 10th, 1890.— Mr. W. H. Tugwell, Vice-President, in the chair.
The Rev. C. Thornewill, Rev. E. C. Dobree-Fox, and Mr. B. A. Bristowe,
were elected members. Mr. Wellman exhibited a variable series of one
hundred examples of Eupithecia rectangulata, L., taken at Streatham Hill,
from six apple trees ; Dianthcecia cucubali, Fues., Liverpool ; D. carpo-
phaga, Bork., var. capsophila, Dup., from Isle of Man and S. Scotland ;
D. nana, Rett., from Surrey and Ireland. Mr. Jager, also D. carpophaga,
from South Wales, and the variety capsophila, from the Isle of Man, and
D. ccesia, Bork., from the same locality. Mr. R. Adkin, Coremia designata,
Hufn., from Surrey, varying in width and density of coloration of central
band ; also Eupithecia nanata, Hb., from Hants and Surrey ; and called
attention to the extreme variability of the species. Some observations
were made on the latter exhibit of Mr. Adkin, in the course of which
Mr. C. G. Barrett and Mr. Tutt expressed opinions that curzoni was only
an extreme form of E. saturata. Mr. Gerrard showed Emydia cribrum, L.,
and case of Psyche villosella, Och., from the New Forest. Mr. Mansbridge,
Xylophasia rurea, Fb., var. combusta, Dup. Mr. Dennis, a pale specimen
of Argynnis euphrosyne, L., from Dorking. Mr. Croker, Nola cucullatella.
SOCIETIES. 267
L., from Kent. Mr. E. Joy, Mellana Jlammea, Curt., and Nascia clllalis,
Hb., from Wicken Fen. Mr. Howard Vaughan, Melitcea aurinia, Roth.,
'Cceno7iympha typhon. Roth., Nemeophila russula, L., Crambus sylvellus, Hb.,
Scoparia ambigua, Tr., and var. atomalis, from North Knapdale ; S. am-
bigualis var. atomalis, Hypsipetes trifasciata, Bork., and Coremia designata,
■&c., from Kilmartin parish, Argyllshire ; dark forms of Larentia viridaria,
Fb., and two male Procris which differed considerably from P. statices, and
upon the identity of which the members did not hazard an opinion. Mr.
Vaughan remarked that they appeared to him to be intermediate between
statices and globularicB. Adverting to Colonel Blathwart's communication
to the * Entomologist's Monthly Magazine ' for the month of April last,
p. 109, Mr. Jenner Weir exhibited specimens of the two forms of Volu-
•cella bomhylans which mimicked Bombus lapidarlus and Bombus terrestris
respectively, stating that he fully concurred with the Colonel in considering
that this remarkable dimorphic condition of the VoUicella assisted it to
become parasitic upon two species of Bombus differing both in colour and
markings. He also exhibited a specimen of the Volucella which he had
recently taken at Bournemouth, in which the mimicking was imperfect,
inasmuch as the arrangement of the colour resembled that of Bombus lapi-
darlus, but instead of the hairs at the end of the abdomen being red they
were of a yellowish colour, as in the mimic of Bombus terrestris. He
showed also a specimen of the large worker of Formica rufa to the antenna
of which was attached, by the closed jaws, the head and part of the thorax
of another ant with which no doubt it had fought and destroyed the abdomen
and most of the thorax of its adversary, but could not detach the head.
City of London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
July I7th.—Mr. J. A. Clark, President, in the chair. Mr. A. H. C.
Hamilton, of Cheverton Road, N., was elected a member of the Society.
Mr. Lewcock exhibited Philonthus decorum, from Highgate ; and Llophlceus
nubllus, from Clay gate ; also, on behalf of Mr. Cripps, Orammoptera
prcBusta, Toxotus merldianus, and Silpha i-punctata, taken on hawthorn at
Brockenhurst during Whitsuntide. Mr. Heasler, Harpalus servus, Calathm
fuscus, PanagcBus i-jmstulatus, Amara ovata, and numerous other species of
Coleoptera from Deal sandhills. Mr. Clark, a box containing beetles cap-
tured at sugar at Brockenhurst, including Carabus catenulatus, Pterostlchus
niger, Anchomenus junceus, &c, Lepidoptera : Mr. Clark exhibited Emme-
lesia decolorata, Hb., bred from larvse received from north of Ireland, and
a variety of Ematurga atomaria, L., from Brockenhurst. Mr. Bellamy,
Thyatlra balls, L., Miana arcuosa, L., and vars. of Abraxas grossularlata, L.
Mr. Gurney announced that since last meeting he had bred several more
Phorodesma smaragdarla, Fb. Mr. Battley, while sugaring at Southwell,
had captured some three dozen species, incuding Nola cucallatella, L. (on
the wing between 12 and 1 at night), and several Miana arcuosa, L. The
latter insect first appeared at 9.30, crawUng up the stems of grass,
remaining there until 11.30 ; flight then took place for about an hour,
when it again sought the grass stems. Mr. Lewcock read portions of a
letter received from Mr. P. W. Jarvis (of Cape Town), referring to the
method of capturing certain species of Ciciudelidae in South Africa. The
beetles referred to inhabit the coast, and are found just above high- water
mark. Having procured a piece of a whale's rib-bone about a foot long
(common in these parts), a certain sandhill is selected for operations,
which are commenced by carefully scraping the sand away, taking but a thin
268 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I
shave at a time, and continuing until a depth of four or five inches is
reached ; if nothing is found, a move is made a few feet further, and the
scraping again proceeds. If fortunate, out runs a fine amber-coloured tiger
beetle ; if two are found in a sandhill, operations are carried on until the
whole of the surface is removed, and all the beetles are captured. Cicindela
capensis, a pretty tiger beetle about the size of the British C. campestris, but
brown, with longitudinal irregular lines, is frequently found in this manner
on the South African coast. — G. A. Lewcock and E. Hanes, Hon. Sees.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — June 16, 1890. — Mr. W. G.
Blatch, President, in the chair. Mr. Herbert Stone presented a number
of dried plants to form the basis of a herbarium for the Society's use. Mr.
E. C. Tye showed larvae of Lohophora viretata. Mr. R. C. Bradley showed
a long and variable series of Selenia tetralunaria. Mr. W. G. Blatch
exhibited the following Coleoptera from Bewdley, all being new to the
locality : — Perileptus areolatus, Homalota longula, H. subtilissima, Scopaus
' sp. ?(same as the one exhibited on June 2nd, and taken at Ludlow),
Thinohius loiigipennis, Calodera umbrosa, TrogoplilcBUS suhtilis, and Actidium
concolor ; the last two species being also new to the Midlands. Dr. P. B.
Mason then exhibited his Icelandic insects, and made remarks on them.
He described the country and the difficulties of collecting there ; he related
all that had hitherto been known of Icelandic Entomology, and he gave a
complete list of the insects he had taken, and made many interesting
remarks on them. The list has already appeared in the Ent. Mo. Mag.
for July. The great peculiarity about the insect fauna is the entire absence
of Rhopalocera and Orthoptera. — Colbran J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
REVIEW.
The Lepidopterous Fauna of Lancashire and Cheshire. By John W
Ellis, M.B.(Vic.), F.E.S. 8vo, pp. 136. Leeds, 1890.
A most useful annotated list of the lepidopterous insects found in
Lancashire and Cheshire. Of the 2079 species known to occur in Britain
the author enumerates 3 355 as found in his district.
The arrangement of the Macro-lepidoptera is in accordance with that
adopted by Kirby in 'European Butterflies and Moths,' whilst the Micro-
lepidoptera are arranged as in Dr. M. Wocke's portion of the * Catalog der
Lepidopteren des Europaischen Faunengebiets.'
1
OBITUARY.
With very great regret we have to record the death of William
Clayton, of Wadworth Wood House, who died on June 9th, 1890, at the
early age of twenty-one years. Mr. John N. Young, of Rotherham, writes
of the deceased as follows ; — " Living at the edge of the wood, he had a
grand opportunity of working up the insect fauna of the district, and of
this he was not slow to avail himself. He was always most willing to give
information and assistance to entomologists visiting the wood at any time.
The frequent visits of myself and other brethren of the net were always a
source of real pleasure to him. Always a pleasant companion, a sincere
friend, and a most enthusiastic collector, he will be sorely missed, not only
by his sorrowing parents and family, but by his entomological friends and
correspondents."
Entomologist, Sept.1890.
Plate 3
(HoraceKmght)! l^t^.
Deltoids Pyralides,CraTnti&Plusia Moneta.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIIL] SEPTEMBER, 1890. [No. 328.
ADDITIONS TO THE BRITISH LIST OF DELTOIDS,
PYRALIDES, AND CRAMBI, SINCE 1859.
By Richard South.
(Plates III. & IV.)
Since the publication of the second volume of Stainton's
' Manual of British Butterflies and Moths,' in 1859, a large
number of additions have been made to the British list ; but in
the present paper it is not proposed to do more than bring
together the various Deltoids, Pyralides, and Crambi which have
been introduced as British species since the year adverted to.
Several of the insects brought forward as new to science have
been, by a consensus of opinion, reduced to varietal rank ; others
have had their right and title to specific rank vigorously assailed ;
and it seems probable that their degradation, by common consent,
is fast approaching, and that their fate will not be relegated to
the dim and distant future to decide. The earliest English
descriptions have been reprinted in the majority of cases, and
the references to the British literature, though probably not
exhaustive, will perhaps be of some service to those who may be
interested in the matter. Two of the species had a place in our
lists previous to J 859, but were not included in the * Manual.'
To those gentlemen who, in the kindest way, have placed
their valuable specimens at my disposal for figuring, I tender my
most sincere thanks.
DELTOIDS.
HERMINIID^.
Zanclognatha emortualis, Schiff. (PL III. fig. 1.)
BRITISH REFERENCES : —
Polypogon emortualis, Steph. Cat. ii. p. 158 (1829).
Mthia emortualis, Steph. 111. Brit. Ent. Haust. iv. p. 18 (1834).
ENTOM. — SEPT. 1890. X
270 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
^
Sophronia emortualis, H. Cooke, Intell. v. p. 123 (1859) ;
Stainton, Entom. Ann. 1860, p. 132; Birks, Intell. ix.
p. 28 (1860) ; Doubl. List, p. 37.
Zanclognatha emortualis^ South, Syn. List, p. 11 ; Leech,
Brit. Pyral. p. 3, pi. i. fig. 8 (1886).
Expanse, 1 in. 3 lines. Light yellowish olive. The fore wings are traversed
by two whitish lines, the first almost straight, the second curved and
continued across the hind wings ; between the lines on fore wings is a short
whitish lunulated line.
Distribution. — Central Europe ; Sweden ; Livonia ; Pied-^__
mont ; Dalmatia : Ural ; Amur. vRjl
Note. — Stephens described this insect in 1834, but hi?^
description does not appear to be very accurate. He remarks,
" A specimen is in the cabinet of W. Swainson, Esq. ; and I
possess one captured in Devonshire." Wood's figure (768) of
emortualis, in the Westwood edition of the * Index Entomologicus,*
is suggestive of derivalis, rather than the species it is said to
represent. Altogether there seems to have been some hesitation
on the part of British entomologists with regard to the right of
emortualis to a place in our lists ; and it was not until the year
1859 that anything further was heard of the species. In the year
last mentioned, Mr. H. Cooke recorded and described a specimen
which had been taken by Mr. Pocock in Brighton, on the 18th of
June, 1858. In the year following, the Kev. B. H. Birks, of
Stonor, Henley-on-Thames, took a specimen at sugar on the
12th of July. These are the only records of the capture of this
species in Britain that I can find.
HYPENIDiE.
Hypena obsitalis, Hubn. (PI. IV. fig. 9.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Hypena obsitalis, Cambridge, Entom. xvii. p. 265 (woodcut),
(1884) ; P. Dors. N. H. S. vi. pi. iii. ; Leech, Pyral. p. 7,
pl. xiii. fig. 7 (1886).
Expanse, 1 in. 3 lines. Fore wings broad, pointed at the tips. Brown, with
numerous fine transverse darker lines ; beyond the middle is a thicker dark
angulated line, edged externally with pale brown, especially near the costa ;
submarginal line represented by some minute white dots placed on the
nervules, and there are some black longitudinal streaks below apex. The
stigmata are black, but hardly well defined. Hind wings fuscous-brown,
venation and central lunule darker.
Var. a. — Expanse, 1 in. 6 lines. Fore wings pale reddish brown, without
fine transverse lines ; the angulated line is preceded by a broad triangular
blackish patch enclosing the stigmata ; a smaller blackish patch on the outer
margin below apex.
Larva bright yellowish green, with a dark dorsal and pale
subdorsal lines. Feeds in May on Parietaria (pellitory). Leech.
Distribution. — Southern Europe; Carniola; N. W. Asia
Minor ; Cyprus ; Syria ; Armenia ; Algiers and N. Morocco ;
Canaries ; England,
4
BRITISH DELTOIDS, PYRALIDES, AND CRAMBI. 271
Note. — So far only one example of this species has occurred
in Britain. This specimen, which is of the typical form, was
found by the Rev. 0. Pickard Cambridge, on the 21st September,
1884, resting on a door-jamb in his garden at Bloxworth, Dorset-
shire. The descriptions of the imago, given above, were taken
from specimens captured by Mr. Leech at Mogador.
PYRALIDES.
PYRALIDID^.
Pyralis lienigialis, Zell. (PI. IV. fig. 13.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Pyralis lienigialis^ Thompson, Entom. xiv. p. 84; Carrington,
op. cit.y p. 304, pi. i. fig. 21; South, Syn. List, p. 17 ;
Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 13, pi. vii. fig. 1.
Asopia lienigialisj Thompson, Barrett, and Stainton, Ent. Mo.
Mag. xvii. p. 256.
Mr. Barrett {I. c.) finds that although some specimens of
P. lienigialis may resemble P. farinalis in colour, the first whitish
line of the former is " nearer the middle of the wing, the basal
blotch being therefore larger and the median area smaller";
the second line commences as a pale blotch on the costa, and is
more regularly curved than in farinalis. " In the hind wings the
first delicate pale striga, which in farinalis forms a continuation
of the first line on the fore wings, is, in lienigialis, placed more
perpendicularly, so that it originates opposite the middle of the
basal blotch of the fore wings."
Distribution. — Livonia; Finland; England.
Note. — Captured at light in August, 1879, by Mr. Thompson,
at Stoney Stratford, Bucks, and introduced by him in April, 1881.
Other specimens were taken by Messrs. Thompson and Bryan ;
August and September, 1880.
SCOPARIA BASISTRIGALIS.
BRIT. REF. : —
Scoparia basistrigalis, Knaggs, Ent. Mo. Mag. iii. p. 1 (wood-
cut) ; V. p. 293, pi. i. fig. 6 ; Briggs, Entom. xviii. p. 130 ;
XX. p. 17; xxii. p. 17; Tutt and Briggs, E. M. M. xxvi.
p. 51 ; Porritt, op. cit, p. 88 ; Entom. xii. p. 225 ; Doubl.
List, Suppl. p. 2 ; South, Syn. List, p. 17 ; Leech, Brit.
Pyral. p. 14, pi. xiv. fig. 4.
Expanse, 9 — 10^ lines. " Fore wings in both sexes broad, of rhomboidal
shape . . . ground colour clear greyish white, thickly sprinkled with numerous
black atoms. Basal area with two short distinct black streaks passing from
the base of the wing along the subcostal and median nervures respectively. . . .
First line, commencing obliquely from the costa, passes backwards and in-
wards to the orbicular stigma, thence forwards and inwards to meet the
claviform stigma, which is incorporated with (not detached from, as in some
of the genus) this line, and finally, with an S-hke bend, reaches the inner
x2
273 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
margin. Medial area ; the orbicular and reniform stigmata are situated on
patches of dark fuscous colour, the black outline of the latter (the reniform,
or 8-mark) forming an H'like mark. . . . Hind wings silky white, with a very
slight fuscous tint."
The above description is abridged from that given by Dr.
Knaggs (Ent. M. M. iii. p. 1), who adds that the only Scoparia
with which one could confound hasistrigalis is amhigualis, " but
the greater width of fore wing, giving the appearance of its being
actually shorter, . . . together with the distinct basal streaks, the
oblique commencement of the first line, &c., are amply sufficient
to separate it from that insect."
Introduced by Dr. Knaggs in June, 1866.
British Localities. — Surrey ; Sussex ; Worcestershire ;
Yorkshire.
Note. — Our knowledge of the distribution of this species is
not altogether satisfactory. Mr. Tutt says that he has the species
from almost every locality he has worked ; whilst Mr. Porritt is
of opinion that many of the supposed S. hasistrigalis in collections
are not that species at all, but merely forms of S. amhigaalis.
The latter gentleman records the occurrence of large numbers of
hasistrigalis in Edlington Wood, near Doncaster, on August 4th,
1879.
Scoparia zelleri, Woche,
BRIT. REF. : —
Scoparia zelleri, Hearder and Knaggs, Ent. Mo. Mag. v.
pp. 131, 293, pi. i. fig. 7; Knaggs, Ent. Ann. 1869,
p. 126 ; Jordan, E. M. M. vi. p. 14 ; Thompson, E. M. M.
vii. p. 86 ; Briggs, Entom. xviii. 130 ; Doubl. List,
Suppl. p. 2; South, Syn. List, p. 17; Leech, Brit.
Pyral. p. 13, pi. xiv. fig. 2.
*' Nearly allied to S. amhigualisy but it is considerably larger
than that species. It is also broader in the fore wing, the apical
margin of which is a trifle more vertical ; the whitish ground
colour stands out more conspicuously on either side of the
central fascia; the apical aspect of the central fascia (i.e., the
second line) is more deeply crenated than in amhigualis. Mr.
Horton's example exceeds in alar expanse the largest cemhrce
with which I have yet met" (Knaggs).
Introduced by Dr. Hearder, October, 1868. The first specimen
noticed in Britain was that taken by the Eev. E. Horton, in Dr.
Hearder's dining-room at Carmarthen, in July, 1868 ; but Mr. H.
Pryer captured a specimen on the 17th of August of the year
previous, at Norwood.
Distribution. — Silesia ; Central and Western France ;
England.
Note. — Zelleri is probably only a form of S. cemhrce.
i
BEITISH DELTOIDS, PYRALIDES, AND CRAMBI. 273
SCOPARIA SCOTICA.
BRIT. REF. : —
Scoparia scotica, White, Ent. Mo. Mag. viii. p. 169 ; Weston,
Entom. X. p. 92; Briggs, Entom. xviii. p. 130; Doubl.
List, Suppl. p. 2; South, Syn. List, p. 17; Leech, Brit.
Pyral. p. 14, pi. xiv. fig. 3.
" Closely allied to Scoparia cemhrce, from which it differs in
the front wings being less oblong, and more triangular and
dilated before the hind margin, as well as by the breadth across
the hind margin being greater in proportion to the length of the
wing" (White).
Introduced by Dr. Buchanan White, January, 1872. Habitat,
Scotland.
Note. — Scotica differs from cembrcs in colour and intensity of
markings ; thus, the fore wings are grey instead of brownish, and
the lines and stigmata are more conspicuous. Most entomologists,
however, will accept the dictum of the late Mr. Weston, who wrote
of scotica, in 1877 : — " Must, I fear, stand only as a variety of
S. cemhrce. Even its sponsor is, I think, now of this opinion."
Scoparia ingratella, ZelL
BRIT. REF. : —
Scoparia ingratella, Knaggs, Ent. Mo. Mag. iv. p. 61 ; Ent.
Ann. 1868, p. 109; E. M. M. v. p. 293, pi. i. fig. 2;
Weston, Entom. x. p. 92; Briggs, Entom. xviii. p. 130;
Bankes, E. M. M. xxiii. p. 258 ; Tutt, Entom. xix. p. 129 ;
E. M. M. xxiv. p. 42 ; Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2 ; South,
Syn. List, p. 17; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 16, pi. xiv. fig. 10.
Comparing it with S. duhitalis, Hdbn., Dr. Knaggs says that
ingratella is much larger in size, " the black markings are absent
or very faint." He concludes his remarks by observing that
" although there can be no doubt that the Folkestone specimens
are specifically identical with the continental ingratella, I am by
no means over positive that both may not possibly some day turn
out to be varieties of pyralella (= dubitalis), which is certainly an
excessively variable species." Mr. Weston says that "Mr. Machin
reared ingratella from larvge in the roots of sorrel, collected at
Folkestone in April, 1867."
Introduced by Dr. Knaggs in August, 1867.
Distribution.— Austria ; Hungary; Switzerland; Dalmatia ;
Syria; Armenia; England.
Scoparia ulmella. Dale MS,
BRIT. REF. :—
Scoparia ulmella, Knaggs, Ent. Mo. Mag. iii. p. 217 (woodcut),
V. pi. i. fig, 12; Ent. Ann. 1868, p. 109; Briggs, Entom.
xviii. p. 130; xx. p. 17; Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2; South,
Syn. List, p» 17; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 15, pi. xiv. fig. 8.
JJ74 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Eudorea ulmella (Dale), Mason, Ent. Mo. Mag. xxiii. p. 163
(woodcut). I
Eudorea conspicualis, Hodgn., Entom. xiv. p. 223 (Oct. 1881),
pi. i. figs. 8, 9 (Dec. 1881); Ent. Mo. Mag. xviii. p. 134
(Nov. 1881) ; Mason, E. M. M. xxiii. p. 163.
Scoparia conspicualis j South, Sjn. List, p. 17 ; Leech, Brit
Pyral. p. 15, pi. xiv. fig. 7.
">S. ulmella bears some affinity to S. dubitalis, chiefly by
reason of the 8-mark being dumb-bell shaped, and filled in with
ochreous, but its slender conformation precludes the possibility
of its being connected with that species. The characters of the
8-mark separate it from the mercurella group, and it is with
equal ease distinguished from the angustea group by the
character of the first line " (Knaggs).
Introduced by Dr. Knaggs, March, 1867.
Note. — Three examples of this species were taken by Mr. Dale
on a trunk of wych elm, at East Meon, July, J 844. Nothing
further seems to have been heard of the insect until a Scoparia
was turned up in some numbers in the North of England by
Mr. Hodgkinson, and subsequently by Mr. Prest and others.
The former gentleman considered the species new to science, and
described it under the name of conspicualis ; but Dr. Mason as
recently demonstrated that Hodgkinson's insect is identical with
ulmella, Dale.
BOTYD^.
Mecyna polygonalis, Hiibn. (PI. III. fig. 7.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Margaritia diversalis (Hiibn.), Steph. 111. Brit. Ent. Haust. iv.
p. 47 (1834); Wood, Index (Westw. Ed.), p. 124, pi. 28, fig.
807.
Mecyna polygonalis, Newman, Entom. v. p. 32 ; Doubleday,
op, cit. p. 76 ; Haggar, Entom. viii. p. 300 ; Weston,
Entom. X. p. 92; Tugwell, op. cit. p. 255; Doubl. List,
p. 18; South, Syn. List, p. 18; Leecli, Brit. Pyral, p. 32,
pi. iv. fig. 3.
Expanse 15 — 18 lines. Fore wings : basal half and outer fourth dark brown
or blackish, the space between grey-brown or whitish grey ; orbicular dot-like,
reniform well-defined, both black ; first line oblique and wavy, the basal area
within this line is sometimes paler; second line serrated, elbowed below
costa, approximating to first line on inner margin. Hind wings yellow,
broadly bordered with black.
The above description is drawn from specimens from Lebanon,
for which I am indebted to Mr. Leech.
Ab. diversalis. " Head, thorax, and anterior wings yellowish
brown, the latter with two obscure waved streaks, with two dusky
spots between, one small, the other larger and reniform ; on
the extreme hinder margin is a row of minute black dots , cilia
yellowish brown : posterior wings dull orange-yellow, with an
I
BRITISH DELTOIDS, PYRALIDES, AND CRAMBl. 27S
irregular interrupted dusky fascia on the hinder margin ; cilia
dusky yellow." (Stephens.) An example of this form in the
British Museum collection, was taken near Bristol, in July, 1815.
British Localities. — Bristol; Folkestone; Bury St. Ed-
munds.
Distribution. — Central and Southern Europe ; Syria ;
Canaries.
Note,— This species varies considerably in tone and intensity
of colour of forewings, and the black border of hind wings
is subject to modification as regards its breadth, in some examples
this band is contracted, and in others interrupted before the anal
angle.
BOTYS REPANDALIS, Schiff. (PL IV. fig. 6.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Botys repandalis, Barrett, Ent. Mo. Mag. xxiii. p. 145.
*' Closely allied to hyalinalis and pandalis, but of a paler
yellow, and decidedly smaller than either, being of about the size
of verbascaliSf but with narrower fore wings. The fore wings are
of a delicate pale straw-colour, and the markings, which closely
resemble those of hyalinalis^ are of a faint yellowish grey. The
first line is comparatively straight, the second also straight from
the middle of the dorsal margin to the middle of the wing, where
it touches the discal streak or stigma, then turns abruptly towards
the hind margin, and makes a wide sweep before turning again
towards the costa ; the third is parallel with the hind margin.
These three lines are continued upon the silky whitish hind
wings" (Barrett).
Introduced by Mr. Barrett, December, 1886.
Distribution. — Central and Southern Europe.
Note, — Bred some years previous to 1866 by the Eev. Henry
Burney, who reared specimens from larvae found feeding, in June,
in the heads of young shoots of Verbascum nigrum, growing on the
south coast of Devonshire. The larva is described as '* Yellowish
white, with black spots."
Ebulea stachydalis. Zinck. (PI. IV. fig. 10.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Ebulea stachydalis, Barrett, Ent. Mo. Mag. xii. p. 158 ; xiii.
p. 93 ; xiv. p. 159 ; Carrington, Entom. x. p. 81 (woodcut) ;
Bond. Proc. Ent. Soc. Lond. 1876; Buckler, E. M. M.
xiii. p. 133 (larva) ; McLachlan, op. cit, p. 64 ; Jeffre}^, E.
M. M. xiv. p. 115; Kogers, Entom. xvi. p. 46; South,
Syn. List, p. 18 ; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 39, pi. v. fig. 3.
Usually smaller than E, sambucalis, which in colour and
marking it greatly resembles, but the pale yellow or whitish
triangular spot placed below the larger square spot on the fore
wing of that species is absent in stachydalis, and the submarginal
line, composed of pale yellow or whitish spots in both species, is
JJ76 tHE ENTOMOLOGIST.
curved but not indented below the costa as in samhucalis ; again,
in stachydalis, the first three -spots are but little, if an)% larger
than the others in the series forming the line. On the hind wings
the two outer spots are almost confluent in samhucalis^ but in
stachydalis they are widely separated, one is near the costa and in
conjunction with the central spot, and a submarginal chain of
smaller spots, form a fairly distinct ring around what would be iitj
samhucalis the lower discal spot.
The larva feeds in September on Stachys sylvatica, on the
leaves of which it " lives in a sort of tube, formed either by
turning down the tip of a leaf, and folding it closely on to the
under surface with a quantity of silk, or else by drawing together
a fold of the under surface, and covering it over with a thick
silken web, in either case leaving an opening at each end "iH
(Buckler). ^
Introduced by Mr. Barrett, December, 1875. Occurs in
several English localities.
Distribution. — Central Europe ; Sardinia.
d
PSAMOTIS PULVERALIS, Hubu. (PI. IV. fig. 1.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Lemiodes pulveraliSf Meek, Ent. Mo. Mag. vi. p. 141 ; Entom.
V. p. 31 ; Knaggs, Ent. Ann. 1870, p. 140 ; E. M. M. xi. p.
117 ; Cooke, E. M. M. vii. p. 86 ; Barrett, op. cit. p. Ill ;
Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2 ; Weston, Entom. x. p. 92 ;
Kagonot, E. M. M. xvi. p. 271.
Psamotis pulveralis, South, Syn. List, p. 18; Leech, Brit.
Pyral. p. 41, pi. v. fig. 7.
Expanse 10^ — 14 lines. <^ . Pale ochreous brown sprinkled with black
atoms ; first line straight, brown, but not clearly defined ; second line brown,
oblique, and slightly curved below costa. Hind wings rather paler, with a
distinct brown transverse central line ; all the wings have a submarginal
fuscous shade-like band, and the space between this and 2nd line appears
paler, distinctly so in some specimens. Fringes silky, preceded by a thin
brown line. ? . Similar to the male, but the wings are less ample.
Mr. Kagonot says that Herr Miihlig has found the larva
on Mentha aquatica in August, but it has not been described.
Introduced by Mr. E. G. Meek, November, 1869. The
species is now in most collections, but has become scarce, if not
quite extinct in its original haunt, the Warren, at Folkestone.
British Localities. — Isle of Wight ; Folkestone ; Ranworth.
Distribution. — Central and South Eastern Europe ; Armenia.
Note. — The specimens described by Stephens in 1834 (111. Brit.
Lep. Haust. iv. p. 55) as P. pulveralis, are referable to Botys
fuscaliSi Schiff.
Margarodes unionalis, Hiibn. (PI. III. fig. 3.)
BRIT. REF.: —
Margarodes unionalis. Stain ton, Intell. vii. p. 19 ; Ent. Ann.
1860. p. 183, pi. i. fig. 4 ; Steward, Zool. 1861, p. 7799 ;
BRITISH DELTOIDS, PYRALlt)ES, AND CRAMBI. %1^
TugwelljEntom. x. p. 255; Crewe, oy. cit, p. 296; E.M.M.
xiv. p. 149 ; Mathew, op. cit. p. 157 ; Knaggs, Ent. Ann.
1870, p. 127; Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2; South, Syn. List,
p. IS; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 44, pi. v. fig. 12.
** It is paler than Palealis, whiter and more iridescent, but has
a brownish streak along the costa, edged below with yellowish,
and there is a row of minute black dots along this yellowish
border and on the hind margin, also a black dot at the termina-
tion of the discoidal cell of the anterior wings. Size 1 in. 2 lines"
(Stain ton).
Introduced by Mr. Stainton, October, 1859.
British Localities. — Torquay ; Kent, S. Coast ; Tresco ;
Gravesend ; Forest Hill ; Isle of Wight ; Brighton.
Distribution. — South Europe ; England.
Note. — Mr. Pearce informs me that he captured a specimen at
a street lamp in Gosport, on October 23rd, 1884.
STENIIAD^.
BlASEMIA RAMBURIALIS, Dup. (PI. III. fig. 10.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Diasemia ramhurialis,'Boyd, Intell. iv. p. 151; Stainton, Ent,
Ann. 1859, p. 149, pi. i. fig. 3 ; Verrall, Ent. Mo. Mag. iii.
p. 163 ; Purdey, Entom. xi. p. 273 ; Salwe)^, Entom. xiii.
p. 283 ; Digby, E. M. M. xxv. p. 381 ; Doubl. List, p. 17 ;
South, Syn. List, p. 18 ; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 45, pi. vi.
fig. 2.
" Closely allied to Literalis, but more glossy, and the markings
more irregular" (Boyd).
Introduced by Mr. Boyd^ August, 1858.
English Localities. — Probus, Cornwall; Lewes; Folkes-
tone ; Dover ; Portland.
Distribution. — South Western Europe; Austria; England;
Australia.
Note. — This species is said to fly in swampy places at dusk,
and has been beaten from the flowers of hemp agrimony (Eupato-
rium cannabinum). Has been taken in June, July, September
and October, so that it is probably double-brooded.
Antigastra catalaunalis, Dup. (PI. III. fig. 4.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Ebulea catalaunalis^ Stainton, Ent. Mo. Mag. iv. p. 152 ;
Knaggs, Ent. Ann. 1868, p. 108, pi. i. fig. 4. Doubl.
List, Suppl. p. 2.
Antigastra catalaunalis y South, Syn. List, p. 18; Leech, Brit.
Pyral. p. 45, pi. vi. fig. 3.
" The ground colour of the fore wings is pale sulphur, the
nervures being mapped out with ferruginous, an accumulation of
which tint occurs towards the hind margin ; at the base of the
^78 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
cilia is a dark, almost black line ; the fringes themselves are
cream-coloured ; the hind wings are whitish, but ferruginous
towards the hind-margin, especially near the apex. Abdomen
and antennae long. Sexes very much alike" (Knaggs).
Introduced by Mr. Stainton, December, 1867.
English Locality. — Cheshunt.
Distribution. — South Western Europe; Syria; Bengal;
England.
Note. — Dr. Knaggs says this species had been previously
reputed British, but this was a mistake, and arose from the fact
that catalaunalis was supposed to be synonymous with Nascia
cilialis, Hiibn.
(To be continued.) .
I
4
NOTES ON SOME SPECIES or GALL-GNATS (CECIDOMYI^).
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
12 3
^ Genitalia of Cecidomyia (all enlarged).
1. C.s-hatatas, $ forceps. 2. G.frater, $ forceps. 3. C.s-brassicoides, ^ forceps.
While living in Colorado I was able to breed several of the
species of gall-gnats found in that state, but could never work
out their nomenclature in a satisfactory way, not having access
to sufficient of the literature of the subject. Now, however, I
have been able to make the proper enquiries and comparisons,
and present some of the results herewith.
The galls produced by the species of Cecidomyia are very
various in form, and of great interest from several points of view.
They are also, as a rule, not difficult to identify. The gall-
makers, on the other hand, are often very closely allied, and
exceedingly hard to name even when alive ; dead specimens
become so shrivelled as to become almost useless unless some-
thing is known of their life-history. Probably nearly all the
species which have been described by Walker and others, from
dead specimens which have no history, will have to be put aside
as unrecognisable.
Cecidomyia rigid^, Osten-Sacken.
= salicis, Fitch, non Schr. = salicis-siliquay Walsh (var.).
Gall. — A red fusiform swelling on the twigs of Salix, tapering at either
end, and often emitting one or more small twigs. These galls are smooth
ON SOME SPECIES OF GALL-GNATS (CECIDOMYI^). S79
and red like the twigs on which they grow ; they appear to have their origin
in aborted buds ; they contain a single cavity.
Larva. — Long. 4, lat. 1^ mm. Subcylindrical, bright orange, tinged with
crimson above. (Extracted from gall Jan 27th, 1890.)
Pupa-shell. — Larger than that of C. s-hatatas. Coverings of antennae,
legs and wings grey, in striking contrast to the white abdomen.
Imago.— Long. 4|, al. exp. 9 mm. 2 • Antennae 20-jointed.
The above description refers to the species found at West
Cliff, Colorado, which I have hitherto called C. s-siliqua. It is
very probably identical with Walsh's species, but on the whole it
agrees better with rigidce, as described by Fitch. Walsh describes
salicis-siliqua as having the origin of the anterior branch of the
third longitudinal vein pretty distinct, which is not the case with
my species, but Walsh admits s-siliqua to be variable in this
respect.
The West Cliff species has the thorax dull black, with rather
coarse pale hairs at the sides ; halteres brownish ; abdomen dull
dark brown or brown-black, clothed at sides and beneath with
white hairs. Legs grey-brown, pink at joints ; wings hyaline,
veins brown. These notes are from fresh specimens, which
emerged from the galls in May, 1890. Fitch's species is said to
have the tarsi black, and the wings smoky brown.
I think the Colorado species may be safely referred to rigidce,
and Walsh's salicis-saliqua (a later name) to a variety of the same
species. Still it is possible that Walsh's insect may be distinct.
Cecidomyia salicis -batatas, Walsh, 1864.
? = spongivora, Barnst. MS., Walker, 1848.
Gall. — A large, irregularly oval gall, at the end of a willow twig.
Pupa-shell. — Almost entirely white.
Imago. — (^. Long. 2^ al. exp. 6 mm. Wings hyaline, pale greyish ; third
longitudinal vein very indistinct beyond the l)ranch, or sometimes more
distinct ; second longitudinal vein conspicuous, and a lively brown, whereas
the other veins are dark grey or black. Antennae apparently 17-jointed.
Thorax dark reddish brown, with subdorsal longitudinal lines of pale hairs ;
halteres greyish, pale at tips. Abdomen dark brown, the segments very
distmct, covered with white hairs except at sutures beneath, and above the
lower edge of each segment strongly fringed with long white hairs. Legs
brown, pale at joints. (Described from fresh specimens.)
Hab. West Cliff, Custer Co., Colorado. Emerged from gall
May 31st, 1889.
I have no doubt that the above species belongs with Walsh's
s-hatatas, although Walsh thought, " unless his memory failed
him," that the male abdomen of his species was luteous when
recent.
As to spongivora, so far as the description goes, it might well
be this species. I have examined the types of spongivora,
Barnst. MS., in the British Museum, and they agree in size and
general appearance with the Colorado s-hatatas. The thorax is
dark, but the legs are rather paler than in the Colorado form :
^80 THE ENTOMOLOGIST*
the wings also are rather less ample perhaps, and rather straighter
along the costa. A female specimen has a long, pale ovipositor.
There is a label, presumably written b}^ Barnston, '* 15 out round
gall," with another word I fail to decipher.
There is, therefore, every probability that spongivora is the
same as s-hatatas ; but under the circumstances I should hardly
be justified in overthrowing Walsh's well-known name for an
older one, which, after all, may possibly belong to something
different.
With the types of spongivora in the British Museum there is
a second species from Hudson's Bay, labelled (apparently by
Barnston) " lasiopterides, from willow-rose." It is certainly
different from spongivora, having a sand-coloured thoraK with two
dark longitudinal bands. I am not aware that this C. lasiopterides
has been described, and it would hardly be wise to attempt a
description from the Museum material.
Cecidomyia saliois-brassicoides, Walsh,
Imago. — ^. Long. 3, al. exp. 3 mm. Head black; antennae with abun-
dant long white hairs. Thorax black ; halteres dark grey. Abdomen black
or nearly so, with sparse long hairs ; genitalia everted on a pedicel, inclined
upwards ; forceps black (pale at ends), greatly curved ; style brownish, broad
and thick. Legs grey-brown. Wings hyaline ; venation as in C. rigidcB.
Described from fresh specimens, bred from galls on willow,
West Cliff, Colorado, May, 1889.
This is the species, very common at West Cliff, which I have
before called s-st7'ohiloideSf it having been so named for me at
Washington. I think there is no doubt that it is really Walsh's
s-brassicoides, with which the galls especially agree more than
with any other described species.
These West Cliff galls occur in bunches, several together^
as is described by Walsh, and are very suggestive of compact
sprouts on a cabbage-stump ] they taper somewhat at the end,
being obversely pyriform ; the leaves or scales covering them are
mostly rounded.
Cecidomyia frater, n. sp. (vel orbitalis, Walsh, var. ?).
Ima^o.^t^. About 2 mm. long. Halteres pinkish. Abdomen somewhat
pinkish. Venation as in C. bigelovice. Antennge about 18-jointed. Other-
wise much like C. s-hrassicoides, except in genitalia.
Hab. West Cliff, Colorado. Bred May 19th, 1889, from gall
of C. s-brassicoides.
This is clearly not Walsh's C. cornuta, but it is evidently very
close to C, orbitalis. 1 should hesitate about describing it were
it not that the male genitalia afford an easy means of distinguishing
it from s-brassicoides, the terminal portion of the forceps being
much more slender, and with coarser hairs, than in that species.
In C. s-batatas (West Cliff examples) the terminal joint of the
I
ON SOME SPECIES OF GALL-GNATS (CECIDOMYI^) . 281
forceps is still narrower in proportion to its length, f rater being
thus intermediate in this respect.
Cecidomyia alticola, n. sp.
Gall. — Globular wool-like galls, with radiating fibres, being the aborted
flower-heads of a species of Compositse. I collected thes e galls when the
plant had died down, and only the dead stalks were left : it seem^ to be a
Chrysopis or Solidago.
Larva. — Colour orange.
Pupa-shell. — Long. If mill. White, with the thoracic coverings shiny
grey.
Imago. — Expanse about 4 mill. Head dark ; eyes very black ; antennae
brownish, moniliform, 16-jointed, each joint emitting some (twelve or more)
long white hairs ; joints diminishing in size towards tip. Thorax dark.
Legs brownish ; halteres large, slightly hairy, tinged with reddish. Abdomen
reddish or pale brown, the male genitalia much darker. Wings hyaline,
with a row of strong bristles on the costa, and a strong fringe on inferior
border. Venation simple ; second longitudinal vein straight, fading towards
margin, or reaching margin perhaps slightly below the apex of the wing ;
third longitudinal vein fading, or (in one male) curving abruptly downwards,
reaching inferior margin, with no anterior branch.
Female abdomen redder than that of male ; ovipositor very
short.
Male genitalia differ from those of Diplosis pyrivora as
follows : — In C. alticola the hairs of the first joint of the forceps
are longer; and the second joint of forceps is less slender and
less curved, being in fact quite thick.
One male appeared to have the antennae 11 -jointed only, but
I am not sure that some joints had not been broken off.
Described from fresh specimens, bred April 24th (some earlier),
from galls collected in 1890, at West Cliff, Colorado.
Many Cecids have been bred by different authors from species
of Compositse, but the present species seems quite distinct from
all of them.
Of the American species C. hirtipes, O.-S., C. solidaginis, Lw.,
C.racemicola, O.-S., C.anthophila,0.-S., and C. carbonifera, O.-S.,
all on Solidago, make quite different galls from alticola, (7. an-
thophila, which might possibly be confused with our species as
to its gall, has also a quite different fly, with pale brown thorax
and twenty-one antennal joints. C. chrysopsidis, Lw., makes a
gall on Chrysopsis mariana which seems to be exceedingly like
that of alticola, but the imago is different. There are also
American species of Asphondylia and Lasioptera on Compositae,
but these need not be considered.
The European G. ohfascata, Mg., is said to have brown bands
on the tibiae and tarsi, but otherwise the imago seems a good deal
like alticola, though it has a different life-history. (7. floricola,
Winn., is also rather like our species, but differs in a few points,
besides breeding in Achillea. The recently described C. florum,
Kieffer (Ent. Nach. 1890, p. 37), is evidently distinct; it feeds on
282 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Artemisia, as do also C. artemisice, Bouch., C. tuhifexy Bouch.,
and (7. foliorunif Scholtz.
Inquilines and Parasites,
The following have been bred from galls, collected at West
Cliff, Colorado, of the species considered above : —
(1.) Nematus concolor, Nort. Bred May 15th, from gall of C.
rigidce,
(Q.) Pteromalid, long 2f mill. Bronzy green. Bred, May,
1889, from gall of C, s-brassicoides.
(8.) Pteromalid, long, about 2|- mill. Bronzy ; legs partly dark
brown and partly honey-yellow. Bred, May, from gall
of C. S'hrassicoides.
(4.) Eutelus sp., about 1|- mill. long. Yellowish green ; legs
pale yellow ; venation yellow. Bred, May, from gall of
C. s-brassicoides,
(5.) Eutelus sp., similar to the last, but much smaller ; abdomen
more tapering. Bred, May, from gall of C, s-brassicoides,
(6.) Pteromalid, rather smaller than No. 4. Black. Bred, May,
from gall of C. s-brassicoides,
(7.) Chalcid. Metallic greenish ; legs pale brownish ; antennse
pale at tips. Bred, May, from gall of G. s-brassicoides,
(8.) Chalcid. Black or nearly so ; head greenish ; shape of
abdomen rather like that of Isosoma. Bred, May, from
gall of C, s-brassicoides.
(9.) Cecidomyia, much like frater, but much smaller. Not
sufficiently examined, but may be albovittata, Walsh.
Bred, May, from gall of C. s-brassicoides,
(10.) Chalcid. Black; legs honey-yellow; thorax smooth ; fla-
gellum pubescent. Bred, May, from gall of C, s-brassi-
coides,
(11.) Polygnotus error, Fitch. Bred from gall of C. s-brassicoides.
(12.) Torymus sp. Bred from gall of C, rigidce.
(13.) Torymus sp. Bred from gall of C, s-brassicoides,
(14.) Tetrastichus sp. Bred from gall of C, s-batatas,
(15.) Torymus (n. sp. ?). Bred from gall of C, alticola.
I am indebted to Mr. W. H. Ashmead and the U.S. Depart-
ment of Agriculture for assistance with the above Hymenoptera.
The Chalcids have not been sufficiently studied as yet ; probably
some of the species bred will ultimately prove undescribed.
3, Fairfax Eoad, Bedford Park, Chiswick, London, W., July 11, 1890.
283
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S.
(Continued from p. 252).
V. — The Chemical Aspect.
A.
At the close of Section IV. I wrote,* "It now remains to
discuss the significance of these results, and offer such interpret-
ation of them as we can." That is the task that is to be essayed
in the remaining portion of these articles, and I am not uncon-
scious of the fact that my interpretations may have to run the
gauntlet of some criticism from readers of * The Entomologist.'
So far, in recording experiments and observations, I have been
on fairly sure ground, but must now quit that for the region of
hypotheses ; far less certain ground, indeed, but yet without such
hypothesising the most complete and extensive experiments and
observations are almost valueless. We cannot mentally feed on
several hundred isolated individual facts ; such cannot be assimi-
lated, nor will they conduce to mental growth any more than
physically we can feed on atoms of carbon and nitrogen, &c., in
place of bread or meat. In both cases some preliminary elabora-
tion of the individual items is requisite ; and possibly, if we had
been suddenly set down to discover in what manner the physical
ultimates of food must be combined for our physical sustenance,
there would have been as many disastrous failures to prepare food
as there have been in all early attempts to work up a true mental
pabulum ! As Heidenhain truly says, " It is the fate of every
investigation into natural science that, after the establishment of
a series of connected facts which can be objectively observed,
an hypothesis must be established which brings these facts into
causal connection with one another." And this hypothesis must
be necessarily more or less tentative at first, until verified or dis-
proved by further experiments ; a working hypothesis, in fact,
which shall collect together for the present, into a compact and
assimilable form, all the individual facts, and suggest fresh
experiments the necessity for which would probably have not
otherwise been perceived. It is in this light — as indeed I have
before implied — that I wish my interpretations to be read ; and
if in succeeding articles I may appear to be advancing too confi-
dently theories for which some readers may think the present
evidence altogether too insufficient, I will, in anticipation, refer
them to this preliminary disclaimer. It is far more simple and
less cumbersome to explain this once for all than to preface every
individual hypothesis with *'Let it, for the purposes of the present
enquiry, be considered probable that " ! After this candid
* Entom. p. 223.
284 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
confession I shall consider myself very badly treated if any
readers accuse me of dogmatism or illicit assumption ; and as to
the appropriateness or otherwise of such working hypotheses, I
may remind them that these articles were headed " Preliminary
Notices," — being indeed merely an account (published at this
somewhat early stage for reasons explained in the first section)
of preliminary experiments on British Lepidoptera, by way of
preparation for a considerably more extensive enquiry.
Now before considering the actual experiments, we shall,
I think, do well to clear the ground of one or two matters, rather
than plunge at once in medias res. These articles are entitled
" On the Chemistry of Insect Colours," and there has, so far,
been allowed perhaps a tacit assumption that there is a chemistry
of — all — insect colours. Whereas there is not. It is superfluous
for me to remind readers of ' The Entomologist ' that it has long
since been opined by various naturalists that in manj^ cases the
colours of insects are due, — not to any pigment at all, but to the
minute physical structure of the surface ; and this class of colours
may be conveniently, though somewhat loosely, referred to as
physical colours, in distinction from chemical or pigment colours.
Readers of Wallace's delightful book, * Tropical Nature,' will re-
member that he alludes on several occasions to these "physical
colours," — especially with reference to Lepidoptera and other
insects. For instance, he conjectures that " many of the glossy
or metallic tints of insects, as well as those of the feathers of
some birds," are due to interference colours ; and states also that
" The iridescent colours of the wings of dragon-flies are caused
by the superposition of two or more transparent lamellae, while
the shining blue of the purple emperor and other butterflies, and
the intensely metallic colours of humming-birds, are probably
due to fine striae."* Then, again, Mr. Cockerellf quotes Dr.
Dimmock as opining that the white of Pieris and the silver of
{e. g.) Argynnis are both due to physical structure, and not to any
pigment. So that clearly naturalists have long been fully awake
to the fact that in discussing the colours of insects (and other
groups) we must discriminate between the chemical and the physical
colours ; although I am not aware that there has so far been much
formal evidence forthcoming concerning these physical colours.l
* On the other hand Wallace, I think, goes too far in stating that pigmental
colours "comprise all the opaque colours of flowers and insects." I should call
Pi'erts-white, for instance, a very opaque colour ; and among Heterocera opaque
colours are abundant which are — so far, that is, as I can at present determine — not
pigment colours,
t Entom. xxii. 126-7.
\ At least, not until very lately. I see, however, by a recent article in * Nature,'
that Dr. Hodgkinson has published a paper on the " Physical Cause of Colour,"
recording experiments tending to show whether the colour is caused by a structure
of thin plates or of fine lines. I have, however, not yet had an opportunity of
consulting Dr. Hodgkinson's paper.
CHKMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 386
This being so, there is some consolation to me for the (chemically)
negative and disappointing results of so many of my experi-
ments, in the reflection that they have at any rate served to
confirm the opinions previously put forth on wholly different
grounds by various naturalists. But to this point we will return
subsequently.
Now, with a view to classifying lucidly the explanations that
I shall have to give of the various colour phenomena under
discussion, I wish at this point to propose a subdivision of these
physical colours into several classes, although in so doing it is not
easy to avoid making somewhat arbitrary distinctions ; but it
must be remembered that these subdivisions are proposed with
special reference to these experiments. From Wallace's view, as
expressed in the statement* that "the colours which we perceive
in material substances are produced either by the absorption or
by the interference of some of the rays which form white light,
Pigmental or Absorption colours," &c., I must dissent ; for this
appears to me to be both an incomplete account and also to con-
fuse two different classes — or, if you like, sub-classes — under the
one term of absorption colours. The subdivision now proposed
is as follows : —
First, Interference colours — whether of films or fine lines
(striated surfaces). Inorganic examples are, — of films, soap-
bubbles, the colours of molten metals, iridescent glass, stagnant
water, and so on: of striations, the colours of mother-of-pearl, f
" shot "-silk, &c.
Secondly, Reflection " colours " — other than interference
colours. Of course all interference colours as seen on the wings
of birds and inseetsl are reflected; but under this class-heading
I am denoting such "colours" as are produced by simple re-
flection without the interference colours due to films or striations.
Under this subdivision we shall be chiefly concerned with the
*' colours " of white-winged species, and also apparently of the
" metallic " markings displayed by Argynnis, Plusia, &c. It is
almost superfluous to instance as inorganic examples such
objects as white paper, and the like large category, for the former;
whilst as regards " metallic or quasi-metallic reflection," it has
been also pointed out to me that, besides the coloration of polished
metals in this manner, another example is afforded by the colours
of aniline dyes under certain circumstances, — e,g., when a drop
has been spilled on the neck of the bottle, and dried there.
* ' Tropical Nature,' pp. 182-3.
t If a mother-of-pearl shell be impressed upon wax, the colours will be found
transferred to the wax also ; clearly demonstrating them to be due to a surface
structure.
I Unless we looked through the gauzy wings of Neuroptera, &c., in which case
we should see similar (Mnrefiected) interference colours in positions complementary
to the reflected colours seen from above.
ENTOM. — SEPT. 1890, Y
286 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Thirdly, it seems to me that we ought to rank those colours
which are due to the partial or total absorption of light rays,
whereby either a complementary colour or a simple black is pro-
duced. It may well seem at first blush that this third class is
altogether erroneous and superfluous, since the definition of it is
the definition of the pigment class. For all that we mean by a
pigment — strictly — is a compound of such molecular structure
that it absorbs many or few, or all or none, of the light rays,
producing complementary colours, or black, or white. Neverthe-
less, I feel it necessary to constitute this third class in order to
accommodate colours that are apparently caused by absorption,
but cannot anyhow be chemically affected as one would expect
pigment colours to be. If asked to instance an inorganic colour
of this class, I could not do better than point to a lump of coal
as a thoroughly characteristic example ; and no doubt various
other examples will occur to my readers.
Of course I am fully aware how very arbitrary and artificial —
in final analysis — any distinction between chemical and "physical"
colours is. In the first place, all these sub-classes may be said
to overlap more or less : as already pointed out, reflected colours
and interference colours approach one another ; similarly reflected
and absorption colours also approximate in character* ; and,
lastly, all pigment colours are only a special case of absorption
colours. Moreover, ultimately, all colours are physical ; that is to
say, the only objective antecedent of the sensations that we call
colour is to be found in the inconceivably minute molecular
structure of matter, which so affects the ether vibrations as to
produce in us the sensations of colour. In this sense, therefore,
all colours — whether pure pigment colours, or interference
colours, or absorption colours — are physical. But, nevertheless, it
is eminently convenient to distinguish between, on the one hand,
chemical colours, due to pigments, which may be isolated and
utilised as such ; and, on the other hand, "physical" colours, in the
usual restricted and well understood use of the term. Always bear-
ing in mind, then, the caution just posited, we may freely speak of
chemical and physical colours, and need not trouble just now to
determine where, in absorption* colours, the physical ends and
the chemical begins. After all, this is no more perplexing or
arbitrary than the division between the overlapping sciences of
Physics and Chemistry, — a division that is purely arbitrary and
subjective, but very convenient for the purposes of human study ;
only Nature knows nothing of any such distinction.
Let us, then, during the rest of this discussion, assume that
thei e are at least four classes of colours : —
(a. Interference colours.
1. Chemical or Pigment. 2. Physical.. 6. Eeflected colours.
c. Absorption colours.
* See preceding footnote.
AN ADDITION TO THE PLUSIID^ OP BRITAIN. 287
My objection, then, to Wallace's treatment would be that he
has taken no cognizance of these absorption (and reflected)
colours ; whereas it appears to me possible to interpret a large
number of my experimental results only on the assumption that
many colours are due to " absorption," and belong to Class -2 c.
And in thus speaking I have especially in view the very
*' unsatisfactory " (to repeat my previous designation) colours
— black, brown, grey, and such like. For the rest, reflection
colours (Class 2 b) will, as already pointed out, include all the
whites and silvers, and metallic colours generally. Class 2 a
(interference colours) includes some blues, metallic greens, &c.
Reds are entirely pigment colours ; so probably are yellows,
though we have some knotty points to settle here, as will have
been observed, no doubt, by any of my readers that have
examined in detail the tables of results. Greens, too, and
chestnuts, and (some?) blues, are also pigment colours.
(To be continued.)
AN ADDITION TO THE PLUSIID^ OF BEITAIN.
By Eichaed South.
(Plate III. fig. 6.)
Plusia moneta.
Noctua moneta, Fabr. Mant. Ins. ii. 162; Hiibn. Eur.
Schmett. fig. 289 ; Dup. Lep. Fr. vii. pi. 139, fig. 2 ; Frey.
Beit. ii. pi. 71.
Noctua flavago {Argyritis, text), Esp. Schmett. iv. 218, pi. 112,
fig. 1.
Noctua napelli, Yill. Ent. Linn. p. 347, pi. v. fig. 21.
Polychrysia moneta, Hiibn. Verz. Schmett. p. 251, No. 2492.
Plusia moneta, Treit. Schmett. v. 3, 158 ; Guen. Noct. ii. p.
332, No. 1146; Walk. Cat. Lep. Het. p. 889; Staud. Cat.
p. 125, No. 1764; Kirby, Eur. Butt. & Moths, p. 261;
Hofm. Gross. -Schmett. Eur. p. 111.
Expanse, 1 in. 9 lines. Fore wings pale golden tinged with grey ; trans-
verse lines and venation on the disc, brown ; the costal half of central third
suffused with brown ; first line double, curved and indented at the median
nervure, second line starts obHquely from the costa, then turns inwards and
forms a series of curves to the inner margin ; between these lines is a narrow
brown band which is angulated at the 2nd median nervule ; before the apex is
a brown oblique streak from costa to outer margin, where it terminates in a
broader longitudinal dash of the same colour ; below this brown dash is a
broad stripe of pale brown, with a few black dots between the nervules ;
beyond, the outer margin is tinged with violet. In the central area is a
silvery ring, separated by the median nervure from a larger curved mark of
the same colour ; this last is intersected by the 1st median nervule, and both
have a yellowish tinge. Hind wings pale brown, suffused with fuscous,
288 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
especially on the outer third ; lunule and central line blackish, but the former
is not always distinct. Fringes pale brown preceded by a dark line.
One example taken in Sussex by Mr. Christy, who found it
in his moth-trap on the 2nd of July last (Entom. 254).
Kirby says the larva is grass-green with white dots, a dark
line down the back, and a white one along the sides. Feeds on
monkshood {Aconitum napellus) from autumn to June, Guenee
remarks that DeVillers found a pupa between leaves of the food-
plant. The imago is on the wing in June and July according to
Hofmann, but Guenee gives July and September.
I am obliged to Mr. W. M. Christy, of Watergate, Ems worth,
for the loan of this most interesting addition to our small band of
native Plusiidse. As the larva and its food-plant are known, it is
to be hoped that the species may be detected here in the earlier
stages also.
The figure represents Mr. Christy's specimen, but the
description has been drawn up from a fine bred example in
Mr. Leech's European collection.
Distribution. — Germany (except N. W.) ; Switzerland ; South-
east France ; Normandy ; Andalusia ; Piedmont ; Austria ; Hun-
gary ; Poland ; Finland ; Central and South-east Russia ; Altai ;
East Siberia; England.
FIVE DAYS' COLLECTING IN NORMANDY.
By J. H. Leech, B.A., F.L.S., &c.
On Friday, July 18th, I made another excursion to Tancar-
ville, accompanied by Mr. South and Mr. H. McArthur. During
the time we spent in the locaHty the weather was not altogether
unfavourable for entomological work. The days were warm
enough ; there was a fair amount of sunshine and but little
rain, except on the morning of the 21st. Although the nights
were certainly cold at times, the meteorological conditions
were a distinct improvement on those which obtained during our
former visit.
A full list of the species captured on this occasion is
appended. Those species met with as imagines during our
previous visit, and enumerated in the June list (ante p. 225), are
indicated by an asterisk.
List of Lepidopteea taken at Tancaeville, July 19th — 23rd, 1890.
Rhopalocera. — Pieris brassiccs and P. napi. Argynnis ewphrosyne,
one male specimen. Vanessa c-album, one. V. polychloros. V. urticce.
Limenitis sibylla. Apatura iris, represented by two wings found on the
road below castle. Melanargia galatea. Epinephele ianira, one female
example has the usual fulvous markings of fore wings replaced by whitish
except the costal portion of submarginal band. E. tithonus. E. hyper-
I
i
FIVE days' collecting IN NORMANDY. 380
anthes. Ccenonympha arcania. C. pamphilus. Thecla il'icis. Poly-
ommatus phlceas. Lyccena icarus."^^ L. argiolus. Hesperia thaumas. H.
lineola, the latter very common. H. sylvanus.-^'
Heterocera.
Sphinges. — Smerinthus populi. Macroglossa stellatarum. Trochilium
apiformis. Thyris fenestrella. Zygmna JilipendulcB, not common.
BoMBYCES. — Nola cucullatella. CalUgenia miniata^' Lithosia meso-
mella. Gnophria quadra, Euchelia jacobcECB.'^ Callimorpha dominula,
common in a wood at the back of the hotel. Arctia caia, one larva.
Spilosoma fuUglnosa, one full-grown larva. Hepialus humuli, one female
example. Psilura monacha, pupae on tree trunks. Botnbyx neustria.
Saturnia pavonia, one larva feeding on stunted sallow in the quarry below
castle. Dicratiura vinula, full-grown larva. Notodonta dictcea, one larva.
Drynohia velitaris, one female specimen. Phalera bucephala, larvae.
Thyatira derasa. T. batis.'^ Cymatophora octogesima (= ocularis),
C. or. C. duplaris. The Cymatophoridse were taken at sugar, as also
were the following : —
NocTu^. — Acronycta psi.'>^ A. leporina. A. aceris. A. megacephala.
A. rumicis.'>' A. auricoma. Leucania. lithargyria, variable. L. pallens.
Hydroicia nictitans. Xylophasia lithoxylea. X. hepattca. Apamea
didyma (= oculea), many forms. Miana strigilis.'-' Caradrina taraxaci
(= blanda). Rusina tenebrosa.-'' Agrotis suffusa. A. exclamatmiis.--^
A. ripcB. Noctua triangularum. N. brunnea,-'' N. baia, some nice forms.
Tnphmna pronuba/^- Miana maura. Calymnia trapezina. C. affinis.
Euplexia lucipara."^ Hadena oleracea. Gonoptera libatrix. Flusia
gammar^^ Phytometra viridaria. Herminia derivalis and Hypenodes
costcBstrigalis were taken on the wing, and larvae were obtained of Dian-
thcecia albimacula. Cucullia verbasci -!= and C. lychnitis ?
GEOMETRiE. — Epioiie apiciaria. Angerona prunaria. Selenia bi-
lunaria v. juliaria. Crocallis elinguaria. Eugenia quercinaria (= angu-
laria). Boarmia repandata.^ Hemithea strigata [^ thymiaria). Acidalia
bisetata. A. dilutaria. A. remutaria. A. strigilaria, not uncommon.
A. inornata. Timandra amataria. Cabera pusariaJ^ C. exanthemata.'-^
Abraxas grossulariata.-'^ Lomaspilis marginata.-^ Emmelesia alchemillata.
Eupithecia impurata. Hypsipetes sordidata (= elutata). Melanip)pe sociata,
M. galiata, larvae. Camptogramma bilineata.-^^ Phibalapteryx tersata.
Cidaria testata. C. dotata (= pyraliata). Eubolia limitata (= men-
suraria). E. bipunctaria, a rather dark form. Anaitis plagiata.-'-
Pyralides. — Aglossa pinguinalis. 8coparia cembrce.^ Nomophila
noctuella (= hybridalis). Pyrausta aurata (= punicealis). Herbula cespi-
talis. Endotricha fiammealis. Scopula olivalis.-'^ Botys ruralis. Ebulea
crocealis.^- E. verbascalis. E. stachydalis.
Pterophori. — Oxyptiliis hieracii / Mimceseoptilus bipunctidactyla,
Leioptiius scarodactylu^. Aciptilia baliodactyla.
Crambi. — Crambus perlellus. C. tristelius. C, cuhnellus, Ilythyia
semirubella, Rhodophaa tiimidella.
ToRTRicES. — Tortrix podana, T, cratmgana, T, xylosteana, T.
rosana. T, heparana. T. ribeana. Peronea aspersana. Penthina
gentiana. P. maryinana, H. dealbana,'^ Spilonota roscBcolana. Aspis
udmanniana. Sericoris lacunana, Euchromia purpurana. Orthotcenia
8triana»* Sciaphila subjectana,"^ Grapholitha penkleiiana,*' G, genii-
290 ffeE ENTOMOLOG^ISf.
nana. Batodes angustiorana.-\- Ephippiphora hrunnichiana.'^ E. trige-
minana. Carpocapsagrossana.'^^ Dicrorampha politanar' D.petiverellar^
Catoptria fulvana. C. citrana. Symmthis oxyacanthella (=fabnciana).'*'
Eiipmcilia dubitana, E. hybridella {= carduana) . Xanthosella hamana.'^
Chrosis alcella {= tesserana).
TiNE^. — Phibalocera quercana. Dasycera olivierella. Acrolepia
granitella.
Several species of other Orders were taken, and these Mr.
Billups has very kindly determined and reported on as follows : —
Coleoptera were again met with, and in some cases captured
in considerable numbers ; as there are some 29 species not
mentioned in the June list of captures, I thought it perhaps
might not be uninteresting to record the additions. They are as
follows : — In the Carabidse, PterosticJms madidusy F., and Har-
palus pimcticollis Pk., two specimens of each, the Staphylinidae
having a solitary specimen of Creophilus maxillosus, L., to repre-
sent this large family. Two specimens of Necrophorus mortuorumy
F., and one of vesjnllo, L., with four of Silpha thoracica, L., and
two of S. quadripunctata, L., represented the Silphidae. Epurcea
cBstiva, L., in some numbers, with E. deleta, Er., Meligethes
ceneusy F., and M. rufipesy Gyll., represented the Nitidulidse.
Two specimens of Halyzia li-guttata, L., were the only species
met with in the Coccinellidae. The Scarabaeidae had as types
three specimens of Onthophagus taurusy L., and several of Sericea
hrunneay L. The Lagriidae had numerous representatives in its
solitary genus, L. hirta, L., several specimens of Anaspis pumila,
GylL, doing duty for the Mordellidae. In the Cerambycidae
several specimens of the fine Rhagium mordax, Fab., were taken,
as also Strangalia macxdata, Poda., and Grammoptera tahacicolor,
DeG. To the Chrysomelidae, however, the majority of species
taken belong, amongst these were a solitary specimen of Crioceris
hrunneay Fab. ; several of Timarch monticola, Fab. ; three speci-
mens of Chrysomela hypericiy Forst. ; one of C. varianSy Fab. ;
seven of C. tristisy Fab. ; and a number of the very beautiful
C. speciosay L., in nearly all shades of colour. Ther6 were also
several specimens of Lina ceneay L., and Gastrophysa viridulay
DeG., Crepidodera rtifipes, L., and C. helexines, L., bringing up
the total to 29 species. Hymenoptera had also several represen-
tatives in Prosopis dilatatay Kirby, and P. communisy Nyl. ;
Andrena trimmeranay Kirby, and A. nitiday Fourc. ; Anthidium
manicatumy L., and Chelostomaflorisomneyh,; the Ichneumonidae
being represented by Ichneumon vaginatorius, L., and Centeterus
confectoTy Gr. There were also two species of Hemiptera taken,
Piezodoriis litucatuSy Fab., and Dasycorus hirticornisy Fab., and
several specimens of Oniscidae in Armadillo vulgaris , L.
291
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
NoTODONTA DiGTMA IN AuGDST. — I found a full-fed larva of N. dictcea, on
8th July ; it went under ground, lOth July, and emerged on 12th August. I
think this is rather unusual. I also took a full-fed Notodonta ziczac about
the same time, and it emerged two days previous to the above. — M. Craske ;
Newacott, Bridgerule, Devon, August 15, 1890.
[N. dictcBa is perhaps not so regular as N. ziczac in assuming the
imago condition twice during the year, but both species are double-
brooded. In each case the autumn larvje of one year produce imagines in
May or June of the following year; from these are derived the larvae,
found in June and July, which attain the perfect state in August.— Ed.]
Black Variety of Limenitis sibylla. — While collecting at Holmesley,
on Friday, July 18th, I captured a fine specimen of the black variety of
Limenitis sibylla. — R. E. James; Trays Hill, Hornsey Lane, N.
Pinkish Variety of Arctia caia. — I have taken in my garden
(July 23) a female of Arctia caia with the white of the forewings deeply
suffused with pink, and have another, not so deep, taken a few years ago
at Portsmouth. — W. T. Pearce ; 101, Mayfield Road, Gosport.
Crocallis elinguaria var. trapezaria (?). — I took from a Chester
gas-lamp, on the night of August 20th, a fine specimen of Crocallis elin-
guaria, without the median transverse band on the fore wings. There is a
broad pale-brown band on the hind margin of each upper wing, bordered by
a narrow white line on the basal side. The discoidal and other spots are
as usual, with the exception of the hind wings, which are spotless. Is this
the variety trapezaria ? — J. Arkle ; Chester. [Trapezaria is said to be
smaller, darker, and the central fascia broader. — Ed.]
Anticlea cugullata (sinuata) at Chichester. — I captured a fine
specimen of this beautiful little Geometer, which I beat out of a hedge
on 25th July. Although I do not see it mentioned by authors, I should
say that the larvse feed on other species of Galium besides Galium, veruin,
as this plant does not grow within miles of the locality where I took this
specimen. The moth is, I believe, new to the Sussex list. Galium
mollugo grows in profusion in the hedges round about. I was much
tempted to keep the moth (a female) alive for eggs, but she was in such
beautiful condition, apparently having only just emerged, I thought that in
all probability she must be a virgin, and so converted her into a specimen
forthwith, to grace my cabinet, I trust, for many years to come. — Joseph
Anderson, Jun.; Chichester.
Larentia olivata and Eupithecea subciliata at Rtckmansworth. —
On July 31st I took two specimens of E. subciliata off palings beneath a maple
tree in Rickmansworth Park, and one example of L. olivata was disturbed
from herbage growing on a bank by the road-side. There were a few
commoner things on the wing ; but the only insect that could be said to
be plentiful was Aphomia sociella, which was met with on palings, and later
on flying along hedgerows. — Richard South.
CucuLLiA absynthii NEAR Barmouth. — In reply to Mr. Chamber-
lain's note under the above heading, I shall be ver^ curious to hear
392 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
whether he found the food-plant near Arthog ; if not, I think I can solve
the problem. Last year, in order to rear absynthii, I took up several roots
from this place and planted them in mj garden, on the opposite side of the
estuary to Arthog, about one and a half or two miles as the crow flies. This
would be nothing of a flight for C. absynthii. I make this suggestion, as
I know of no ahsynthium growing wild in that neighbourhood. — Chas. E.
Partridge ; The Castle, Portland.
NocTUA DEPUNCTA AND Tethea retusa IN Devon. — Among common
insects taken at sugar, on July 2nd, was a fine specimen of N. depuncta ;
and from a larva taken off sallow, on June 15th, I have reared T. retusa. —
M. Craske ; Newacott, Bridgerule, Devon, August 6, 1890.
DiLOBA c^RULEOCEPHALA ON Prunus lauro-cerasus. — In auswor to
Mr. W. E. Butler (Entom. 263), I have many times found larvae of Diloba
cceruleocepliala feeding on common laurel, and have reared the imago from
specimens so found. — Waldegrave ; 13, Montagu Place, Montagu Square.
I found, this spring, half a dozen larvae of Diloba caruleocephala on a
cherry laurel. They were in their last skins, and there was nowhere near
any other possible food for them. How they can eat it without setting free
the poison (that of our laurel-bottles), or that they are proof against it, is
equally difficult to understand. I have seen an odd Tortrix larva on laurel
occasionally ; I think they affect rather oldish leaves. — T. A. Chapman ;
Hereford.
Food-plants of Plusia iota. — Mr. Edmonds informs me that the
larva of Plusia iota will eat buckthorn, blackthorn, willow, sallow, poplar,
birch, plantain, groundsel, dock, carrot, and walnut ! I have already
recorded hawthorn as a food (Entom. 204), and with these additions it would
appear that the larva is polyphagous, and anything but fastidious in the
matter of diet. — Richard South.
SiREX GiGAs IN Hants. — I saw a fine specimen of Sirex gigas, on
Tuesday last, the 5th inst., flying about a camp at Rushmoor, near
Aldershot, but was unable to capture it, as, after a good chase, it dis-
appeared in a pine wood, from whence it had probably come. — Charles
Maxted; 7, Church Terrace, Castelnau, Barnes, August 11, 1890.
SiREX GiGAS IN DuRHAM.— On the 8th of August last, I noticed this
insect flying about fir trees at High Force. On the 11th of the same
month, Mr, R. Calvert, of Bishop Auckland, had a Uving specimen brought
to him. This example was captured in a solicitor's office in the town, and
was said to have crept from the folds of a lady's dress. — Richard South.
Lepidoptera of Kknt : information wanted. — As I expect very
shortly to move to Shorncliffe Camp, I should be extremely obliged for any
information regarding Folkestone, Deal, Dover, or the Marshes, as far as
Lepidoptera are concerned. — C. E. Partridge ; The Castle, Portland.
Collecting on the Northumberland Coast. — Alnmouth is a small
town, situated on the coast, about a mile from Bilton Junction, easily
accessible from London by day or night trains, the journey occupying
about eight hours. Sand-hills stretch for miles on both sides of the town ;
there are also some nice salt-marshes about the river-mouth. Lepidoptera
were very abundant at sugar on several nights, fifty and sixty specimens
on one patch of sugar being not at all unusual. The flowers of the common
I
trOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 393
rush were very attractive ; so also was ragwort, which grows in rich masses.
Although no important rarities were captured, some very fine varieties of
common species were secured, which well repaid the trouble taken.
Amongst others, the following species occurred : — Lyccena icarus, beauti-
fully bright vars. of female. Cidaria immanata; a nearly unicolorous slatey
form. Eubolia Umitata (= mensuraria) ; very dark and strongly marked.
Melanippe montanata. Larentia didymata. Leucania pallens, L. impura,
L. stramineciy L. lithargyria. Apamea leucostigma {==Jibrosa) ; very variable.
Miana bicoloria {= furuncula) ; all shades of colour, from nearly white to
brown. Cerigo matura (= cytherea). Agrotis valligera, A. tritici; very
bright. TriphcBna comes {= orbona), T. orbona (= subsequa), T. pronuba;
some nice vars. Noctua baia, N. umbrosa, N. xanthographa ; vars.
Cleoceris viminalis; a beautiful bright form. Xylophasia monoglypha
(== polyodon) ; from very pale to quite black. I was only able to spend
four days collecting, but I think the locaHty would well repay careful
work.— J. H. Leech; 29, Hyde Park Gate, S.W., August JO, 1890.
An addition to the Lepidoptera of Shetland. — Whilst spending
a few days at Lerwick, in June, I captured on the shores of Bressay Island
a few specimens of Dicrorampha plumbagana. The weather was cold
and wet, and insects remarkably scarce, the only Macro I took being
E. curzoni. I was in hopes of finding that the Diptera and Hymenoptera
of the North of Scotland were darker than those from the South of England,
like the Lepidoptera and Trichoptera, but such does not seem to be the
case ; the only fly that appears to show any variation from southern forma
is Ehagio scolopaceus. The principal flies I saw in the Shetlands were
Pedicia rivosa, Tipula oleracea, T. lunata, Limnobia nigrina, Erioptera
obscura, Chrinonus dolens, and Eristalis intricarius ; Bombus smithianus
being the only bee. — C. W. Dale ; Glanvilles Wootton, August 3, 1890.
Urticating Hairs of Lepidoptera. — As a further contribution to the
literature of this subject I may add my experience with the cocoons of
Cnethocampa processionea. A few days since I was engaged in clearing
out some cocoons of this species from a breeding-cage in which the moth
had been reared some years ago. I had not long commenced my job when
I felt a severe stinging about my eyes and back of the neck. To
obtain relief, as I thought, I bathed my face, &c., with warm water ;
but this only seemed to increase the irritation. As soon as I could obtain
some strong liquid ammonia from the nearest chemist, I applied this to
the parts affected. The effect was very rapid, relief being experienced
immediately, and I was quite free of the trouble in a short time. — H.
McArthur ; 35, Averiil Street, Fulham.
The Cheshire Plaque of Caterpillars : a Myth. — I am able to
state, not merely from personal observation, but from exhaustive enquiry,
that no extraordinary appearance of caterpillars has occurred in Cheshire
this year. Berries — perhaps more especially gooseberries — have been
generally a heavy crop ; apples and pears will be much below the average ;
while " stone " fruit must be put down as almost a failure. A Kelsall
correspondent describes the situation as follows : — *' The paragraph
quoted," he writes (see * Entomologist ' for August, 1890, page 260), " is
like many others wo meet with in newspapers : some penny-a-liner
imagined it I Fruit trees were damaged by frosts in May, not by cater-
ENTOM. — SEPT. 1890. Z
^94 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
pillars." Personally, I have found larvae in Cheshire to be scarcer
than for many years past. On the I5th of August I went to Delamere
Forest for a few hours' beating; from oak the result was nil; from birch
I only beat a solitary caterpillar of Amphidasys betularia, one of Hylophila
hicolorana, about half a dozen Cabera pusaria instead of scores, and three
or four more of common Geometers. This result I put down to the year's
prevalence of cold and wet weather. To the same cause I attribute an
extraordinary mortality among the caterpillar inhabitants of my flower-
pots and breeding-cages. — J. Arkle ; Chester.
Odontura punctatissima abundant. — I never saw this Orthopteron
so common as it is now in our woods. — C. W. Dale ; Glanvilles
Wootton, August 2, 1890.
Rhizotrogus solstitialis at Chester. — This beetle was very plenti-
ful close to Chester, on the Dee banks, last July. Up to last year it was
unrecorded in the list for Lancashire and Cheshire, when it was discovered
in the locality just quoted. To those unacquainted with the insect it may
be interesting to say that this beetle loDks exactly like a small cockchafer
{Meloloniha vulgaris), a species to which it is aUied. — J. Arkle ; Chester.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Sooietv of London. — August Qth, 1890. — Oapt. Henry
J. Elwes, F.L.S., Vice-President, in the chair. Major-General George
Carden, of Surbiton, Surrey, and the Army and Navy Club, Pall Mall,
S.W. ; and Sir Vauncey Harpur-Crewe, Bart., of Calke Abbay, Darby-
shire, were elected Fellovs. Prof. Meldola exhibited a male specimen of
Polyommatus {Chrysophanus) dorllis, Hafn,, a common European and
Asiatic species, which had been taken at Lee, near Ilfracombs, in August,
1887, by Mr. Latter. At the time of its capture Mr. Latter supposed the
specimen to be a hybrid between Polyommatus phloeas and one of the
" Blues," and had only recently identi&ad it as belonging to a well-known
species. Mr. Stainton, Mr. Jenner Weir, and Colonel Swinhoe made some
remarks on the specimen, and commented on the additions to the list of butter-
flies captured in the United Kingdom which had been made of late years.
Mr. W. F. H. Blandford exhibited, and made remarks on, four specimens of
Athous rhombeus, 01., bred from pupae, recently collected by himself in the
New Forest. The Rev. Dr. Walker exhibited a large collection of Cole-
optera which he had recently made in Iceland. The following genera,
amongst others, were represented, viz. : — Patrobus, Nebria, Byrrhus,
Aphodius, Philonthus, Barynotus, Chrysomela, Agabm, Creophilus, and
Carabus. Mr. Champion, Dr. Sharp, and the Chairman made some
remarks on the collection. Capt. Elwes exhibited three species of the
genus Atossa, Moore, three of the genus Elcysma, Butl., and three of the
genus Campylotes, West., — all from the Himalayas and North-eastern
Asia. The object of the exhibition was to illustrate the remarkable
differences of venation in these closely-allied forms of the same family.
Colonel Swinhoe, Mr. Warren, Mr. Moore, and others took part in the
discussion which ensued. Mr. P. Crowley read a paper entitled " De-
scriptions of two new species of Butterflies from the West Coast of Africa,"
and exhibited the species, which he proposed to name respectively Charaxes
gabonica and Cymothoe marg'mata. He also exhibited several other new
SOCIETIES. flQ6
species from Sierra Leone, which had been recently described by Miss Sharp
in the * Annals & Mag. of Nat. Hist.' — H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—July 2Uh, 1890. J. T. Carrington, F.L.S., President, in the chair.
Messrs. R. Augustine Clark, M.A., A. Hewk, and W. Gr. Bryant, were
elected members. Mr. Turner exhibited Noctua festiva, Hb., from Hamp-
stead, and a variety of the larvae of Blston hirtarla, Leach, the usual brown
pigment not having developed. Mr. Joy, Gollix sparsata, Hb., from
Wicken Fen, and larvae of the same species, which he had fed on knot-
grass. Mr. Wellman, a short series of Calymnia affinis, L., bred from
larvae taken at Chattenden ; also living larvae of Dianthcecia nana, Rott.,
D. cucubali, Fues., and D. carpophaga, Bork., from Caterham. Mr. R.
Adkin, a bred series of Moma orion, Esp., from the New Forest. Mr.
Moore, a dark variety of Arctia caia, L., the larvae from which it was bred
having been taken at Rotherhithe. Mr. West, Apamea ophiogramma,
Esp., and remarked that he had found the larvae of this species feeding in
his garden at Streatham on ribbon grass. Mr. Carrington exhibited
botanical specimens from Southend, Essex.
August I4:th. — W. H. Tugwell, Vice-President, in the chair. Mr.
H. W. Street, was elected a member. Mr. Wellman exhibited Emmelesia
unifasciata Haw., bred from larvae obtained at West Norwood in 1888, the
species having been two years in pupa. Mr. South, Hypsipetes sordidata,
Fb., one being strongly banded with red and having a reddish patch at the
base of the primaries, bred from a larva found in Buckinghamshire; in
another the same markings were reproduced in a colour almost white ; the
larva from which this was bred was found in Devon, and both larvae were
fed on sallow. With reference to the first example Mr. South stated that
he had had some hundreds of this species through his hands, but had
never met with this particular form before. Mr. South also showed an
unusually dark form of Larentia didymata, L., from Durham, where it
had been exceedingly common. Mr. R. Adkin, Cleora glabraria, Hb., bred,
from the New Forest, and Coccyx tcsdella, Clerck., taken on the occasion
of the Society's excursion to Leatherhead. Mr. Moore, two varieties
of Abraxas grossulariata, L. Mr. Tugwell, on behalf of Mr. Gr. T.
Porritt, larvae of Eupithecia extensaria, on substituted food, Artemisia
abrotanum. Mr. Tugwell also exhibited a box of Arctia caia, L., of which
he stated he had bred some hundreds this season and only obtained one
variety, the wings of which did not expand. Mr. Hawes, living larvae of
Argynnis selene, Schiff., and A. euphrosyne, L., which were about to
hybernate. Mr. Jenner Weir, living larvae of Psyche villosella, Och., and
drew attention to the different kind of material from which the cases had
been constructed; one singular case was formed entirely from pieces of rush,
each about one quarter of an inch in length, and although he had had this
specimen about two months it appeared not to have added to its case ; most
of the cases had been commenced with the fragments of grass and heath
afterwards used. He also showed one larva from which he had removed
the entire case, and had supplied it with strips of coloured paper, from
which in a few days it had formed a new habitation ; the coloured paper
had also been used by another specimen, which had not been deprived of
its case. During the last two months most of the specimens had doubled
the length of their cases ; the case was always made from the feeding or
proximal end, and never from the distal end, from which latter the imago
296 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
emerged. In one instance, where he had made the experiment of cutting
off the distal end, the larva, being unable to repair the breach, forsook the
case and made another habitation. Mr. Bouttell exhibited a pale form of
Zygcena JiliiwndulcB, from Leigh, Essex, and Hesperia lineola, taken at
Southend in 1883, which he had discovered in his series of H. thaumas.
Mr. Turner, H. lineola, taken on the Society's excursion to Leigh, and
Mr. Nussey the same species, including a very pale example from Shoe-
buryness. Mr. Tugwell expressed an opinion that the species occurred on
the salt marshes, and those taken on the hills were specimens that had
been blown from the salt marshes. Mr. South said the species was
plentiful at Tancarville, some two or three hundred yards from the River
Seine, in a limestone quarry, and there was no character of salt marshes
whatever; Mr. Barker said he had taken a specimen in Sussex, on the
chalk. Mr. T. R. Billups, Coleoptera from Tancarville, taken by Messrs.
Leech and South ; a specimen of ChrysomelidcB rutilans, Woolaston, taken
ahve in the Borough Market, October last, and stated that the species was
a native of the Canary Islands, and had probably been imported with
potatoes from those Islands ; Glypta rubicunda, Bridg., a species of Ich-
neumonidse new to Science, bred by Mr. Elisha from a larva oi Argyrolepia
maritimana; a spider's nest from which he had bred Hemiteles fulvipest
Gr. — the nest was taken by Mr. R. Adkin, at Leigh, Essex; a cluster
of cocoons formed by Apanteles spurius, Wsm., attached to a sprig of
heather, and from which the living insects were emerging in some
numbers ; also a specimen of the white rose bedeguar gall and its maker,
Rhodites roscB, L., with one of its parasites, Calimome bedeguaris, L.
Mr. Cockerell, larvae of Eriocampa cerasi Pach., feeding on leaves of pear,
received from Banstead, where they were doing considerable damage;
hellebore was recommended as a remedy. Mr. Cockerell said the species
was common in America as well as in this country. Mr. C. A. Briggs,
specimens of Cicada montana, Scop. Mr. Perks, a specimen of Bagous
tempestivuSf Hbst., from Leigh, Essex. Mr. B. W. Adkin, a spray of
oak leaves almost entirely covered with the galls of Neuroterus fumipennis,
Hartig. Mr. Billups, Helix incarnata, Miller, and a white variety ; Sue-
cinea putris, h.y and the variety linnoidea, Baudon. Mr. Cockerell then
read a list of animals and plants observed in the Leigh district, between
Southend Pier and Hadley Castle, July 25th, 26th, and 27th, 1890, show-
ing a total of 160 species and 22 varieties.— H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — July Sls^ 1890. The Presi-
dent, Mr. W. G. Blatch, in the chair. Mr. W. Harrison, of Harborne, was
elected a member. Mr. G. W. Wynn showed Chcerocampa porcellus, taken
at Sutton Coldfield last June. Mr. G. H. Kenrick showed pupae of
Satyrus semele, and a larva of Eriogaster lanestris. Mr. R. C. Bradley
showed a short series of Sesia crabroniformis. Rev. C. F. Thornewill
showed a series of Thecla rubi from Cannock Chase, two specimens of
which possessed a light brown spot in each of the fore wings. Mr. W. G.
Blatch showed Sesia culiciformis from Wyre Forest. Mr. P. W. Abbott
showed unusually large Larentia ccesiata taken on Exmoor. Messrs. E. W.
Wynn and E. C. Tye gave an account of a short holiday spent collecting
Lepidoptera in Wyre Forest, last June. Among other interesting species
taken are Melanippe hastata, Eupisteria obliterata (= heparata), Tephrosia
luridata (= extersaria), Agrotis strigula (= porphyrea), &c. — Colbran J.
Wainwright, Ho7i. Sec.
Entomologist. OgI^" 1890.
Plate 4-.
Deltoids Pyralides (5c Crambj
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIIL] OCTOBER, 1890. [No. 329.
ADDITIONS TO THE BRITISH LIST OF DELTOIDS,
PYRALIDES, AND CRAMBI, SINCE 1859.
By RicHAKD South.
(Plates III. & IV.)
Continued from p. 278.
CRAMBI.
CEAMBID^.
Cbambus alpinellus, Hilbn, (PI. IV. fig. 4.)
BRITISH REFERENCES : —
Cramhus alpinelluSy Knaggs, Ent. Mo. Mag. viii. p. 110; Ent.
Ann. 1872, p. 118, pi. i. fig. 4 ; B. White, Scott. Nat. i.
p. 135; Weston, Entom. x. p. 117 ; Tugwell, Entom. xiv.
p. 314 ; Atmore, op. cit. xviii. p. 173 ; Ragonot, E. M. M.
xvii. p. 15 ; Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2 ; South, Syn. List,
p. 19 ; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 73, pi. viii, fig. 2.
** Phoxopterygiform ; of an ashy brown colour, with a white,
longitudinal, middle streak. This streak sends out a branch
towards the inner margin before the middle of the wing ; beyond
the middle it is intersected by an obliquely-placed mark of the
ground colour; towards the apical margin there is a strongly
angulated zigzag line " (Knaggs).
Introduced by Dr. Knaggs, October, 1871.
British Localities. — Southsea ; Deal ; Norfolk Coast.
Distribution. — South-western France ; Germany; Hungary ;
Livonia; Switzerland.
Note, — Zeller says that this species occurs in sandy grassy
places in the pine-forests of Germany and Hungary. Ragonot
mentions dry sandy pasture-lands, where broom, heath, and
Artemisia campestris grow. In a recent communication Mr.
Pearce, of Gosport, says he has been informed by Mr. H,
ENTOM. — OCT. 1890. 2 A
298 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Moncreaff that C. alpinellus occurs on the shore all round Portsea
and Hayling Islands. The imago flies in July and August ; but
the larva appears to be unknown.
Crambus verellus, Zinck, (PI. III. fig. 11.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Crambus verellus, Vaughan, Ent. Mo. Mag. ix. p. 88 ; Knaggs'
Ent. Ann. 1873, p. 42, pl. i. fig. 1 ; Weston, E. M. M. xi.
p. 117; Entom. x. p. 118; Griffith, op. cit. xiv. p. 20;
Kagonot, E. M. M. xvii. p. 15 ; Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2 ;
South, Syn. List. p. 19 ; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 74, pl. viii.
fig. 4.
** Allied to falselluSf but is smaller, darker, and has rounder
wings " (Knaggs).
Introduced by Mr. Howard Vaughan, September, 1872.
British Localities. — Folkestone ; Cambridge.
Distribution. — France ; Germany ; Sweden ; Gallicia
England.
Note. — The specimen taken by Mr. 0. A. Briggs at Folke-
stone on the 21st of July, 1872, furnished the first record of this
species in Britain; but, after making the announcement, Mr.
Vaughan detected two other specimens, one in Mr. S. Stevens'
collection, and another in that of Mr. Ramsay Cox.
M. Bagonot observes that, according to Anton Schmid, " the
undescribed larva feeds in moss on the branches of old plum,
apple, and poplar trees; but Dr. Bossier finds the moth also in
fir-woods where the ground is covered with moss."
Crambus contaminellus, Hilhn. {= cantiellus, Tutt),
BRIT. REF. : —
Crambus contaminellus (Hiibn. 59), Stainton, Manual, ii.
p. 183 ; Tugwell, Entom. xix. p. 75 (woodcuts) ; Tugwell
& Fletcher, I.e. p. 163; Tutt & Fletcher, Entom. xx.
p. 52 ; Doubl. List, p. 18 ; South, Syn. List, p. 20 ;
Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 83, pl. ix. fig. 10.
Crambus cantiellus, Tutt, Entom. xix. pp. 52 (woodcut), 73, 131.
British Localities. — Deal ; Shoeburyness ; Blackheath
(formerly).
Note. — This is not an addition to the British list, but as the
nomenclature of the species has been disturbed, it was thought
advisable to include it in the present list.
i
er
I
Crambus salinellus.
BRIT. REF. : —
Crambus saliriellus, Tutt, Entom. xx. p. 56.
C. contaminellus. Buckler, Ent. Mo. Mag. xv. p. 38 (larva) ;
Porritt, Entom. xix. p. 130 (larva).
'* Expanse, ^ 8 — 11 lines, ? 9 lines to 1 in. Anterior wings
J
1
BRITISH DELTOIDS, PYRALIDES, AND CRAMBI. 299
broad, costa regularly arched, apex not very acute ; colour
wainscot-brown, more or less dusted with black scales ; in some
specimens the wings are very much suffused ; two transverse
lines, the first starts from about the middle of the costa, curves
towards the hind margin for a short distance, then runs obliquely
across the wing towards the body, and meets the inner margin
at about one-third from the base ; the second commences on
the costa nearly midway between the first line and apex, curves
towards the hind margin near the upper part, forms an angle
pointing towards the thorax at about two-thirds across the wing,
and then curves towards the anal angle; a black streak crosses
the centre of the wing, longitudinally, from the thorax to the first
line, beyond which it is sometimes visible. Posterior wings pale
grey in colour ; in some specimens there are traces of a dark line
parallel to the hind margin" (Tutt).
Introduced by Mr. Tutt, March, 1887.
British Localities. — Preston ; Isle of Sheppey ; Higham
(Kent) ; Deal ; Sussex Coast.
Note. — Although others appear to have been aware of it,
Mr. Tutt was the first to direct our attention to the fact that we
had two distinct species going under the name of contamnellus.
Unfortunately, in his first attempt to set the matter straight,
Mr. Tutt fell into error by re-naming Hiibner's contaminellus.
Subsequently, however, he had the advantage of the valuable
opinions of Messrs. Tugwell and Fletcher, and, basing his con-
clusions on the information afforded him by those entomologists,
he sunk his cantiellus, and gave the name of salinellus to the
species previously confounded with contaminellus.
Crambus MYELLus, Hiibn. (PI. IV. fig. 3.)
BRIT. EEF. : —
Cramhus myelins, Saunders, Proc. Ent. Soc. Lond. 1868 ;
Knaggs, Ent. Ann. 1869, p. 126, pi. i. fig. 3 ; Kagonot,
Ent. Mo. Mag. xvii. p. 16; B. Wiiite, E. M. M., viii.
p. 70 ; Scott. Nat. i. p. 143 ; Entom. xvi. p. 213 ; Warring-
ton, E. M. M. viii. p. 113 ; Ellison, Entom. xviii. p. 245 ;
E. M. M. XXV. p. 431; Baker, E. M. M. xix. p. 241;
Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2 ; South, Syn. List, p. 20 ; Leech,
Brit. Pyral. p. 79, pi. ix. fig. 2.
** Fore wing acute, yellow-brown, paler at the base and inner
margin. The pearly-white central streak is twice divided by
fuscous, the third part being linear. Cilia grey, with a few white
streaks. Centre of head and thorax white. Expanse 12-13
lines " (White).
Introduced by Mr. Edward Saunders in 1868 at the December
meeting of the Entomological Society.
British Localities. — Aberdeen; Glen Tilt; Braemar; Kan-
noch,
2 A 2
300 THE ENTOMOLOGIST,
Distribution. — Central Europe ; Finland ; Armenia.
Note, — Flies in June and July, frequenting the borders of
woods. The larva has been described by Treitschke, who says
that it is earthy-brown, with head and plate on second segment
darker brown ; feeds in galleries under moss on stones in March.
Eromene ocellea, Haw. (PI. IV. fig. 11.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Palparia ocellea, Haw. Lep. Brit. p. 486.
Oncocera ocellea, Steph. Cat. ii. p. 217 ; Wood, Index, 1480
Araxes ocellea, Steph. 111. Brit. Ent. Haust. iv. p. 316.
Cramhus ocellea, Stainton, Ent. Ann. 1862, p. 110.
Eromene ocellea, Hearder, Ent. Mo. Mag. iii. p. 139 ; Gregson,
Entom. iv. pp. 249 and 263 ; Webb, E. M. M. xvi. p. 101 ;
Ragonot, E. M. M. xvii. p. 17; Ellis, Lep. Fauna Lane.
& Chesh. p. 76 ; Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2 ; South, Syn.
List, p. 20 ; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 87, pi. x. fig. 2.
Expanse, 1 inch. Fore wings brownish, tinged with ochreous ; beyond
the middle two obHqiie leaden lines enclose a band of the ground colour,
another line of the same hue is sharply angulated below apex, and then runs
parallel with outer margin; beyond this line is a series of jet-black spots
with metallic centres. Hind wings fuscous grey, fringes whitish.
British Localities. — Folkestone; Dumfries; Cheshire;
Glamorganshire.
Distribution. — Central Europe; Madeira; N. W. Asia
Minor ; Syria ; Palestine.
Note, — The specimen described by Haworth in 1812 was
captured in the suburbs of London. Subsequently this example
passed into Mr. Stephens' collection, where it still remains, in
the insect-room of the Natural History Museum, South Ken-
sington. For fifty years Haworth's type remained the only
known British specimen of E. ocellea, but in 1862 a second
specimen was announced ; four years later a third capture was
recorded, a fourth in 1868, and three others in 1869. Mr. S.
Webb took a specimen in August, 1879, and perhaps others may
have been captured during the past twenty years, but I cannot
find that they have been recorded. From the fact of some of the
British specimens having been taken in February and March it
has been assumed that the species hybernates, but there is only
circumstantial evidence to support this view. E, ocellea appears
to be a South European and North African insect; its occurrence
in England at all is probably accidental, but in any case it is
difficult to understand how the imago could manage to survive
the cold of a British winter. In Tangiers Mr. Leech has taken
the species in February, flying at dusk on the sand-hills, but
there is no reason to suppose that the species hybernates so far
south.
a
I
BRITISH DELTOIDS, PYRAtTDES, AND ORAMBI. 301
PHYCID.E.
Myelois pryerella. (PI. III. fig. 9.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Trachonetis {?) pryerella^ Vaughan, Ent. Mo. Mag. vii. p. 130 ;
Knaggs, Ent. Ann. 1871, p. 90, pi. i. fig. 3 ; Doubl. List,
Suppl. p. 2 ; South, Syn. List, p. 20 ; Leech, Brit. Pyral.
p. 89, pi. X. fig. 7; Griffith, Proc. Ent. Soc. 1889 (March).
Myelois ceratonice var. 'pryerella^ Ragonot, E. M. M. xii. p. 30.
Fore wings pale greyish white, shaded towards the base with dark grey.
First Hne, which is undulating and oblique, passing from the inner third of
the costa to the middle of the inner margin, shaded with dark grey ; this
shading continues in less degree to the second line. The stigmata indicated
by darker grey markings. Second line denticulate, nearly parallel with hind
margin ; subterminal line very wavy and faintly visible on the paler ground
colour. Hind margin dotted with dark grey. Cilia pale grey. Hind wings
silky white, narrowly bordered with fascous. Expanse 10 to 11^ lines.
The above is an abridgement of Mr. Yaughan's description.
Introduced by Mr. Howard Vaughan, November, 1870.
British Locality. — London.
Note. — The late Mr. Eedle took a specimen of this insect in
his garden near Hackney in September, 1864, and another in
October of the same year, but these remained unidentified until
1870, when the late Mr. Henry Pryer captured an example in
Tooley Street, August 27th, and Mr. Vaughan one on the 10th of
September. M. Eagonot, after having examined " one of the
original types," is of opinion that pryerella is only a bleached
form of ceratonice. Mr. A. F. Griffith has very kindly lent me
his specimens, which I have carefully examined and compared with
ceratonice, and I must say that I quite concur in the opinion
expressed by M. Eagonot. Of M. ceratonice but little was known
until Mr. A. B. Earn met with it in a London warehouse between
the years 1884 and 1887 {vide Ent. Mo. Mag. xiii. p. 381). Fig. 9
(PL III.) represents one of Mr. Griffith's specimens.
Myelois cirrigerella,. Zinck.
BRIT. REF. : —
Myelois cirrigerella, Meyrick, Ent. Mo. Mag. xi. p. 237 ;
Blandford, List of Marlborough Lep. p. 19; South, Syn.
List, p. 20 ; Eagonot, E. M. M. xxii. p. 30.
'* Expanse 9 lines. Palpi moderate, porrected. Head and
thorax bright yellow. Fore wings glossy, rather pale brownish
ochreous, yellower towards base, immaculate. Hind wings grey.
Cannot be confounded with any other British species. When
alive it has a very smooth and glossy appearance, and the yellow
thorax is conspicuous " (Meyrick).
Introduced by Mr. E. Meyrick, March, 1875.
Distribution. — Germany ; Gallicia ; Livonia ; Dalmatia ;
England.
Note.-^On. the 30th of June, 1874, eight or nine specimens of
this species came to light in the neighbourhood of Marlborough,
AVilts. There is no other record of the occurrence of the insect
in Britain.
HOMCEOSOMA NIMBELLA, ZclL^ VaV, SAXICOLA.
BRIT. REF. : —
Homoeosoma saa;icoZa,yaughan,Ent. Mo.Mag. vii. p. 133; White,
Z. c. p. 231, op. cit. viii. p. 68 ; Knaggs, Ent. Ann. 1871,
p. 92 ; Gregson, Entom. v. p. 396 ; Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2 ;
South, Syn. List, p. 20 ; Kagonot, E. M. M. xxii. p. 26 ;
Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 91, pi. x. fig. 13.
*' Expanse, 7 — 8 lines. . . . Fore wings grey, with a fuscous
tint. The costal stripe bifurcates about the inner third into two
other stripes of unequal size, the larger of which is continued
along the costa until within a short distance of the apex, and the
lesser is continued as a streak to beyond the middle of the wing.
There are two or three small black dots situated about the
junction of the inner and middle third, and two or three other
small dots beyond the middle of the wing. . . . Hind wings
shining grey; cilia paler." — (Yaughan.)
M. Eagonot says that none of the British nimhella he has
seen are quite like continental specimens, and adds, " Saxicola is
generally larger ; the fore wungs are more distinctly white on the
costa, and the rest of the wing is of a pure ochre, not at all
powdered with black scales as in the type of nimhella. The
name of saxicola should be retained to distinguish the English
variety of nimhella,''
Introduced by Mr. Yaughan, November, 1870.
Note, — The earliest known examples of this insect were bred
in 1867, from larv£e found in flower-heads of chamomile in the
Isle of Man, September, 1866. In 1870 Dr. Buchanan White
found larvse common in the flower-seeds of several species of
Compositse, on the shores of the Solway Firth. He says that
the larva, when full grown, spins a cocoon, but does not assume
the pupa state until the spring. The insect has also been ob-
tained at Clifton, Dover, and Folkestone.
HoMCEOSOMA CRETACELLA, RoSsUr,
BRIT. REF. : —
Homoeosoma senecionis, Yaughan and Buckler, Ent. Mo. Mag.
vii. p. 13J ; Knaggs, Ent. Ann. 1871, p. 91, pi. i. fig. 2;
Porritt, Entom. xix. p. 211; Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2;
South, Syn. List, p. 20 ; {H, cretacella, Boss.), Ragonot,
E. M. M. xxii. p. 26 ; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 93, pi. xi. fig. 2.
" Expanse, 8 — 9 lines. Fore wings : ground colour shining
greyish white, the inner half being sufiused with a warm fuscous
tint. There are no indications of a first line. About the middle
of the wing are two, and in some cases three, dark dashes. At
about the junction of the middle with the outer third are two
BRITISH DELTOIDS, PYRALIDES, AND CRAMBI. 303
distinct black dots. Beyond these dots is the second line, which
affords a most distinctive character to the species ; it is straight,
and composed of black dots running in a direction oblique to the
hind margin. The hind margin is more or less distinctly dotted.
Cilia grey, with a faint fuscous tint. Hind wings shining grey.'*
— (Vaughan.)
This species is closely allied to H. nehulella, and also to H.
bincevella ; some entomologists, in fact, have considered it to be
a var. of the last named. It is, however, separated from both its
nearest allies by its smaller size, and may be at once distinguished
by the straight, oblique, dotted submarginal line.
Larva. — *' Deep purplish brown ; ventral surface slightly
tinged with olive ; head, and plate on second segment, deep
blackish brown and brilliantly polished ; the rest of the body
rather shining, with a faint violet gloss." — (Buckler, abridged.)
Introduced by Mr. Vaughan, November, 1870.
British Localities. — Stapleton; Norwich; Dover; Folke-
stone; Southend; Chattenden (Leech).
Distribution. — Central and Western Germany ; England.
Note, — The earliest specimens noted in this country were
captured in Essex some time during the month of May, 1870.
In June of the same year larvse were found feeding in the stems
of ragwort.
Ephestia desuetella, Walk. (PI. III. fig. 5.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Nephopteryx desuetella, Walk. Cat. Lep. Het. Suppl. p. 1719;
(Ephestia), Meyrick, Ent. Mo. Mag. xxiv. p. 8.
Ephestia figulilella, Gregson, Entom. v. p. 385 ; Kagonot,
E. M. M. xxii. p. 25.
Ephestia ficulella, Barrett, E. M. M. xi. p. 271; Porritt,
op, cit. xvii. p. 44 (larva) ; South, Syn. List, p. 20 ; Leech,
Brit. Pyral. p. 95, pi. xi. fig. 6 ; Ellis, Lep. Faun. Lane.
and Chesh. p. 77.
Expanse, 7 — 8 lines. ** Fore wings very narrow at the base,
strongly arched beyond the middle. Costal lappet narrow, with
a tuft of long hair-like scales laid lengthivise beneath the wing.
Fore wings smooth and shining, pale slate-colour, with a small
ill-defined ochreous patch at the base of the dorsal margin. The
first transverse line is at one-third the length of the wing from
the base, pale grey, externally edged with dark, grey spots, and
nearly perpendicular to the margins. Second line pale grey, often
obsolete, oblique, angulated above the middle, slightly edged on
both sides with grey dots. Faint dashes of ochreous lie longi-
tudinally between the wing-rays. Hind wings whitish, edged
with brownish, cilia white. 3" with one ochreous tuft at the base.
Antennae thickened beyond the basal joint, then constricted and
slightly bent, and again thickened before assuming the usual
304 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
simple form. Head, antennse, palpi, and thorax slate-grey;
abdomen brown." — (Barrett.) «l
Mr. Porritt has described the larva as pale, pinky, flesh-
coloured, with distinct pink lines ; head and mandibles dark
sienna-brown ; frontal plate darker brown. Feeds in December
on figs. _
Introduced by Mr. Gregson, September, 1871. •■
British Localities. — London ; Liverpool. In dried fruit "
warehouses.
Note, — Mr. Gregson first described this Ephestia as British
under the name of Jigulilella. Four years later Mr. Barrett re-
described the species, and changed the name to ficulella. Mr.
Meyrick, however, has shown us that both names must now give
way in favour of the much earlier one of desuetella, Walker,
the type of which is from Australia. The species will probably
be found wherever stocks of dried fruit are kept.
Ephestia cahiritella, Zell. (PI. IV. fig. IS.) >
BRIT. REF. : —
Ephestia cahiritella (Zeller, Stett. Ent. Zeit. 1867, p. 384) ;
Kagonot, Ent. Mo. Mag. xxii. p. 24. 1
Ephestia passulella, Barrett, E. M. M. xi. p. 271 (1875);
Buckler, E. M. M. xix. p. 104 (larva) ; Porritt, op. cit,,
p. 142 ; South, Syn. List, p. 20 ; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 95,
pi. xi. fig. 4 ; Ellis, Lep. Faun. Lane, and Chesh. p. 77.
Expanse, 6—7 lines. " Fore wings narrow, especially at the
base ; costa less arched than in the preceding species. Costal
lappet with a broad tuft of scales. Fore wings pale fuscous, with
a yellowish tinge ; scales large and coarse, and easily rubbed ofi".
First transverse line at one-third the length of the wing, fuscous,
ill-defined, straight, and very slightly oblique. Second line
parallel with the hind margin, pale, faintly edged with fuscous,
often nearly obsolete. Usual two dots on the disc oblique,
fuscous, hardly discernible ; cilia yellowish fuscous. Hind wings
white, with scattered fuscous scales, and a faint brown margin ;
cilia white. ^ with one ochreous tuft at the base. Head,
antennse, palpi, thorax, and abdomen, yellowish fuscous. Antennse
simple beyond the thick basal joint." — (Barrett.)
Introduced by Mr. Barrett, May, 1875.
British Localities. — Grocers' warehouses in London and
many other towns.
Distribution. — Cannes ; Vienna ; Egypt ; Siberia ; Japan ;
England ; Chili.
Note. — Mr. Porritt says the species is double-brooded. He
bred imagines in September and October from ova deposited by
a female in the previous June. M. Ragonot observes that some
of the larvse hybernate, and change to pupse towards the end of
I
Abundance o^ lepidopteea in new Zealand. 305
May, the imago emerging in June. Mr. Hodgkinson has met
with the larvae of this Ephestia in a mill at Preston, where they
were feeding on oil-cake.
(To be continued.)
ABUNDANCE OF LEPIDOPTEEA IN NEW ZEALAND.
By W. W. Smith.
The study of Mr. Adkin's paper, " On the occasional
abundance of certain species of Lepidoptera in the British
Islands" (Entom. 177), has afforded me much pleasure, parti-
cularly as I have devoted much time for some years past to the
same subject in New Zealand. The main facts adduced by
Mr. Adkin to account for the occasional abundance of certain
species in the British Islands will not, as I will presently
explain, fully apply to the same phenomenon in New Zealand.
These are what that gentleman termed " The migration and the
local causes theories." The British Islands and New Zealand
are both insular areas ; but while the former is separated only by
a few miles from the European continent, the latter is situated at
least one thousand miles from the continent of Australia. Both
areas are subject to an occasional abundance of certain species of
Lepidoptera. On the causes of this phenomenon in New Zealand,
I propose to offer some explanatory observations ; whether the
hypothesis I now advance to account for the great abundance of
Lepidoptera during the past season will be accepted, I cannot
say ; it is one not at present clearly understood by naturalists ; I
allude to certain seasons of exceptionally luxuriant growth and
floriferous display of the indigenous flora; such seasons are
peculiarly favourable to the development and economy of many
species of Lepidoptera, and the two last seasons in New Zealand
have been of this description. Less snow fell in the higher Alps
during the winters of 1888 and 1889 than for the previous twelve
years, while the meteorological records show a corresponding
mildness of the temperature, and a considerable diminution of
north-west or snow-melting spring winds. The summers follow-
ing, each have been dry and hot, and naturally adapted to the
life-habits of Lepidoptera ; all species I observed during the
past season, from the earliest spring-appearing species to those
which appeared in late autumn, emerged in great numbers, and
were all beautifully-developed insects. This phenomenon was not
limited to Lepidoptera, as the numbers of many species repre-
senting other orders appeared on a corresponding scale.
Mr. Adkin mentions the case of Vanessa cardui and Plusia
gamma as having occurred in great numbers in the British Islands,
in cold wet seasons, when other species were much less common,
So 6 THE ENTOMOLOGllS'T.
The same phenomenon occurred here with the former species in
1884, but the previous season was a very floriferous one, and
several species of Noctuse appeared in unusual numbers (Entom.
xxii. 37). In reviewing the various causes Mr. Adkins remarks :
— '* If, therefore, we are to account for the cases of occasional
abundance by purely local influences, we must find some irregu-
larity in the working of Nature." In referring to the great
abundance of the same species in the past season in New Zealand,
Mr. G. V. Hudson says (Entom. xxiii. 133) : — " I am inclined to
believe that the abundance, or the reverse, of a given species is
largely determined by certain conditions of existence, with which
we are at present most imperfectly acquainted, and that, in the
case of a periodical insect like V. cardui, these conditions only
recur occasionally." If the occasional abundance of this species
in Britain be explained by migration from the Continent, it could
only follow certain causes which favoured the great increase of
the species the previous year, and no doubt identical with the
causes which produce its recurrence in New Zealand at intervals
of several years. The migration theory, as explained by Mr.
G. V. Hudson, can have no bearing on the question in New
Zealand : indeed, I have long been convinced that the great num-
bers of certain species which occasionally appear in New Zealand,
especially among the more specialized groups, invariably follow
seasons of luxuriant growth of the native flora. I would, how-
ever, mention that the economy of many species of New Zealand
Lepidoptera are quite unknown at present ; but when such has
been fully worked out by entomologists, it will, no doubt, be dis-
covered to be the principal cause. The same facts, of course,
will apply to continental areas ; but the faunas and floras of such
are not so rapidly modified as in insular areas, while it clearly
shows that the larva of certain species of Lepidoptera are wholly
dependent on certain pabulum for their subsistence, the fuller
development of which, in mild or otherwise favourable seasons,
again increases, and fully explains their appearance in vast num-
bers in the succeeding season. The last two mild winters, and
hot summers in succession, with the favourable influence on the
native flora, unquestionably shows that such are likewise extremely
favourable to the development of much of our Lepidopterous
fauna: it has shown the same results with several introduced
species belonging to other orders, which have also increased at an
unprecedented rate during the last summer. Every year the
indigenous flora and fauna of New Zealand are becoming more
and more modified, and it is difficult — and in many cases impos-
sible— to record faithfully the effects of such on certain species
of native Lepidoptera, especially on fast-expiring forms ; yet it is
cheering to the naturalist to witness an occasional season fruitful
to the native flora, and a consequent regeneration of many species
of our ancient Lepidopterous fauna. I regret that I have no
NOtES ON T^NIOCAMPA OPIMA. SOt
knowledge of the effects of the snowfall, or the " fohn," in certain
seasons, on the meteorological conditions or the flora of the
European Alps ; but the subject seems to me to require the
fullest investigation, as bearing on the occasional abundance of
Lepidoptera, and possibly would tend to explain the occasional
abundance (by migration) of certain species in the British
Islands : unmistakably these causes appear to be the chief factor,
favouring the increase of certain species in the last two seasons
in New Zealand. How long the renewal or increase of numbers
will last remains to be observed. We are, again, almost through
another mild winter, with light snowfall in the Southern Alps,
the effects of which on our Lepidoptera will receive my closest
attention in future.
East Belt, Ashburton, New Zealand, August 5, 1890.
NOTES ON TJENIOCAMPA OPIMA.
By J. Arkle.
Numerous inquiries, by various correspondents, during the
past two years, induce me to make the following observations
upon an insect which, although clad in sober but glossy greys,
I am disposed to call the Queen of the Tseniocampse. My
personal acquaintance with this local and beautiful moth centres
exclusively in its well-known habitat at Wallasey. The egg is a
miniature globe, with closely-set longitudinal lines "sculptured"
from pole to pole. The little spheres are white when fresh laid,
in April or May, and are clustered together on or near the tops of
dead stems of ragwort, thistle, or dwarf rose. Other plants and
shrubs may doubtless be included in this botanical list, but I
prefer to speak from experience. ' I have never found the eggs on
sallow, although the leaves of that plant are a favourite food in
confinement. In two or three days the colour of the egg changes
to brown. In a favourable season the batches are common
enough, but, in the last two springs, ova of T, opima appear to
have been comparatively scarce. On the 3rd of May — a beauti-
fully clear and sunny morning — I went early to the sandhills for
eggs wherewith to continue a most interesting study of this
favourite moth. I soon found myself in good and unexpected
company. Females of Nyssia zonaria were swinging, in the cool
sea-breeze, on the long bents of the maritime grass. Their eggs
were hidden away below in the junctions of bent and stem.
Dozens of Mesotype virgata [lineolata) , in silver-grey striped with
dark brown, were resting on the short bedstraw. There were
big violets about, with large white centres ; beds of dwarf sal-
lows, brilliant with yellow and odoriferous catkins ; and here and
808 ±^E ENTOMOLOGIST.
there a bloom on the burnet rose, with a scent almost equal to
that of a Marechal Neil.
After a search of a couple of hours I came across two batches
of T, opima eggs, on the top of dead ragwort. Their subsequent
history is only too typical of the difficulties met with in rearing
the perfect insect. I took eggs from each batch, as I have found
in previous years that the moths reared from separate batches
were distinctive, — that is, they were either the light-coloured type,
or the dark variety figured in Newman's * British Moths.' To
still further put this experience to the test I took my eggs home,
and kept them in separate tumblers (marked A and B), with the
usual drop of water to prevent the shells getting too hard, gauze
covering, elastic band, and square of glass. Although the ova
from one batch were white when found, and those from the other
brown, both sets of eggs hatched within a couple of days of each
other, on the 12th and 14th of May. Six sallow leaves were
divided between the glasses, whereupon the larvae, as in manner
wont, marvellously and at once hid themselves.
The caterpillar, when fully grown, is a richly coloured object.
The head and anal segment are reddish ; second segment reddish,
but darker than the head ; upper surface dark purple, beautifully
mottled with yellow ; along each side, immediately above the
legs, is a broad yellow stripe ; above this, and adjoining, is a
broad, very dark, purple-black stripe, and immediately above this
a narrow yellow line. A line, similar to the last mentioned, runs
along the middle of the back or upper surface, from head to anal
segment. The under surface is pale green ; the legs and claspers
are green, and inclined, at the terminations, to red.
When the caterpillar answers to this description, which it will
do in July, it has reached its final stage. On July 12th about
twenty out of the total of forty Wallasey larvie were full-fed, and
about to pupate ; the rest had died off, chiefly in the preceding
stage, and in that unaccountable way so familiar to collectors who
attempt to rear the insect. Worse still, the survivors were
already beginning to show the first symptom of a like destiny, —
viz., a refusal to eat, varied by a few spasmodic bites at a leaf on
being disturbed. They then began to " lose flesh," became
flaccid, and died off one by one. My experience points most
strongly to the low temperature and continued dampness of the
past summer as the chief reasons for such a total collapse.
T, opima must have plenty of room in the larva state. There
should be no more than six, or eight at the outside, on a surface
of a square foot ; there should be a liberal supply of fresh air
and sallow ; the soil to pupate in should be of the lightest, with
a plentiful admixture — say half the bulk — of sea- or silver- sand:
and yet I fear, even with all these advantages, the breeder must
be content with a very small percentage of perfect insects.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 309
Although I have reason to believe I have been exceptionally for-
tunate, I never reared more than half-a-dozen at a time.
Turning over my notes, I find the emergence of the bred
insect to occur between the 5th and 21st of April. There is, I
think, little fear of confounding this species with T. instaUlis.
In the type insect all the wings, but especially the fore wings, are
a beautiful silvery grey, with a broad, transverse, median brown
bar, which is widest at the costal margin. On the widest half of
this bar the discoidal spots are clearly marked out in the same
silver-grey. Parallel with, and at a short distance from, the hind
margin, the wing is again crossed by a rich, direct, brown line,
which is exteriorly bounded by another line almost white. The
fringes, especially those of the hind wings, are almost white.
The antennae of the males show a slight pectination ; the thorax
is a little darker in shade than the ground colour of the wings,
while the body is a shade darker than the thorax. In the second
form of the moth the fore wings are a rich dark brown, the hind
ones being slightly paler in tint. All the markings of the fore
wings, however, are clearly visible, being intensified in colour.
The body and thorax are also proportionately darkened. The
coloration in both forms of T. opima is clear, distinct, and con-
stant, in all the specimens I have seen, whilst T, imtahilis can
lay no claim to these characteristics.
I have never captured the perfect insect. Mr. Grearley, of
Wallasey, tells me he has taken both forms — freely in exceptional
years — at the sallow blossom.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S.
(Continued from p. 287).
V. — The Chemical Aspect.
B.
After the explanatory digression of last month we are now
free to consider the experiments on each colour individnally :
and first, then, as to Black, that prince of absorption colours.
It is very commonly told us, on excellent authority, that we
learn more from our failures than from our successes : possibly
— but I have some doubts thereupon ; and if the sentiment be
expressed by way of consolation, it is surely the consolation of a
Job's comforter. Anyhow, be that as it may, I am very certain
that our failures do not teach us nearly so much as the successes
that we desired would have done. To particularise, for my own
case, it must be admitted that all my endeavours to learn some-
thing of the relationship between black colour in Lepidoptera
310 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
and the remaining colours have totally failed, and the failure has
taught us almost nothing, — and in fact left the problem somewhat
more perplexed than it originally was ; whereas any success in
the attempt to change the black colour by chemical reagents
might have taught us a good deal. Nothing observed in the
course of my investigations caused me, perhaps, more surprise
or disappointment than this immovability of black. As has been
shown, in every case it has resisted the action of every reagent,
and although I experimented on the most various species, selected
from widely different families and groups of Lepidoptera, yet in
not a single instance did I effect any change. Under these cir-
cumstances, then, I think it is justifiable to conclude that the
black of Lepidoptera is simply a physical absorption colour, and
in no way due to pigment. It seems to me quite hopeless to
further examine black species of Lepidoptera ; and although, in
pursuing this investigation among the exotic species sent to me,
I shall continue to experiment on some black species, this will be
done merely on principle and as a precaution, but with very slight
hope of success. For although, in one sense, it may seem very
rash to argue so confidently from the results yielded by a few dozen
English species, yet the unbroken uniformity of these results
and the representative character of the species are, I think,
sufficient justification, — especially, too, when the significance of
all the other results is considered.
Now a caution is requisite here. I most certainly would not
assert that, because the colour of a given species cannot be
chemically altered, therefore it is a physical colour and not a
chemical : it may certainly seem surprising that a pigment should
resist the action of powerful chemical reagents, but among the
yellows we have pretty conclusive evidence that many do. If the
table of results in yellow be consulted it will be seen that whilst
some yellows are turned completely white, others are with diffi-
culty affected, and some are absolutely immovable. Now I am not
at present prepared to assert that all of these immovable yellows
are pigment colours, although I shall presently show reasons for
suspecting so ; but I do contend for it as indisputable that some
are. It is, I think, impossible to deny that the yellows of Arctia
villica and Callimorpha hera lutescens are pigment colours, in
the face of the close relationship of these species to the red
pigmented species ; but these two yellows are absolutely immov-
able. And if stronger evidence still be asked, we have it in the
fact that whereas in almost all species red is rapidly changed to
yellow by the reagents, the change stops here,* and although we
have clearly a pigment in evidence, that pigment is sensitive to a
* I stated (Entom. 158) that in no instance had I succeeded in carrying a retro-
gressive change further back than one stage. Since that was written I have
succeeded, in at least one striking instance, in getting a second retrogression ; details
will be given in their due place.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 311
certain extent only, and after that is absolutely unassailable. I
must, however, defer the full discussion of this interesting phe-
nomenon until we are dealing with the yellows ; my object in
anticipating so far here being simply to show that apparently
indubitable pigment colours may resist the action of all the
reagents, and that therefore it is not legitimate to assume any
given one or two colours to be physical, and not pigment, colours,
because they are chemically unaffected. Nevertheless I do think
the assumption fairly legitimate in the case of black, owing to
the unbroken uniformity of the results and the absence of any
single contravening result.
It should be remembered how very various are the species
that have been examined, and how very different the relations ol
black in them to the other colours. It is not as though all these
species were uniformly black, or as though in all of them black
were found associated with the same second colour, or occupied
the same position on the wings. If that were the case it might
justly be said that the only legitimate inference would be that one
black of wide occurrence was immovable, and not a pigment
colour ; whilst other blacks might exist that were pigment colours.
But the case is not so. Consider how different in character are
these blacks. In Pieris black occurs with ivhite, as spot and tips ;
in Melanargia galatea and Arctia caia equally distributed with
white ; in Spilosoma menthastri as small dots on white, and simi-
larly in 4 ??i_p/ii(ias?/s hetularla; and as larger spots on white in
Abraxas grossulariata. Then, in combination with yellotv, we
find it as broad tips, in Colias and TriphcBna^ and small spots on
Venilia macularia. With the closely allied chestnut, too, it
occurs as prominent tips, blotches, or ocelli, on Argynnis, Melitcsa,
Vanessa carclui, Pararge megcera, Epinephele tithonus, Coenonympha
pamphilus, Polyommatus pliloeas. Combined with red we find it
in Vanessa atalanta as apparent base or ground colour, and very
glossy ; as almost tarry blotches on the hind wings of Arctia,
and as groundwork again in Catocala, Combined with green it
occurs in Agriopis aprilina and Moma orioriy and with grey in
Acronycta p)si. So that here we have found it in various
positions combined with all the chief colours (except blue) ; and,
lastly, we have it alone as occupying the whole wing in Tanagra
atrata, Lyccena astrarche v. artaxerxes, and Epinephele hyperanthes.
But it is very remarkable that, however and wherever it occurs,
it is always the same immovable black.
Now when we find any two or more pigment colours on the
same species, the conclusion is almost irresistible that a genetic
relationship must exist between them, if we can only discover it.
If any one given colour be found in different species, combined
in turn with all the other colours, a very especial interest
attaches to it, since one naturally hopes to find in it a common
basis by which to connect genetically all the other colours ;
313 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
just such a cosmopolitan colour as this seemed black (as also
white) ;* great was the interest with which I commenced working
at it ; and commensurately great my disappointment at the total
failure. However different the reactions of its associated colours,
black is always the same and unaffected — " Quod semper, quod
ubique, quod ab omnibus." It is incredible to me that if black
were a pigment colour it should be impervious to all my reagents
— with whatever other pigment colours it be associated. I cannot
believe that, in all the species just enumerated, pigments of half-a-
dozen different colours should have been evolved, and in associa-
tion with each a black pigment (which must be genetically somehow
related to its companion, both being produced by the metabolic
activities of the same system), always the same and always
immovable. I conclude therefore, with considerable confidence,
that black is no pigment colour, but a mere physical absorption
result. Conformable with this is the fact that in the dozen or so
instances where the black was a trifle affected, no colour was
produced, but merely a less black black, — a faded, washed out,
brownish black : and this is just what one might expect (if black be a
physical colour) as the result of my reagent that partially destroyed
the structure of the scales.! Black, then, I regard as being due
— in Lepidoptera — to an arrangement of scales such as to cause
a total absorption of all the incident light rays.l This absence
of any black pigment is the more astonishing in face of its
common occurrence in other orders of the animal kingdom. It
would seem pretty clear that in most animals (i. e. Mammalia), in
the normal animal as distinguished from the albino, there is a
black pigment in the regions of the mouth, eyes, &c.,§ and in the
Negro there is a distribution of presumably black pigment over
the whole skin surface. I am not aware how far down in the
scale black pigments have been definitely found : possibly — it is
* In connection with this it should be pointed out that in my anticipatory
theoretical reflections, before any experimental data were to hand, I had conjectured
that several different blacks might exist, — so protean are its combinations. See
Entom. p. 156.
t One final explanation conld be hazarded. It has been suggested to me, by a
friend, that in some species the colours may be enclosed in chitinous, transparent
cases, — microscopic quills as it were, — and be thus rendered impervious to re-
agents. I am not, however, aware that this is anything more than a conjecture,
and nothing in the appearance of the wings, when examined microscopically,
suggests this to me. But anyhow it seems to me an utterly impossible proposition
that black pigment is always enclosed in such chitinous recej)tacles, although com-
bined with every other colour susceptible to chemical reagents, and therefore — pre-
sumably— not chitinously protected. I think we may with perfect safety ignore any
such explanation as this of black's behaviour.
\ But at the same time I am quite open to the reply that this theory, that black
is no pigment colour, is only at best a probable assumption, and not strictly demon-
strated. That is quite true ; but I think it a very probable assumption, and at any
rate we must accept it for the present as a working hypothesis.
§ Vide the interesting statements made by Wallace in • Tropical Nature.'
I should say, however, that Wallace does not explicitly state it to be a black
pigment, though his expressions imply that. He merely says a " dark pigment."
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 313
a merest conjecture that may be utterly erroneous — they are found
only among the higher groups of the animal kingdom, and not
among the lower ; * and in this connection one is tempted to
adduce the fact that black flowers are almost, if not entirely,
unknown. It would be somewhat interesting, therefore, to know
whether or not black pigments are usually products only of a
higher organisation than that of insects.
Then, again, there is another most interesting problem on
which any definite chemical results from black might have thrown
considerable light, — whereas, as it is, we are none the wiser. I
refer to the phenomena of melanism. With regard to true
melanism (as distinguished from melanochroism), it has been
a great disappointment to me that nothing bearing upon
this interesting subject has come from my work. It may
be suggested that the phenomenon of melanism — i. e. of a
black colour encroaching on and superseding other colours — is
hardly to be reconciled with the supposed absence of any black
pigment ; whereas melanism were easily explicable if the ordinary
pigments became transformed by some easily conceivable chemical
change into a black pigment. But with regard to this objection
I may point out that the development of melanism (in the
absence of any black pigment) is no more difficult to understand
(i. e. as a colour change — I do not speak of its ultimate cause)
than the occurrence of black on Argynnis brown, on Eumia
yellow, on Pieris white, and on Lyccena blue, &c. Neither is
it, perhaps, even so great a difficulty as that of the black wing
of Vanessa atalanta, which I believe to have been developed from
an ancestral form closely similar to (or identical with ?) V. cardui,j:
by a replacement of chestnut by black. In all such cases we
must suppose that the "absorptive" — the black — scales have
encroached upon the pigment-containing scales. Nevertheless,
as a final caution, I must add that, since no melanic forms have
come into my hands, I cannot positively state that in them also
black is a non-chemical colour, and insensible to the action of
reagents. I know only the conduct of ordinary normal blacks,
and it is just possible that melanic forms may be due to a real
pigment. For the determination of this point I must wait my
opportunity ; but I confess to having very little hope of finding,
even in melanic forms, a black pigment.
In view of the complete unanimity of behaviour in the various
black species experimented on, it seems unnecessary to animad-
vert on them individually, or group them according to the minor
varieties of appearance or distribution of colour. As I have
* One must except, however, the sepia of the Cuttle. I have written the above
paragraph only with considerable hesitancy, since it is purely conjectural, and may
well be altogether erroneous.
t Further consideration of this topic I must defer until the brief section on the
" Biological Aspect," which it is anticipated will conclude these articles.
ENTOM. — OCT. 1890. 2 B
314 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
already pointed out, in these species worked upon, black is
combined with each of the other colours in turn, and appears as
ground colour, as spots, as blotches, as lines, as bands, and as
tips, besides being in several instances the sole colour. As further
exemplifying its chemical inaccessibility, I may especially instance
the case of Epinephele hyperanthes. Since this species is by no
means of a pure black, and is so closely allied genealogically to
the very accessible chestnut-coloured species, I had entertained
strong hopes that it might prove a welcome exception. But no !
pure black or impure, E, hyperanthes is still black ; and black is
immovable — '* Semper ubique et in omnibus ! "
Erratum. — Page 286, omit footnote.
(To be continued).
THE WESTMANN ISLANDS.
By Eev. F. a. Walkek, D.D., F.L.S., &c.
The small group of islets known by this name (Vestmann-
eyjar in Icelandic) is situate south of the S. coast of Iceland,
between 63 and 64 deg. N. lat. and 82 and 34 deg. W. long. The
names of the islets are as follows : — Drangar, Einarsdrangr,
Erlendsey, Alsey, Geirfuglasker, Geldingasker, Sulusker, Hellirey,
Bjarnarey, and Heimaey. By far the largest island, and the only
inhabited one of the group, is Heimaey, or Home Island, distant
possibly ten miles from the mainland ; all the rest are rocks and
skerries, or more strictly speaking, groups of rocks and skerries.
These Westmann Islands derive their names from the ten Irish
thralls (men of the West as opposed to Norwegians, — men of the
East), who after murdering their Norwegian master, one of the
earliest settlers, Hjorleifur, in his dwelling on the mainland,
betook themselves, with his wife and all the women they could
lay hands on, to Heimaey, and were slain in their turn, as an
act of vengeance, by Ingolfur, Hjorleifur's brother, a.d. 874. In
after years Algerine pirates made two descents on the islands,
slew some, and carried off several into captivity, whence, after a
long time, they were rescued by the king of Denmark.
It is by no means on every occasion that a steamer in
passing the Westmann Islands is able to anchor off this group, —
which is situate eighty miles east of the south-west point of
Iceland, — in consequence of their exposed situation, high cliffs,
and strong gales. Occasionally, also, it happens that a steamer,
having come to anchor is, in consequence of the wind rising
suddenly, obliged to continue her voyage without loss of time.
Last autumn the Danish steamer from Reykjavik, being unable
to make Heimaey owing to stress of weather, some ill-starred
I
THE WESTMANN ISLANDS. 315
inhabitants of that place were carried on to Seydisfjord (east
coast of Iceland), where they had to remain throughout the
winter and spring as well. Heimaey contains about 600 in-
habitants, and its craggy promontory of Heima Klettur (Home
Cliffs), surmounted by steep grassy slopes, is an island in stormy
weather, as only united with the rest of the place by a low-
lying neck of land covered with lava stones. Its tun, or home-
fields are divided by loose walls of lava stones, and there
are boulders and crags of the same down to the water's
edge, as there is scarcely any beach. Statice armeria flourishes
profusely over the said tun meadows and the grassy downs
as well.
We arrived off the island at 4 a.m. on the 12th of June, and
though feeling weak and faint, having kept my berth the whole
of the previous day owing to the steamer's rolling heavily, I
reflected that no entomologist had ever yet visited the Westmann
Isles. It could be done, and it should be done. The additional
difficulty that, owing to the heaving of the sea, the companion
ladder was not lowered on this occasion now presented itself.
There was no alternative but to slew one's self over the ship's side
and so on to a rope ladder, which did not reach as far as the
tossing boat beneath, and then drop heavily on to the flour-sacks
which formed part of the cargo going ashore, and which I
succeeded in reaching, after being somewhat drenched with the
spray during my being rowed for about a mile through a choppy
sea. The next thing was to make the best use of the short time
allowed for the purpose of collecting, and my brief experience
fully convinced me that Heimaey is quite as good a field for that
purpose as the mainland of Iceland. My search continued for
over two hours, in a spot where one has neither one's own nor the
previous experience of anyone else to aid him in rapidly select-
ing the most suitable locality, when time is so precious. It goes
without saying that Heima Klettur is whitened by the guano
of innumerable sea-birds that frequent its craggy cliffs. Looking
seawards from the grassy downs of Heimaey, a fine panoramic
view is obtained of Eyjafjordur's sunny plateau ; and the snowy
peak of Hekla is also visible far inland. Heimaey's one settle-
ment, Kaup'stadr, means the same as Copenhagen, — place
of selling or merchandise. It possesses a church, and sends a
representative to the Althing.
I append a list of the insects observed or captured : —
CoLEOPTERA. — NotiopMlus hipustulatus y Nehria gyllenhali,
Patrobus hyperhoreus, Calathus melanocephalus v. nuUgenay Pla-
tijsma vitreiis, Amara quenselii, Creophilus maxillosus, Lesteva
bicolor, Byrrhus fasciatus, Ajyhodius lapponum, Otiorhynchus mon-
ticola, 0. (? sp.), Barynotus schonherri, Cryptohypnus riparius.
DiPTERA. — Calliphora erythroeephala, Scatophaga stercoraria,
jeB2
316 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Sarcophaga mortuorum, Heliophiljis pendulus (one specimen seen,
not caught), Tipula (?sp.)> Musca domestica.
Hymenoptera. — Ichneumon (1 sp. of Lampronota).
Dun Mallard, Cricklewood.
ALTERATION OF THE NAME OF AN INDIAN .
GEOMETRID MOTH.
In part vi. of *I11. Typ. Lep. Het.' p. 83, I referred a
moth, described by me in 1880 as " Abraxas conspersa,'' to my
genus Icterodes. It is a white-winged species, and (owing to the
then crowded state of the drawer containing the genus Icterodes)
I was unable to transfer it to its true position in the cabinet.
In part vii. I described one of Mr. Hocking's species, with
yellow wings, under the name of Icterodes conspersa, not seeing
any species of that name under the genus. I thus duplicated the
name, and, as the most careful examination reveals nothing
beyond a colour distinction between the two groups of Icterodes,
it becomes necessary to alter the name of the later species,
which I propose to call Icterodes sparsa. I have to thank Mr.
Warren for calling my attention to this stupid lapsus calami,
A. G. BUTLEB.
Brit. Mus. Nat. Hist.
ENTOMOLOGICAL PAPERS IN CONTINENTAL
PERIODICALS.
By W. Warren, M.A., F.E.S.
COLEOPTERA.
On varieties of European Cicindelae. H. Beuthin, Ent. Nach. 1890,
iii. p. 36, V. p. 71, vi. p. 89, ix. p. 137.
Revision of the species of Triodonta,\Mul3., belonging to the Palaearctic
Fauna. E. Reitter, Ent. Nach. v. p. 65.
Monograph of the Pselaphidae. A. RafFray, Revue d'Entomologie, 1890,
vol. ix. pt. 1, p. 1—28 ; pts. '2, 8, 4, p. 29—124.
Coleoptera from the Liu-Kiu Islands. H. v. Schonfeldt, Ent. Nach.,
1890, xi. p. 168.
Coleoptera occurring near Selinuntium. A. Palumbo, Sicilian Naturalist,
1890, vii. p. 166.
New Species of Coleoptera: — [a). Two new water-beetles from Abyssinia.
Dr. Schaufuss, Eut. Nach. iv. p. 62. Dineutes olivaceus, D.jekelii. — (6). Two
new species of Tenebriouidae from Tripoli. G. Quedenfeldt, Ent. Nach. iv.
p. 63. Hidrosis elongatula, Asida nigro-opaca, — (c). Sternocera chrysis, Fab.,
? var. singularis. Kerremans, Proc. S.E. Belg. 1890, p. xix. — [d). New
Histeridse (continued). J. Schmidt, Ent. Nach. iii. p. 39, iv. p. 50. —
{e). A new species of Geotrupes from Bosnia. V. Apfelbeck, Societas Euto-
mologica, iv. p. 167. Oeotrupes hrancnld. — [f). A new species of Galerucinag
ENTOMOLOGICAL PAPERS TN CONTINENTAL PERIODICALS. 817
from Sumatra. A. Duvivier, Proc. S. E. Belg. 1890, p. xxxiii. Mimastra
platteeuwi, Duviv. — Notes on Synonymy: — (i). Haplosomoides (n. gen.)
Serena, Rhaphidopalpa serena, Boh. Res. Eugen. p. 178. (ii). O'ides sexvit-
tata, Duviv. Bull. S. E. Belg. 1884, p. cxxxii. ; 0. quinquelineata, Jac. Ann.
Mus. Civ. Gen. ser. 2, vol. iv. 1886, p. 42. (iii). Chtoneis suturalis,
Duviv. S. E.Z.I 885, p. 243; All. Bull. S. E. Belg. 1889, p. Ixxvii.
(iv). Caudezea irregularis ; Monolepta irregularis, Bits. Tijd. v. Ent. 1875
p. 22; Caudezea inconstans, Duviv. Bull. S. E. Belg. 1889, p. cxxxvii. —
{g). Four new species of Hispidae from Central America. Ant. Duvivier,
1. c. p. xxxvii. Cephaloleia ornata, C. halyi, Amplipalpa lata, Charistena
bergi, Buenos Ayres. — (h). Seventeen new species of the genus Stigmoderay
Eschsch. Ch. Kerremans, Pr. S. E. Belg. 1890, p. xl., with the following
corrections of species already named: — Stigmodera parryi, Hope, to stand
for S.fusca, Saund. ; S. laportei, Kerr., to stand for 8. castelnaudi, Thorns.;
S.fraterna, Kerr., to stand for 8. distinguenda, Thorns. ; S-Jtavidula, Kerr.,
to stand for 8. flava, Thoms.
CORRODENTIA.
On the occurrence of winged as well as wingless forms of PyrrJwcoris
apterus and other Psocidae. Herr Loens, Ent. Nach. 1890, i. p. 10.
DiPTERA.
On CecidomyiidsB bred from flowers of Compositae. J. J. Kiefifer, Ent.
Nach. 1890, pp. 27, 36.
Hymenoptera.
On the preparation (killing, setting, &c.) of Hymenoptera. Dr. Kriech-
baumer, Ent. Nach. 1890, i. p. 1.
Revision and tabularization of genera and species of the Cryptinae.
Dr. 0. Schmiedeknecht, Ent. Nach. 1890, vi. p. 81, vii. p. 97, viii. p. 113,
ix. p. 129, x. p. 145.
Description of nest and parasite of the '* bull-dog" ant of Australia
{Myrmecia forjicata, Fab.). Aug. Forel, Proc. S. E. Belg. 1890, p. viii.
Revision and description of the ants of Tunis and Eastern Algeria.
Aug. Forel, Proc. S. E. Belg. 1890, p. Ixi.
A new species of Tenthredinidee. Dr. R. Cobelii, Verb. Z. B. Ver.
Wien. 1890, p. 159. Macrophya bertolinii.
Lepidoptera.
On the artificial sustentation of Lepidopterous pupae. Dr. A. Troska,
Societas Entomologica, 1890, pp. 1, 9, 17, 28, 43.
Remarks on Morpho rhetenor, Cr., var. helena, Stdgr. Dr. 0. Staudinger,
Ent. Nach. 1890, vii. p. 107.
Notes on the differentiation of three species of Melitcea, — atJialia, Rott.,
parthenie, Bork., and aurelia, '^ick. Fritz Riihl, Soc. Entom. v. pp. 11, 44.
Food-plants and distribution of Danais chrysippus and its allies. Dr. 0.
Hoffmann, Soc. Entom. iv. p. 167.
Macro-Lepidoptera of Zurich and neighbourhood. Fritz Riihl, Soc.
Ent. iv. pp. 1(39, 185, v. pp. 28, 41.
Remarkable instance of triple mimicry. F. J. M. Heylaerts. Proc. S. E.
Belg. 1890, p. xii. Perina nuda, Fab., a Liparid ; Chalia bipars, Wlk.,
a Psychid; Kophene weyersi, Heyl., a Psychid. These are so much alike
superficially that they can only be separated after a careful examination of
the nervulation. N.B. — The identification of K, weyersi, Heyl., with Perina
^18 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
bipars, Wlk., by Heylaerts himself (c/. Proc. S. E. Belg. 1886, Oct.) was
incorrect.
Larvae and cases of Coleophoridse in Silesia. C. Schmidt, See. Entora.
iv. pp. 169, 184, V. pp. 3, 12, 19, 44.
New species : — [a). Three new species of Psychidse from British India.
F. J. M. Heylaerts, I.e. p. xi. Chalia elwesi, Heyl, Ganjam; Kophene
moorei, Heyl., Bangalore; Bijugis sikkimensis, Heyl., Ooty. — ih). A new
species of Psychid from Assam. F. J. M. Heylaerts, I. c. p. xii. Kophene
8nelleni,lley\. — (c). Four new species of Glaucopidae from Brazil. Hey-
laerts, I. c. p. xiii. LcBmocharis 6-punctata, Heyl. ; L. nigripes, Heyl. ;
Hcematerion dycladioides, Heyl. ; Charidia similis, Heyl. — [d). Three new
species of Heterocera from the Dutch E. Indies. Heylaerts, I. c. p. xvi.
Syntomis claremontli, Heyl. ; Nyctemera sumatrensis, Heyl. ; N. tritoides,
Heyl. — {e). Six new species of Heterocera from the Dutch E. Indies.
Heylaerts, I. c. p. xxvi. Sqimmura (n. gen.) maculata, Heyl., Sumatra ;
Miresa sanguineo-maculata, Heyl., Sumatra ; M. nigriplaga, Heyl., Sumatra ;
Thosea lutea, Heyl., Java, Sumatra; Arctia brunnea, Heyl., Sumatra;
Gonitis virida, Heyl., Java.
Orthoptera.
On the species of Tettigidse collected in West Africa by Herr Biittner.
Dr. F, Karsch, Ent. Nach. 1890, p. 17. Five new species are described,
with three new genera : — Xerophyllum galeatum, Acmophyllum undulatum,
Trypophylluni glabrifrons, Hippodes vicariiis, Coptotettix annuUpes. Of two
old species the synonymy is corrected as follows: — (1). Phloeonotus jugatus
{Tettix jugata, Wlk., Cat. Derm. Salt. B.M. iv. 1870, p. 819; Hymenotes
hiimilis, Gerst., Zarg. 1873, p. 47, pi. 3, fig. 7 ; Phloeonotus humilis, Boliv.
Ann. S. E. Belg. 1887, p. 304, pi. 5, fig. 37 ; P. natalensis, Boliv., id.)—
(2). Pantelia horrenda [Cladonotus horrendus, Wlk. ; Pantelia cristulata,
Boliv.).
On Phaneropteridae. Dr. F. Karsch, Ent. Nach. 1890, p. 57. (1). Two
new species belonging to two new genera: — Ceratopompa /estiva, Tetra-
concha fenestrata. — (2). Stilpnothorax loricatus^ Pictet, = Potamonota
dregii, Burm.
Monograph of the Proscopidee. Dr. C. Brunner v. Wattenwyl, Verb.
Z. B. Ver. Wien. ]890, p. 87, pi. 3, 4, 5.
Ehyncota : Hemiptera-Heteroptera.
On the Ethiopian Rhyncota in the Brussels Museum. W. L. Distant,
Pr. Soc. E. Belg. 1890, p. li.
1
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
CucuLLTA ABSYNTHii IN Wales. — In reference to Col. Partridge's
suggestion as to the above (Entom. 291), I may say I found the food-plant
growing commonly near Arthog ; indeed, I noticed some in a hedge close
to the spot where I found my insect. I have very little doubt that by
watching the flowers of the honeysuckle a little before dusk the species
might be taken in fair numbers in the locality. — Neville Chamberlain ;
Highbury, Moor Green, Birmingham.
KOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 5 19
Ennychia octomaculata in North Wales.— On June 20th I took
several specimens of Ennychia octomaculata near Llanrwst. Mr. Wood
says, in ' Insects at Home,' that this does not appear to be common in
any part of England, but that he took four or five from one locahty, Bagley
Wood. I took two or three near Llanberis, but near Llanrwst I could have
caught dozens without much trouble, as they appeared to be quite common
in one locaUty. — Douglas H. Pearson ; The College, Chilwell, Notts.
Amphidasts betularia var. double day aria in Nottinghamshire.-—
I have taken this year two of the black variety of Amjjhidasys hetularia,
which occurs in this neighbourhood, but which I believe to be rare in the
south. — Douglas H. Pearson ; The College, Chilwell, Notts.
Larv^ of Bombyx neustria abundant at Stokes Bay. — The larvse
of Bombyx neustria were very abundant in this neighbourhood this spring.
In one hedge at Stokes Bay I counted no less than nine nests of these larvae;
and, as Southampton is not a dozen miles from here as the crow flies, it is
probably the larva of this species which is referred to in Entom. xxiii. 260.
— W. T. Pearce ; 101, Mayfield Road, Seafield, Gosport.
Deilephila euphorbia. — I am now able to give the result of the very
fortunate find of my friend, which is recorded in Entom. xxiii. p. 18. Of
the ten pupse entrusted to my care, and which I subjected to the tempera-
ture of a room which had a fire daily through the winter and spring, the
first emergence was that of a male on May 5th. The order of the other
emergences is as follows: — May 9th, male; May 13th, male; May Slst,
female ; June 6th, male ; June 16th, male ; June 22nd, female ; July 24th,
female. They are all very fine and beautiful specimens. One pupa died,
and one. is still alive (evidently a female) which seems to be going through
a second winter in this stage. I was able to pay a short visit the third week
in July to the spot where the larvae were found last autumn, but though I
searched every piece of Euphorbia paralias most thoroughly, I failed to
discover any trace whatever of larvae, young or middle aged. — (Rev.) J.
Seymour St. John ; 42, Castlewood Road, Stamford Hill, N., Sept. 9.
Mamestra PERSiCARiiE. — I am now feeding up a number of these
larvae on ivy, upon which I found them ; they eat it freely. Is not this an
unusual food-plant ? I have never seen it recorded in any book. — (Rev.)
J. Seymour St. John ; 42, Castlewood Road, Stamford Hill, N., Sept. 9.
[Larvae of M. persicaricR have been noticed this year feeding on ivy,
poplar, lilac, plum, clematis, and raspberry ; the bulk of them were some
shade of brown. — Ed.J
LaRV^ of ArCTIA CAIA FEEDING ON IrIS PSEUDACORUS (YeLLOW
Iris). — On June 15th I found some larvae of A. caia feeding on the flowers
of /. pseudacorus. This species is said to feed on various low-growing
plants, but I cannot find the above-mentioned as one. — J. E. Knights ;
14, Beaconsfield Road, North Denes, Great Yarmouth.
AcRONYOTA strigosa. — I havo to record the capture of a specimen of
Acronycta strigosa, which I took at sugar near the village of Upware, in
Cambridgeshire, on the 12th of July last. The insect is in fairly good
condition. — Henry A. Hill; 132, Haverstock Hill, Hampstead, N.W.,
Sept. 15, 1890.
8^0 *rkB EiTtoMoiiOG^isf.
Hesperia lineola. — In the report of Proceedings of the South London
Natural History and Entomological Society (Entom. 296), " Mr. Tugwell
expressed an opinion that this species occurred on the salt-marshes, and
that those taken on the hills had been blown there." This is only a bare
idea without proof. What I did say was, that I had made two excursions
to Leigh for Hesperia lineola. My first captures there I had carefully
examined, and found all to be lineola, and then, working on to Hadleigh, I
had boxed all the Hesperia, thinking them to be lineola, but on reaching
home I found 75 per cent were thaumas. On my second visit I commenced
collecting at the same spot, and found nearly all my captures on the lower
ground were lineola. I then met Mr. Turner, and he had been nearer the
marsh than myself; he had secured some thirty specimens of lineola;
together we worked over the ground to Hadleigh, and found thaumas
much more common than lineola. We then struck out into the marshes
below ; there we secured a long series of lineola, but not a single tliaumas
amongst them. This indicates pretty clearly that its habitat was the
marshes, and not the higher ground. — W. H. Tugwell.
SiREX GiGAs IN Devon. — On the 5 th inst. I captured a specimen of
the above insect, making the third I have taken here. They seem to vary
considerably in size. No. 1, length to point. If in. : expanse of wings,
2^ in. No. 2, length to point, IJ in. ; expanse of wings, 2J in. No. 3,
length to point, 1 in. ; expanse of wings, IJ in. — John N. Still ; Lang-
stone, Horrabridge.
Macro-Lepidoptera in the New Forest. — Your correspondent. Mr.
E. G. Alderson, has given such a melancholy account of the Lepidoptera
to be met with in the New Forest this season (Entom. 258), that I should
like to record my experiences of the collecting there. I took up my quarters
at Brockenhurst on the 28th of June, and stayed there until the 17th
of July. The weather was not at all propitious for collecting, being stormy,
with very few bright sunny days. The following were the most noteworthy
Macro-Lepidoptera that I met with '.—Gonepteryx rhamni, hyberuated spe-
cimens ; Argynnis selene, fairly numerous ; A. aglaia, abundant in one
locality; A. adippe, scsiYce ; A. paphia, males abundant before July 17th,
but females scarce even then, consequently the variety valesina was very
rare ; Limenitis sibylla, fairly numerous in certain localities, but very much
damaged by the stormy weather, — it was very seldom one could net a perfect
specimen ; Pararge egeria, very abundant ; Satyrus semele, a few specimens
seen on July 16th; Epinephele ianira,\eYy abundant, a few " bleached "
forms taken ; E. hyperanthes, abundant ; Lycmna cegon, very abundant on
certain heaths ; Syrichthus malvce, a few specimens noticed, but these were
somewhat passe; Hesperia thaumas, abundant in certain places by about
July 13th ; H. sylvanus, very abundant ; Zygmna meliloti, I saw several
specimens, taken by the local collectors ; Z. trifolii and Z. Jilipendulce,
both plentiful ; Calligenia miniata, not uncommon : Lithosia mesomella, a
few specimens taken ; Gnophria rubricollis, I saw specimens recently taken,
but did not meet with this species myself; Emydia cribrum, taken in large
numbers by the local collectors this season ; Euchelia jacobacB, both imagines
and larvae common ; Nemeophila russula, common ; Arctia caia, common;
Hepialus hectus, common ; Bombyx quercus, larvse taken on heath ; Thyatira
batis, fairly common ; Moma orion, I saw one specimen which had been
taken at rest by a brother collector ; Acronycta psi, very abundant ; Leu
M- 1
m
i^OTiJS, dAPTTJRES, ETC. ^21
cania turca, a few taken at sugar ; L. impudens, a few taken on the bogs ;
L. impura, very abundant; Xylophasia lithoooylea, X. hepatica, Dipterygia
scabriuscula, Miana stngilis, M.fasciuncula, Grammesia trigrammica, all at
sugar, sparingly ; Acosmetia caliginosa, taken by a local collector ; Rusina
tenebrosa, at sugar ; Agrotis strigula (= porphyrea), common on the heaths ;
Noctua plecta, N. f estiva, at sugar ; Panolis pinlperda, one larva taken,
"which proved to be " ichneumoned " ; PJilogophora meticulosa, at sugar ;
Aplecta nebulosa, abundant ; Hadena dentinu, H. thalassima, at sugar ; H.
genistcB, one, at light ; Anarta 7nyrtilli, taken on the heaths, — several larvae
also taken, which subsequently proved to be ichneumoned ; Phytometra
viridaria, not uncommon ; Urapteryx sambucaria, Metrocampartiargaritariaf
both common ; Boarmia repandata, very abundant, some nice forms taken,
including the YdiXieiy conversaria ; B. roboraria, not uncommon; Pseudo-
terpna pruinata, (= cytisaria), not uncommon ; Phorodesma pustulata
(== bajularia), one specimen taken ; Acidalia immutata, common locally ;
A. emutaria, abundant on the bogs ; Macaria liturata, Bupalm piniaria,
amongst the firs ; Aspilates strigillaria, locally common on the heaths ;
Hypsipetes sordidata (= elutata), common ; Eubolia limitata {= mensuraria),
E.plumbaria, both abundant ; Tanagra atrata (= chdrophyllata), common ;
Pyrausta purpuralis, abundant ; Herbula cespitalis, common ; Endotricha
flammealis, locally common. Certainly entomologising in the New Forest
this season was disappointing work, especially at night, when " sugar "
would attract but few insects ; but 1 think the above list of species met
with shows that the Forest was not, entomologically, such a desert as Mr.
E. G. Alderson's letter would lead one to suppose it to have been. I may
mention that I found insects at the Forest to be fully a week later than at
Abbot's Wood, in Sussex, where I had just been collecting, and also con-
siderably later than I had found them at the Forest in previous seasons. —
E. W. H. Blagg ; Cheadle, Staffordshire.
A Week at Shekwood Forest. — On August 18th of this year,
accompanied by my friend Mr. James Batty, of this town, I arrived at
Edwinstowe, a small vihage situated close upon the Forest, and found
most comfortable accommodation at 'The Roj^al Oak' Inn, which I can
safely recommend to any entomologist visiting the locality. Every evening
during our stay, with the exception of Sunday, we tried the seductive
allurements of old Scotch black treacle, beer, and rum, but, except on one
occasion, with very poor results. The one exception referred to was on
Monday, August 25th. Directly we had put the treacle on the trees the
rain commenced to pour down, and did not cease the whole night. As soon
as rain began to fall my friend Batty wished to go back, as he said insects
never came out in the rain ; at least he had not known them to do so in
forty years' experience. However, I persuaded him to accompany me just
for one round, and, greatly to our surprise, we found the trees literally
swarming with moths. Well, in that one round I filled about 120 boxes,
all with good insects ; and I think any enthusiastic entomologist would not
have minded the thorough soaking that we got if the same good fortune
attended. By far the commonest insect at sugar that night was Noctua
dahlii, which swarmed on every tree. Euperia fidvago is a dead failure
this year in its head-quarters, and I do not think we took eighteen speci-
mens all the time we were there. Another curious thing was that we did
not see even one specimen of Atnphipyra pyramidea, which is usually an
abundant species in the Forest. A few Noctua ylareosa, in excellent
^32 ttiE ENTOMOtOGlSf.
condition, were taken. One of the most amusing episodes of the wet night
was that nearly all the insects on the trees were wet through, as far as
their scales would allow them to be, and yet seemed quite to enjoy the bath,
which was certainly more than we did ; one Triphcsna fimbria in par-
ticular, I remember, was situated just under a leaf from which the rain
was dropping every second, but this seemed to be a source of pleasure to
the insect rather than otherwise. Eagwort flowers also had a large share
of attention. All the villagers thereabouts say that never in their
memories has there been more bloom than this year ; in fact it was almost
too abundant. Amongst the larger patches we had no success, but the
more solitary plants bordering the roads repaid us the best. Our first
night was the most successful at this mode of capture, though we tried it
every night, as well as the treacle, about fifty N. dahlii, twenty-five Agrotis
tritici, and one Hydroecia nictitans (the only one seen during the visit)
being the result of an hour and a half's work on this particular evening.
Heather-bloom produced literally nothing either by day or night, though
carefully worked; one E.fulvago was taken at rest at night upon it, and
Cidaria testata was rather common flying around the bloom at dusk. One
Luperina cespitis, one Charceas graminis, and a clearwing (taken by Mr.
Batty, the species of which we are not quite certain about yet), all taken at
ragwort in the day-time, completes a meagre list of imagines. Of course
the redeeming feature was the abundance and splendid condition of iV". dahlii,
but then everything else was very scarce, except A. tritici. Larvae were
also a most utter failure, beating birch and oak hour after hour and day
after day producing absolutely nothing ; Ephyra punctaria and E. pendu-
laria, of which one can generally get fifty of each in one day during a good
season, I only took three of the former and two of the latter. T. punctulata
was represented by about half-a-dozen larv89. The day before we left
some small, large-headed, Tortrix-like larvae, beaten from birch, puzzled
us considerably at first, but we have since found them out to be Cymato-
phora duplaris, and wished we had taken more. Ragwort produced larvae
of Eupithecia absinthiata and E. centaureata fairly commonly, but required
a good deal of finding, as there was so much food to look over ; the latter
species was considerably the commoner. Altogether the year has been a
very poor one for most insects, though some have been more than usually
abundant ; but it has been the larvae more particularly that have been so
conspicuous by their absence. In Mr. Batty's long and my own short
entomological career we have never known such an utter absence of even
the commonest of autumnal larvae, or when beating and searching alike
have been so unproductive. — A. E. Hall ; Norbury, Shefiield, September
3, 1890. [If any entomologist has found larvae in their usual numbers
during the past August and September, perhaps he will be good enough to
communicate a note on the subject. — Ed.J
Notes on Sugab. — The reports of captures at sugar during the past
year or two have been so conflicting, and on the whole so discouraging,
that any little information on the subject may be worth recording, and
therefore the account of three evenings at sugar in this immediate neigh-
bourhood, may not be altogether devoid of interest, especially as they
appear to agree most completely with news received from other localities.
On each occasion I sugared some twenty trees growing in a lane not half a
mile beyond the continuous lines of bricks and mortar, of which this
neighbourhood is chiefly composed, and where the hedgerows largely
NOTES, CAPTURES, Etd. ^2^
consist of bramble and nettle. On July 12th the night was cool, air clear,
sky overcast, and wind S.W., fresh breeze. Hardly had I got the sugar
on the trees when the moths began to come to it, and continued to do so
freely as each succeeding round was made. Between the trees were large
patches of bramble in full blossom, but I failed to find any Noctuae at
them, nor was I any more fortunate at the nettles; but these were perhaps
hardly sufficiently far advanced to be likely to prove attractive. July 19th,
night chilly, air clear, sky cloudless, wind N.E., light breezes. Moths
were decidedly common at the sugar, and continued to arrive until, having
filled, all my boxes, I left. Bramble was still in full bloom, and nettles
fairly well well out ; but although both plants were carefully searched, no
Noctuse were taken at them. August 6th, the day had been hot and the
evening at starting was very warm and calm, a slight haze hung in the
valleys and the sky was clear. While applying the sugar, an ominous
chattering of the aspens foretold a coming breeze, which ultimately proved
to be from the E. Not one moth visited the sugar. Nettles were now In
full bloom, but produced nothing in the way of Noctuse, nor were any seen
on the wing ; the only representative of that group observed being
Triphcena pronuba, a solitary example in most dilapidated condition,
feasting on a somewhat over-blown cluster of bramble. Reports have
reached me from time to time during the summer from various localities,
extending over the greater part of the kingdom, and they all agree that up
to the middle of July sugar was most attractive and then suddenly became
absolutely useless, and my own experience in other parts of the London
district are quite in accord. Ragwort, thistles, rush, and sundry other
flowers, appear to have produced some few Noctuee, but the general report
is that the numbers are but small, -^too small indeed to explain their com-
plete absence from the sugar; nor do the meteorological conditions appear
to offer a satisfactory solution of the problem, for if the east wind and clear
sky were the cause of the dearth of moths on the 6th of August, we might
reasonably have expected them to exert a like influence on the 19th July.
— RoBT. Adkin ; Lewisham, Aug., 1890.
Notes on the Season. — When I first took up the study of our
Tortrices and Tinese I am afraid that I handled the latter very roughly ;
this I ought not to have done with youth and good sight on my side. Now
not being quite so young, my main hobby is the Nepticulce, and of these I
have this year set more and better than ever, both as regards pinning and
setting. Now to begin an account of my doings. All my pots were left
outside until April this time. I wanted to break the back of breeding
before active service began, so I brought the said pots into my breeding-
room, that was kept at a moderate temperature. The first insect to
appear was N. sorbiella, from mountain ash ; next came N. hodgkinsonii,
from wild rose, ten specimens ; then Trifurcula pulverosella, from wild
apple ; A'', floslactella, from nut ; N. aiicuparicB, from mountain ash ; N.
Ignobilella, from hawthorn ; N. lapponica, from birch ; N. splendidissimella
from raspberry ; N. gei, from dewberry ; N. nialella, from wild apple, from
the highland district ; this I had not met with before and mistook them for
N. desperatella. After spending days and walking miles looking over all
the old crab-trees for what I supposed to be desperatella (but I did not
neglect the few well-known local trees), I found desperatella. I thought
what an observer Dr. T. H. Wood was when he found larvse of this local
J324 THE ENTOMOtiOGlST.
species ! Well, the result is that I have bred about forty specimens. They
are as easy to breed as N. tilicB, which also put in appearance in fair
numbers. B. hippocastanella, from lime ; a few N. rujicapitella, from oak;
N. salicis, from the silver-leaved osier, the larva feeding nearly at the tip,
quite a different way to the usual well-known salicis mine. Mr. Threlfall
did not recognise the mine, more about this next October ; one odd
N. poterii only out of five larvae ; N. argentipedella and N. hetulicola,
from birch; a series of N. plagicolella, from sloe; only two N. angu-
lifascieUa ; I find this bad to breed ; out of twelve N. serella I bred about
ten ; they were the latest of all, if I may except N. luteella. Now, here is
a puzzle : — In October T got some mines close to home, expecting them to
be some new species. I sent mines for Dr. Wood's opinion, and he
referred them to N. lapponica ; well, I sent him the moths, having bred over
a score, and said all had come out N. luteella. He suggested I had made a
mistake, or that they were in a pot where the pupse of luteella had lain
over. 1 am pretty sure I had not, because T only put the queer salicis and
the mines referred to in a pot separate from anything else and labelled the
pot carefully. Now we will leave Nepticulcs and proceed to odds and ends.
Only two Coccyx scopariana came out ; I did not want any, so spent no
time after the larva last July. Penthina postremana came out until the
end of May very large and fine ; a good series of this from the stems of
the balsam (C. noli-me-tangere). By the way, I have omitted to say I bred
about fifty fine specimens of Coccyx vacciniana, from bilberry. I met with
a small patch with the leaves all stripped off; the larvae had rolled them-
selves round the stem with the dead leaves. The second week in May I
went two rather long journeys for Micropteryx salopiella, and only got four
and some M. sparmannella. Third week in May, a very unfavourable day,
a glimpse of sun now and again with a high wind, I got a dozen fine
Catoptria aspidiscana among the golden-rod ; a few of the lovely P. lewen-
hoekella were walking about on the barest place where the Helianthemum
grows. On the sunny side, sheltered from the strong wind, I boxed about
eighty mixed Nepticula woolhopiella and N. argentipedella. The tips of
the birch produced several species. On a little shady bank of Vaccinium
G. vacciniana were flying in plenty. With two nets all boxes were soon
filled. My son said, " This is moth-catching made easy." He sat down,
smoking his weed — ** and here is another; hand me the other net." Do
not think this would be so at any time, — no sun, no moths ; they drop
instantly, whenever the sun is obscured. By the way, when I looked in a
pot in which I had put a lot of seeds from angelica, expecting that probably
T. mediana (= aurana) might turn up, to my surprise there were nine E.
lucipara out ; I did not notice any larva. Now CEcopliora fiavimaculella is
appearing; Ornix anglicella and two Lithocolletis cavella have turned up at
my own door. On Whit Saturday I took advantage of a cheap trip to
Windermere. Until the season sets in it is too dear — 83. 2d. for return,
52 miles. I have not had such a chance for years. The woods were
nearly dried up. I was surprised to see such a lot of moths stirring.
Geometers pretty common, in fact C. corylata, M. albicillata, and even
Eupithecia plumheolata was out among the Melampyrum arvensis ; T used
to take this in July. There were very few Lithocolletis. An odd green
silver-lines [H. 2^rasinana) swept into my net from time to time. The old
places where I used to take M. mansuetella have yielded none for years. I
got entangled in a rough thicket, and made for a light place about ten
SOCIETIES, 825
yards square, where I swept a mansuetella; T looked round and, as usual,
there the meadow-sweet grew. I cleared away some brambles for net
room, and got about fifty specimens, the finest I ever saw, I put the
boxes in a tin box, among the cold leaves, and got them home in fine con-
dition. I went again on the Monday, and had the greatest trouble in find-
ing the place. To be out of the way of painters and other workmen in
the house, I went to Windermere for a paonth, but unfortunately left
behind one of my pots containing pup88 of Cidaria reticulata. When I
came home I found that the flower of my hopes was wrecked, for what are
called " church-lice " and " wire-worms " had left nothing but a lot of wings.
I was disgusted to count the remains of twenty-two specimens of the
Cidaria. My other pot has produced ten fine large reticulata ; one a
remarkably fine variety, one-half of the fore wings (the outer half), being
of a smoky amber colour; two others are partly in that direction. I must
have a look over ray captures, and will note them in the next article.
— J. B. HoDGKiNSON ; Ashton-OD-Ribble, July 12, 1890.
A Hint to PuPiE-DiGGERS. — Now that the season for images is
waning, collectors will be going forth with their trowels, and turning up
the sod in search of pupse. This turning up the sod is by no means always
an easy matter, especially at such trees which are not regularly dug. To
reduce this labour of digging to a minimum, let the digger provide himself
with an ordinary garden trowel, and in addition to this he must procure a
file ; let it be round on one side, flat on the other, and finely cut. By
keeping his trowel sharpened with this he will find digging done with com-
parative ease, less pupse will be destroyed, and a far greater amount of work
accomplished. The time taken in going from tree to tree should be utilised
for the sharpening process. I strongly recommend those who have as yet
neglected the use of a file, to start it at once. — J. Clarke ; 26, Carey
Street, Reading, Sept. 17, 1890.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — September 2,rd, 1890. Mr.
Henry T. Stainton, F.R.S., in the chair. Mr. C. Fenn exhibited and re-
marked on specimens of Eupithecia satyrata, Eudorea ambigualis, and
Tortrix viburnana from Darlington. Mr. H. Goss exhibited, on behalf of
Mr. Martin Stanger Higgs, a remarkable variety of Melitaa aurinia
(artemis), taken a few years ago, in Gloucestershire, by Mr. Joseph Merrin.
The Rev. Dr. Walker communicated some observations on the Entomology
of Iceland, and gave an account of his recent travels in that island. He
stated that he had taken Bombus terrestris this year, for the first time, in
the north-west of Iceland, from which quarter of the island it had not been
recorded by Dr. Staudinger ; he also referred to the enormous numbers of
IchneumonidsB and Diptera which he had noticed in the island. He further
stated that in 1889, in the months of June and July, Noctua confiua was
the most abundant species of Lepidoptera in Iceland ; but that this year,
in July and August, Crymodes exulis was the prevailing species, and that
Charmas yramims and Coreinia viunitata also occurred in great numbers.
In reply to a question by Mr. Stainton, Dr. Walker said that the flowers
326 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
chiefly frequented by the humble-bees were those of a small species of white
galium (probably Galium saxatile ?) and Viola tricolor. Dr. Walker also
read " Notes on Calathus melanocephalm collected in Iceland, the West-
manno Isles, and the Faroe Isles in June and July, 1890." Messrs.
M'Lachlan, Stainton, Jenner Weir, Stevens, Jacoby, Lewis, and others took
part in the discussion which ensued. Mr. Arthur G. Butler communicated
a paper entitled " Further Notes on the Synonymy of the genera of
Noctuites." — H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
— August 2Sth, 1890. J. T. Carrington, F.L.S., President, in the chair.
Mr. C. Fenn exhibited an example of Polyommatus phlceas, L., having the
left lower wing small and pale ; Odontia dentalis, Schiff., from amongst
Echium vulgare; Cramhus contaminellus, Hb. ; Grapholitha ccBcana, Schl. ;
and Sphaleroptera ictericana, Haw. — all from Deal ; Pmdisca solandriana,
L., from Bexley ; Carpocapsa grossana, Haw., from Mickleham ; C. porno-
nella, L., from Lee ; also a large number of Cidaria truncata, Hufn., bred
from ova obtained from a captured female, which was exhibited. Mr. South
pointed out that the parent moth was a variety, and that half the brood
varied from the type in the same way. Mr. Carpenter exhibited Pericallia
syringaria, L., bred from larvaB taken in Essex ; and CucuUia asteris^ SchifF.,
from Folkestone. Mr. South, local forms of Lepidoptera from the Durham
district. Mr. Turner, Myelophila cribrum, SchifF., from Leigh, Essex.
Mr. R. Adkin, Zygcena meliloti, Esp., from the New Forest, and remarked
upon the disappearance of this species from the particular locality where it
was originally taken, and its discovery in another part of the Forest. Mr.
Waller, living larvae of Acronycta leporina, L. ; and an example of Sme-
rinthus ocellatus, L., which had emerged from the pupa with one antenna.
Mr. Robinson, Nonagria brevilinea, Fenn. Mr. Joy, Plusia festuccB, L.,
larva and pupa, and remarked that this species was apparently double-
brooded, as he had taken it in the latter part of August. Mr. Tutt
expressed an opinion that the species was consecutively brooded in June,
July, and August. Mr. Hawes, young larvae of Apatura iris, L., and stated
that the larva had no horns before the third skin ; also Tapinostola extrema,
Hb., from Huntingdonshire, caught in July of this year. Mr. Frohawk, a
variety of Epinephele hyperanthes, L., with the markings lanceolate, from
the New Forest. Mr. Weir mentioned that he had two of the same variety,
also from the New Forest. Mr. Carrington observed that, after examining
hundreds of the species in the same locality, he had only been able to find the
var. arete, Miill. Coleoptera were exhibited by Mr. Perks, and botanical
specimens were shown by Messrs. J. Jenner Weir and E. Step. Mr. Car-
rington made some observations on collecting Rhopalocera in the Ostend
district, and a discussion arose as to the abundance or scarcity of Lepidoptera
this season, in the course of which it was stated that Lyccena corydon had
been generally scarce, and that, with a few exceptions, the season had been
a bad one for Lepidoptera.
September llth. — J. Jenner Weir, F.L.S., Vice-President, in the chair.
Mr. Robertson exhibited a living larva of Acherontia atropos, L., from near
Bognor. Mr. Oldham, a very light specimen of Polyommatus phlceas, L. ;
a dark form of Argynnis euphrosyne, L. ; also examples of many other
species, including Hesperia lineola, Ochs., from the fens of Huntingdon.
Mr. Croker, Ditula hartmanniana, Clerck., from the banks of the River
Lea. Mr. Fenn remarked that the species occurred all round London
SOCIETIES. 327
on the trunks of willow trees. Mr. Wellmann, BryopJiila muralis, Forst. ;
Dianthcecia albimacula, Bork. ; Plusia festuccB, bred from pupaB received
from Cambridge ; also living larvae of Acroiiycta euphorbia, Fb. Mr. J. A.
Cooper, dark specimens of Bryophila perla, Fb., from Folkestone. Mr.
Carpenter, a specimen of Argynnis paphia, L., with the right under-wing
almost colourless ; a variety of Argynnis aglaia, L., with the spots on the
under-side blending together ; also a series of Epinephele hyperanthes, L.,
showing considerable variation. Mr. R. Adkin, bred specimens of Emme-
lesia decolorata, Hb., from Ireland, larger and more defined in colour than
those usually taken. Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell, Vanessa antlopa, L., from
Wet Mountain Valley, Colorado, and called attention to the irroration of the
borders with black, a feature specially noticeable in American specimens of
the species; also three species of Cetonia from Syria, viz., Getonia opaca,
Fb., G. floricola var. ignicollis (Dej.), Gory and Peach, and G. impavida,
Janson. With reference to the last-named species, Mr. Cockerell stated
that the specimens appeared to be specifically identical with this Indian
species, as they appeared to agree in all essential points with an example in
the British Museum, from Aden, named by Mr. Janson. The distribution
of the species, therefore, appeared to be India, Aden, and Syria. Mr.
Cockerell also exhibited two examples of Trichodes from Syria, one of which
he stated apparently agreed with T. syriacus, Dej., as described in Spinola's
Monograph, but was considerably larger ; the other seemed to be a variety
of T.favarlus, III. Mr. Oldham exhibited a specimen of Sirex gigas, taken
in the High Road at Woodford. Mr. T. R. Billups asked whether the large
number of Vespa vulgaris had been noticed by members ; when sweeping at
Shirley Heath for Hymenoptera he had obtained from eight to a dozen at
every sweep of the net, Mr. Rice remarked that near Ockley, within an
area of 200 yards, he had counted thirty nests. Mr. South said that in
1879, which was a similar year to the present one, wasps were plentiful. —
H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — August ISth, 1890. — Rev.
C. F. Thornewill, V.P., in the chair. Mr. Thornewill showed a nearly
black male Argynnis aglaia from Cannock Chase ; also a specimen of
Arctia caia, of a curious brick-red colour ; also Stilbia anomala from
Cannock Chase. Mr. E. C. Tye showed a number of Noctuae bred from
larvae found feeding on low plants by night, at Hopwas Wood and Marston
Green. Mr. R. C. Bradley showed Brephos notha bred from a female taken
at Trench Woods ; he also showed Ghrysoclysta bimaculella from Wyre
Forest. Mr. H. M. Lee showed a number of Lepidoptera from Sutton
Coldfield. Mr. G. H. Kenrick read a paper on " Collecting in North
Wales," in which he referred to the comparatively small number of species
found there, considering the diversified character of the country and climate.
He thought it might be accounted for by the great rainfall. Mr. Neville
Chamberlain made a number of remarks on the Macro-Lepidoptera found
by himself and Mr. Kenrick, while staying at Barmouth, from July 4th to
9th, this year. They had taken 108 species, including Gucullia absinthii,
Acidalia contiguaria, &c. Mr. H. M. Lee mentioned a habit he had noticed
in larvae of Thyatira batis, of falling to the ground when a noise is made. —
Colbran J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
338 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
REVIEW.
A Synonymic Catalogue of Neuroptera Odonata, or Dragonflies ; with an
Appendix of Fossil Species. By W. F. Kirby, F.L.S., F.E.S., &c.
8vo, pp. ix. 202. London: Gurney & Jackson, 1, Paternoster Row.
Berlin: R. Friedlander & Son. 1890.
In the present work, Mr. Kirby has endeavoured to facihtate the study
of an interesting but Httle known group of insects by the publication of a
complete catalogue of genera and species, uniform with his * Synonymic
Catalogue of Diurnal Lepidoptera.' How much still remains to be
accomplished in the Odonata may be seen from the fact that in many
families almost all the work already done has been by one man. Baron De
Selys-Longchamps. Except in the Libellulinae, where Mr. Kirby has
arranged the genera in accordance with the revision of the subfamily which
he recently published in the * Transactions of the Zoological Society,' he has
mainly followed the various synopses and monographs published by the
Belgian author, except that he has occasionally revised the nomenclature, and
has not adopted the Baron's somewhat cumbrous system of genera and sub-
genera, deeming it too complicated for the purposes of a simple catalogue.
Mr. Kirby's Preface is devoted chiefly to an exposition of the principles
of nomenclature which he has adopted in the present Catalogue, and this
portion of the work will probably be read with interest by many entomo-
logists who are not neuropterists, whether they entirely agree with his
views or not. The book likewise appeals to the geologist as well as to the
entomologist, for the Appendix of Fossil Species occupies twelve closely
printed pages, and gives full references to the rather voluminous literature
relating to more than a hundred recorded species.
From the point of view of Systematic Entomology, a catalogue is only
second in utility to a monograph ; and whatever imperfections may after-
wards be pointed out in Mr. Kirby's work, we have no doubt that it will
prove of great value to all entomologists who are interested in the
Odonata.
OBITUARY.
Peter Maassen, late of Elberfeld and Diisseldorf, died suddenly on
the morning of the 2nd of August last, at Falkensteig in the Black
Forest; he was in his eightieth year. Though not a voluminous
writer, he was well known among lepidopterists, both by the pleasant
reception he invariably gave to those who called to see his fine
collection of Exotic Lepidoptera, and by his occasional visits to
London and Paris. His specialty was the Saturniidae, in illustration
of which family he and his friend, Gustav Weymer, issued a series of
plates, under the title of ' Beitrage zur Schmetterlingskunde.' It is
understood that his collection has been left to the Museum at Berlin.
Mr. CO. Hall died on the 3rd of September, at his residence,
14, Granville Street, Buckland, Dover. As an entomologist he seems
to have been attracted by each Order in turn, but the Coleoptera and
Hymenoptera were his favourite groups. He was well acquainted with
the literature of his subject, and his conversation was not only
interesting, but showed that he was a shrewd observer of nature.
There are various notes and papers from his pen in the later volumes
of the * Entomologist ' and ' Entomologist's Monthly Magazine.'
^
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIII.] NOVEMBER, 1890. [No. 880.
ADDITIONS TO THE BRITISH LIST OF DELTOIDS,
PYRALIDES, AND ORAMBI, SINCE 1859.
By Richard South.
(Plates III. & IV.)
(Concluded from p. 305.)
EpHESTIA KiiHNIELLA, ZelL (PI. IV. fig. 2.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Myelois ceratonicBf Thompson, Entom. xx. p. 66.
Ephestia kuhniellay Barrett, Ent. Mo. Mag. xxiii. p. 255 ;
Thompson, l. c. p. 139 ; Tutt, Entom. xx. p. 212; Klein,
Proc. Ent. Soc. 1887, p. lii; Adkin, Proc. S. Lond. Ent.
and Nat. Hist. Soc. 1887, p. 20, pi. i. fig. 15 ; Cockerell,
op. cit. p. 58; Ormerod, Kep. Injur. Ins. 1889.
Size of ficella, pale grey, much dusted with dark slate-grey. The first
line blackish, indented, and, above the inner margin, deeply angulated, as in
Myelois ceratonicd. Second line deeply angulated near the costa, and indented
below. Between these two lines is a black streak along the apex of the dis-
coidal cell ; but this is not always distinct. In well-marked specimens there
is an oblique, dark, central shade, from costa near apex to inner margin.
There are some black dots along outer margin, and the fringes are grey. Hind
wings shining white, with the venation and outer margin brown.
The foregoing description is abridged from that given by
Mr. Barrett.
Larva whitish or sometimes pinkish, slightly hairy; head
reddish brown ; plates on second and anal segments yellow.
Feeding in webs or silken tunnels, on flour and rice-cones.
Introduced by Mr. C. G. Barrett, April, 1887.
Note, — This species appears to have been unknown to ento-
mologists until 1877, when Prof. Zeller received some larvse and
specimens of the perfect insect from Dr. KUhn, of Halle. Ten
years afterwards, that is in 1887, E^ kuhniella was bred in this
ENTOM. — NOV. 1890. 2 C
330 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
country by Mr. Thompson, of Stoney Stratford, who found larvae
in a sack of rice-cones. These specimens were supposed to be
Myelois ceratonice, and were so recorded ; but some of them were
sent to Mr. C. G. Barrett, who at once identified them as
kuhniella. Most of the European writers have insisted on this
flour-pest being an American importation ; but American ento-
mologists deny this, and say that, although the insect may have
been known in America previous to the year 1889, it was not
until that year that it appeared there in any numbers. Prof. Riley,
in * Insect Life * (vol. ii.. No. 6), gives a most interesting digest of
the European literature on the subject, together with an account
of all that was known of the species in America at the time of
writing. An exhaustive life-history is given by Mr. James
Fletcher in the * Report of the Entom. Soc. of Ontario, 1889.' jj
EUZOPHERA OBLITELLA, Zell. (PI. III. fig. 2.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Euzophera ohlitella, Blackburn, Entom. xii. p. 16 ; Blackburn
and Stainton, Ent. Mo. Mag. xv. p. 187 ; Ragonot, E. M. M.
xxii. p. 31 ; Warren, E. M. M. xxiii. p. 233 ; South, Syn.
List, p. 40.
" Front wings greyish, dusted with darker, both lines black,
the first preceded, the second followed, by a pale band ; nearly
midway between the two is a conspicuous black spot. Hnid wings
pearly grey, gradually darkening to the hind margin." — (Blackburn.)
The above description does not quite agree with the continental
example of E. ohlitella, now figured.
Introduced by Mr. Blackburn, January, 1879.
British Locality. — Isle of Wight (S. W. coast).
Distribution. — S. W. Germany ; Hungary ; S. Russia ;
S. France ; Andalusia ; Sicily ; Asia ; N. America.
Note, — The first recorded capture of this species in Britain
is that of Mr. Blackburn, who took a specimen in the autumn of
1876, on the south-west coast of the Isle of Wight; Mr. Warren,
writing in 1887, says that he obtained an example of E, ohlitella,
between Yarmouth and Freshwater, '* some thirteen or fourteen
years since," L e., in 1873 or 1874. M. Ragonot observes that
this species has been described by Walker as Nephopteryx
propriella, and by Clemens as A^ undulatella. He adds that
E. oblitella is a very variable insect, and that the larva appears
to be unknown.
Ephestia roxburghii.
BRIT. REF. : —
Ephestia roxburghii, Gregson, Entom. vi. p. 318 ; Ragonot,
Ent. Mo. Mag. xxii. p. 25.
Expanse, 7 — 9 lines. "Fore wings broad, costa rounded,
colour pale brownish grey, median space entirely suffused with
blackish brown, in which the discal spots are hardly perceptible.
BRITISH DELTOIDS, PYRALIDES, AND CRAMBI. 331
First line oblique, greyish, hardly paler than the ground colour.
Second line slender, pale grey, parallel to the hind margin,
slightly sinuous, followed on the costa by a dark streak. Cilia
pale brownish grey, preceded by an indistinct dark line. Hind
wings brownish grey, cilia paler. Head, thorax, and palpi
brownish grey ; antennae pale brown, not annulated. Palpi
recurved, ascending." — (Ragonot.)
Introduced by Mr. C. S. Gregson, February, 1873.
British Locality. — ? Liverpool.
Note. — M. Ragonot considers E, roxburghii to be a good
species, and says that it has considerable resemblance to
Cryptohlabes histriga, but, apart from the different coloration,
the neuration is very distinct. He adds, '^ roxburghii has not
yet been bred," and this probably means that the larva is
unknown, because Mr. Gregson — referring to the specimens
shown to him by Mr. Roxburgh, who discovered the species —
says, *' They fed upon debris of old Lepidoptera, &c., in a
neglected drawer. How the eggs came there is not known ; but
it is suspected they were introduced with dried fruits."
Phycis adornatella var. subornatella, Dup,
BRIT. REF. : —
Phycis subornatella, Knaggs, Entom. Ann. 1867, p. 141;
Barrett, Ent. Mo. Mag. xvi. p. 162, xxvi. p. 20 ; Richard-
son, op. cit. p. 139.
In this variety the white of the fore wings is paler, a whitish
fascia precedes the first line, and the second line is less distinctly
angulated.
Note. — All entomologists, whose series of Phycis adornatella
comprised detachments from various localities, have been greatly
perplexed when they attempted to determine some of the speci-
mens comprised in such series. These examples would possess
the special characters which would make them appear to be
referable to subornatella; but, at the same time, their general
characters made it apparent that they were not specifically
distinct from adornatella. To further complicate the matter,
examples would also be found which varied from the type of
adornatella in the direction of subornatella, but could not be
satisfactorily placed with the latter. Now that those who
formerly upheld subornatella as a distinct species have withdrawn
their support, the insect quietly falls into its proper place as a
form of a very variable species, and the British entomologist will
henceforth be spared considerable anxiety and much uncertainty
attending the *' filling up" a series of subornatella. It is also
satisfactory to find that there is a disposition on the part of
entomologists to adopt Hubner's T. dilutella (fig. 69) as the type
of the species. Thus, after wandering about for twenty-three
years, we get back to the name given in the * Manual.'
2 c 2
332 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Nephopteryx splendidella, Herr.'Sch,
BRIT. REF. : —
Nephopteryx splendidella, Stainton, Buckler, and Wood,
Mo. Mag. xxiv. p. 269.
Nephopteryx sylvestrella, Kagonot, E. M. M. xxii. p. 52.
Dioryctria splendidella, Ragonot, E. M. M. xxiv. p. 224.
Larger than N, ahietella (= decuriella, Hiibn.), "with a large
patch of reddish brown before the first line." — (Ragonot.)
Introduced by Mr. Stainton, May, 1888.
Note. — This species has probably been in some British
collections for many years past, mixed up with N. ahietella.
Mr. Stainton (L c.) publishes extracts from the note-books of the
late Mr. Buckler, in which (under the name of Phycis abietella)
this larva is described, and its curious habits fully set forth. In
August, 1874, Mr. Buckler received from Dr. Wood a spruce fir
cone, containing a larva of N. splendidellay but this did not
attain the imago condition. From a large larva, received on
September 7th, 1877, Mr. Buckler bred a moth on June 14th,
1878. Between the years 1874 and 1879, Mr. Buckler appears
to have had several infested spruce cones sent to him by Dr.
Wood, but he observed that only the largest larvae became
moths, and he inclined to the view that the smaller larvae, received
late in the autumn, were not full grown, and required another
year to become mature. This, however, they failed to do in
confinement. ■
M. Ragonot says, " The larva is pinkish white, changing to I
greenish, without any lines ; the head is reddish brown, the second
segment brown-black, ordinary spots very distinct. It lives in the
trunks of old firs, under the bark, causing abundant exudations of
resin."
Nephopteryx genistella, Dup. (PI. IV. fig. 5.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Phycis davisellus, Newman, Entom. v. p. 446 ; Moore, op. cit,
vi. p. 199; Doubleday, op. cit. vii. p. 112; List, Suppl.
p. 2; Moncreaff, Entom. vii. p. 132 (larva); Vaughan,
Proc. Ent. Soc. 1873; Blackburn, Ent. Mo. Mag. xiv.
p. 169.
Pempelia albariella, Knaggs, Ent. Mo. Mag. viii. p. 163;
Entom. Ann. 1872, p. 118.
Phycis (?) davisellus, Buckler, E. M. M. x. p. 89 (larva).
Nephopteryx genistella, Doubleday, Entom. viii. p. 41 ; E. M.
M. xi. p. 211; South, Syn. List, p. 21; Leech, Brit.
Pyral. p. 104, pi. xii. fig. 8.
Pempelia genistella, Weston, Entom. x. p. 11 9 ; Dale, E. M. M.
xvi. p. 186.
" Fore wings fuscous greyish, whitish along the inner margin,
especially towards the base of the wing ; before the first line is a
BRITISH DELTOIDS, 1>YRALIDES, AND CRAMBI. 333
patch, somewhat circular in shape, composed of a cluster of raised
black scales ; first line blackish, bordered internally with ochreous
brown, angulated, starting obliquely from the junction of the
basal and middle thirds of the costa ; in the space between the
first and second lines are three whitish streaks, the lower two
being interrupted in the middle by the ground colour, so as to
form four short whitish dashes; the upper extends along the
discal cell, becoming slightly dilated at the disc, where a small
black dot, composed of raised scales, is conspicuous ; above this
dot, and about midway between it and the costa, is another minute
dot ; the second line is blackish, irregularly sinuous, and bordered
with ochreous brown towards the apical margin ; towards the
apex is a whitish patch. Hind wings shining fuscous grey,
dusky marginal line double." — (Abridged from description by
Dr. Knaggs.)
Introduced by Mr. Newman under the name of Phycis
davisellus, November, 1871.
British Localities. — Isle of Wight; Portsea; Isle of Purbeck.
Distribution. — South France; Andalusia.
Note. — Mr. Moncreaff says that the eggs " are laid in July and
August on young shoots of Ulex campestris, and as soon as the
larvae emerge they spin a thick network of silk round the branch,
and under this feed until the approach of winter, when each
forms for itself a close cocoon or tunnel of silk in which to
hybernate. In early spring the larvae lengthen these cases, and
extend, as they increase in size, the silken web, feeding on the
young buds and blossoms beneath it."
Cateremna terebrella, Zinck. (PL III. fig. 13.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Cateremna terebrella, Walsingham, Ent. Mo. Mag. xxiii. p. 82.
Epischnia terebrella, Barrett, E. M. M. xxv. p. 399.
Expanse, 8 lines. " Antennae brownish fuscous. Head and
palpi greyish fuscous, the base of the haustellum white. Thorax
and fore wings brownish fuscous, interspersed with whitish
scales, the most conspicuous marking being an oblique narrow
fascia about one-third from the base of the wing, tending
outwards to the dorsal margin ; this fascia is angulated outwards
on the fold and inwards below it. Commencing about the middle
of the costa is a conspicuous white patch, which reaches half
across the wing, and contains two fuscous spots, the one at its
lower edge, the other immediately above it. Below this patch a
few white scales are scattered across the wing towards the dorsal
margin. Beyond, but separated from it by a brownish fuscous
interspace, less wide than that following the first fascia, is a
narrow, waved, white, transverse streak, angulated inwards below
the costa, the angle pointing to the upper spot in the white
patch, angulated outwards slightly above the middle, and again
^34 THE ENTOMOLOGIST*
inwards immediately above the anal angle. Along tlie apical
margin is a row of six or seven brownish fuscous spots, separated
by whitish scales. Fringes grey. On the under side of the fore
wings a pale costal spot indicates the upper end of the white
waved outer line. Hind wings shining grey. Abdomen slightly
darker than the hind wings, and tuft pale ochreous." —
(Walsingham.)
Introduced by Lord Walsingham, September, 1886.
British Localities. — Thetford and Lynn, Norfolk.
Distribution. — Germany ; Gallicia ; North-western Russia.
Lord Walsingham, in bringing forward the species (E. M. M.
xxiii. p. 84), says that he bred Cateremna terebrella in July
from cones of Abies douglasii, which he had collected during
the same month from a tree growing on his estate. A detailed
description of the larva is given in the article referred to, from
which the following particulars are quoted :— " Semitransparent,
greyish white, with some pale brown spots, each bearing a single
hair. Head pale brown ; plate on second segment slightly paler
than the head."
Note. — The specimen figured was kindly lent for the purpose
by Lord Walsingham.
Pempelia obductella, Fisch. (PI. III. fig. 8.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Pempelia obductella, Button, Entom. v. p. 222; Meek, Ent.
Mo. Mag. vii. p. 85; Knaggs, Ent. Ann. 1871, p. 89;
Bond, Proc. Ent. Soc, November, 1870 ; Ragonot,
E. M. M. xxii. p. 54 ; South, Syn. List, p. 40.
Phycis obductella, Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2.
Allied to species of the Ornatella group, *' but may be readily
recognized by the dark chestnut-brown anterior wings, which are
only paler along the costa and on the inner margin, and by the
second transverse line, which ceases far below the costa, and is
broadly interrupted near the inner margin." — (Knaggs.)
Introduced by Mr. Meek, September, 1870.
British Locality. — ? Norfolk.
Distribution. — Central and Southern Europe ; South-eastern
Russia.
Note. — In bringing forward this species as an addition to the
British list, Mr. Meek says, " Several specimens have been
captured by Mr. Button, of Gravesend, this season." Dr.
Knaggs, referring to these same specimens, says that they were
taken by Mr. Button near Gravesend. Mr. Button himself
records Pempelia obductella^ and his note reads, " Norfolk. A few
among Origanum." According to Mr. Doubleday the larva is
dull green, with longitudinal black stripes, and feeds upon various
species of mint, especially Mentha arvensis.
BRITISH DELTOIDS, PYRALIDES, AND CRAMBT. 335
Epischnia bankesiella. (PL IV. fig. 7.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Epischnia bankesiella, Richardson, Ent. Mo. Mag. xxv. p. 63 ;
Proc. Dorset Nat. Hist. Soc.x. p. 193 (col. fig.); E.M.M.
xxvi. p. 256.
"The expansion of the wings in the female is 1 inch 1 line;
in the male it is slightly less. The breadth of the fore wings is
almost exactly one-third of the length. The costa in the male is
regularly curved ; in the female it is much curved at the base and
less so near the tip, whilst the intermediate portion is nearly
straight. The tip is blunt, and the hind margin convex. The
colour of the fore wings is light cinereous grey, clouded with dark
grey, especially on the basal half of the wing. There is an
inconspicuous narrow light greyish ochreous patch, extending
about one-third of the way along the inner margin. The veins
are streaked with dark grey. Several dark grey lines cross the
wing from the costa to the inner margin ; but they are all very
indistinct, and only traceable with difficulty, owing to the wings
being clouded with the same colour. The most distinct are two
lines, one of which starts from the costa near the middle and
runs towards the anal angle as far as the centre of the wing,
where it turns nearly at right angles towards the base, and when
at a short distance from the inner margin turns again at right
angles before it reaches it. This line is double at the costa, and
the two branches gradually approach each other and meet on the
inner margin. The other line is one which runs from the costa
near the tip, parallel to the hind margin, to a point near the anal
angle, where it turns sharply outwards to the anal angle. There
are slight traces of two other lines, one between the two above
mentioned and one near the base ; but it is difficult to follow
their course, owing to the clouding of the wing. A patch of the pale
ground colour, less clouded than the rest, extends obliquely from
the tip to the inner margin. The fringes are of the pale ground
colour, intersected by a dark grey line. The hind wings are very
pale brownish grey, with a darker shade close to the margin ; the
fringes still paler, almost white."
Introduced by Mr. Nelson M. Richardson, August, 1888.
Note. — Mr. and Mrs. Richardson each captured a specimen
on the same evening, some time about the middle of July, 1887.
They each took a specimen again in 1889 ; and Mrs. Richardson
added one more specimen to her score this year.
The figure (PL IV. fig. 7) is from a very beautiful drawing by
Mrs. Richardson. If anyone is desirous of seeing a coloured
figure of E. bankesiellay he should obtain a copy of the * Pro-
ceedings ' of the Society referred to above.
836 tiiE EiiTOMOtiOGISt.
Rhodoph^a consociella var. sodalella, Zell.
BRIT. REF. : —
Acrohasis consociella var. sodalella, Barrett, Ent. Mo. Mag.
xix. p. 111.
Bhodophcea consociella var. sodalella, South, Syn. List, p. 21.
Acrohasis sodalella, Ragonot, E. M. M. xxii. p. 26.
Sodalella differs from typical consociella in several respects: —
*' In the larger size, equalling suavella ; in the more richly
crimson-grey central band ; and in the form of the first line in
the fore wings, which bounds the basal pale patch." — (Barrett.)
Introduced by Mr. C. G. Barrett, October, 1882.
Note, — M. Ragonot is not sure that sodalella is a variety of
consociella. He says there is considerable dissimilarity in the
larvae of the two insects, and adds that " until we can obtain
more positive information about sodalella, Z., I must consider it
distinct from consociella, Hb."
Rhodgph-sia rubrotibiella, Fisch,
BRIT. REF. : —
Acrohasis ruhrotihiella, M'Lachlan, Proc. Ent. Soc, Sept.,
1858; Stainton, Ent. Ann. 1859, p. 149; Ragonot,
E. M. M. xxii. p. 27,
Rhodophcea ruhrotihiella, South, Syn. List, p. 21 ; Leech,
Brit. Pyral. p. 108, pi. xii. fig. 16.
Closely allied to A. tumidella, but differs from it as follows : —
" 1. The basal portion of the wing, instead of being orange, is
a pale grey, with a red streak along the costa. 2. Instead of the
broad orange band beyond the first line, there is only a slender
red band. 3. The hind margin of the wing is straighter and less
oblique." — (Stainton.)
Introduced by Mr. Robert M'Lachlan, September, 1858.
Note, — Mr. M'Lachlan took two specimens in 1858, flying
round arl oak tree near Forest Hill. The species does not
appear to be very well known by British entomologists ; and, as
M. Ragonot says, its synonomy is very perplexing.
Melissoblaptes cephalonica. (PI. IV. fig. 3.)
BRIT. REF. : —
Melissohlaptes cephalonica, Stainton and Knaggs, Ent. Ann.
1866, p. 147; Pryer, Ent. Mo. Mag. vii. p. 112; Barrett,
op. cit. X. p. 272; Doubl. List, Suppl. p. 2; South, Syn.
List, p. 21; Leech, Brit. Pyral. p. 110, pi. xii. fig. 5;
Ragonot, E. M. M. xxii. p. 23.
Corcyra cephalonica, Ragonot, I. c. p. 58.
Exp. al., ^ , 9 lines ; $ , 9j lines. "Head white, the frontal
tuft protruding, as in Melissohlaptes, and concealing the short
palpi of the male ; the palpi of the female are short, drooping,
the second joint being densely clothed with long scales, leaving
I'iiE SEXES or lepidopI^era. 331'
only the extreme tip of the terminal joint visible ; antennae
pale grey, the basal joint thickened and greyish white. Anterior
wings with the costa somewhat rounded (in the male speci-
mens before me these have almost the form of a flattened
ellipse, though this peculiar shape is less marked in the female) ;
grey, with the nervures darker, especially those between the end
of discoidal cell and the apex of the wing ; hind margin spotted
with dark grey. In the male specimen the costal portion of the
wing has an ochreous tinge towards the base. Cilia pale grey,
with the extreme tips a little darker. Posterior wings pale grey,
somewhat transparent towards the anal angle ; cilia paler grey.
Thorax in front whitish grey, then grey, concolorous with the
anterior wings. Legs pale grey." — (Stainton.)
Introduced by Dr. Knaggs in 1866.
British Localities. — Dover ; London ; York.
Note, — The original specimens, described by Mr. Stainton,
were bred by Mr. Hind, of York, from dried currants. Mr.
Barrett, writing in 1875, says that he found the species common
in grocer's fruit warehouses, on September 2ist, 1874; and, as
he had previously met with two examples on July 31st of the
same year, he concluded that they were probably stragglers of an
early brood. This species is probably now in most collections.
THE SEXES OF LEPIDOPTERA.
By T. D. a. Cockerell.
In Entom. xxii. 177, 1 referred to the dwarfing of Lepidoptera
produced by insufficient food, and quoted Mr. T. G. Gentry's
opinion that a preponderance of males could be produced in this
way, suggesting also that those who possessed dwarfs should
examine them and report on the sex.
M. Alfred Wailly (Entom. 120) took exception to this view,
and stated it as his experience that any preponderance of males
observed at any time among dwarfs was purely accidental, and
that he had found both sexes well represented when breeding
from small cocoons. He did not seem to believe that the sex of
insects could be influenced in any way.
While M. Wailly's evidence as to the sexes of dwarfs is very
valuable, it must still be remembered that all animals which,
when adult, have the sexes separate, are at a certain stage of
larval or embryonic life potentially hermaphrodite ; and it really
becomes a sort of choice which group of organs, male or female,
shall be developed. Gynandromorphs are those in which one
side has developed male peculiarities, and the other female ; such
are well known among Lepidoptera. A snail is a true herma-
phrodite, with both sets of organs functional.
S38 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I am not able to say whether Mr. Gentry's opinion, which I
quoted, has any real foundation in fact or not ; but to show that
the idea of nutrition affecting sex is not confined to Mr. Gentry,
I will quote from a very interesting paper, by Mr. F. E. Beddard,
published in the ^ Report and Proceedings of the Ealing Micro-
scopical and Natural History Society for 1889.' Mr. Beddard,
referring to birds, says (p. 55) : —
" It appears that in many birds the males are very much more
abundant than the females M. Stoltzmann himself reports
203 males to 87 females among humming-birds, collected by him
in Peru. He attempted to explain this disproportion by the
apparently observed fact that the better nourished eggs become
females ; the worse nourished eggs, males. The female, occupied
with the cares of incubation, is not in a sufficiently healthy con-
dition to produce manj^ well-nourished eggs. Hence the greater
number of births is of male birds."
Of course there is another way of looking at it, namely, that
these eggs or larvae which were to produce females needed most
nourishment, and hence when semistarvation occurred the males
would be able to survive on less, and would reach the adult
stage, while the females would more often die. In this way the
same result, a preponderance of males, would be observed.
3, Fairfax Eoad, Bedford Park, Chiswick, W., Oct. 12, 1890.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S.
(Continued from p. 312).
V. — The Chemical Aspect (continued),
C.
Having thus, for the present, disposed of black, perhaps it
would be as well to say a few words upon those eminently
unsatisfactory colours Brown and Grey, although the gist of my
remarks thereupon is really that there is nothing to be said !
So far as I can understand matters at present, these greys and
non-tints so common among Noctuge and Geometers, the brown*
shades also common in Noctuse, and even perhaps the browns of
manyBombyces, already enumerated, are all (physical) absorption
colours, just as black is ; excepting that instead of complete
absorption of the light rays taking place, only some or most of
them have been absorbed.
Wallace apparently considers f that all these dubious browns,
* See, however, the remarks on pp. 221 and 223.
t 'Tropical Nature,' p. 188. I ought to add, however, that in this passage
Wallace is referring to animal colours generally, and not to insects specially.
dHEMISTRY O^ INSECT COLOURS. 33'9^
greys, et id omne genus, are really pigment colours ; but so far as
I can at present interpret them, my experiments do not seem to
countenance this view. And if black be admitted as a physical
and not a pigment colour, then my view derives much support
from the colour phenomenon, so abundantly displayed in the
Noctuse, where black shades off by the most imperceptible
degrees into greys, duns, and browns.
D.
Since it is evidently best that we should dispose of all the
disappointing and uninteresting colours in the first place, before
passing on to those which have yielded some results other than
nil to the experimenter, we will now consider the case of white.
As already explained, I had originally anticipated (as doubtless
most would have done) tliat white would prove a very interesting
colour. Its manifest connection with yellow, as seen in so many
of the Pieridse, e.g., naturally suggested that it might be possible,
by means of reagents, to promote in the partly or wholly white
species colour changes (to orange and yellow), that nature had
already brought about in neighbouring species ; or, in part only,
in an otherwise white species. But my readers fully understand
by this time how fallacious were all such hopes ; and after the
arguments that I have already adduced to support the view that
black is no pigment colour, but merely a physical absorption
effect, it is hardly necessary here to do much more than propose
the view that white is equally a physical colour, but due to
reflection. As with black, so again here, I can instance the com-
plete unanimity (always excepting galatea and the fringes of
Lyccena, &c.) among experiments made on the most widely-
sundered species, — an unanimity the more striking since there
are manifest differences in appearance between the various whites.
The whites of Pieris, Vanessa, Hepialus, Larentia, and Liparidse,
for instance, are by no means identical in appearance.
An argument against this view (of the non-pigmental cha-
racter of white) might be found in the fact that many yellows —
as I have myself shown — are turned white by most of the re-
agents employed ; and from this fact it might be argued that if
yellow — an acknowledged pigment colour — is convertible chemic-
ally into white, therefore conversely white must be a pigment
colour, and convertible by some other reagents (if one only knew
what *' some "), or at any rate by Nature, into yellow. But this
argument, if advanced, were altogether futile, and for this simple
reason: — the yellows, e.g., of Colias and Euchloe are not changed
into white at all, in the sense that a yellow pigment becomes
white ; but the yellow pigment is dissolved out of the wing,
leaving this of the same pure white that the primeval Colias and
Euchloe, no doubt, displayed thousands of years ago. Therefore,
340 tttE E1?T0M0L0GIST.
in interpreting these experiments, it must not be said that yellow
has been evolved /rom white, in the same sense as red has been
evolved from yellow : this conception would be quite erroneous.
Yellow, although evolved on or in a white wing, has not been
evolved from white ; that is to say, it has no genetic connection
with white, as, for instance, red has with yellow. It is a neces-
sary corollary, from this statement, that the so very usual con-
nection of yellow and white (in the sense that probably most
yellow species were formerly white) is, chemically considered, a
mere accident or coincidence, and that there is no reason why
yellow might not equally well have been developed on any other
unpigmented* ground colour, as, for example, on a black, or grey,
or brown.f Now the chestnut-coloured pigment, as I have strong
reason to believe, is pretty closely related chemically to yellow,
and is entirely analogous to yellow in that it also, though deve-
loped so commonly on originally white species (as is shown by
the fact that reagents dissolve it out, and leave a white wing),
has also no genetic relationship to white — no necessary connection
therewith. In this connection, therefore, I consider it exceedingly
interesting that the reactions with two chestnut species that offer
apparently striking exceptions to the behaviour of the class gene-
rally, are really — according to the view just enunciated — quite
normal ; and in fact it is in the behaviour of these very species
that we find a striking confirmation of this theory of the relations
between chestnut and white, and therefore indirectly, and by
analogy, of my theory concerning yellow also. But I must not
further anticipate results that will be fully explained under sub-
sequent headings.
With regard now to the absence of any white pigment, I
do not think that we have here by any means so much cause
for surprise as in the corresponding case of black ; at least,
so it seems to me now, looking at the matter in the light of
past experience; but I am disappointed that my experiments
should prove of no value in differentiating the various whites into
different groups, and especially am I disappointed in the results
of the special set of staining experiments.! After considering
these carefully I cannot perceive that there are any particular
inferences to be drawn, except that the whites of Pieris and
Melanargia are somewhat different from the others— which we
knew before. Now it had appeared to me (reasoning from the
mere appearance of the different whites) that one might divide
them into several groups, as, for instance : — 1. Pieris ; 2. Mela-
nargia; 3. Vanessa, Limenitis, and perhaps the Noctuce with white
hind wings ; 4. Hepialus ; 6. Liparidse ; and so on. Such an
attempt at arrangement by superficial resemblance would, how-
* The reason for this restriction of " wwpigmented " is of course obvious,
t Further consideration of this is deferred until Section 6.
} See page 220.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 341
ever, be most laborious, seeing how imperceptibly one white
shades off into another; and hence it was that I attached so
much importance to the evidence that might be obtained by means
of reagents. But such evidence is not forthcoming, and my hopes
must be abandoned.
Let me now draw attention to the behaviour of some few
species in particular. First, as to Pieris, The statement made
some time since in ' The Entomologist,' that the white of Pieris
is due to reflection from air-spaces, has already been quoted. I
do not know on what evidence this view was originally put
forward by Dr. Dimmock, but it appears to me to be supported
by the reaction with staining reagents. The effect of methyl-
aniline green and violet (see Table, p. 220) was to produce an
apparent thickness of colour, such as I saw in no other instance.
The appearance of the stained wing strongly suggested to me
the thought that this *' thickness " was due to the stain filling up
these air-spaces.*
Next as to Melanargia galatea. I drew special attention, in the
Table, to the fact that this species had been stained by methyl-
aniline violet a different colour from that produced in any other
species. It is of course impossible to convey, by a mere descrip-
tion, the difference in appearance between this and other stained
species ; but I think that anyone who had seen the experiments
would have felt as I did, that in the unique appearance of galatea
we had additional illustration of its unique constitution, — its
difference from other white species. But with regard to the yellow
produced by various reagents in this species, no doubt it will be
asked what explanation, if any, can be offered of this exceptional
and anomalous behaviour of galatea : why should it react in a
manner so contradictory and opposed to all that one might expect,
— judging from the other experiments ? Well, after studying the
question, I conclude that the anomaly and exception — striking
though they seem — are apparent only, and not real ; that if the
views laid down in foregoing paragraphs be assented to, there is
here no real difficulty at all. Nay, more, the reactions oi galatea
may be interpreted as lending additional support to my theory ;
and, in fact, I am confirmed in my views by the independent
support that they derive from this behaviour of galatea^ since I
was originally led to such conclusions without any reference to
the phenomenon now in question. If, however, my views be
entirely wrong, — if there be a white pigment which gradually
developed into yellow or chestnut, — if the destruction of yellow
and chestnut by reagents be due not to a solution of the pigments,
* In this connection I might add that the white of some species of flowers is
certainly due to this cause. If pressure be applied the air-spaces are broken, the
white disappears, and a colour appears, due to a pigment present in slight quantity,
whose effect was apparently veiled before.
843 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
but to a retrogressive modification of yellow or chestnut into
white pigment, — then I admit that in Melanargia galatea we have
a glaring difficulty. But, granting my theory, the difficulty is
apparent only.
Let me explain this. It is admitted pretty generally that the
pigments of animals, and of flowers also,* are, physiologically
considered, waste products. At any rate it can hardly be doubted
that they are decomposition products, due to the breaking down
of a large and complex molecule into several less complex. In
vegetable physiology it seems pretty well established that the most
various substances — as starch, mucilage, tannin, resin, gum, oil,t
&c. — are all formed by a decomposition of the protoplasm that is
incessantly going on ; and it is only in accord with all analogy and
observation to expect that the chlorophyll (or rather its forerunner
etiolin, or perhaps a mother-substance of this) is either a direct
decomposition product of the protoplasmic molecule,! or a simple
compound of such decomposition product with another body
found in the cell ; and the various plant pigments — or at least
many of them — are closely related to chlorophyll. Similarly, in
animals, it is very probable that such pigments as bilirubin,
urobilin, lutein, &c., are derivatives of hsBmoglobin, which is no
doubt a decomposition (katabolic) product of the protoplasm.§
I have quoted the above facts to show that I am only assuming
that there holds good for insect pigments what is an universal
phenomenon of physiology ; and now I can state very simply
what seems to me the explanation of the reaction with galatea.
I take it that in this species the metabolic processes have not yet
produced any pigment, but very nearly so ; that there exists in the
wing a very unstable mother-substance (itself a decomposition
product, whether produced immediately from the protoplasmic
molecule, or mediately from a molecule of intermediate com-
plexity) ; and that the action of any powerful reagent is to
decompose this into a yellow pigment, and something else that
does not concern us at present. This view, although at present
necessarily somewhat hypothetical,!! offers a satisfactory explana-
tion of the apparent anomaly in galatea,^ One objection may
* " The colouring matters of plants may be regarded simply as waste
products in so far as their direct use in constructive metabolism is concerned." —
(Vines' ' Physiology of Plants, p. 242.)
t Cf., e.g., Vines' * Physiology of Plants,' passim; &c.
X Vines' 'Physiology,' p. 241. Also Dr. Schunck, on the "Chemistry of
Chlorophyll," in ' Annals of Botany' vol. iii. ; and of an abstract in the Microscopic
Society's journal for this year, pp. 196, 197.
§ Cf. Michael Foster's ' Text-Book of Physiology,' _passm.
II I hope before long to have an opportunity of examinmg these various pig-
ments by a method sufficiently obvious, which I hope may give us a far clearer
insight into their constitution and affinities.
^f It is of course an essential corollary from this that galatea may be expected
one day to become yellow, — by perfecting its decomposition processes I As a matter
of fact I may point out that already (in the female) the presence of the *• mother-
substance " of the pigment has produced a slight yellowish-cream tinge.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 34B
still be raised, viz., that, granting the above, yet the yellow pig-
ment, as soon as produced, ought to be dissolved by the reagents
employed, leaving the wing finally colourless, as in Euchloe or
Colias, for example. To which I reply that, in the first instance,
not all yellows are dissolved ; and, in the second, that on repeating
my experiments with special reference to this point, I find that in
every case the reagent which produces the colour also dissolves
it (a fact observed from the first as true of some reagents) , leaving
a colourless transparent wing. So that we may fairly consider
galatea to offer no contravention to the general rule.
The next species to which I will call attention is Amphidasys
betularia. Knowing that buff- coloured varieties of this species
occur, I was exceedingly interested to learn how reagents would
affect this white. Most of them were absolutely without effect
(as usual), but after treatment with sulphuric acid there. were one
or two very small but distinct buff spots or marks on the wing.
The same effect was produced by potassic permanganate, and
somewhat doubtfully by tannin and by gallic acid. This was
rather exciting; and, in the hope of transforming the white
entirely, I specially experimented by submitting wings of this
species to the action of sulphuric acid for an entire week. To
my great disappointment, however, at the expiration of that
period, the white was really not affected at all, except that the
veins were buff. Had the experiment succeeded we should have
had a companion case to that of galatea; but as it is I am some-
what a loss to understand why such a very trifling effect was
produced, and nothing more. It is, however, very possible that
this species is in an analogous condition to galatea, but that the
" mother-substance " of a pigment is in most specimens less far
advanced in the metabolic progress. I should dearly like to test
(if there be such) a white specimen bred from one normal and one
buff parent, — since one might expect that in this instance a
pigment could be readily produced by the same method as in
galatea. If so, one might next experiment on a*' quadroon"
specimen, and so on.
Of the remaining species there is very little to be said. The
peculiar behaviour of Hepialus humuli may be pointed out. I
cannot understand why this white, which presents such a fine,
almost polished, appearance, should " go transparent " under the
action of most reagents. But this is a puzzling and unsatisfactory
species altogether. The natural quasi^transparency of the white
in Vanessa, Limenitis, and many NoctusB and Geometrse, was even
more evident under the influence of various reagents ; and with
this may, perhaps, be correlated the fact that they stained so very
slightly (see p. 220).
With this, I think, concludes all that need at present be said
about white, and we may now pass to the consideration of some
pigment colours.
(To be continued.)
344 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &o.
Plusia moneta in Britain. — It may be worth recording that on Ist
July last I captured at light, in a wood near here, a very fine specimen of
Plusia moneta. Messrs. Watkins and Doncaster identified it. T also
took a specimen of Acronycta alni in June, at sugar. — R. A. Dallas
BEEOHiNa ; 24, St. James' Road, Tunbridge Wells, October 2, 1890.
[Mr. 0. G. Barrett, in the October number of another magazine^
to wit the 'Entomologist's Monthly,' has a most interesting note on
the occurrence of this species in England, in which he mentions the
capture of two other specimens. One of these it appears was taken on the
evening of 25th June last, by a schoolboy, as it was hovering over a flowering
plant of Delphinium in a garden at Dover. The other example was seen
on the night of 2nd July, flying around one of the gas-lamps at a railway
station near Reading, and was secured by Mr. W. Holland. It is,
perhaps, noteworthy that the last specimen referred to was taken at light
on the same evening that Mr. Christy found one in his illuminated moth-
trap (Entom. 254). At the last meeting of the London Entomological
Society, Mr. Kirby remarked that Plusia moneta had occurred in some
numbers in Holland. — Ed.]
Plusia moneta. — With reference to the description of the larva
(Entom. 288), it is correct. I have preserved specimens in my collection.
Of this species there is a not uncommon variety of the imago in Amurland
(Siberia), in which the fore wings are shining silver-white, instead of the
golden grey in the type. I have specimens of both. — N. F. DoBEiiE ;
Beverley, Yorks.
Acronycta aceris in September. — I took a specimen of Acronycta
aceris at Enfield, on the evening of the 17th September last, at sugar. Is
not this a very late date for this species ? — H. D. Stkes ; " The Cedars,"
Enfield, Middlesex, October 11, 1890.
Heliothis armigera at Chatham. — On the 5th of last month, while
I was strolling about the waste ground at the extension works in Chatham
Dockyard, I disturbed a fine specimen of this moth, which fluttered up
from among some rank herbage at my feet, and settled again a few yards
off. Unfortunately, I had not a net with me, and my efforts to secure it in
my cap were unavailing, as it was too wary and active, and eventually took
a long flight, and I saw it no more. This is only the third example I have
met with in England during the many years I have been collecting. —
Gervase F. Mathew ; H.M.S. ' Tyne,' Gibraltar, October 4, 1890.
Varieties of Arctia caia. — Referring to Mr. W. T. Pearce's note
on Arctia caia (Entom. 291), I may mention that I have this year bred a
female specimen of A. caia with the usually white portion of the fore wings
suffused with a pale pinkish hue. I may add that I obtained the larva
(with others) from Walthamstow in the spring, and fed it principally on
dock, though I gave it lettuce for a day or two. — Henry A. Hill;
132, Haverstock Hill, Hampstead, N.W., Sept. 15, 1890.
On the 24th of July a boy brought me a fine dark female of A. caia
to pin and set for him. It had certainly rubbed itself a little, but
only slightly. Fore wings deep chocolate; hind wings black, except
at the base, which is reddish orange ; abdomen black, with a narrow red
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 345
stripe at each side. The boy found twelve larvae, six of which he gave to
me. Mine produced the ordinary form, whilst from one of the six he kept
the above var. was obtained. I should add that the larvae were found at
the edge of Laxley Moor, about five miles from Sheffield. — J. Batty ;
65, Fawcett Street, Sheffield, September 22, 1890.
Larva of Diloba c^eruleocephala on Laurel. — In reference to
Mr. Butler's note on the food-plant of Diloba cceruleocephala (Entora. 327),
I may state that for the last three years I have taken plenty of the larvae of
this species off the laurel bushes in the college grounds. I tried feeding
them on whitethorn, but they seemed to prefer the laurel. It would be
interesting to know how these larvae manage to neutralize the hydrocyanic
acid contained in the leaves of their food-plant, and which is so fatal to
them in the perfect form. — D. H. S. Stewart; Badley College, Oxford.
[In * Weekly Entomologist,' i. p. 94 (1862), Rev. J. Hellins writes,
"D. caruleocephala. A number of larvae once found on laurel." — E. A. F.]
Hermaphrodite Trichiura crat^gi. — On the 26th August last, I
bred a distinctly hermaphrodite specimen of the above moth. The right
upper wing bears an exact resemblance in shape, colour, and markings to
that of an ordinary male, whilst the opposite wing has all the characteristics
of the female. The underwings are, unfortunately, very imperfectly deve-
loped, but it can be seen that they are identical with those of a male and
female respectively; as also are the antennae. I would also mention
that the left side of the body and corresponding legs are brown, the
opposite side and legs being grey, and agree with the colours of the
respective sexes. — W. H. Jackson ; 4, Queen Anne Villas, Grove Road,
Walthamstow, September 24, 1890.
Notes on the Season. — The following observations, in addition to
those which have already appeared in the * Entomologist,' of the season
which is fast closing, may be of interest. The notes taken refer to parts of
North Somerset until the middle of June, and to the lower part of South
Wales until the end of September, with the exception of the latter part of
June on the Cotswolds. In January and February I frequently noticed
Phigalia pedaria {pilosaria) at rest and on gas-lamps in Bath. Noctuae,
frequenting the sallow bloom, were fairly abundant in different localities,
but not nearly so much so as the previous season. Tephrosia crepuscularia,
Anticlea badiata, and Selenia bilunaria were fairly abundant. Of the
Rhopalocera, Euchlo'e cardamines, Lycana icarus, and L. minima were
plentiful, the last named locally so. Larvae of the spring and early
summer feeding species were very abundant, notably Zygana JiUpendulm,
Bombyx neustria^ Hybernia defoliaria, Oporabia dilutata, Selenia bilunariUf
Crocallis elinguaria, Himera pennaria ; and the oak trees were completely
riddled by myriads of Tortrix viridana. On the Cotswolds, Lyccena icarus,
Argynnis euphrosyne, and Euchlo'e cardamines were common ; the last
named was observed on June 25th, the latest. In Wales I found species
very variable in numbers, some of the commoner, as Xylophasia monoglypha,
X. litJwxylea, TriphcBna pronuba, Apamea didyma [oculea], Phiogophora
meticulosa (September), being very abundant ; whilst, on the other hand,
less common species were conspicuous by their absence. The second brood
of the Pieridae was extremely plentiful; also Lyccena icarus ; L. astrarche,
fairly so ; Hesperia thaumas was common ; and Argynnis paphia, Vanessa
io, and V. urticce were in fair numbers; but I did not observe V. cardui.
ENTOM, — NOV. 1890. 2 D
346 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
** Sugaring " during the season was little more successful than last year,
the scarcity of some species being, I believe, the cause, on account of their
absence on favourable evenings. As a consequence of the abundance of
larvEe, doubtless, the Ichneumonidae were numerous early in the season ;
so also were the " sawflies." — T. B. Jefferys ; (Clevedon) Cirencester.
Apamea ophiogramma at Hampstead. — It may be of interest to the
readers of the * Entomologist ' to know that I took in my garden here two
specimens of Apamea ophiogramma ; the first on June the 23rd, and the
second on August the 12th. — E. H. Evans ; 3, Thurlow Road, Hampstead.
[Probably our correspondent has some of the ornamental ribbon-grass
growing in his garden. This plant is said to be the food of the larva of
A. ophiogramma. — Ed.]
OxYPTTLus L^TUS ON THE Kentish Coast. — I capturcd some speci-
mens of this plume-moth, on June 8th, between Dover and St. Margaret's
Bay. On July 13th I took a few more at Deal, or, rather, at the Sandwich
end of the sand-hills. — W. Purdey ; 129, Sea View Terrace, Folkestone.
Zanclognatha emortualis. — It may perhaps interest you to learn
that I possess a good specimen of this insect, which was taken a good many
years ago by the Rev. W. T. Bree, of Allesley Rectory, near Coventry, but
I do not know any of the particulars of its capture. — (Rev.) Henry Burney ;
Wavendon Rectory, Bletchley Station, Bucks, October 4, 1890.
[On June 12th, 1859, the late Mr. Charles Healy beat a specimen of
Z. emmtualis out of a beech tree near the King's Oak, Epping Forest
(E. W. I. vii. 188;Zool. xx. 8296). Mr. Machin exhibited it at the
Entomological Society of London on December 2nd, 1861. I saw the
specimen sold at Stevens's a few years ago, but I forget the date and who
was the purchaser. — E. A. F.]
Scarcity of Lepidoptera. — I spent the first three weeks of August
at Staplefield, near Crawley, Sussex. The weather was bad for the time of
year, being cold and wet nearly every day, with an occasional thunder-
storm. As far as appearances went the country looked very promising for
collecting in. There were numerous small woods close to the house in
which I was staying, with rough fields between them. Beating the hedges
by day only produced a few of the commonest Geometrse and Tortrices,
while sugaring was an utter failure, as I did not see a single moth, although
the evenings when I tried were, to all appearances, most favourable, being
calm and damp. The only larvae noticed were a few broods of Pygara
bucephala and a solitary Smeriiithus ocellatus. — Gervase F. Mathew ;
H.M.S. *Tyne,' Gibraltar, October 9, 1890.
List of Butterflies taken and seen near and at Monmouth in
Seasons 1889 and 1890. — Pierid^. — Gonepteryx rhamni. Pieris
brassiccB, P. rapa-, P. napi, common. Anthocharis cardamines, common.
NYMPHALiDiJi. — Argynnis paphia, common; A. adippe ; A. euphrosyne,
plentiful; A. selene {?). MelitcBa artemis, Cwmcarvan. Vanessa c-album,
plentiful ; Vanessa urticce, plentiful ; V. polychloros, 1 specimen, Aug. 23rd,
1890 ; 7. io, common ; F. atalanta ; V. cardui, occasional. Apaturid^. —
Apatura iris, several (two females taken while settled on ground). Satyrid^.
— Melanargia galatea; Pararge egeria, plentiful; P. rnegcera, plentiful.
Epinephele ianira, plentiful ; E. tithonus, not common ; E. hyperanthes^
fairly plentiful. Coenonympha pamphilus, common. LYC^NiDiS. — Thecla
KOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. Mi
rubi, in June ; T. quercus, not common ; T. w-album, 1 specimen, July 29th,
1890. Polyommatus phloeas. Lycana icarus ; L. argiolus. Hesperiid^.
— Syrichthus alveolus, plentiful. Thanaos tages, plentiful. Hesperia syl-
vanus, fairly common ; H. thaumas (= linea), fairly common. — (Rev.)
Gerard W. Palmer; The Vicarage, Monmouth.
Abundance of certain Larv^. — As a set-ofF against the scarcity of
Lepidoptera, I have to record the extreme abundance of Eupithecia larvae
at Chatham and Sheerness. At the former place there is a considerable
tract of waste land in that part of the Dockyard known as the " Extension
Works." This, at the beginning of September, was overgrown with a pro-
fusion of wild flowers, consisting chiefly of ragwort, sea aster, thistles of
various kinds, willow herb, Chenopodium, Atriplex, coltsfoot, chamomile, &c.
In the former the larvse of Eupithecia oblongata (centaureata) and absynthi-
ata literally swarmed, as many as fifty being knocked out of a single bunch
of flowers, and hardly any two larvae were exactly alike, so it is possible
there may be other species than the two mentioned. From Chenopodium
and Atriplex larvae of E. subnotata were freely obtained, together with a
sprinkling of Hadena trifolii {chenopodii) and oleracea. At Sheerness, to-
wards the end of September, I found Chenopodium. and Atriplex growing
luxuriantly on the sea-bank beyond Marine Town ; and here the larvae of
subnotata, chenopodii and oleracea were in prodigious numbers, and the
latter might be seen in hundreds feeding fully exposed during the day, and
stripping the erect stems of the Atriplex of every vestige of flower, seed,
or leaf. After lifting with my walking-stick and shaking the trailing stems
of one moderate-sized plant oi Chenopodium, I counted more than a hundred
larvae of E. subnotata lying on the ground below. The grey-coloured larvae
were in proportion of 6 per cent, to the green ones. — Gervase F. Mathew.
Autumnal Larvae. — In the neighbourhood of Lowestoft, this year,
where I stayed from middle of August to middle of September, the larvae,
even of the common kinds, were conspicuous by their absence, with one
exception, that of Euchelia jacobcecB, which were in large numbers, every
small plant of ragwort having five or six on it. In this neighbourhood
(St. John's Wood) many gardens are stripped by the larvae of Mamestra
brassiccB, M. persicarice, Pieris brassicce, and other common species. —
T. G. Williams ; 13, Elm Tree Road, St. John's Wood, Oct. 13, 1890.
Another Plague of Caterpillars. — Many of your readers, no
doubt, are already aware of the extraordinary abundance this autumn of
the larvae of Liparis monacha in Southern Germany, and especially in
Bavaria; and as I have not seen it noticed in the 'Entomologist,' it may
be useful to do so for the sake of future reference. A letter in the
* Standard' newspaper, of 23rd August, gives a good descriptive account of
the havoc it has created ; and the * lUustrirte Zeitung,' of 6th September,
deals with it in greater detail. From this it can only be likened to a plague
of locusts in and around Munich. It seems to have committed equal havoc
in the woods in Northern Germany, as in Oldenburg, alone, seventy
hectares were totally stripped by the larvae, fir appearing to be chiefly
afl'ected. The same article states that the devastation is periodical in
Western Russia and in East Prussia, where, within the last fifty years,
"hundreds of square miles (German)" have been laid bare. On the last
occasion, the plague was stopped by heavy gales of wind, which drove the
insect in clouds over the Baltic, to be drowned there, and afterwards to be
^48 THJJ fiNTOMOLOeilSl?.
washed up in such abundance " as to be carted away for manure "! What
an opportunity our variety hunters have lost. Strangely enough, the
• Societas entomologica ' makes no allusion to its extraordinary profusion
this year. — N. F. Dobr]&e ; Beverley, E. Yorks.
A LONG Day's Collecting. — I was staying at Wicken, and on Sunday,
July 20th, I drove into Ely to meet my brother, who was coming to see
some collecting in the Fens, and I planned a long day for the morrow. We
arranged with the bricklayer for the hire of his pony and cart, and started
next morning for Tuddenham. As we drove along we kept our eyes open
for moths sitting on the roadside trees and fences. When we reached the
sandy soil of Suffolk, with its belts of fir trees, we carefully searched a
a Scotch fir plantation, and were rewarded by finding two specimens of
Anticlea sinuata at rest on the trunks, also two Pseudoterpna pruinata
(== cytisaria), several Acronycta psi, Hecatera serena, &c. Further on along
the road we found one Therafirmata and two Porthesia aurijlua, the latter
just emerged and drying their wings. Of the A. sinuata one was a female,
so I kept it ahve for ova ; it laid eggs freely on the flowers and stalks of the
lady's bedstraw {Galium verum). The eggs were bright yellow, and resem-
bled the unopened buds of the Galium., — consequently were very difficult
to distinguish. (The larva is very handsome ; it has a gamboge-yellow
stripe along the middle of the back, and on each side of this stripe is one
of jet-black. The lower half of the body is green. The larvae were full
fed at the end of August, and made cocoons on the surface of the ground,
or, a few only, among the flowers and seeds of the Galium.) When we
reached Tuddenham we tied up our pony to a fence, and, leaving him to eat
his corn, we made a search for the larva of Lithostege griseata. It feeds
upon a species of wild mustard [Siaymhrium Sophia). The plant, when in
seed, has a light, waving, and almost feathery appearance; it grows in
neglected corners of cultivated fields, and sometimes among the corn itself.
The larva is not easy to find, as it very much resembles the seed-pods upon
which it feeds, both in its shape and colour. We took about fifteen, and
then gave it up, and drove back to the top of Tuddenham Hill, there to
look for the larva of Dianthcecia irregularis on its food-plant, Silene otites,
an inconspicuous little plant growing among the grass at the roadside. Of
the few larvae which we found I took two that were partially inside the
seed-pod, and this gave me the clue to what had puzzled me about this larva
last year. I had on that occasion gathered a bunch of the S. otites for food.
There were no eggs upon it that I could discover. This bunch of food was
tied up in a bag, and a week subsequently I found upon it quite a number
of larvae of D. irregularis, all about one-third of an inch long or larger.
No doubt they were already hatched when I gathered the S. otites, and they
were feeding concealed within the seed-pods after the manner of the rest of
the genus Dianthcecia, but the smallness of the seed-pods had misled me.
By this time it was four o'clock, and, being still a dozen miles from Wicken,
we began to turn our heads homewards. It was a beautiful day, and from
the top of Tuddenham Hill the cathedral at Ely was plainly to be seen at
a distance of some twenty miles. On our way home we stopped at
the village of Fordham, and after tea, at the ' Dragon,' we walked down
to Chippenham Fen (we had obtained leave to collect there). On our
way through the fields we beat an old high thorn-hedge, and secured one
Toxocarnpa p>astinum, one Nudaria mundana, one Macaria liturata, and
one Acidalia imitaria. A few days previously I had beaten out of this
SOCIETIES. 349
same hedge six fresh specimens of Aventia flexida and lots of Geometrse.
While waiting for the dusk to come on we walked about among the sedge,
and took a few Ccenohla rufa (= despecta) flying over ditches. Chippen-
ham Fen is cut up and intersected by belts of trees ; along the outsides of
these belts are wide rides. At the edge of these rides and about the ditches
grow masses of hemp agrimony, the food-plant of Plusia orichalcea. This
was our particular quarry, and very exciting it was watching for this rare
moth at the thistle-heads, in the dim light, while the nightjars rattled and
the fen gnats sang round one's mosquito veil. Many a dash did we make
with the net, and mostly was it only a despised P. chrysitis that we had
caught. Still we managed to secure four specimens of P. orichalcea that
evening. It was a very warm night, and lots of things were on the wing ;
we took Hepialus humuli (rather late I think), and three specimens of
Toxocampa j^^astlnum ; but we did not stop after darkness had fairly set in.
When we got back to Wicken it was 11 p.m. One Pelurga comitata and
one Cidaria imitaria were flying about in the house, and, having secured these
and eaten a mouthful of supper, we walked down to Wicken Fen, where
Bailey was already at work with the " light." He had got several moths ;
among them one Pterostoma palpina, one cream-coloured variety of the
male Odonestis potatoria, one Bomhyx quercus, two or three battered Lasio-
campa quercifolia, Epione apiciaria, and lots of Acidalia immutata. The
air had now turned chilly, and nothing much came to the light for some
time, so we " shut down " the light, as they say in the Fens, and went for
our beds, the only further catch of any note being one Tapinostola Jielmanni,
the first of the season. The season was very late in the Fens this year ;
flowering plants appeared to me to be three weeks behind last year, and many
of the moths and larvae also. — W. M. Christy ; Watergate, Emsworth.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — Oct. 1st, 1890. The Kt. Hon.
Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair. The Rev. Dr.
Walker exhibited, and read notes on, a long and varied series of forms of Cry-
modes exults, collected in June and July last in Iceland. In reply to a question
by Lord Walsingham as to whether all the forms referred by Dr. Walker to
C. exulis had been identified as belonging to that species, Mr. Kirby said the
species was a very variable one, and that several forms had been described
from Labrador and Greenland. Mr. South stated that he had examined Dr.
Walker's specimens, and he believed that most of the forms exhibited had
been described by Dr. Staudinger, in his papers on the Entomology of Iceland,
as varieties of C. exulis. Dr. Sharp exhibited a specimen of Ornithomyia
avicularia, L., taken near Dartford, to which there were firmly adhering —
apparently by their mandibles — several specimens of a mallophagous insect.
He also exhibited some specimens of fragile Diptera, Neuroptera, and
Lepidoptera, to show that the terminal segments in both sexes might be
dissected off and mounted separately without the structures suffering from
shrivelling or distortion. Dr. Sharp also said, in reference to the statement
made by him, on p. 421 of his paper recently published in tlie ' Transactions '
of the Society, as to the number of the segments of the abdomen, and the
position of the genital orifice in the female of Hemiptera-Heteroptera,
that he had recently been making some dissections, and found that the
structures externally were difficult of comprehension, and he now thought
SiSO TflE ENTOMOLOGtSt.
that the statement he had made from observation, without dissection, might
prove to be erroneous. Mr. G. F. Hampson exhibited and remarked on a
series of Erebia melas, taken in July last, in the Austrian Alps (Dolomites),
by Mrs. NichoUs. Captain Elwes observed that this species was abundant
in the Pyrenees ; but although he had frequently suggested to Dr. Staudinger
and other European lepidopterists that it probably occurred in the Swiss or
Austrian Alps, he had never been able to obtain specimens from any part
of Europe except the Pyrenees ; and that it had been left to an English
lady to be the first to take a species of Erebia new to these Alps. He
added that the species only frequented very steep and stony slopes on the
mountains, so that its capture was attended with difficulty. Mr.
M'Lachlan exhibited specimens of an extraordinary Neuropterous larva
found by Mr. B. G. Nevinson in tombs at Cairo. He said that this larva
had been assigned to the genus Nemoptera by Schaum, who described it as
having been found in tombs in Egypt (Berl. Ent. Zeitschrift, vol. i.) ; and
Roux had previously (Ann. Sci. Nat. t. xxviii.) described and figured it as
an abnormal apterous hexapod under the name of Necrophilus arenarius.
Mr. Nevinson supplemented these remarks with an account of his capture
of the specimens in the Egyptian tombs. Mr. G. T. Baker exhibited a
series of forms of species of the genus Boarmia from Madeira ; and also a
series of melanic varieties of Gracilaria syringella from the neighbourhood
of Birmingham. Mr. W. F. H. Blandford exhibited and remarked on a
series of specimens of Dermestes vulpinus, which had been doing much
damage to the roofs of certain soap-works in the neighbourhood of London,
where it had no doubt been introduced with bones and fat. Mr. R. W.
Lloyd exhibited a specimen of Carabus catenulatus, in which the femur of
the right fore-leg was curiously dilated and toothed. He stated that he
took the specimen at Oxshott, Surrey, on the 27th September last. The
Rev. C. F. Thornewill exhibited a black variety of the male of Argynnis
aglaia, taken by himself in July last on Cannock Chase ; also a number of
living larvae of a species of Eupithecia feeding on the flower-heads of
Tanacetum vulgare, collected in a limestone quarry in Leicestershire. He
expressed some doubt as to the identity of the species, but the general
opinion was that the larvae were only those of Eupithecia absynthiata. Mr.
G. Bryant sent for exhibition a variety of the larva of Trichiura cratcegi.
Mr. C. G. Barrett exhibited a specimen of Plusia moneta, Fabr., a species
new to Britain, taken at Reading by Mr. W. Holland in July last. It was
stated that the first specimen of this species captured in this country had
been taken at Dover last June, and was now in the collection of Mr. Sydney
Webb, of that town. Mr. Kirby said that Mynheer Snellen had reported
this species as being unusually common in Holland a few years ago. Mr.
W. Dannatt exhibited a variety of Papilio hectorides, $ , from Paraguay.
Mr. Osbert Salvin said he believed he had seen this form before. Mr. C.J.
Gahan exhibited a curious little larva-Hke creature, found by Mr. Green in-
a rapid mountain stream in Ceylon, and observed that there was some doubt
as to its true position in the animal kingdom. It was made up of six
distinct segments, each of which bore a single pair of laterally directed
processes or unjointed appendages. Mr. Hampson remarked that the
appendages were very suggestive of the parapodia of certain chsetopod
worms, but that all the known polychsetous worms were marine. Lord
Walsingham and Mr. M'Lachlan expressed an opinion that the animal was
of myriopodous affinities, and was not the larva of an insect. Mr. Baker
read a paper entitled " Notes on the genitalia of a gynandromorphous
Eronia hippia" — H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
SOCIETIES. 351
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—Sept. ^6th, 1890. J. T. Carrington, F.L.S., President, in the chair.
Mr. S. C. G. Russell exhibited interesting varieties of Zygana trifolii, Esp.,
including var. conflaens, Stgr., from the New Forest. Mr. Mera, Acromjcta
ligustriy Sch., from South Devon ; also a banded variety of Argynnis eu-
phrosyne, L., from Chattenden. Mr. E. Joy, two forms of the under side
of LyccBiia minima, Fues. Mr. C. Fenn, Cidaria immanata, showing all
the varieties generally occurring at Aberdeen ; also dark varieties, from
York ; specimens of Agrotis cursoria, Bork., from Aberdeen, showing the
extremes of variation there ; and a specimen of Ephestia Jiculella, Bor.,
taken in the Society's rooms. Mr. J. Jager, box of insects taken in the Isle
of Man, including Epunda nigra, Haw., Stilhia anomala, Haw., Agrotis
tritici, L., and a few specimens of A. simulans, Hufn., &c., taken at the
flowers of ragwort ; also Oirrhcedia xerampelina, Hb., which Mr. Jager
stated were mostly found at the bottom of the ash trees, among the dead
leaves, which the moth closely resembled. Among the other exhibits of
Mr. Jager were some specimens of Calliniorpha hera, L., and he remarked
that he was somewhat surprised to find that there was still some doubt as
to the authenticity of the captures in Devonshire : some discussion ensued,
in the course of which Mr. C. G. Barrett stated that there was no doubt
about the authenticity of the recent captures, — the difficulty referred to its
probable introduction. Mr. Wellman, series of Hyponomeuta padellus, L.,
H. cagnagellus, Hb., and H. evony melius, L. Mr. R. Adkin, larvae of
Apamea occulta, L., some having obtained full growth ; also Myelophila
cribrum, Schifl., and Horn ceosoma bincevella, Hb., from the Essex coast, and
remarked upon the protection afforded to these two species when resting
upon thistles, by their resemblance to the seeds of certain grasses. Mr.
Bright, a box of varieties of Lepidoptera, including many of the genus
Argynnis, the black form of Limenitis syhilla, L., forms of Tcsniocampa
gracilis, Fb. (New Forest), Boarmia repandata, L. (Scotch), and of Vanessa
urticce, L., &c. In reply to Mr. Tutt, who expressed an opinion that the
last-named was an example of V. milberti, Mr. Bright said that the speci-
men had been sent him by a Mr. Mumford, and was said to have been taken
at Polegate in 1888.
Oct. 'dth. — The President in the chair. Mr. W. E. Butler, of Reading,
was elected a member. Adverting to the specimen of Vanessa exhibited at
the last meeting, and said to have been taken at Polegate, Sussex, Mr.
Jenner Weir stated that, in his opinion, the insect in question was Vanessa
milberti, a well-known North American species, of which he exhibited spe-
cimens from the Canadian North-west provinces, and also specimens of V.
urticce from Hong Kong, Luleo in Sweden, and St. Petersburg, showing how
very Httle the species varied in these widely separated localities, differing
also so much as they did in climate. Hong Kong being within the tropics,
and Luleo but just outside the arctic circle. Mr. C. G. Barrett exhibited
the specimen of Plusia moneta, Fab., taken near Reading by Mr. Holland,
and stated that, in his opinion, the species was moving northwards. Mr.
South, specimens of Noctua festiva, Hb., with varieties, and made remarks
thereon. Mr. C. Fenn, Tryphcena comes, 111., var. curtisii, Newm., and
dark forms from Aberdeen ; Agrotis simulans, Hufn., Acronycta euphorbia,
Fb., Agrotis nigricans, L., Sciaphila octomaculana. Haw., — all from Shet-
land, and showing a melanic tendency. Mr. Tutt, on behalf of Lieut.
Brown, Agrotis simulans, Hufn., from Portland, with Scotch examples for
S62 tHE ENTOMOLOGIST.
comparison. Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell, Colias eurytheme, Bdv., — forms
{[) amphidusa, Bdv., (2) keewaydia, Edw., (S) ariadne, Edw., (4) eriphyle,
Edw., from the United States, — and made remarks relative to his exhibit.
Mr. E. Joy, living larvae of Toxocampa pastinum, Tr. Mr. Tugwell, bred
specimens of Heliophobus hispidus, Hb., and said it was just possible in
some of the specimens to see a violet tinge. Mr. A. E. Cook exhibited
nests of Vespa sylvestris from Bagshot, Surrey. Mr. Moore, nests of seve-
ral species of British and foreign wasps. Mr. Billups, Epeolus productus,
Thoms., taken at Chobham ; also a series of Trichomma enecator, Kossi,
bred by Mr. Adkin from Peronea hastiana, L. ; and male and female
Pelecy stoma lutea, Nees, bred by Mr. Adkin. Mr. Billups contributed notes
relative to his exhibit. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — September 16th, 1890. — Rev.
C. F. Thornewill, V.P., in the chair. Mr. C. Kunge, Broad Street, Bir-
mingham, was elected a member. Mr. E. C. Tye showed Cymatophora
duplaris from near Tam worth. Mr. G. W. Wynn showed EuperiafulvagOy
taken by Mr. Tye, on Cannock Chase, at rest on bracken. Rev. C. F.
Thornewill showed Cidaria populata and testata, and Eucosmia certata.
Mr. P. W. Abbott showed Boarmia repandata, including var. conversaria,
taken on sugar at Porlock, Somersetshire. Mr. R. C. Bradley read a paper
" On three days' collecting on Cannock Chase in August," and showed the
insects taken, which included Helophilus trivittatus among Diptera, and
Chrysoclista himaculella among Lepidoptera.
October ^th.—Ux. W. G. Blatch, President, in the chair. Mr. P. W.
Abbott showed Xylophasia scolopacina from Arley. Mr. W. G. Blatch
showed Homalota crassicornis, a beetle which he believed to be new to
England : the only record with which he was acquainted of its capture in
Britain was of three specimens taken in Scotland. He also showed
Euryphorus picipes, a beetle new to the Midlands. Mr. W. Harrison
showed a small collection of insects made this year in the New Forest,
between July 19th and 26th, and described his experiences there. —
CoLBRAN J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
OBITUARY.
Owen S. Wilson died at Cwmffrwd, Carmarthen, on the 25th of August
last. He was the only son of the late Mr. John Wilson, County Court
Judge in South Wales, and Recorder of Carmarthen ; a barrister by pro-
fession, though he had not been practising for some years. He appears to
have been a zealous Volunteer, and had attained the rank of Lieut.- Colonel
after twenty years' service. In 1874 he was elected a Fellow of the Ento-
mological Society of London, and has long been known as a most ardent
and hard-working lepidopterist. His ' LarviB of the British Lepidoptera,'
an important work of 367 pp. and 40 coloured plates, published in 1880,
met with a most favourable reception at the hands of Lepidopterists. For
some time past he had been actively engaged in preparing for the press a
more comprehensive work, dealing with the Life-Histories of Lepidoptera,
in which it was proposed to give. plates, each representing life-sized figures
of one or two species in all the different transformations from the larva to
the imago, with, in many cases, the egg, and invariably the food-plant of the
larva ; all the figures drawn from Nature by Mrs. E. Wilson.
ril
iHE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIIL] DECEMBER, 1890. [No. 881.
EDITORIAL.
Early in the present year we were favoured by various
correspondents with kindly suggestions as to the future of the
' Entomologist.' As might perhaps be expected, these suggestions
were very diverse, and, anxious as we were to meet the wishes of
our correspondents, we found such a course impracticable, seeing
that they belonged to one or other of the following classes of
specialists : —
a. Those who are chiefly interested in the formation of a
collection of insects, and who desire a restriction of
the space allotted to matters pertaining to the study of
Entomology, and an extension of that allotted to field
work and exchange.
h. Those who are chiefly concerned in the biology of insects,
and do not regard with any favour the accounts of work
done by collectors in various districts.
c. Those who are interested in the insect fauna of Britain
alone, and cannot appreciate, or even tolerate, papers on
insects from regions which they consider outside their
sphere.
An attempt to satisfy either of these would only have resulted
in strained relations with the other two ; and, besides, we did
not deem it desirable to narrow down the scope of the
' Entomologist ' to the requirements of a class, even if we could
have supposed that there were many among our readers as
exclusive as some of our correspondents seemed to be. In
ENTOM. — DEC. 1890. ^ E
354 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
conducting this Journal, the primary object we have in view is to
make it widely and generally useful. We have every reason to
believe that our readers are, as a whole, well disposed towards us,
as also to each other, and desire to assist, " by mutual confidence
and mutual aid," in the attainment of our purpose.
The suggestions of our readers will always receive due
consideration ; but we would point out to those who do not wish
the publication of such papers as those on the insect fauna of
China, that others are interested ; that they are a valuable
contribution to scientific knowledge; and that they do not
interfere with the space devoted to British or non-descriptive
Entomology, as additional pages are always given when such
papers are published.
It would seem almost unnecessary to say that we highly
value, and now again ask our readers for, notes on British
Entomology, records of captures, &c. An analysis of the
contents of the present volume will show that, as regards this
class of matter, the volume for 1890 is equal to its immediate
predecessors, and distinctly in advance of all the others.
We are glad to say that the ' Entomologist ' has already an
increased circulation abroad, and that it still maintains the
position it has so long held in this country. These facts, taken
together, should make it apparent that as a medium for the
interchange of views and opinions on entomological matters the
Journal has gained in value. It may not, perhaps, be of direct
importance to some of our contributors whether their papers or
notes are read or not by entomologists abroad, but indirectly it
does concern them, because the larger the circulation of the
* Entomologist ' so much greater will be the surplus to expend
on plates and extra pages.
The present volume contains 400 pp. and 4 plates. That for
1889, 320 pp., 8 plates, and 1 portrait; for 1888, 336 pp. and
1 plate ; for 1887, 344 pp. and 2 plates. The number of plates
in 1889 was in excess of that for this year ; but it is, perhaps, not
generally known that the cost of the four plain plates and half
that of one coloured one was defrayed by the authors of the
papers which they illustrated.
355
NOTES ON THE RHOPALOCERA OF WEST NORFOLK.
By a. Smith.
Of this division of the Lepidoptera, sixty species are given as
having occurred from time to time within the area of the Fens.
The present notes merely refer to this immediate neighbourhood,
say within the confines of a day's walk. Many other species are
said to be found at a distance of a mile or two ; but three or four
years of close observation has produced only the limited number
of sixteen species. I may add that a drive to such places as
Wisbeach, March, Manea, Upwell, through Bardolph Fen to
Lynn, or prolonged walks in various directions, has not afforded
any additional species to those found at home. I can walk along
one ditch alone and find eleven of the number in one day in
August, and during that month the lot could be seen there, with
one exception, the orange-tip. The district is poor as regards
species. Agriculture, with its consequent drainage improvements,
has deprived the fens of some grand old species, while the advan-
tages of cultivation have only favoured such common ones as the
whites, small tortoiseshell, and the like. The present notice
chiefly refers to the last three seasons. The lateness of appear-
ance of the perfect insect, in most instances, may be accounted
for by the flatness of the district, the prevalence of east winds,
and the backwardness of vegetation.
Pieris hrassicce, — The remark sometimes applied to this
species, that it outnumbers nearly all our native butterflies, does
not apply to this locality, for, in reality, it is numerically deficient
when compared with P. rapce, and sometimes, as was evident this
season, with P. napi. The fly is fairly abundant during the
latter half of May and throughout June ; with the advent of July
it falls off rapidly, abounding again when August is reached, being
the most profuse in that month, and on to the first week in Sep-
tember, when the species begins to fail. Larvae numerous on
cabbage ; have seen them feeding down to the first week in
November.
1888: May 21st— September 19th. 1889: May 8th— Sep-
tember 17th. 1890 : May 7th— September 19th.
P. rapce. — This is really the domestic butterfly, as regards
abundance in this restricted spot. It far exceeds the last, begin-
ning its career occasionally in April, becoming very numerous in
May and June ; a slackness during the first ten days of July is
succeeded by great numbers from that time onwards. During
August the gardens, pastures, and more especially the clover
fields, are alive with the whites, of which this species is by far
the greatest contributor. In September it is also plentiful,
appearing less after about the third or fourth week. I have
2 E a
356 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
noticed fine specimens of this insect with the under surface of
hind wings a beautiful yellow. Larvae feeding upon their usual
fare as late as the frosty mornings of November.
1888 : May 21st— September 26th. 1889 : A.pril 27th— Sep-
tember 27th. 1890 : April 5th— October 14th.
P. wapi.— Another common butterfly, more so perhaps than
is generally admitted, because this and the last run counter to
each other, owing to their being placed in the same category,
viz., the middle-sized whites ; and for this cause I do not deal
with this insect with the same amount of certainty as with all the
rest ; the experience of the past season has confirmed my opinion
that I have hitherto under-estimated this fly as regards individuals.
The greatest plenty, it has been noticed, was in May, 1889, on a
piece of marsh land, where Cardamine pratensis was in flower and
very plentiful. The insect was fluttering about in all directions,
leaning most to a damp spot of several acres in extent, which was
alive with them. This profusion of any one species in a given
locality has only once been exceeded in my experience, which was
an August brood of the wall-butterfly. The present species starts
its season in April, but it is not till May is fairly in that it is seen
in average numbers. During June it does not occur as commonly
as the two preceding species of Pieris ; from the middle of July
and through August it is plentiful enough, resorting now more to
cultivated tracts, scarcely occurring at all on the above-mentioned
marshland. In September this fly apparently fails about the
third week. Some of the individuals met with are very small.
Caterpillar is said to feed upon rape (Brassica napus). Personally
I have never found it on that plant, but have seen large batches
of them faring upon "kohl rabi " {B. oleracea caulo-rapa); it
doubtless also feeds on ordinary garden greens.
1888 : May 22nd— October 1st. 1889 : May 4th— September
29th. 1890 : April 28th— October 9th.
Euchloe cardamines {Anthocharis cardamines) . — Perhaps of all
our butterflies this has the most characteristic name, at least as
regards the male. This flying flower is the pretty insect that
comes careering across the croquet lawn on a fine June afternoon,
seldom failing to elicit a remark from our non-entomological
players; but it may be safe to say the lady insect loses the
honour conferred upon her more attractive partner. This fly is
generally considered to be abroad in April, but here in our flat,
bleak district it does not occur till May, and not before the end
of the third week. After once out, however, it is to be seen
almost daily for the remainder of the month to about the middle
of June, after which it falls off rapidly. Was most abundant of
all in June, 1888; and on June 26th, 1889, I noticed a solitary
male at Manea in Cambridgeshire. I have noticed no variation
in the orange patch, neither met with the species in the pre-
liminary stages.
Notes on the HHOfALOCERA op west Norfolk. 357
1888 : May 24th— June 28th. 1889 : May 23rd— June 26th.
1890 : May 21st— June 18th.
Pararge megcera (Lasiommata megcera), — By far the most
uniform in its appearance of any of the double-brooded species,
and also the one that can claim to have occurred in the greatest
profusion. A fen drove, with a drain one side and a ditch on the
other, about a mile long, sheltered on both sides by standing
corn-fields, was the scene of the August brood of this butterfly, in
the dry season of 1887, which literally swarmed there. Like the
green -veined white, they vary much in wing area, more so than
any other species on my list; in fact some specimens did not
much exceed a small copper-butterfly, and I noticed these were
much darker in colour than the finer ones, or perhaps it would be
safer to say that in the larger individuals the fulvous ground covers
proportionately more space. The insect usually appears about
May 24th, but the brood is limited, lasting only twenty-four days;
and I have not known it to endure to July, neither the second
to begin in that month. This second is by far the most extensive,
being met with in plenty daily through August, continuing to
September, gapping considerably from the middle of the month.
This warmth-loving species is the most subject of any I know to
the loss of a secondary wing, which, by-the-bye, seems to occasion
but little inconvenience. Perhaps this insect is an article of diet
with the voracious Neuroptera, as I once observed a dragonfly
seize one, beginning at the head and eating downwards, the
wings falling off on their respective sides ; the creature did not
eat the wings. This was one of the neatest mechanical operations
I ever witnessed. Unobserved in preliminary stages.
1888: June 2nd— 26th; August 20th— September 30th.
1889: May 23rd— June I4th; August 1st— September 23rd.
1890: May 21st-June 16th; August 5th— September 19th.
Epinephele ianira (Hipparchia janira). — Although a common
and sober-coloured insect, this is still an interesting butterfly,
appearing, as is its wont, about hay-time, showing to best
advantage when freshly emerged, traversing the meadow eddish,
or, better still, the pastures, which by this time have generally
assumed a sun-scorched appearance; indeed, if it were not for
this and the next species, many a tract of parched turf would be
deprived of much of its life. It has also the additional habit of
remaining on the wing during the dull portions of the day, as in
the warmth of sunshine. What the butterfly teaches in the general
term, this one carries out specifically : in this flying mirror we
may see the importance of a cheerful spirit. The butterfly is
abundant during July and August, decreasing, however, towards
the close of that month. Two seasons I have noticed a single
example in September. Unobserved in preliminary stages.
188H : July 8th— September 1st. 1889 : June 26th— Sep-
tember 9th. 1890 : June 23rd— August 25th.
S68 TiiE ENTOMOLOGISt.
E. tithonus {H, tithonus).— Sometimes called the small
meadow-brown; and to some extent this twin- spotted species is
a small edition of the last. I should estimate that it is not much
more than a third so abundant as its larger congener. The flight
is slow, and in its habits it seems to be much more sedentary ; it
is also on the wing for a shorter period. During 1888 only a few
pairs were seen. In the present season it has been much more
abundant. I noticed a batch of about eight individuals sporting
about one plant. This also is the only year it has endured to
September. Not seen in preliminary stages.
1888: July 20th— August 27th. 1889: July 8th— August
16th. 1890: July 16th— September 6th.
E. hyperanthes {H. hyperanthus) , — Nature seems to have
availed herself of this species to enforce the rule that in her
whole realm there is no monotony, and has, so to speak, turned
this butterfly up side down ; and this fact may, or may not, have
first suggested the idea to collectors of setting their specimens
horizontally to show the under surface. This insect agrees in the
main with the two last, but it is not such a plain-loving species,
seeming to prefer more shade. I have been curious to notice
that it flies deeper in the ditch than any other species, threading
its way among the tangled vegetation, and often being seen to
settle. Have noticed no variation in the characteristic ringlet-
spots. The butterfly, a rather feeble flier, is on the wing but a
very short period, and was most abundant in 1890. Unobserved
in preliminary stages.
1888: July 13th— August 10th. 1889: July 6th— 25th.
1890 : July 10th— August 5th.
Coenonympha pamphilus. — This little butterfly is usually met
with on grass-land, and seems to be a ground-loving species. It
is never met with in quantity ; singly or a pair is the most I have
observed. This may be due to their small size, the tawny colour
blending more or less with the drier grasses ; therefore the insect
is less conspicuous than the little blue or small copper butterflies.
I have watched a pair sporting on a grassy bank only a few yards
distant, yet were frequently lost to view among the herbage. The
insect was most abundant in 1889 during June. May occasionally
be seen in August, never lingering till September. For some
cause I have not seen a specimen in 1890, this being the only
absentee ; about the time of its appearance the weather was
excessively wet. Unobserved in preliminary stages.
1888 : June 11th— July 10th. 1889 : June 5th— August 31st.
Vanessa cardui {Cynthia cardui). — This butterfly appears to
be a perfect cosmopolite, and is the most capricious of all, being
fairly plentiful one season, and perhaps absent the next. In 1888
it was fairly common in the latter part of August and September ;
while in 1889 it was most abundant of all, being observable almost
daily for a time in August, diminishing rather suddenly at the
NOTES ON THE RHOPALOCERA OF WEST NORFOLK. 359
close of that month. The only specimen observed in 1 890 was
on August 7th, one of the few warm days of the summer up to
that date. Years preceding 1888 this insect did not appear at
all. Hybernators are to be seen chiefly in June ; I noticed one
specimen as late as July 24th, 1890. Never seen in preliminary
stage.
1888 : August 9th— September 27th. 1889 : August 6th—
September 12th. 1890 : August 7th.
V. atalanta. — While dealing with the genus Vanessa, two
things strike the observer: first, that it suffers least when
compared with its exotic congeners of warmer climes ; and the
second, that such handsome species should be so easily obtained.
As nettles do not thrive so well apart from cultivation, this again
tends to make the species the more familiar. This handsome
species is, perhaps, the most gorgeous of all the British butter-
flies, being most bold and fearless in its habits. I once carried a
specimen, that chose to locate itself on my arm, a distance of some
fifty yards and into the house. The butterfly never appears till
August ; and even in this last late season I did not notice it in
October. As autumn is the perfection of the farmers year, so
the red admiral, painted lady, peacock, &c., crown the butterfly
season. Have never observed a hybernator of this species, nor
discovered the larva.
1888 : August 29th— September 19th. 1889 : August 16th—
September 10th. 1890 : September 28th.
V. io. — Like the orange-tip, this species introduces itself to
the observer, and is very common in the fens, being much more
abundant in some seasons than others. In 1887 I reared a hat-
box full of larvae, turning off a hundred of this species and twenty-
eight of the small tortoisehell ; but this bore no effect upon the
succeeding wet season of 1888, when it was rather scarce and
late. Since 1887 it was most numerous in 1889. The perfect fly
is never seen till August, but lingers with us till late in the
autumn, the specimens occurring at this time being often much
bleached, and I always consider it a brittle species. Hybernators
plentiful in the spring, abroad as early as April 4th.
1888: August 31st— October 2nd. 1889: August 5th—
November 8th. 1890 : August 7th— October 10th.
V. urticce, — By far the most abundant of the genus, abounding
everywhere on pastures, waste corners, &c., where nettles most
abound. In three years I have only seen the butterfly out once
in June. Half of July is gone before it is general ; from that
time it is common enough, generally out-lingering the other
species, being often the only one to cheer the month of
October. I have noticed some fine specimens of this insect, but
the large tortoiseshell has never turned up. Was most abundant
in 1890. Hybernators are out as early as March 17th. Patches of
nettles are sometimes black with the larvae of this and the peacock.
866 l^HE ENTOMOLOGISt.
1888 : July 17th— October 18th. 1889 : June 28th — October
81st. 1890 : Jul)^ 14th— November 5th.
Polyommatus phloeas {Chrysophanus phloeas). — Of the three
species of this genus allotted to Britain, this is the only one we
can practically claim ; for the purple-edged copper (P. chryseis) can
only be considered as a visitor, perhaps the only plausible
occurrence being that of Ashdown Forest, Sussex; while yet
another, the scarce copper (P. virgaurea), is said to have been
taken in the marshes of the Isle of Ely, and in Huntingdonshire.
The large copper (P, dispar) used to swarm in the fens of Hunting-
donshire and Cambridgeshire ; the metropolis of the insect was
apparently the vicinity of Whittlesea Mere ; while a specimen is
recorded from Bardolph Fen. Probably this was a border limit
for the insect, as it is within a short distance of the higher
ground, and possibly the only locality within our county.
Bearing this in mind, I always give the water-dock a hawk's-ej^e
view, when happening to meet with it. Although considered
specifically distinct from the continental P. hippothoe by the
older authors, I suppose now it is only considered to be a variety
of that species, and its extinction in Britain favours this latter
view, as I do not believe in the so easy extinction of a species,
properly so called, and that confined to one spot of one island of
a Continent. That it should exceed in size and vary in its mark-
ings is not conclusive evidence, seeing that the whole order is so
much subject to variation; there always seems to be an ac-
commodating process going on in nature, and this fen locality
may have especially suited the development of this butterfly, as
it does to-day a certain breed of farm stock. Our present little
species is a lively insect, flashing about in much the same fashion
as the blues, but is not quite so exploratory perhaps ; the flights
seem to be shorter and more rushing, as if to some destined spot.
I have noticed that this and the blue often rest on the same
flower-head, while this species would drive a larger insect than
itself away. I have only once come across the insect in June,
skipping about in the midst of a pasture, where sorrel was very
plentiful, at just about the same height and manner as related of
the small heath. The last batch is more often seen in the ditches,
where a greater variety of wild flowers abound. This butterfly
was most abundant in 1890, after the fine weather set in, lasting
well into September. Unobserved in preliminary stages.
1888: June 14th. 1889: August 30th— September 11th.
1890 : August 23rd— September 23rd.
Lyccsna icarus (Polyommatus alexis), — The only blue yet
observed, and it is natural that it should be a species that is not
fastidious as regards soil. Notwithstanding the rich tiling of
many species, perhaps this catches the observer's eye as well as
any. , Assuming this is my only blue, it may be seen as far
distant as any, the colou];s blue and green naturally contrasting
COLLECTING IN WALES. 36 1
SO well, SO naturally is the colour of the upper regions reflected in
this butterfly. It may be seen on the wing in June, but the latter
brood is the more abundant, usually occurring most in August,
continuing into fine Septembers. I saw more of it in 1887 than
in the last three seasons together. Unobserved in preliminary
stages.
1888: June 21st — 28th. 1889: August 30th— September
14th. 1890: June 2nd— September 15th.
Hesperia sylvanus {Pamphila sylvanus), — Like the last, the
only representative of its tribe. This butterfly occurs regularly
in June, being often seen in a certain spot. Contrary to most
species, it is far more plentiful in the first than in the second
emergence, being most frequent during June. The flights of this
insect are short, the so-called skipping very rapid during bright
sunshine, in duller weather less active. One dull morning, after
rain had fallen, I caught a specimen with the finger and thumb,
as it was settled upon a reed. This insect does not linger at all
late in the season ; I have not known it to extend to September.
Unobserved in preliminary stages.
1888: June 16th— August 21st. 1889: June 22nd— August
1st. 1890 : June 16th— July 24th.
Nordelph, Downham Market, Norfolk, Nov. 5, 1890.
COLLECTING IN WALES.
By J. Akkle.
For those who are high-minded let me prescribe much riding
on Welsh railways. Whether you shoot along the stone heaps
beyond Bala, or touch the edge of the sea-cliffs at Barmouth, or
screw round a mountain on the '* narrow guage," the moral is the
same — you are as helpless, and, let us hope, as humble, as the
two-year-old who possibly shares with you the compartment.
There is nothing to be seen out of window to make you rise in
your own estimation. You are immediately shot across a gaping
glen or rocky chasm, and the sight of a foxglove, with its possible
Eupithecia pulchellata, only intensifies the idea that you are done
with all things sublunary. And yet accidents are just as rare as
on other lines, nor are the insurance rates higher. With such
philosophies the time went by until the sight of a smart groom
and turn-out, at Maentwrog, suggested I might change the scene,
and recollect that the business on hand was moths and not morals.
Away and along the highway we rolled, and, after picking up my
host, Mr. W. J. Kerr, who pointed to the scorched-looking oaks
nearly defoliated by swarms of Tortrix virida7ia, the evening of
July 14th found me once more among the leafy shades of
Tan-y-Bwlch {Under the Hill), and by the waters of Glan
362 THE ENTOMOLOGiSf.
William. The weather, which had marked the whole of the
summer, was about as wet and cold as a summer could be, but
we began without loss of time our raid upon the insects. The
evening was so wet that we confined our operations to the garden,
where we found Apamea basilinea, A. oculea^ Metrocampa marga-
ritariaf Abraxas grossulariata, Camptogramma hilineata, Hypena
proboscidalis, and Zanclognatha grisealis {nemoralis) ,
July 15th. — A fine, warm, sunny day, and we made the most
of it. Merionethshire is a land of fritillaries, but, as everyone
knows, these butterflies have their haunts. It was too early in
the season for Argynnis paphia, but, in an opening in the wood
among the Plas grounds, and near the lake, we netted A. selene
(worn) and A, adippe^ also Epinephele iauira, and, by beating, Me-
lanthia ocellata. A fine dark brown dragonfly, with yellow spots
and stripes [^schia pratensis), was also taken, but unfortunately
the colours of this insect are not permanent, and soon fade after
setting. The afternoon was spent on the heath-, fern-, birch-,
and oak-covered slopes, which border the ascent to the celebrated
Black Falls. All along A, aglaia and A. adippe — apparently
fresh from the chrysalis — were common ; we took a number of
each species. Anaitis plagiata often rose from the heathery
banks, and beating about among the tall ferns produced Angerona
prunaria. E, ianira, a sort of robin redbreast among butterflies,
— for few care to molest it, — was a frequent visitor, and pursued
its meditative flight undisturbed. A fine dragonfly, Libellula
ccBrulescens, rose from the bank, and was promptly stopped. The
following is a description : — Head and thorax dark brown, with
the usual couple of yellow frontal stripes, and couple of dorsal
yellow spots, colours not permanent; body ample, plum-coloured
blue, colours permanent, length J J in., segments with black
divisions ; wings transparent, nervures black, expanse 2j inches.
I see from my notes that the afternoon list ends with C.
bilineataf and that its profusion was fearful and wonderful.
Evening found us on the Festiniog road watching the honey-
suckle bloom on the hedges for a late Choerocainpa porcellus or
C. elpenor. We were unsuccessful, although this is a favourite
haunt for both insects. Our captures were Uropteryx sambu-
caria, Rumia luteolata (cratcegata), Boarmia repandata (excep-
tionally large and light-coloured), Acidalia aversata, Abraxas
grossulaiiata, Hypsipetes sordidata {elutata, variable as usual),
Cidaria populata, Eubolia limitata (mensuraria), Phalera bucephala,
Noctua plecta, Triphcena pronuba, Aplecta nebulosa (all very light
forms), Cucullia umbratica (common), Plusia iota, Caradrina
cubicularis, and Aphomia colonella.
July 16th. — A fine morning, spent in setting. We started in
the afternoon for the Black Falls, taking on our way Dictyopteryx
bergmanniana and Coccyx ustomaculana. A deluge of rain com-
pelled us to return home, where we arrived wet through. The
COLtifeCiTING IN WALES. 363
evening was a damp one ; but we turned out, and netted Cahera
pusaria, M. margaritaria^ Thyatira batis, Hydroecia nictitans,
Agrotis exclamationis, Bromolocha fontis (crassalis), and Hypena
proboscidalis. At sugar we had poor luck, meeting only our old
friends Xylophasia monoglypha (polyodon), T, pronuba. A, excla-
mationis, T. batis, and Cidaria truncata (russata). I boxed a
female glow-worm, Lampyris noctiluca, as it brilliantly lit up an
inch of grass in the wood.
July 17th. — A fine, warm, but sunless day. Mr. Kerr and I
drove to Penrhyndeudraeth, a distance of eight miles. The
nearest approach I can make to this formidable word is Pen-rin-
dy-dreth. Like other Welsh names it is singularly descriptive,
and means the headland bettveen the tivo estuaries. There we
started by train for a week's collecting at Aberdovey, a little town
of a thousand inhabitants, half-way along the shores of Cardigan
Bay, and, as the name implies, at the mouth of the Dovey.
Parallel with the north shore of the estuary, and running away
east and behind the town, is a range of heights some 300 feet
above the sea-level. In the neighbourhood of the town these
hills are covered with grass, furze, and fern, and are said to be a
locality for Lyccena avion. As the heights run inland they are
covered with a luxuriant growth of native oak, and midway
between Aberdove}'' and Glandovey Junction they descend, within
a few hundred yards of the estuary, in woody valleys meeting
round a common centre. Here lies some of the finest scenery
imaginable, and here lay our best butterfly ground. We reached
Aberdovey, via Barmouth, at noon, and operations began at once
by the discovery of Dianthoecia larvae in the seed-pods of bladder
campion growing about the railway-station. These caterpillars
we made out to be D. carpophaga and D. capsophila. They
pupated after I returned to Chester, before the end of the month.
After lunch at the Dovey Hotel we turned out to secure quarters,
and noticed on our way specimens of Bryophila perla at rest upon
the walls. Our first attempt at securing lodgings was a failure,
owing to the landlady taking alarm at our demand to be out at
all hours of the night. This, coupled with a statement that our
business was "moths," brought upon us expulsion. However,
at No. 1, Bodfor Terrace, we triumphed in the surrender of a
latch-key, and there we spent as happy, as homely, and as com-
fortable a week as could fall to the lot of humanity. The list
for the afternoon is as follows: — Larvae of Bombyx rubi ; C,
umbratica at rest ; by beating brambles, St. John's wort, &c.,
Hemithea strigata (thymiaria), Emmelesia decolorata, Eupithecia
subfulvata var. oxydata, E. I'mariata, E, exiguata, E. pumilata
(plentiful), Mimceseophilus plagiodactylus, M, ocellata, Acidalia
bisetata, A. marginepunctata {promutata), Cidaria pyraliata,
Pelurga comitataf and Scoparia mercurialis,
A bottle of rum, a lantern, a treacle-pot and a blacking brush
364 TSU fiNTOMOLOGigf.
are not common ornaments to a sea-side costume, and our hostess
viewed these auxiliaries in the art of fascination with some curiosity.
Every evening we sallied forth with these additions to our personal
appearance. We had two sugaring grounds, and they had the
advantage of being near at hand. No. 1 began at the large white
hotel, a few hundred yards away on the road to the railway-
station, and occupied some years ago by a religious community,
but since untenanted. The deep silent doorways of this lonely
building were convenient shelters in the rain, until we were
informed we were upon forbidden ground. Every succeeding
night a sentry was placed upon the premises, and the occasional
step we heard through the darkness showed — as they harmoniously
sing in * The Yeoman of the Guard ' — *' He kept his solemn
watch and ward." From this hotel, along the road at the base
of the hills, we sugared everything, — gates, posts, rocks and
plants. Our second ground was the sand-hills, only a couple of
hundred yards off, and near the sea. Here a line of posts in the
fence beyond the railway provided every accommodation for the
treacle. The sand-hills are not equal to those of Wallasey. A
suspicious-looking mark looks as if much of the ground lay
under water in the spring tides. Still there is plenty of vege-
tation,— the trefoils, the bedstraws, mullein, fennel, and maritime
grass. Farther away, a marsh lies between the sand-hills and
the road, with anj^ amount of water-dock, sedge, and willow.
Flowers there were, and fit to adorn any garden :— the viper's
bugloss, with its host of purple and pink blossoms ; the sea
thistle, with its prickly, pale, pea- green leaves and sky-blue
flower-balls ; and groves of the tall evening primrose, with its
large yellow blooms open to the night. We tried the latter at
dusk to see if Deilephila galii would turn up, but we only netted
X monoglypha and Miana hicoloria (furuncula). The night was
warm, dark, and threatening for rain. It was now time to examine
the sugar, and we found moths in swarms at it. I never saw
anything to equal our success. X. monoglypha, in hundreds,
showed several beautiful varieties, — the finest, a very light-
coloured example, with markings almost black, being now in the
collection of Mr. Kerr. The next insect in point of numbers
was Hadena oleracea^ and it was equally conspicuous for varia-
tion. Triphcena pronuba, T, orhona, Leucania lithargyriay L.
conigera, X. lithoxylea, came next. We also took several speci-
mens of Mamestra albicolon and M, persicarice, Caradrina hlandat
Nonagria fulva, and light and dark varieties of Agrotis segetum.
The following are our additional lists at sugar: —
July 18th.— Warm, wet day, with night showers. Thyatira
derasa, Cerigo matura (cytherea), M. bicoloria {furuncula), Agrotis
lunigeraf A,corticea; X. monoglypha and H.oleracea (nuisances);
L. conigera (fine varieties), L. lithargyria, L, pallens, Noctua
COLLECTING IN WALES. 365
plecta, Hydroecia nictitans (all sorts of varieties from the lightest
to darkest), T. orhona and T. pronuha.
July 19th. — Warm, moist. Acronycta rumicis (plentiful,
beautiful varieties), Mamestra ahjecta, Noctua haia, N, f estiva,
Hadena contigua (common), H. pisi, H, adusta, A. lunigera
(common), T. derasay G. matura {cythereay common), M, bicoloria
{furuncula), Apamea basilineaj Caradrina quadripunctata (cuhicu-
laris)i and, at light, Plusia chrysitis.
July 20th. — Still warm and damp. A similar list, with the
addition of T. interjecta. Netted Nudaria mundana, (7. fulvata,
Aphomia sociella (colonella), and Hyponomeuta padellus. We fre-
quently saw T. interjecta at dusk, and as frequently missed it,
owing to its partiality for bramble protection. Its russet colour
was unmistakable. C. bilineataf as usual, added very materially
to our netting exertions.
July 31st. — Dry, temperature lower. Botys ruralis {verticalis),
L. conigera, L. littoralis, A. lunigera, C. matura (cytherea), Eu-
plexia lucipara, H, contigua, H. trifolii {chenopodii, worn), and
H, nictitans,
July 22nd.— Blew half a gale from the N.W. Dry, much
colder. X. monoglypha only by the dozen ; a few X. lithoxylea,
H. nictitans, A, exclamationis, four specimens of C, matura
{cytherea), one M. albicolon, one M, liter osa, and a few L. lithargy-
ria and L. pallens.
July 24th.— A cold, dry evening. Poor results. A few X.
monoglypha, X. lithoxylea, T. pronuba, T. ianthina, H. pisi, H,
oleracea, and H. nictitans. The last-mentioned was always very
variable. The following are our diurnal records : —
July 18th. — A wet day, devoted to setting.
July 19th. — Warm and sunny. Went to the oak woods on
the heights between Aberdovey and Glandovey Junction. On
our right we had the sea, or rather estuary ; on our left, wooded
slopes, with occasional clearings green with fern or purple with
blossoming heather, bosky dells, and shady delicious streams.
Netted A. selene (worn), A. aglaia, A. adippe, and A. paphia (the
three last abundant). A. paphia was evidently in quest of
partners for its brief joys. Its flight was swift and vigorous, and
rarely interrupted by bramble or other blossoms. Its capture
was consequently warm work. Satyrus semele, E. ianira, E.
tithonus, E. hyper anthes, Coenonympha pamphilus, Polyommatus
phloeas, Hesperia sylvanus, and Lyccena icarus (alexis) were also
common. Saw several suspicious-looking "blues," but failed
to net them owing to the difficult ground. Other butterflies : —
Pieris brassicce, P. rapes and P. napi. Two yellow beetles with
black markings were captured, — Strangalia armata. We also took
Calopteryx virgo, a dragonfly with head, thorax, and body bright
iridescent green ; wings deep iridescent peacock-blue ; tips of
wings smoky, but transparent ; colours permanent ; expanse of
866 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
turn, I
wings 2j- inches; length of body 1| inches. On our return
the heath on the hill-sides produced Zygcenu JilipenduliS,
Pyrausta ostrinalis, and the rose-coloured Endotricha flammealis
— all abundant insects. As usual, and throughout our sta)% we
took A. promutata (at rest on the rocks) and the Eupithecice
already quoted.
July 20th. — Fine ; neighbourhood close to Aberdovey. Ad-
ditional insects : — Lomaspilis marginatay Schoenobius forficelluSj
Cramhus perlellus.
July 21st. — Warm, sunny at intervals. Locality as on the
19th. Additional insects : — Sesia bembeciformis, a fine specimen
taken from the tops of willow ; Bornbyx quercus ; Panagra
petraiia, from a bog close to Glandovey Junction, and amongst a
herd of long-horned cattle (this exhibition was a gratis one to a
trainful of people bound for Aberystwith). Larvae of Arct'ia
menthastri, just hatched, were also taken from a willow-leaf almost
at the top of a bush. On the railway-embankment tangled masses
of the wild everlasting pea, with its familiar pink blossoms, grew
luxuriantly.
July 22nd. — Went inland across the hills behind Aberdovey,
and doubled round to the road home. On the plateau, about
300 feet above the sea, we came upon a large area with a profuse
growth of big wild pansies amongst the short grass. There were
two varieties, violet and yellow, and an obvious cross with the
upper petals violet and the lower ones yellow. Additional
insects : — Vanessa urtic(B, B, gemmaria (rhomboidaria), Pseudo-
terpna pruinata {cytisaria), A. aversata var. lividata, Larentia
viridaria (pectinitaria), Tanagra atrata {chcerophyllata) , Crambus
culmellus, and the brown Aspis udmannianay with its staring
chocolate spot on each upper wing. We also captured a dragon-
fly. The latter insect is of a uniform but iridescent brown, with
a pale costal spot near the tip of each wing. The head, thorax,
and body, however, show indications of the glorious tints which
adorn Calopteryx virgo, and its identity is still further apparent
in matters relative to size and shape.
July 23rd. — A cold, sunless day, with a breeze from the N.W.
Additional insects:— Liparis similis (auriflua) and Cabera exan-
themaria,
July 24 th. — A fine day. We counted five or six varieties of
wild geranium, including the rare deep pink G. sanguineum, close
to Aberdovey. Returned to Tan-y-Bwlch : here we found that ^.
paphia, Thecla quercus and Larentia olivata — all abundant insects
in their season — were so Lite as to be not even yet on the wing.
Sugared in the evening. Oar Aberdovey experience showed that
the cool dry night was the cause of a poor result.
Next day, July 25th, I determined to have a look at Abersoch,
a few miles by coach from Pwllheli, and on the north shores of
Cardigan Bay. It will be remembered (see * Entomologist ' for
COLLECTING IN WALES. 367
August, 1887, and August, 1889) that— thanks to Messrs. L. L.
Samuels and C. Oldham — Zygcena pilosellce (minos) turned up at
Abersoch in the years above mentioned. Although the insect
appears to be due in the second week of June, I decided that a
visit might result in the capture of a late specimen, or in the
establishment of such relations with the neighbourhood as would
enable me to secure a series of this rare and beautiful moth.
Amidst much regret that I could not have the company of my
kind host, I was driven again to Penrhyndeudraeth, and from
thence by train to Pwllheli. I was surprised to find Pwllheli —
figuratively speaking at the end of the world — such a smart-
looking town. There are good hotels, — one I can answer for,
' The Crown,' and from this hostelry a trap runs in connection
with the morning train to Abersoch. The regular conveyance
had been requisitioned by a lot of school children for a day's
outing ; but, in lieu of this, I was introduced to a Welsh car.
This is a low, circular vehicle, on four wheels, with a chair-like
seat high up in front for the driver. The turn-out included a big,
spanking horse, and conjured up, in due chronological order,
visions of Jehu, the war-chariot of the ancient Britons, and the
modern reaping-machine. Wishing the youngsters a pleasant
day, away we went in bright sunshine, and I whiled away the
time by eyeing the long rows of willows on each side of the road
— an occupation ever and anon interrupted by the jerks and
efforts of our quadruped to shoot me out at the rear of the trap.
On reaching Abersoch I was speedily on *' the sunny slopes above
the cliffs," but only to find that I was three or four weeks too late
for my insect. F. urtic(S, S, semeUy E. ianira, E. tithomis, C,
pa7nphilus, L. icarus (alexis), Z.Jilipendulcej and P. petraria were
abundant. Sticking to the bents of the maritime grass, and
close to the sea, were thousands of the pretty spiral land shell,
Bulimus acutus. At our hotel I was shown what had been a fine
specimen of Acherontia atropos. It flew in through the open
window ; and I was informed the moth was not at all unusual, —
a matter perhaps explained by the numerous potato patches on
the hill- sides. I did not leave the village until I had every reason
to hope for a series of Z. pilosellce from the cliffs next season. I
got back to Pwllheli {Pool-tell-he will do for an Englishman) wet
through; but as I had long since graduated — taking the degree
Amphibious — the matter was a small one. I reached Tan-y-
Bwlch in the evening, and a chat over the events of the day
brought to a close our long and enjoyable insect raid.
Chester, October, 1890.
368 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
A PEELIMINAEY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF
MIDDLESEX.
Compiled by T. D. A. Cockeeell.
During the past few years Mr. F. G. Fenn has had in hand
the preparation of a list of the insects of Isleworth, and now
that he has removed to London he has kindly given me permission
to prepare his records for publication. While doing so, it seemed
advantageous to gather together various unpublished records of
Middlesex insects which I had in hand, and to publish the whole
as a contribution to the fauna of the county. I at first intended
to group the species under the localities ; but it was represented
to me that a systematic list, with the localities given for each
species in order, would be more useful, and I have adopted this
arrangement. I should have liked to make it a complete list of
all the known Middlesex insects, but the labour of compilation
from all the published papers on the subject is more than I can
at present find time to attempt, and I am obliged to leave it only
as complete as circumstances permit. I shall quote published
records only when I have the species recorded in no other way,
and shall only give one published record as a rule for each such
species, though there may be more existing ; that is to say, I
shall make the list of species as complete as possible, but shall
not repeat numerous already-recorded localities.
Species recorded from London will be included, as Middlesex
will be understood in the old sense, thus including the greater
part of London. Species recorded from *' near London " and
" London district" will be omitted, as these are in most cases
not Middlesex records. Everything will be included, common or
rare ; but after this preliminary list has been completed, species
additional to it will be found from time to time, and it is hoped
that before long our Middlesex insect-fauna will be so complete
that any addition will be regarded as of importance.
The compiler is responsible for the nomenclature adopted
throughout. Myriapoda and Arachnida will be included.
As far as possible the collector of each species will be given
proper credit; if the collector and recorder are not the same,
the names of both will be given, as ^^ Jones fide Robinson,'"'
When only one name is given, it is always the recorder, but usually
in such cases he is also the collector.
The compiler will be exceedingly indebted to any entomologists
having Middlesex records, if they will send them to him to be
included in the present list. Records of the less-known orders
will be specially valued. The following are the chief sources of
information at present available : —
(1.) F. G. Fenn. A MS. list of the insects of Isleworth,
taken during the years L887-7-1889. Assistance was given in
identifications by the following entomologists: — Mr, W. West,
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. 869
Coleoptera, 32 spp. ; Mr. E. Saunders, Hymenoptera, 38 spp.,
and Hemiptera, 10 spp. ; Mr. E. A. Fitch, Hymenoptera, 4 spp. ;
Mr. J. W. Tutt, Lepidoptera, 19 spp. ; Mr. G. H. Verrall, Diptera,
7 spp. ; Mr. E. Brunetti, Diptera, 25 spp. ; Kev. O. P. Cambridge,
Arachnida, 28 spp. ; and a few others.
(2.) A MS. list of the insects of Bedford Park, Chiswick,
taken during the years 1885—1890. By T. D. A. Cockerell, with
addenda by F. G. Fenn. The following entomologists have kindly
assisted with identifications: — Mr. E. Saunders, Coleoptera,
14 spp, Hymenoptera, 21 spp., and Hemiptera, 7 spp. ; Mr.
McLachlan, Neuroptera, 6 spp. ; Mr. J. W. Tutt, Lepidoptera.
15 spp.; Mr. R. South, Lepidoptera, 3 spp. ; Mr. R. H. Meade,
Diptera, 15 spp. ; Rev. O. P. Cambridge, Arachnida, 20 spp. ; and
some others.
(3.) Louis B. Prout. A MS. list of Lepidoptera, taken chiefly
at Dalston.
(4.) R. South. A MS. list of Lepidoptera, taken at Mill Hill.
** Taking the station on the Midland Railway as a centre, a radius
of one mile will give the entire ground worked. The garden
mentioned in the list belongs to J. Marshall, Esq."
(5.) F. Godwin. A MS. list of Lepidoptera of North and
West London, taken during the years 1872 — 1875. Communi-
cated by Mr. R. South.
(6.) F. Smith, ' Catalogue of British Hymenoptera in the
Collection of the British Museum,' 1855.
(7.) ' The Entomologist,' vols. i. — xxiii.
(8.) ' The Entomologist's Monthly Magazine,' vols. i. — xxvi.
Hymenoptera.
Formicidce.
Formica fusca var. cunicularia, Latr., Hampstead (Smith).
Lasius nigeVy Linn., Bedford Park (CklL), Isleworth (Fenn).
L.flavus, DeGeer, Bedford Park {CklL).
Tapinoma gracilescenSf Nyl., London City {W, W. Fowler,
E. M. M. 1885, p. 276).
Myrmicidce.
Myrmica rubra var. ruginodiSy Nvl., Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford
Park (CklL).
Monomorium pharaonis, Linn., London [Bellevoye).
Pheidole megacephala, F., Hampstead (Smith),
MutilUdcB.
Myrmosa melanocephala, Fab., Hampstead (Smith).
Methoca ichneumonides, Latr., Hampstead Heath (Smith).
Scoliidce.
Tiphia minuta, Y. d. Lind., Hampstead Heath (Smith).
(To be continued).
ENTOM. — DEC. 1890. 2 P
370 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOUR!
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S.
(Continued from p. 343).
V. — The Chemical Aspect (continued).
E.
Perhaps before entering into details concerning yellow,
which is our first pigment colour, I ought to justify an assump-
tion that has been made from the outset concerning the changes
wrought in all the colours experimented on, — viz.y that the trans-
formation effected by my reagents is uniformly and invariably
retrogressive ; that in no instance has a progressive modification
been effected, — for the apparent exception of Melanargia galatea
has already been explained, and shown to be no exception at all.
The justification of this assumption I feel to be important, since
to disprove it were to pretty nearly demolish the entire fabric of
theory and explanation that I have built upon my experimental
data. And yet to say truth, when I first set myself to give a
formal demonstration of this fundamental principle, I felt some-
what nonplussed. The evidence for it is so essentially of a
cumulative character that it would be far easier simply to call
attention to the assumption, and then leave it to be justified by
the whole mass of experiments, and its reasonableness shown by
the satisfactory results yielded by inferences drawn from it. As
a matter of fact, this conception of the character of my experi-
mental results has grown up almost irresistibly in my mind during
the progress of my experiments, and has seemed to me through-
out a matter of course. But it is evidently impossible that my
readers, by merely reading of experiments, should evolve the
same mental conviction that has gradually grown up in myself :
some more formal justification must be offered to them ; and I
was really somewhat taken aback when it occurred to me to ask
myself how I should justify to others a conviction founded on
experience that is naturally mcommunicable. At any rate, how-
ever, it behoves me to try what account can be rendered.
I think, then, that I should base my case primarily and
especially on the behaviour of reds. It is universally admitted,
I suppose, that red is developed through orange from yellow ;
the very stages almost may be seen in some species, as Arctia caia
and Catocala nupta, in which species the deep red of the wing
shades off into a very pale colour where it is overlapped by the
fore wing. Moreover, as previously pointed out, A. caia and
Vanessa atalanta, when first emerged, are often rather of an
orange than a red colour, the colour deepening in a day or two.
This evolution of red from yellow and orange is not confined to
insects; everyone may easily satisfy himself by observing the
CHEMISTRY OP INSECT COLOURS. 37 1
progressive colour-changes which go on as many fruits ripen, and
in many leaves towards autumn, that the evolution of red from
yellow is emphatically the rule. I hardly think that this will be
disputed : very well then ; in every experiment, without exception,
in which red or pink was changed by my reagents (and red
species in every group of Macro-Lepidoptera have been tested),
it was invariably changed to orange and yellow, or in one or
two cases to the closely allied chestnut. Here, even if we went
no further, is a most substantial base from which to argue that
such changes as these reagents produce are always retrogressive.
But other instances may be quoted. Everyone knows that the
orange of Euchloe is a comparatively recent development on an
otherwise white species*: very well; then it is clear that, in
dissolving out this colour and leaving the wing white, as it
originally was, I have effected a retrogressive change. In fact, it
appears to me self-evident that in all cases in which a colour has
been dissolved out a retrogressive change has been effected ; but
I refrain from relying on this as a proof lest possibly some readers
may not incline to admit so much. Next we may take such a case
as Thecla rubi. It will undoubtedly be admitted that the green
on the lower side of the hind wings has been developed as a pro-
tective resemblance to the foliage : this green is changed by every
reagent to the brown colour displayed by all the rest of the wings ;
what better instance of a retrogressive metamorphosis ? Finally,
since we must assume that the uncommon and beautiful blue
of Lycsenidse has been developed (why we don't know, unless
Darwin's theory of Sexual Selection be adopted) from the dull
colours of primeval Lycsenidae, it must be admitted that the
abolition of this by the reagents is also a retrogressive change.!
I hope now to have made it clear that the whole weight of the
evidence — where it can be checked by admitted entomological
facts — supports my assumption that these changes are in every
case retrogressive. For the contrary assumption (if it should be
made in any case where we have only the chemical evidence to go
upon) there is no direct evidence from Entomology whatever, and
such an assumption can only involve the whole issue in confusion
and contradiction. Here, then, I quit the subject, leaving the
arguments just instanced to be borne out by the general character
of the results obtained by arguing upon this assumption.
In the next place it will be as well, perhaps, if I draw atten-
tion here to an important fact that concerns all the colours gene-
rally rather than any one group especially ; and will therefore be
* Cf. Darwin's « Descent of Man,' chap. 11.
t I am afraid, however, that the validity of this last argument will be denied
by any who hold, with Wallace, that the bright colours of males are the originals,
and the dull colours of females the derivatives. But, at any rate, the argument
from red and yellow is irrefragable ; and on the strength of this alone it would be
legitimate, arguing from analogy, to hold that all the changes were retrogressive, —
at least until any could be directly proved otherwise.
3 F 3
372 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
more fitly pointed out now than later, when any specific colours are
heing discussed. The importance of this fact to a right under-
standing of the experiments can hardly he over-estimated ; but
unfortunately it is one to whose importance I was not alive until
I had been working some time. Reagents may affect pigment
colours in one of two ways : — they may dissolve out the pigment,
or they may simply alter it. The former action occurs with pro-
bably all chestnuts and yellows that are affected at all, and with
some greens ; the latter, with all reds without exception, with many
greens, and with some blues. The distinction is very important,
since, whilst dissolved colours can, obviously, never be restored,
those which are merely altered may, in a large number of cases
at any rate, be restored, by appropriate methods, to their original
appearance* This will, I think, be acknowledged to be sufficiently
startling. It was a long time before I grasped these principles in
their full extent ; and then it not unnaturally appeared to me that
every colour change, when not due to dissolution, might be reversed,
and the original colour so reproduced. That this is the case,
owever, I find cannot be maintained, although (at least for the
present) I do not wish to absolutely deny its possibility. Neither,
on the other hand, would I wish to be understood as asserting
that in every *' reversible " colour change no solution of pigment
takes place. On the contrary, I am inclined to think it at least
very possible that in most cases a slight solution may take place ;
at any rate I do not believe that the most *' reversible " colour
could be altered and reversed, and so on, backwards and forwards,
an indefinite number of times ; certainly I believe that the colour
would gradually fade away in such a case. I very much regret
not being able to speak with more certainty on this matter, but,
as I have already said, it was only late in the day that I discovered
these facts : had I known of them earlier — known what to observe
— it is possible that I might have found a solution effect produced
in cases where, as a matter of fact, I have not noticed any such.
One characteristic difference I ought to add : — a solution
effect may be produced very rapidly in some cases, but still the
time element is always present ; an alteration effect, whether
reversible or not, is in most instances (in all with the fittest
reagents) instantaneous.
F.
The two colours next to be considered — yellow and red — are
by far the most interesting of all,— that is, so far as concerns
these experiments : and they are so closely related, and a con-
sideration of the behaviour of either so indispensable to a proper
understanding of that of the other, that we shall do better to
examine them simultaneously rather than observe the formality
* An extensive set of additional experiments on this question will be detailed in
its proper place.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECl: COLOURS. 373
of giving each a separate handling : for indeed, whilst red, both
logically and historically, follows yellow, yet it is impossible to
fully discuss the phenomena of yellow without constant reference
to red. I may add that in no group of colours is there more
temptation — and even necessity — for speculation and hypothesis
than in this : and in no part of my work have I had so many
warnings of the dangers attendant on too speedy generalisation
and the necessity for circumspection. It is fortunate that the
colours which most especially tempt one to such dangers should
at the same time preach the most emphatically against the
rashness which they provoke.
Referring now to the tables on pp. 248, 349, what do we find
as the general results ? As to red (omitting the cases of one or
two species, as Vanessa atalanta and F. cardui, which can be
better explained after dealing with chestnut), we have a singular
unanimity, as interesting as important, and can lay down the very
general law* that chemical reagents change red to yellow ; or,
translating this from the language of empirical facts into that of
theory,t that red is retrogressively modified into yellow — from
which it was originally developed. In the species experimented
upon we have every subdivision of the Macro-Lepidoptera repre-
sented, and it appears to me an exceedingly interesting fact that
red is chemically always one and the same colour, however
different in superficial appearance,! and however far apart phylo-
genetically be the species thus adorned : red is one and the
same in the Rhopalocera, Sphinges, Bombyces, Noctuse, and
Geometr8e.§
We have therefore this general result : that by the action of
chemical reagents|| red is instantly changed to yellow, hut there the
change stops ; and by no means can this yellow so produced be
altered or affected in any way. Here we find ourselves at once
face to face with the problem of the character of the yellow
pigment, and to a consideration of that we must turn before we
can proceed further with red.
Again referring to the table on p. 248, what do we find is the
* I omit altogether any reference to Papilio machaon, since the colour here — as
evidenced even by its superficial appearance — is not a true red. Any significance
that might be attached to this one species, as typical of the Papilionidae, is entirely
destroyed by the fact that in species of tropical Papilios sent me (e. g., P. hector,
marked with brilHant vermilion) red is instantly changed to yellow, as in all other
groups,
t See pp. 370, 371.
I As exemplified, e. g., by the pink of Deiopeia and Sphinges, the scarlet of
Parnassius apollo, the brilliant reds of Bombyces, and the unhealthy reddish of
Xanthia.
§ Ked being so rare a colour in Geometree, I was exceedingly anxious to ascer-
tain whether red Geometrse would behave as all other red species ; and it was with
considerable interest that I examined the two species, Hyria auroraria and Acidalia
rubricata, kindly sent me by several correspondents. These species will again be
alluded to in another section.
II Note that red is far more sensitive to acids than to alkalies.
3t4 THE Entomologist.
general conclusion to be drawn from the experiments on yellow ?
Having found red always the same, wherever displayed, can we
lay down an equally general law as to yellow ? are all yellows one
and the same ? Apparently no ! very far from it : we find, on
the contrary, the most different and contradictory results, and
seem almost driven to conclude that under the common name of
yellow there are confused together several entirely different
colours, including both true pigment colours and mere " physical "
colours. But this latter assumption, as I have already pointed
out,* may be considered almost completely negatived by the
arguments deducible from the results yielded by red ; and further
evidence from the comparative study of allied yellow species will
be found in the present section.
[Want of space compels us to hold over the remainder of this
subsection until next month. — Ed.]
(To be continued.)
Erratum, — Page 312, line 20, for " my " read " any."
LIST OF INSECTS TAKEN in the FAKOE and WESTMANN
ISLES, AND IN ICELAND, 1890.
By F. a. Walker, D.D., F.L.S.
COLEOPTEKA.
Faroe Isles.
Thorshavn. — June 9th, Nebria brevicolUs, Calathus cisteloides, Patro-
biis hyperboreus, Cryptohypnus riparius, Tachinus rujipes.
Klaksvig. — June 10th, Nebria brevicollis, N. gyllenhali, Patrobus
hyperboreus, Carabus catenulatus, Quediiis fuUginosus, Otiorhynchus
scabrosus.
Westmann Isles.
Heimaey. — June 12th, Otiorhynchus monticola, Barynotus schonherri,
Nebria gyllenhali, Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena, Cryptohypnus
riparius, Notiophilus bipustulatus, Creophilus inaxillosus, Platysma vitreus,
Byrrhus fasciatus, Amara quenselii, Aphodius lapponum, Lesteva bicolor,
Patrobus hyperboreus, Otiorhynchus ?
Eeykjavik. — June 13th, Nebria gyllenhali, Philonthus cenem,
Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena, Otiorhynchus monticola, Amara
quenselii; June 14th, Nebria gyllenhali, Barynotus schonherri, Calathus
melanocephalus var. nubigena, Otiorhynchus monticola, Patrobus hyper-
boreus; June 15th, Nebria gyllenhali, Aphodius lapponum, Otiorhynchus
m/)nticola, Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena,
Engey Island. — June 14th, Nebria gyllenhali, Cryptohypnus ripa-
rius, Calathus melanocephalus var. 7iubigena, Patrobus hyperboreus,
Otiorhynchus nwnticola,
* See pp. 310, 311.
Insects taken in Iceland, etc., in 1890. 875
First Voyage round Iceland.
East Coast. — Berufjordr : June 17th, Nehria gyllenhali, Patrobus
hyperboreus, Otiorhynchus monticola, NotiopJdlus bipmtulatus, Byrrhus
fasciatus. Seydisfjordr : June 18th, Nehria gyllenhali^ Aphodius
lapponum, Byrrhus fasciatus, Otiorhynchus monticola, Barynotus schon-
herri, Tropiphorus mercurialis, Patrobus hyrperboreus, Calathus melano-
cephalus var. nubigena, Platysma vitreus.
North Coast. — Akureyri : June 19th, Nebria gyllenhali, Platysma
vitreus, Amara quenselii : June 20th, Nebria gyllenhali, Amara quenselii,
Otiorhynchus monticola, 0. ?, Cryptohypnus riparius, Byrrhus
fasciatus, Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena, Chrysomela staphylea ;
June 21st, Nebria gyllenhali, Patrobus hyperboreus, Cryptohypnus
riparius, Creophilus maxillosus, Amara quenselii, Byrrhus fasciatus,
Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena, Otiorhynchus monticola, 0. sca-
brosus, 0. / Saudarkrok : June 22nd, Otiorhynchus monticola.
West Coast. — Isarijardr: June 23rd, Agabus bipustulatus, Brady-
cellus cognatus, Nebria gyllenhali. Onundafjordr : June 23rd, Otio-
rhynchus mo7iticola, Nebria gyllenhali, Amara quenselii. Dyrafjordr :
June 24th, Nebria gyllenhali. Patriksfjordr : June 24th, Otiorhynchus
monticola, Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena. Stykkisholmur :
June 25th, Nebria gyllenhali, Patrobus hyperboreus, Platysma vitreus,
Byrrhus fasciatus, Cryptohypnus riparius, Notiophilus bipustulatus, Otio-
rhynchus monticola, Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena. Flatey
Island : June 25th, Nebna gyllenhali, Byrrhus fasciatus, Amara quenselii,
Otiorhynchus monticola, Calathus melanocephalus \sly. nubigena, Bradycellus
cognatus, Philonthus sordidus. Reykjavik : June 26th, Creophilus maxillo-
sus, Nebria gyllenhali, Otiorhynchus monticola, Calathus melanocephalaYSiY,
mibigena, Cryptohypnus riparius ; June 28th, Nebria gyllenhali, Platysma
vitreus, Creophilus maxillosus, Patrobus hyperboreus, Amara quenselii,
Otiorhynchus monticola, Barynotus schonherri, Calathus melanocephalus
var. nubigena ; June 30th, Nebria gyllenhali, Creophilus maxillosus,
Patrobus hyperboreus, Amara quenselii, Otiorhynchus monticola, Barynotus
schonherri, Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena ; July 1st, Nebria
gyllenhali, Patrobus hyperboreus, Amara quenselii, Otiorhynchus monticola,
Bembidium bipunctatum, Cryptohypnus riparius, Calathus melanocephalus
var. nubigena. Eoad to Hengill Mountain : June 27th, Nebria
gyllenhali, Patrobus hyperboreus, Calathus melanocephalus, var. nubigena.
Second Voyage round Iceland.
West Coast. — Stykkisholmur : July 3rd, Otiorhynchus monticola,
Nebria gyllenhali, Amara quenselii. Arnarfjordr : July 4th, Otio-
rhynchus monticola, Nebria gyllenhali, Amara quenselii, Cryptohypnus
riparius, Byrrhus fasciatus, Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena,
Patrobus hyperboreus. Dyrafjordr : July 5th, Otiorhynchus monticola,
Nebria gyllenhali, Amara quenselii.
North Coast. — Siglufjordr : July 8th, Nebria gyllenhali, Crypto-
hypnus riparius, Patrobus hyperboreus, Afnara quenselii. Akureyri :
July 9th and 10th, Nebria gyllenhali, Philonthus ceneus, Aphodius
lapponum, Patrobus hyperboreus, Amara quenselii, Otiorhyjichus monticola,
Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena. Husavik: July 11th, Nebria
376 tHE ENl:0M0L0GIST.
gyllenhali, Aphodius Jcetidus, Amara quenselii, Calathus melanocepKalus
var. mibigena.
East Coast. — Vopnafjordr : July 12th, Nebria gyllenhali, Crypto-
hypnus riparius, Amara quenselii, Otiorhynchus monticola, Calathus
melanocephalus var. nubigena. Seydisfjordr : Nebria gyllenhali, Amara
quenselii, Cryptohypnus riparius, Calathus melanocephalus var. nubigena.
Eskefjordr : July 13th, Amara quenselii, Lesteva bicolor, Cryptohypnus
riparius, Nebria gyllenhali.
Faboe Isles.
Thoeshavn. — July 15th, Nebria brevicollis, Amara spinipes, Calathus
melanocephalus var. nubigena.
The three forms of Calathus melanocephalus were obtained in
1890, as follows : —
Westmann Isles, June 12th, typical 7, var. nubigena, 13. Eeykjavik,
June 13th, typical 2, var. nubigena 2 ; June 14th, typical 3, interme-
diate 1, var. nubigena 3 ; June 16th, intermediate 4. Engey Island,
June 14th, intermediate 10.
First Voyage round Iceland. — Seydisfjordr (E. coast), June 18th,
typical 3, var. nubigena 2, intermediate 3. Akureyri (N. coast), June
19th, typical 1, var. nubigena 2; June 20th, typical 4, intermediate 4,
var. nubigena 4. Patriksfjordr (W. coast), June 24th, typical 2, inter-
mediate 1. Stykkisholmur (W. coast), June 24th, typical 6, interme-
diate 3, var. nubigena 5. Flatey Island (W. coast), June 25th, inter-
mediate 2, var. nubigena 7. Eeykjavik, June 26th, var. nubigena 1 ;
June 28th, intermediate 2, var. nubigena 3 ; June 30th, typical 4,
intermediate 8, var. nubigena 14 ; July 1st, intermediate 2, var.
nubigena 2. Eoad to Hengill Mountain, June 27th, typical 2, inter-
mediate 1, var. nubigena 5.
Second Voyage round Iceland. — Arnarfjordr (W. coast), July 4th,
intermediate 5, var. nubigena 1. Akureyri (N. coast), July 10th, var,
nubigena 3. Glarafoss (N. coast), July 10th, typical 1. Husavik
(N. coast), July 11th, typical 2. Vopnafjordr (E. coast), July 12th,
intermediate 1. Seydisfjordr (E. coast), typical 3, var. nubigena 1.
Faroes, July 15th, typical 1, var. nubigena 2.
Total of specimens, 158 : typical, 41 ; intermediate, 47 ; var.
nubigena, 70.
Calathus melanocephalus, as captured in 1889 : —
Thingvellir, July and August, var. nubigena 2. Eeykjavik, July,
typical 2, intermediate 3, var. nubigena 1. Patriksfjordr, July, inter-
mediate 1. Onundafjordr, July, var. nubigena 1. Saudarkrok, August,
typical 1. Total 11 : typical, 3 ; intermediate, 4 ; var. nubigena, 4.
In Staudinger's list of Iceland insects this species is termed
Calathus nubigena, owing doubtless to the preponderance that he
found there of that var., and to which he gave its name. In
PaijkuU's list of Iceland insects the species is termed Carabus
melanocephalus,
DIPTERA.
Sarcophaga mortuoimm: Westmann Isles, June 12th; Eeykjavik,
June 13th and 14th ; Berufjordr, June 17th j Seydisfjordr, June 18th ;
INSECTS TAKEN IN ICELAND, ETC., IN 1890. 87 7^
Akureyri, June 21st ; Onundafjordr, June 23rd ; Dyrafjordr, June
24th; Keykjavik, June 26th and 28th; Siglufjordr, July 8th
Akureyri, July 9th ; Glarafoss, July 10th ; Vopnafjordr, July 12th
Helophilus peiidulus : Eeykjavik, June 13th and 14th, 28th and 30th
July 1st and 2nd ; Akureyri, July 9th and 10th. Sericomyia lappona
Eeykjavik, July 2nd. Scatophaga litorea : Engey Island, June 14th
Fucellia fucorum : Akureyri, June 21st ; Husavik, July 11th. Platy
cheirus alhimanus : Seydisf j or dr, June 18th. Scatella stagnalis : Reyk
javik, July 2nd. Chironoynus tibialis: Reykjavik, June 13th and 14th
Scatophaga stercoraria and CalUphora erythrocephala : common every
where. Tipula confusa : Westmann Isles, June 12th; Reykjavik
June 13th and 14th ; Berufjordr, June 17th ; Seydisfjordr, June 18th
Isafjordr, June 23rd ; Arnarfjordr, July 4th ; Engey Island, June 14th
T. lunata: Thorshavn, June 9th; Reykjavik, June 13th and 14th
T. oleracea: Thorshavn, June 9th and July 15th.
HYMENOPTERA.
Ichneumon luctatorius: Westmann Islands, June 12th, one speci-
men ; Reykjavik, June 13th and 30th, one ; Road to Hengill Mountain,
June 27th, one. I. vaginatorius : Akureyri, July 9th, three. Pimpla
aterrima: Stykkisholmur, June 25th, one; Husavik, July 11th, one.
Alysia manducator : Husavik, July 11th, ten. Bombus terrestris:
Akureyri, July 9th, one ; Glarafoss, July 10th, one.
LEPIDOPTERA-HETEEOCEEA.
Faroe Isles. — Thorshavn : Charceas graminis (from chrysalis),
June 9th ; Coremia munitata, June 9th ; C. propugnata, June 9th ;
Crymodes exuliSy June 9th ; Aphelia osseana [== pratana), July 15th.
Iceland. — Caradrina cubicularis : Onundafjordr, June 23rd ;
Charceas graminis : Akureyri, July 9th and 10th. Crymodes exulis :
Stykhisholmur, June 25th ; Reykjavik, June 26th ; Road to Hengill
Mountain, June 27th ; Siglufjordr, July 8th ; Akureyri, June 20th,
July 9th and 10th ; Dyrefjordr, July 5th. Noctua conflua: Road to
Hengill Mountain, June 27th ; Akureyri, July 9th and 10th. Hadena
contigua ? : Road to Hengill Mountain, June 27th ; Akureyri, June or
July. Coremia munitata: Reykjavik, June 26th and 28th; Engey,
June 14th ; Stykkisholmur, June 25th ; Siglufjordr, July 8th ;
Dyrefjordr, June 24th; Isafjordr, June 23rd. Melanippe thulearia:
Reykjavik, June 13th; Dyrefjordr, June 24th; Patriksfjordr, June
24th ; Stykkisholmur, June 25th. M. biriviata : Reykjavik, June 13th,
26th, and 28th ; Onundafjordr, July 5th ; Akureyri, July 9th and
10th. Phycis fusca : July 2nd and 5th. Aphelia osseana {= pratana) ;
Engey, June 14th ; Reykjavik, July 2nd ; Dyrefjordr, July 5th ;
Husavik, July 11th.
From pup^ found under stones at Thorshavn, Flatey Island,
Stykkisholmur, &c. : — The only specimens that emerged were Charaas
graminis (Thorshavn), and I think it is probable that all the chrysalids
were of this species.
NEUEOPTERA.— PHRYGANEIDiE.
Limnophilus griseus : Thorshavn (Faroe Isles), June 9th ; Reykjavik,
June 13th, 14th, 26th, 28th, and July 2nd; First voyage round
^78 THE ENTOMOiiOGiS*.
Tl
Iceland,— Seydisfjordr, June 18th; Akureyri, June 20th; Isafjordr,
June 23rd ; Dyrafjordr, June 24th ; Second voyage round Iceland, —
Dyrafjordr, July 5th ; Siglufjordr, July 8th ; On steamer off Orkneys,
July 16th.
HEMIPTEBA.
Salda littoralis, and larvae of same, Reykjavik (June 80th, prob.
other larvae of same species, Akureyri, prob.
OETHOPTEEA.
Forficula auricularia (N.B. The earwig abounds in the Faroe Isles,
but does not occur in Iceland) : Thorshavn, June 9th, all very small
and immature (on flowers of Caltha eu-palustris, which they had
gnawed nearly down to the calyx) ; July 16th, under stones (consider-
ably grown in a month's interval).
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Dk. Staudinger's Collection. — There is no foundation for the
rumour that Dr. Staudinger desired to dispose of his collection in conse-
quence of failing health. We are in a position to state that at the present
time the Doctor is better in health than he has been for some years past,
and that he has never had any intention of disposing of his collection.
Notes from Cannock Chase. — I have this year found imagines to be
quite up to the average in point of numbers, though I cannot say the same
of larvae. In the early spring I took Brephos parthenias, Asphalia fiavi-
cornis, Larentia multistrigaria, and others. Visiting the Chase again during
the beginning of August, I was gratified by the sight of numbers of Stilbia
anomala, which were flying over the heather. It has, so far as I can dis-
cover, never been taken there before. I took about 150 in all, only three
of which were females, and the majority had managed to damage themselves
more or less. I also took at that time Orthosia suspecta, Hepialus sylvanus,
Polia chi, Gortyna ochracea (flavago), Crocallis elinguaria, Asthena luteata
and Eupisteria ohliierata [heparata), both getting worn, and Geomeira
papilionaria. I had to leave before Calocampa solidaginis emerged, but
heard that it occurred abundantly. Eupithecia nanata and E. minutata
occurred plentifully among the heather, and I got larvae of E. pulchellata
from foxglove ; it had, however, entirely deserted its old haunts, though
there were plenty of foxgloves. I got my larvae from a garden on the edge
of the Chase. I paid another visit in September, and devoted my energies
to larvae. From young poplar trees I got Dicranura bifida and Notodonta
dictcEa. I beat an immense nnmber of birch trees with but meagre results —
Notodonta dictcboides, N. dromedarius, Lophopteryx camelina, Drepana lacer-
tinaria and D. falcataria, Cymatophora duplaris and Asphalia Jiavicornis,
Hadena adusta, and Geometra papilionaria dropping into my umbrella, at
long intervals, one at a time. I got about thirty larvae of the above in all.
I also got three or four Amphidasys hetularia, usually common enough.
With regard to this insect, I have found that all the larvae from the Chase,
and which are birch-feeders, produce the var. doubledayaria, while the lime-
feeding larvae I get in Rugeley— about 1 J mile from the Chase—almost
NOtES, CAPTURES, ETC. 8t9
invariably produce the normal form. The *' H udder afield soot theory " evi-
dently will not do here. Possibly the nutritious value of the food has
something to do with it. Cabera pusaria and Phalera hucephala were both
abundant, the latter unusually so. Ragwort yielded Eujnthecia absynthiata
and E. castigata, and I also got E.fraxitiata, E. assimilata, and E. exiguata.
One of the chief prizes of the district, viz. Acronycta leporina, was con-
spicuous by its absence, which applies also to Panolis piniperda, usually
fairly plentiful. I heard that Cosmia paleacea {fulvago) had been turned
up on the Chase this year by a Birmingham entomologist. This makes
another addition to the already long list of insects to be found there. I
believe it is stated that the brown form of the larva of N. dictcBa only occurs
after the last moult. I have taken a large number of these larvae, and I
find, if they are kept in a box or case, the interior of which is not well
lighted, every larva, irrespective of size, will become brown, or at any rate
much more brown than they originally were : irrespective of size and age,
the younger individuals do not assume such a dark and well-marked brown
coat as their seniors, but the yellow line on each side disappears, and the
whole larva becomes a dirty yellow in colour. At the end of the season,
about the beginning of October, when the poplar leaves become scanty and
yellowish in colour, the larvae rest mostly on the twigs, and even when
feeding they insure their safety by retaining a hold on a twig by means of
their anal claspers. These larvae are all, or nearly all, of the brown type,
and some will be found that have not undergone their last moult. These
larvae may be found full fed from the end of July to the middle of October,
and this also applies to the larvae of N. dictceoides. They do not seem to
be double-brooded, as I have never bred the perfect insect in the autumn
from the early larvae. I have found the imago of N. dictceoides in good
condition as late as the 7th of September. I have never, however, taken
an imago of N. dictma, plentiful though the larvae are about Rugeley. At
this present time (October 3rd) I have half-grown specimens of both N,
dictcea and N. dictceoides, and I got both full fed the first week in August.
— Richard Freer ; St. Mary's Hospital, Paddington, W.
New Forest Notes. — I have read with much interest Mr. E. G.
Alderson's notes on his experiences at Lyndhurst during the last week of
June (Entom. 258); and now forward a few observations concerning the
Lepidoptera seen by me from the 13th to 26th July, in the same neighbour-
hood. The weather during the first half of my stay was very unsettled,
but it improved greatly afterwards, and the result was, consequently, rather
more encouraging than that recorded by your correspondent. Argynnis
paphia was fairly common, the females appearing more abundantly towards
the end of the month ; I only saw two specimens of the var. valesina.
A. aglaia occurred sparingly on the heaths, and A. adippe was represented
by a solitary specimen. In the enclosures Epinej)hele ianira, E. tithonus,
E. hyperanthes, Hesperia sylvanus and H. thaumas [linea] were abundant and
in fine condition. Limenitis sybilla was less common than usual, and the males
were mostly worn. I was surprised at only taking three Thecla qiiercus,
and in one enclosure — where this species was abundant in 1886 — none
were to be seen. Of the genus Lyccena the only representative was
L. cegon, which was plentiful on the heaths, and in good condition. Satyrus
semele was just appearing when I left the Forest, but I managed to secure
a few fine males. Among the Heterocera the Noctuae were, with the two
exceptions of Agrotis strigula and Anarta myrtilli, a blank, for I did not
380 THE Et^TOMOLOGl^'f.
attempt ** sugaring," as I was told that it was useless. The heaths proved
to be the best localities for moths, Nemeophila russula, EuboJia palumbaria
and Anarta myrtiili occurring bj day, and Gnophos obscuraria, Pseudoterpna
pruinata, Acidalia straminata, Selidosema ericetaria and Agrotis strigula at
dusk. '* Mothing " in the woods lesulted in the capture of Calligenia mini-
ata, Acidalia bisetata, A. scutulata and Hemithea strigaria. With regard to
C. miniata I may add that I netted twenty specimens in about ten minutes,
almost without stirring from one spot ; but on going to the same place on
the following evening only one put in an appearance. Besides the above I
took odd specimens of Cleora glabraria, C. lichenaria, Boarmia rohoraria,
Ellopia prosapiaria, Macaria liturata, Bupalus piniaria (this species was
still abundant, although, as might be expected, very worn), Emmelesia
alchemillata, and Melanthia albicillata, while Euholia limitata [mensuraria]
was swarming along the side of the railway line near Brockenhurst. I also
found a female Pachycnemia hippocastanaria drying its wings on a stem of
bracken. Is not this a very late emergence ? The only larvae I came
across were those of Euchelia jacobma, which were to be seen on every
other patch of ragwort. Although the Geometrse were out in some
variety, this season seems to have been very bad in the New Forest, every
collector whom I met agreeing as to the scarcity of insects. — W. H.
Jackson ; 4, Queen Anne Villas, Grove Road, Walthamstow, Sept. 24, 1890.
.Collecting in Durham. — For the last three years I have spent the
early part of August at Bishop Auckland, and on each occasion have col-
lected Lepidoptera whenever the weather permitted. Unfortunately the
weather has been in an unsettled condition each time I have gone North,
consequently I have not been able to get together many species, and most
of these are common ones. There are no woods of any extent in the im-
mediate vicinity of the town, but about a mile to the east there is a small
one called Belburn, containing mixed timber, including some fine beech
trees, but the undergrowth in places is rank. Cidaria immanata and
Hypsipites sordidata are sometimes plentiful, and many pretty forms of
each have been secured. Larentia didymata here, as elsewhere, is abundant,
and the only thing of interest concerning it is that the females are uni-
formly paler than those taken in other parts of the district. In 1889
Cerostoma sequella was fairly common in this wood, but not a specimen was
to be seen this year. There is another wood to the south, distant about
two miles. It was here that I last year found a larva of Notodonta chaonia,
which produced a splendid dark imago in June. I expected to get more
larvae of this species this year, and went to work with a will, but all my
efforts were in vain ; not a larva of any kind could I dislodge, if there were
any to be dislodged. Except some old twisted and rolled leaves, the fohage
of the oaks appeared to be free from the attacks of lepidopterous larvae.
Some very nice forms of Pcedisca solandriana were captured in this
wood last year, but the species was not out when I visited the place this
year. The best collecting-ground lies to the west, a few miles up the Wear
Valley. Through the kindness of Mr. R. Calvert, who obtained permission
of the owner, I sometimes enjoyed the privilege of collecting in some of the
fine woods and plantations above Wolsingham and other places in Weardale.
I could not, however, get any night-work there. Among other things taken in
these excursions were some female specimens of Argynnis aglaia which have
the basal half of the wing deeply suffused with black : these were captured
in 1888. I did not see the species in 1889, but it was plentiful this year,
J
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 381
though none of the specimens examined were anything like so dark as those
secured in 1888, when dark examples of Eubolia limitata (= rnensuraria)
were also obtained. Of the last-named species I got some striking forms
again this year ; one has the ground colour of fore wings pale, with a broad,
black, central fascia, and the hind wings are pale brown, with whitish central
line. Plusia interrogationis was found at rest on the top of a stone wall,
and was most acceptable, as, although " my series is quite full," I regard
this particular specimen highly, as it was from it that I obtained my first
idea of what the insect looked like when at rest in a state of nature.
Larentia ccBsiata was common in 1888, but I did not see it last year, and it
was hardly well out this year. This species is also fond of sitting on rocks
and stone walls, but it is only those specimens that have recently emerged
from pupa that will allow one to box them from their resting-place.
L. salicata was found with the last species, but was always scarce.
Emmelesia minorata (= ericetata) fairly common last year, but I could not
get one this year, and I only saw one in 1888. L. didymata : one specimen
captured this year is the darkest I have yet seen of this species. Cidaria
immanata : most of the specimens captured were much darker than those
from Belburn or Brusselton. The sea-clifFs at Castle Eden were visited,
and a few interesting species obtained, including three examples of Lycana
astrarche var. salmacis ; but the beautiful glen known as Castle Eden Dene,
which is reputed to be a good entomological locality, had nothing better than
one poor specimen of Metrocampa margaritaria to produce for my entertain-
ment when I visited it on the 12th of August, 1888. Upper Teesdale is
within practicable distance for an excursion, but almost too far to be done
comfortably in one day, — that is, if any time is to be given to the Lepi-
doptera of the moors. I only went there once (8th of August last), when
I took the train to Middleton, and from thence walked on the Yorkshire
side of the Tees to White Force, then over the river to the Durham side,
and back to Middleton, looking in at High Force on the way. The distance
traversed was said to be about eighteen miles, but the way over the moors
was rough. I picked up some splendid L. ccesiata from the rocks : these
appear to be more strongly marked than the Weardale specimens. A small
dark form oiL. didymata abounds on these moors. 1 was especially pleased to
meet with AmpMsa gerningana and Pamplusia montlcolana (= mercuriana)
for the first time. Sugar does not seem to be seductive in the month of
August at Bishop Auckland. This year not one moth visited the bait
whilst I was there, and I understand that this attraction has failed to allure
Noctuae in any numbers throughout the summer, at least since May. The
ragwort flowers yielded several common species, such as Noctua xantho-
grapha (some very dark forms) and TriphcBna pronubUf also a few N.
umbrosa. Plenty of Polia chi, with a good proportion of var. olivacea, are
usually to be met with on the walls, but the species was not out this year
in time for me, — neither was Larentia olivata, which I have found in the
wood above the cemetery. — Hichard South.
Notes from Ringwood. — Having noticed that it is many years since
any record of Lepidoptera taken in this neighbourhood has been pubHshed
in • The Entomologist,' I thought an account of a few of my captures
might possibly be useful to collectors contemplating a visit to Ringwood.
Insects have been fairly plentiful this year, and a few species abundant,
especially Gonopteryx rhamni, Vanessa io, V. urticce, Fararge egeria, Epine-
phele hyperanthes, E. tithonus, and others. It was a pleasant sight to see
383 THE ENTOMOLOGIST,
such numbers of G. rhamni and V. to ; both literally swarmed in the
Forest. I netted three specimens of the latter with the yellow markings
replaced with white, and saw more. E. hyperanthes varied considerably
from the var. arete, to very fully-developed eye-spot specimens, two excep-
tionally so ; the large fritillaries rather scarce, although Argynnis euphrosyne
and A. selene were common. On one day in August I took A. paphia and
var. valesina, A. adippe, A. aglaia, A. euphrosyne (worn), and A. selene.
Limenitis sihylla scarce : this species I bred from larvae beaten in June, and
have seen the imago deposit ova on two or three occasions, and by searching
honeysuckle leaves have taken the ova freely : these are nearly always to
be found upon the upper edge of the leaf; sometimes, though rarely, on
the leaf-stalk. P. egeria, bred from ova, and now in pupa ; Pararge megcera
and Satyrus semele, common ; Polyommatus phloeas, Thecla quercus, and
Lycmna Icarus, all scarce ; L. argiolus, not a dozen seen ; L. (Bgon, local
and few ; Pamphilus sylvanus, P. thaumas, Nisoniades tages, and Hesperia
malvcB, common ; P. thaumas, very dark and in strong contrast to H. lineola ;
Vanessa cardui and V. atalanta, scarce and very late ; Euchloe cardamines,
Pieris napi, P. rapcB, P. brassiccB, and Epinephele ianira, well represented,
but of Thecla ruhi one specimen only. I cannot help remarking the dura-
tion of certain species, thus — P. egeria occurred from April to October,
with a very short interval ; A. euphrosyne well into the A. selene brood ;
A. paphia and A. aglaia to the 6th of September ; P. thaumas was a very
long time upon the wing. A. aglaia I found the most plentiful of the
large fritillaries, females of which vary considerably, three distinct shades,
— viz., 1, very dark all over ; 2, colour of male ; 3, light straw and bright.
I have taken similar forms at Dover, whilst my Dorset specimens are all
typical. The last walk I took for Rhopalocera this season was to Bolder-
wood, on the I6th of October, when I observed the following : — G. rhamni,
V. io (2), V. atalanta, V. urticcB, P. rapm, and Pararge egeria (all fairly late).
Of course it is well known that Ringwood is noted for Emydia crihrum,
but this is not the only good species met with here ; still by the number of
entomologists who come solely for it, one would think otherwise ; and what
a lot of disappointment there is in netting this species, because so many do
not know the correct time and locality to search : the whole ,of June and
first week in July it is upon the wing, — first fortnight in June for really fine
specimens : doubtless a few may be caught after the above date, still I do
not believe in a distinct double brood. I went in August and searched
upon the heaths, but in vain ; whilst in the above-stated time I found it
plentifully. In one week Mr. Gerrard and myself took about eighty each,
and upon what we considered fresh ground, until our old friend Mr.Corbin
informed me he used to get it there when he was a boy. I have discovered
it in several places much nearer Ringwood than the old St. Leonard's
locality. It is local over a great stretch of heath west of the River Avon.
I am not aware of E. crihrum occurring in the New Forest at all, or why
should the local collectors of that district come here for it ? I note that
the species is not confined to certain spots, but is generally distributed over
a particular area. Beating for it by day is very slow work compared witli
netting at night. As the sun descends specimens can be observed crawling
upon the heath-tops, and from about half an hour after sunset until mid-
night they fly in great numbers. Of the specimens netted about 60 per
cent, are males ; the females are best obtained by searching. — J. H. Fowler ;
Poulner, Ringwood, Oct. 22, 1890,
he I
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 383
Chelonia villtca: 177 Parasites from one Larva. — On the 8th
June, 1889, I found at Torcross, South Devon, a larva of C. villica^
surrounded by 177 Apanteles cocoons. I carefully removed them from
the stone on which they were clustered into a glass-bottomed box, and on
the 22nd June I bred 48 Apanteles rujicoxis, Marshall, n. sp., MS. ; on the
30th June, 1 female Hemiteles fulvipes ; 3rd July, Pezomachus tristis,
males and females ; and on the same day, 64 males of Hemiteles fulvipes,
A goodly mixture from one poor caterpillar. — G. C. Bignell ; Stonehouse,
Plymouth, November 6, 1890.
Larvae in 1890. — With reference to the query respecting the occur-
rence of larvae (Entom. 322), I am able to record only one species common
in the larval state, that being Arctia caia, which was extremely plentiful
this year round London. — J. M. Ad ye ; Christchurch, October 20, 1890.
Larva of Acrontcta alni at Clifton. — I have to record the occur-
rence of a larva of A. alni here on the 18th of August last. I found it,
curiously enough, crawling on the ground within a few feet of a gas-lamp,
on which, three years previously, I took a specimen of the perfect insect at
light. — R. M. Prideauk ; 9, Vyvyan Terrace, Clifton.
Arctia villica bred in October. — Early in June last some eggs of
Arctia villica were obtained. These hatched, and some sixty larvae were
fed on groundsel {Senecio vulgaris). About the middle of September ten
of these larvae spun up (the rest are hybernating as usual). In October ten
perfect imagines appeared. Is not this most unusual? An acknowledged
authority assures me it is unprecedented, as far as his observation has
gone. — Allan Nesbitt ; Seaton, Devon, November 6, 1890.
DiLOBA c^ruleocephala ON Prunus laurocerasus. — Adverting to
the discussion (Entom. 327 and 345) respecting the larva of Diloba
caruleocephala having been found feeding on laurel, it appears to me that
it is not sufficiently recognized that the shrub usually called the laurel is
the laurel cherry, Cerasus laurocerasus^ and not a Lauras. No one would
be surprised if the larva in question was found feeding on the common
cherries, derived from Cerasus caproniana and G. avium, or any of the
species of the closely-allied genus Prunus. The sloe, Prunus spinosa, is,
indeed, one of the most common food-plants of the caterpillar. The fact
of the larva feeding on an evergreen cherry as well as a deciduous one, is
a parallel case to that of Gonopteryx rhamni, which fed in my garden on
the evergreen Rhamnus alaternus, although the shrub presents much the
same difference to the eye from our two native species of Rhamnus as the
laurel cherry presents from our two common species of cherry. The
interest, in each case, arises from the fact that the parent lepidopteron,
when depositing her eggs, recognized the generic affinity of plants widely
different in appearance. — J. Ienner Weir; Chirbury, Beckenham, Kent.
Sugar a failure at Christchurch.— It may be of interest to note
that sugaring here has again proved unsuccessful, though when I first
commenced at the end of June, and from that date till July 10th, there
seemed some hopes of a better season. During the time adverted to I took
the following: — Tliyatira batis{3), T.derasa{l), Acronycta megacepUala (1),
Leucania conigera (2j, L. lithargyria (2), L. pallens (several), Dipterygia
scabriuscula (6), Mamestra sordida (2), Apamea basilinea (1), A. gemina (4),
384 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Miana strigilis (common), M. arcuosa (2), Grammesia trigrammica (1),
Husina tenebrosa (3), Noctua plecta (1), N. triangulum (I), N. /estiva
(several), Mania typica (3), Aplecta nebulosa (1), Hadena dentina (1),
H. dissimilis (1), H. oleracea (1); and a few of the usual pests, fairly
common. After this I went into Somersetshire for some days, and on my
return (July 20th) found sugaring perfectly useless, not meeting with even
a single specimen. This dearth of insects continued, whilst trying at
intervals, up till about September 21st, when, after a long spell of dry
weather, there came a very wet day, rain falling in torrents the whole day,
especially in the evening. I then ventured out upon my favourite experi-
ment, and so had the pleasure of seeing insects congregated in some
numbers on the trees, which was gratifying to view, though, under the
circumstances of the weather, far from comfortable. The following were
my captures: — Epunda lutulenta (1), Anchocelis lunosa (vara., 4),
A. litura (1), Xanthia cerago (1), Calocampa vetusta (fine, 2), Noctua
c-nigrum (4), Cidaria immanata (several), Phlogophora meticulosa (fairly
common) ; and a few of the usual pests, only represented by two or three
odd specimens. A day or two after this I took two more fine E. lutulenta^
and a few each of A. lunosa and N, c-nigrum; but, as the weather became
drier, moths got scarcer, as before. I think this experience coincides with
that of Mr. A. E. Hall and Mr. R. Adkia (Entom. 321, 322).—
J. M. Adye ; Christchurch, October 20, 1890.
The Violet tinge in Helfophobus hispidus. — It may be interesting
to note that the violet tinge was almost entirely absent from specimens of
Heliophohus hispidus taken by me this year at Portland. From this I
should suppose that the species varied in this respect in different years,
which may account for the fact that I did not notice any tinge until 1889
(Entom. 60). — Nelson M. Richardson; Montevideo, near Weymouth,
November 13, 1890.
SiREX QiQAS.— Yarmouth. — A specimen of this insect was brought to
me, alive, in July. It was taken off a gentleman's back in the market. A
friend of mine has one, which he captured in the town about two years ago.
— J. E. Knights ; North Denes, Great Yarmouth.
Tenby. — A specimen of Sirex gigas was brought to me when at Tenby
last August. — T. B. Jefferys ; Clevedon.
Disparity of size in Siricid^e. — Several specimens of Sirex gigas
were taken here and in the neighbourhood during the autumn. The great
discrepancy in size in different insects of both sexes in the Siricidae is very
striking. A female of Sirex juvencus sent me by Mr. J. E. Robson,
captured at Hartlepool on 30th September last, measures only IJ inch
from tip to tip of wings ; the length of the body, including head and
ovipositor, being f of an inch ; whilst a female of S. juvencus, taken here,
measures in wing expanse 2 inches ; the length of body, with head and
ovipositor, is 1^ inch. The disparity in S. gigas is equally remarkable. —
Joseph Anderson, jun. ; Chichester.
Information wanted. — If any of your readers can supply me with any
facts they may have observed or know as to the life-history of the Siricidse,
especially of Sirex gigas, 1 should be much obliged. I want them to
incorporate with a paper in preparation. Please write direct to Dr. Livktt,
Wells, Somerset.
SOCIETIES. 385
Notes feom Lancashire and Merionethshire. — Spending a few
days at Grange-over-Sands last Whit-week, I took three specimens of
Nemeobius lucina, and a friend secured a fourth. I also took a good series
of Leucophasia sinapis, as well as several Lycana argiolus, Anarta
myrtilli, and Satitrnia pavonia (carpini) in the neighbourhood; the two
last, of course, on the mosses. I spent a few days at Towyn, in Merioneth-
shire, early in July, and found at Dolgoch, a beautiful gorge in the neigh-
bourhood, Epinephele hyperanthes in abundance. — W. Howard Goulty ;
Komily, Cheshire, November 7, 1890.
Captures from Gas-lamps. — September 5th, 1890. I took Phiba-
lapteryx vittata [lignata), Coremia designata (^propugnata), Cidaria testata,
C. immanata, Melanippe fluctiiata, Halia vauaria {wavaria), Eugonia
alnlaria [tiliaria), Paraponyx stratiotalis (abundant), Noctua glareosa
(hitherto unrecorded for Chester), Luperlna testacea, L. cespitis, Neuronia
popularis, Anchocelis lunosa, Cosmia trapezina, Noctua xanthograplia,
Hydrcecia micacea, Porthesia simllis (aurijlua), and one Hepialus humuli.
This is the first specimen of H. humuli I ever took at or from a gas-lamp.
It is a small female, apparently fresh from the chrysalis, and is a couple of
months out of date. — J. Arkle; Chester.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — Nov. bth, 1890. The Rt. Hon.
Lord Walsinghara, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair. Mr. Francis
H. Barclay, of Knott's Green, Leyton, Essex ; Miss M. Kimber, of Cope
Hall, Enborne, Berkshire ; and Mr. John E. Robson, of Hartlepool, were
elected Fellows ; and Major-General Garden, Mr. J. E. Eastwood, and
Mr. A. E. Hall were admitted into the Society. Lord Walsingham an-
nounced the death of Mr. Atkinson, of the Indian Museum, Calcutta.
Mr. A. H. Jones exhibited a number of Lepidoptera collected in June
last near Digne, Basses Alpes, including Papilio alexanor ; Parnassius
apollo, larger and paler than the Swiss form ; Anthocharis tagis var.
hellezina ; Leucophasia duponcheli ; Thecla spini ; Thecla ilicis var. cerri ;
Lyccena argiades var. corretas ; L. argus var. argyronomon ; L. bellargus
var. ceronus ; Melitcea deione ; and Argynnis euphrosyne. Mr. W. E.
Nicholson also exhibited a collection of Lepidoptera, formed near Digne,
last June, which included very large specimens of Papilio machaon ; P.
podalirius; Thais rumina var. medesicaste, larger and redder than the Medi-
terranean specimens ; Apatura ilia var. clytie ; Argynnis adippe var.
cleodoxa; A. daphne; Melanargia galatea var. leucomelas ; Vanessa egea,
bred from pellitory ; Satyrus semele ; and many others. Mr. C. 0. Water-
house exhibited the upper and lower membranes of a wing of a species of
Attacus, which had been separated without removing the scales, and
mounted on glass so as to show the internal surfaces. - He explained that
he separated the membranes first by inserting a needle in the vein at the
base of the wing, and, when they were sufficiently parted to be taken hold
of, they were gradually drawn asunder, and floated on water until the two
membranes were entirely separated. He said that some years ago Dr.
Hagen had shown that this could be done with fresh examples of Libellulidce,
Dr. D. Sharp exhibited a photograph he had received from Prof. Exner,
ENTOM. — DEC. 1890. 2 G
386 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
of Vienna, showing the picture obtained at the back of the eye of Lampyris
splendidula. He stated that this picture is continuous and not reversed,
and shows the outlines of Hghts and shades of objects at a distance as well
as of those closer to the eye. Mr. H. Goss exhibited a specimen of
Zygcena Jilipendulce var. chrysanthemi, which he had taken at Rhinefield,
in the New Forest, on the 15Lh July last. Dr. P. B. Mason said this
variety was known on the Continent of Europe, and was figured by Hiibner
in his * Samralung,' a copy of which work he exhibited. He added that he
possessed a similar specimen of this variety taken by Mr. Nowers in Wyre
Forest, Worcestershire. Colonel Swinhoe stated that he possessed a similar
variety of a species of Syntomis. The Rev. Dr. Walker exhibited a
number of Diptera, Hymenoptera, and Coleoptera recently collected in
Iceland; also some drawings illustrating the various forms of Crymodes
exulis occurring in Iceland which he had shown at the October meeting of
the Society ; he also exhibited seven varieties of Melanippe thuleana, nine
of Coremia munitata, and a few of Noctua conflua, illustrating the varied
forms of these species occurring in Iceland. Dr. Mason said that the only
British specimens of N. conflua which he had seen resembling the Iceland
form of the species were taken at Wolsingham, Durham. Mens. A. Wailly
exhibited and remarked on a number of Lepidoptera from Japan. The
collection comprised about forty-one species, eleven of which, it was stated,
were not represented in the British Museum collections. Mr. A. C. Horner
exhibited a number of rare species of Coleoptera, including Homalota
crassicornis, Gyll., H. Jimorum, Bris., H. humeralist Kr., and Euryporus
picipes, Pk., collected at Church Stretton, Shropshire ; and also Amara
nitida, Sturm., Oxypoda amcena, Fair., Homalota testaceipes, Heer, Liiho'
charis apicalis, Kr., and Epurcea neglecta, Heer, from the neighbourhood of
Tonbridge. Mr. Meyer- Darcis exhibited a specimen of Termitobia physo-
gastray Gangelb., a new genus and species of Brachelytra obtained in a
white-ants' nest from the Congo. Dr. Sharp commented on the interesting
nature of this exhibition. Colonel Swinhoe exhibited a collection of moths
from Southern India, which comprised about forty-one species, distributed
amongst the following families : — Syntomidse, Lithosiidse, Arctiidse, Lasio-
campidse, Zerenidse, Fidonidae, Leucanidge, Heliothidae, Acontiidse, Poa-
philidse, &c. He also read a paper describing these species, entitled " New
Species of Moths from Southern India." The Rev. T. A. Marshall com-
municated a paper entitled " AMonograph of British Braconidae. Part IV."
Lord Walsingham read a paper entitled " African Micro-Lepidoptera,"
containing descriptions of seventy-one new species, and of the following
nine new genera, viz.: — Autochthonus (type A. chalybiellus, Wlsm.),
Scalidoma (type Tmea horridella, Wkr.), Barbaroscardia (type B. fasciata,
Wlsm.), Odites (type 0. natalensis, Wlsm.), Idiopteryx (type Cryptolechia
obliquella, Wlsm.), Microthauma (type M. metallifera, Wlsm.), Licmocera
(type L. lyonetiella, Wlsm.), Oxymachmris (type 0. niveocervina, Wlsm.),
and Micropostega (type M. mieo/asciata, Wlsm.). Several European and
American genera were recorded as new to the African fauna, and the
occurrence of one Australian and two Indian genera was also noted. —
H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
— October ^Srd. W. H. Tug well, Vice-President, in the chair. Messrs.
P. J. Crane, of Chiugford, and G. Wallace, of Forest Hill, were elected
members. Mr. Bouttell exhibited two series of Eugonia qmrcinaria,
SOCIETIES. 387
Hufn., one bred from larvae fed on elm, and the other on sallow. He
stated that those fed on elm were, by accident, kept without food for some
time after the first moult, and in consequence most of the brood perished.
Nineteen reached the perfect stage, of which only two were females. Mr. E.
Joy, bred examples and pupse of PlusiafestuccB, L. Mr. Tugwell, a box
of Lepidoptera, collected by Mr. Lachlan Gibb in Canada. Mr. E. Adkin,
specimens of Tortrix j^iceana, L., from Surrey and Hampshire, and
expressed an opinion that the species was more widely distributed than was
generally supposed. Mr. South remarked that the species had been
known in England for many years. Mr. Fenn thought it had been over-
looked owing to the difficulty in obtaining the larvae, which fed on the tops
of the trees. Mr. C. G. Barrett said the species was an abundant one on
the Continent. Mr. Hawes, examples of Argynnis euphrosyne, L.,
showing considerable variation in the black markings. Mr. P. Bright, two
varieties of Arctia caia, L., one very dark and the other an extremely pale
form ; also a series of Trijphana orbona, Hufn. (subsequa, Hb.), from Forres.
Mr. Bright stated he had written for further particulars of the specimen of
Vanessa exhibited by him on the 26th ultimo, and which was stated to
have been taken at Polegate ; he understood that Mr. Weir, referring to
this specimen, had expressed an opinion that it was an example of Vanessa
milberti. Mr. Cockerell exhibited a cocoon of ZygcBna JilipendulcB, L.,
from near Leigh, Essex, not uniformly yellow, remarking that sometimes
the cocoons of this species were half yellow and half white or whitish. He
also showed Myzius sexciiicta, Fabr., from Long Island, and said that this
species was found by Dr. Riley in the stomachs of sparrows {Passer
domesticus) in thirty instances, thus showing that its wasp-like attributes
did not protect it from that bird ; also a Tipulid fly allied to Tipulay but
apparently belonging to a new or little-known genus from Swift Creek,
Custer Co., Colorado, where it mimics a species of Ichneumonidse found in
the same locality.
November 13th. — W. H. Tugwell in the chair. Messrs. G. Champion,
of St. John's Wood ; A. J. Hodges, of Highbury ; and A. H. Hill, of
Hampstead, were elected members. Mr. Wellman exhibited Bryophila
impary Warren, from Cambridge, and a specimen of B. muralis, Forst.,
from Folkestone, very similar to the examples of impar. Mr. Tugwell,
long series of Cerastis vaccinii, L., and of C. spadicea, Hb. A discussion
ensued as to this exhibit, in the course of which Mr. South said that spa-
dicea, Hb., was a form of vaccinii, and that the form shown by Mr. Tugwell
as spadicea was known on the Continent as subspadicea, which was said to
be a form of C ligula, Esp. Mr. C. G. Barrett remarked he had never
had any difficulty in separating the two species. Mr. R. Adkin, examples
of Spilosoma mendica, Clerck, bred from ova obtained by the pairing of a
female of the Irish form of the species with a male of the English form.
From the ova obtained only two moths were bred, both of which were
males, and neither were like the English or Irish form. Mr. Tugwell re-
marked that Mr. Adkin having bred the species from the two forms, there
could be no longer any doubt as to the two forms being one and the same
species; the two examples shown were very similar to the Yorkshire
specimens bred by Mr. Harrison. Mr. Adkin also exhibited Peronea
sponsana, Fb., from the New Forest, and referred to his exhibit of this
species in 1889, when nearly all those then shown were the variety. This
year he had endeavoured to obtain the species as it occurred in the New
388 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I
Forest ; out of some twenty specimens there were only four or five of the
variety, the others gradually descending to the type, but none of them
were exactly like those taken the previous year. Mr. Tugwell stated that
he had obtained the form now shown, at Blackheath. Mr. Atkinson ex-
hibited a small collection of all Orders of Insecta from Africa. Mr. T. D. A.
Cockerell, insects from the Wet Mountain Valley, Colorado, to illustrate
parallel variation in Diptera and Hymenoptera ; series one, green to blue
(metallic colours) ; series .two, yellow to red (pubescence). Some observa-
tions were made on the abundance this year of the larvae of Mamestra
persicaricB, L., in the neighbourhood of London. — H. W. Barker, Hon, Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — October 20th, 1890. Mr. W.
G. Blatch, F.E.S., President, in the chair. The Rev. E. J. Nurse, 45,
Francis Road, Ladywood, was elected a member of the Society. Mr.
R. C. Bradley showed Semasia wceberiana, from his garden at Moseley.
Messrs. P. W. Abbott and C. J. Wainwright showed collections of insects
taken at Porlock, Somersetshire, this year. Mr. W. G. Blatch showed a
fine series of (Etophorus imperialis, from Colchester. He also submitted
a complete list of the Coleoptera taken by himself at Church Stretton,
during a recent visit. The list included 125 species, represented by
610 specimens. A long discussion followed on the season, in which Messrs.
W. G. Blatch, G. T. Baker, and C. J. Wainwright joined. The general
opinion was that it had been a very bad one for insects.
November Srd, 1890. Mr. W. G. Blatch in the chair. Mr. P. W.
Abbott showed Gortyna ochracea and Nonagria arundinisy from Sutton.
These had been very greasy, but had been quite cleaned by immersion in
benzine. Mr. Blatch said that he had quite removed the grease from a
beetle by immersion in petroline. Mr. A. Johnson showed Pcecilocampa
populi, from Sutton, apropos of which Mr. Thornewill said that he had
known larvae of this species come to sugar. Mr. R, C. Bradley showed a
nice series of Hypsilophus marginellus, bred from larvae sent him by Mr.
Eustace Bankes. Mr. C. J. Wainwright showed Zygcena meliloti, from the
New Forest ; also Zygcena Jilipendulce, from Stroud, several specimens of
which showed more or less yellow. — Colbran J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
Lancashire and Cheshire Entomological Society. — October l^th,
1890. Monthly meeting. S. J. Capper, F.L.S., President, in the chair.
Mr. P. Schill, of Manchester, was elected a member. The President made
some remarks on the proposed record of the Insect Fauna of Lancashire
and Cheshire, and presented the Society with a copy of the work by the
late Benjamin Cooke, one of the former Vice-Presidents. In speaking of
this gentleman, the President said that any work he had done might be
relied upon, as he was one of the best authorities on the neglected Orders of
insects that had ever lived. A resolution was subsequently passed requesting
the existing Council of the Society to form a Committee for the purpose of
undertaking the work. Messrs. Harker and Jones read a paper entitled
" A week at Howth," in which they gave a graphic description of a week's
collecting at this locality, illustrating the paper with a large number of
specimens. During the conversazione the President showed some fine
varieties of Arctia caia. The Vice-President showed forms of Vanessa
antiopa for comparison, and Mr. Sharp Coleoptera collected at Howth. —
F. N. Pierce, Hon. Sec.
WEST, NKWMAN AND CO., PRINTERS, HATTON GARDEN, E.C.
THE
ENTOMOLOGIST
^n lllustrattb |o«rnal
GENERAL ENTOMOLOGY,
EDITED BY BICHABD SOUTH, F.E.S.
WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF
H. W. BATES, F.R.S., RL.S., F.E.S., &c.
T. R. BILLUPS, F.E.S.
W. LUCAS DISTANT, F.E.S,, &c.
EDWARD A. FITCH, F.L.S., F.E.S.
MARTIN JACOBY, F.E.S.
J. H. LEECH, B.A., F.L.S., F.E.S.
De. D. sharp, F.R.S., F.E.S., Ac.
G. H. VERRALL, F.E.S.
W. WARREN, M.A., F.E.S.
J. J. WEIR, F.L.S., F.Z.S., F.E.S.
F. B. WHITE, M.D., F.L.S., F.E.S.
By mutual conj&dence and mutual aid
Great deeds are done and great discoveries made."
VOLUME THE TWENTY-FOURTH.
LONDON:
WEST, NEWMAN & CO., 54, HATTON GARDEN;
SIMPKIN, MARSHALL, HAMILTON, KENT & CO., Limitkd.
X891,
" Granting, with the doctrine of evolution, that all the complex assemblages of
existing animal forms are modified derivatives from previously existing forms, and
that these are ultimately to be traced back to some common ancestor, it must of
necessity follow that any given fauna will depend for the degree of its peculiarity,
whether great or small, upon the amount of modification, relative to any other
fauna, which it will have undergone. And this modification can be effected in two
ways : by inherent modification of the individual types composing the fauna, and
by intermixture with, or immigration from, contiguous or neighbouring faunas. In
both cases, manifestly, isolation or its opposite, union of habitation, will constitute
the governing factor in determining the amount of variation." — Heilprin.
CONTENTS.
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF CONTRIBUTOES.
Adkin, Egbert, F.E.S., 60, 125, 173,
199, 260, 295
Adye, J. M., 171
Alderson, E. G., 220, 248, 302
Anderson, Joseph, Jun., 147, 243, 303
Arkle, J., 16, 42, 51, 99, 126, 143, 193,
194, 221, 256, 286
Bacot, a., 124
Balding, Alfred, 146
Barker, H. W., F.E.S., 124
Bartlett, C, 245
Biggs, C. J., 98
Bignell, G. C, F.E.S., 18
Billups, T. R., F.E.S., 174, 201, 248,
261
Bird, C. A., 245
Birkenhead, G. A., 299
Bonhote, J. Lewis, 29G
Booth, G. A., 297
Bowles, E. Augustus, M.A., 130
Brady, L. S., 219
Briggs, C. a., F.E.S., 243
Briggs, F. J., 72
Butler, A. G, F.L.S., F.Z.S., F.E.S.,
111, 113, 237, 263, 292
Cambridge, Rev. 0. Pickard, F.E.S.,
F.E.S., 97
Caelier, E. W., 17, 304
Chapman, C, 268
Charles, E. B., 247
Chitty, a. J., 124
Christy, W. M., F.E.S., 43, 147, 218,
246
Clarke, J., 75, 173, 197, 246, 296
Cockerell, T. D. a., F.Z.S., 6, 29, 64,
93, 119, 139, 147, 156, 229, 278, 280
Cook, A. E., 196
CosTE, F. H. Perry, F.C.S., F.L.S., 9,
37, 44, 53, 86, 99, 114, 125, 132,
163, 186, 193, 207, 296
Dale, C. W., F.E.S., 122, 248
Day, Geo. 0., 301
Distant, W. Lucas, F.E.S., M.A.I., 147
Dobree, N. F., F.E.S., 146
Eastwood, John E., 299
Eggleton, E. C, 268
Elisha, G., F.E.S., 277
Evans, H. A., 99
Farrant, 0., 170
FiTzGlBBON, M., 300
Ford, A., 76, 221
Ford-Lindsay, H. W., 298
Fowler, J. H., 45, 70, 283, 297
Fremlin, H. S., 172
Frohawk, F. W., F.E.S., 200, 216, 297
Gerrard, v., 20
Griffiths, G. C, F.E.S., 298
Hamm, a. H., 242
Hawes, F. W., 195
Hewett, W., 145, 148, 245, 248, 269
HoDGKiNSON, J. B., F.E.S., 20, 266,
297
Hudson, G. V., F.E.S., 26
Jackson, George, 126
Jacoby, Martin, F.E.S., 236
James, Russell E., 298, 299
Jefferys, T. B., 100, 170, 219, 267, 269
Kane, W. F. de Vismes, M.A., F.E.S.,
1, 148
Knights, J. E., 77, 148, 302
Laddiman, R., 297, 304
Lang, Rev. H. C, 194
Leech, J. H., B.A., F.L.S., F.Z.S.,
F.E.S., 248
Livbtt, H. W., 245
Lucas, T. P., 171
Mackett, W. H., 298
Mann, W. K., 298
Marshall, A., 245
Mathew, Gervase F., F.L.S., F.Z.S.,
F.E.S., 267, 298, 299
Maxsted, C, 197
Mc Arthur, H., 122
McKay, Wm., 124
Melvill, J. Cosmo, F.L.S., F.E.S., 195
Mitchell, A. T., 73, 76, 171
MOBERLY, J. C, 77
Newman, W., 268
Newstead, R., Sen., 122
Newstead, R., F.E.S., 19, 100, 193
NoRRis, F. B., 179, 227
Ogden, William J., 42
Ormerod, Eleanor A., F.R. Met. Soc,
F.E.S., 291
Palmer, Rev. G. W., 216
PiABOB, W. T., 18, 91, 100
IV
CONTENTS.
Pearson, D. H., 298, 299
PoERiTT, Geo. T., F.L.S., F.E.S., 247
Pkideaux, E. M., 45, 124, 267, 269
Prout, Louis B., 296
Kaynor, Eev. Gilbert H., 99, 123, 217
Keid, Wm., 75
Benshaw, G., 266, 267
KiDiNG, W. S., 45
Ridley, P. W., 196
EOBINSOK, S., 221
EoBsoN, John E., 145, 296
Sandlin, H., 297
Sansom, T. E., 243
Service, R., 216
Sharp, H., 76
SiCH, A., 196
Smith, W. W., 210
South, Eichard, F.E.S., 25, 62, 81, 104,
121, 153, 171, 172, 173, 174, 215,
217, 221, 222, 233, 243, 253, 267,
272
Spiller, a. J., 2, 247
Standen, E. S., F.E.S., 147
Stewart, D. H. S., 74, 126, 217, 222
Still, Major John N., 290
Sykes, H. D., 41, 244, 266, 269
Throwley, Viscount, 44
Tugwell, W. H., Ph.C, M.P.S., 204
Vaughan, John Williams, Jun., 125,
245
Verrall, G. H., F.E.S., 235
Walker, Eev. F. A., D.D., F.L.S., 160,
206, 231, 248
Warren, W., M.A., F.E.S., 33, 180
Watkins, W., 177
Watson, John, 108
Webb, S., F.E.S., 271
Weir, J. Jenneb, F.L.S., F.Z.S., F.E.S.,
49, 105, 224, 225, 226
Wells, C. M., 74
White, F. Buchanan, M.D., F.L.S.,
F.E.S., 129
White, H. J., 123
WiLLLuas, C. H., 216
WiLLsoN, T. D., 297
Winkley, Mark H., 195
Wynn, G. W., 221
Young, J. N., 173, 268
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF SUBJECTS.
Abraxas grossulariata, cure for ravages
of larvae, 290; pantaria and ul-
mata, whether one or two spp., 128 ;
ulmata, 197
Abrostola tripartita (urticae), 71
Abundance of certain autumn larvae, 17 ;
occasional of certain spp. of Lepi-
doptera, 60 ; of Lepidoptera in New
Zealand, 211
Aceraius comptoni in greenhouse, 78
Acherontia atropos, abnormal pupation,
76, — near Chichester, 243, — note
on, 297,— at Gosport, 298
Acidalia contiguaria, 17, 219 ; emargi-
nata, 5 ; imitaria, 5, 71 ; margine-
punctata (promutata), 43, 76 ; osse-
ata, 5, 221 ; promutata, 74 ; rubri-
cata, 218
Acidia cognata, 22, 307 ; heraclei, 22, 307
Aciptilia paludum, 97
Acridium peregrinum, 248
Acronycta, Dr. Chapman's divisisions
of the genus, 111 ; aceris, 247 ;
alni, 73, 261, — in Somerset, 245, —
larva, 289,— near Manchester and
at Clifton, 267,— pupation, 267, 299 ;
leporina, two years in pupa, 175 ;
ligustri, 43; psi, 72; tridens. 72
iEgeria, n. sp,, 229
Africa — South: Deiopeia pulchella in
Transvaal, 147
Agrion minium, 286 ; puella, 286
Agrophila sulphuralis, 218
Agrothereutes hopei, 262
Agrotis ashworthii, 16, 17, 219, 287,—
darvae, 144, — late appearance, 221
cinerea, 125 ; lucernea, 80, 219, 268
307 ; lunigera, 307 ; pyrophila, 77
ravida, at Chinnor, 247 ; saucia
299 ; subgothica. Haw., 49 ; ypsi
Ion, 213
Alysia manducator, 262
America — Lepidoptera, 62
Ammonia, effects on ova of Lepidoptera,
267
Ammophila campestris, 202
Amphidasys prodromaria and betularia,
hybrid between, 175 ; strataria (pro-
dromaria), 41, 74
Amphipyra tragopogonis, 268
Anacharis eucharoides, 2G2 ; typica, 262
Andrena albicans, 174 ; bucephala at
Box Hill, 174; chrysosceHs, 202;
nigroaenea, 174 ; trimmerana, 174
Anomalon cerniops, 262
Anosia plexippus, 212
Ant, bug imitating, 197
Anticlea rubidata, 5 ; sinuata, 247
Apamea gemina, 219 ; ophiogramma
larviB in Nottingham, 298 ; unani-
mis, 218
Apatura iris, 73, 83, 173, — aberr. clytie,
229, — near Basingstoke, 243
Apaturidae, 82
Apis unicolor, 305
Aplecta advena, 5, 43 ; herbida, 97,
246 ; nebulosa, melanic, 305, — var.
robsoni, 306; occulta, 299, — bred
during November and December,
—black form, 80, 299
Aporia crataegi, 227
Arctia menthastri, vars., 175
Arctophila nussitans, 79
Arge galathea, variation, 192, 230
Argynnis adippe, 3, 42, 74, 84, 219, 228,
— var. cleodoxa, 228 ; aglaia, 42, 74,
219, 228, 305 ; daphne, 228 ; latonia,
228; paphia, 3, 42, 73, 74, 84, 219,—
gynandromorphous, 216, — var. vale-
sina, 42, 73, 220, — var. valesina near
Basingstoke, 243, — near Lynmouth,
247
Argyra leucocephala, 204
Argyrolepia cnicana, 98 ; maritimana,
Guen., early stages, 277
Arsilonche venosa, 218
Asia — Eastern: Distribution of Lepi-
doptera occurring in Britain, 81
Asphalia flavicornis, 74 ; ridens, 71
Assembling, 99, 123 ; of Brephos par-
thenias, 123
Asteroscopus (Petasia) cassinea, 42;
sphinx (cassinea), 43, 72, 99, 290
Asthena blomeri, 197, — in Bucks, 217,
^45 ; luteata, 5, 217 ; sylvata, 43
Asychna terminella, 98
Athalia lugens, 262
Attacus atlas, giant race, 123 ; orizaba,
124
Aulax hieracii, 150
Australia — Lepidoptera, new spp. from
Queensland, 171 ; Ehopalocera, cor-
rection in, 170
Aventia flexula, 74, 97, 307
Bananas, bait for Lepidoptera, 174
Banchus moniliatus, 262
Bankia argentula, ^18
Bees, red-tailed bumble, eaten by shrikes,
193
Berkshire — Notes from Reading, 197 ;
Lepidoptera, 246
Biological aspect of insect colours, 167
VI
CONTENTS.
^
Birds eating CoccinellidsB, 147
Biston hispidaria, 71
Blaps mucronata, 194
Boarmia abietaria, 43 ; consortaria, 74 ;
repandata, var. conversaria, 42 ;
roboraria, 43, 22'0, 307
Bombus lapidarius, 193 ; lapponicus,
193 ; muscorum, 193
Bombyx lanestris, five and seven years
in pupa, 246 ; neustria, 287 ; quer-
cus, 288,— var. callunse, 288, 306;
rubi, 288
Books beviewed : —
'The Lepidoptera of Essex,' by E. N.
Hloomfield, 80
' The Honey Bee,' by T. W. Cowan, 80
' Abstract of Proceedings of the South
London Entomological and Natural
History Society for the years 1888 —
1889,' 152
• A Series of Thirty Coloured Diagrams
of Insects injurious to Farm Crops,'
drawn from nature by Miss G. E.
Ormerod, in conjunction with Miss
Eleanor A. Ormerod, 308
•Photography applied to the Micro-
scope,' by F. W. Mills, 308
Botys lupulinalis, 305 ; terrealis, 183 ;
urticalis, var., 224
Braconidee, 203, 268
Brephos pavthenias, 75
Britain — Lepidoptera, 62,— distribution
of certain spp. in Eastern Asia, 81, —
notes on, from continental journals,
33 ; Plusia moneta in, 194 ; Myce-
tophorus punctus and Conurus im-
maculatus, new to Midlands, 78 ;
Choerocampa nerii, recorded cap-
tures in, 195, 221 ; Diptera new to,
235 ; forthcoming works on ento-
mology of, 272
Bryophila perla, 41
Bryophilidffi, 228
Bryotropha obscurella, 305
Bucculatrix aurimaculella, 98
Buckinghamshire — Lepidoptera of the
Chiltern Hills, 2 ; Asthena blomeri,
217, 245
Bug, imitating ant, 197
Butterflies, decoy for, 173, 244 ; in the
Apennines, 227
" Buttons," day among, 271
Cselioxys elongata, 202
Caledonica lanegera, 80
Calligenia miniata, 4, 220, 308
Callimorpha hera, 305
Calocampa solidaginis, 246 ; vetusta, 246
Calosoma sycophanta, 42
Calymnia affinis, 41, 75 ; diffinis, 41, 75;
pyralina, 290
Cambridgeshire — Collecting in, 218
Campoplex oxyacanthse, 26i
Carabus granulatus emitting strong
fluid, 194 ; nitens at Wimborne and
Kingwood, 45
Caradrina, forms, 175
Carsia imbutata, 2QS
Caterpillars, Cheshire plague of, 18, 42
Catocala fraxini, 195
Catopsilia catilla, 212
Cedestis gysselinella, 149
Celasna haworthii, 268
Cephus phthiscus, 203
Cerastis ligula, 306
Cerostoma alpella, 98; lucella, 98; syl-
vella, 98
Cerura bifida, 70
Cetonia aurata, 149
Chalcididae, 203
Chapman, Dr., his divisions of genus
Acronycta, 111
Charaeas graminis, 247, 268, — time and
manner of flight, 4
Charaxes jasius, 179
Chasmodon apterus, 262
Chauliodus illigerellus, 98
Cheilosia sestracea, 79, 151, 204
Cheimatobia boreata, Trixia variegator
bred from, 23 ; brumata, 19
Chelaria hiibnerella, 98
Chelonius carbinator, 203
Chemistry of insect colours, contribu-
tions to the, 9, 37, 53, 86, 114, 132,
163, 186, 207
Cheshire — Plague of caterpillars, 18,
42 ; spring Lepidoptera in Chester
district, 143 ; notes from, 286 ; notes
on past season from Delamere
Forest, 301
Chloromyia formosa, 203
Chlorops hypostigma, 204, 236
Choerocampa celerio in mouse-trap, 19;
nerii, recorded captures in Britain,
195, 221 ; porcellus, 219
Chrosis audouinana, 97
Chrysoclysta schrankella, 98
Chrysididse, 202
Cicada anglica, 152
Cicindela campestris, 42
Cidaria associata (dotata), 44 ; dotata
(pyraliata), 44, 74 ; miata, 5 ; pi-
cata, 74 ; prunata, 5 ; pyraliata, 5 ;
reticulata, var., 266 ; ribesiaria, 74 ;
siderata, 74; suffumata, 171, —
"Dover form," 171; testata, 289;
truncata (russata), second brood,
268, — vars. perfuscata, immanata,
289
Cleora glabraria, 73, 97, 125; lichenaria,
5, 43, 71, 307
Cleodora cytisella, 98
Cloantha solidaginis in Inverness-shire,
126
Clidogastra punctipes, 204, 235
42
4
CONTENTS.
\11
Cnephasia sinuana, 97
Coccmellidffl eaten by black-headed
gulls, 122,— by birds, 147
Cocoon of Miselia oxyacanthse, 71
Coelinius niger, 262
Coenonymplia pamphilus, var. albes-
cens, 150
Cold prospect, 126
Coleoptera, 94, 262; on phytophagous
genus Diacantha, 236
Colias edusa, 162, 228, — absent in New
Forest, 74, — and cyanide bottle,
163, — hind wings shot with rosy
violet, 179, — variation to helice,
170, — var. helice, 211 ; electra, gy-
nandromorphous, 216 ; elis, 126 ;
hecla, 126; hyale, 84, 162, 228,—
absent in South Devon, 74, — dark,
150 ; myrmidone, 179
CoUix sparsata, 270
Colour of Gonopteryx rhamni, effect of
cyanide of potassium on, 267
Colour-varieties, fraudulent, 44
Colours : — physical, 133, — replaced by
pigmental, 188 ; relation of, 138 ,
black converted to definite brown,
137 ; red in one sp. replaced by blue
in closely-allied sp., 1^7; develop-
ment of orange, red and pink from
yellow, 138, — of reds from chestnut,
138
Conchylis francillana, 221
Conurus immaculatus, new to Midlands,
78
Coremia ferrugata, hermaphrodite, 198 ;
quadrifasciaria, 221 ; unidentaria,
breeding, 172
Coriscum brongniardellum, 271 ; citri-
nella, 271
Cosmia affinis, 71 ; diffinis, 71 ; pyralina,
246
Cossus ligniperda, 222
Crabro capitosus, 202
Crambus margaritellus, 289
Crossatosoma (Icerya) segyptiaca, 101
Cuckoo, eating nauseous larviE, 77
Cuculiia absinthii, in Devon, 298, — in
South Devon, 245 ; caninse, 153 ;
chamomillsB at Christchurch, 171 ;
lychnitis, 145, 155, — var.rivulorum,
155; scrophularisB, 154, — in Eng-
land, 146, — probably specifically
identical with lychnitis, 146; scroph-
ulariphaga, 153 ; thapsiphaga, 158 ;
verbasci, 145, — and allies, 153
Cyanide bottle and Colias edusa, 163 ;
experiments with, 165
Cyanide of potassium, effect on colour
of Gonopteryx rhamni, 2t)7
Cymatophora fluctuosa, 70 ; ridens, 72
Cymatophoridte, 237
Cynipidse, 203
Cynomyia mortuorum, 262
Cyrtorrhinus caricis, 262
Danais plexippus, ab. fumosus, 230
Daphnis hypothous caught some years
since at Crieff, 78
Dapsilarthra apii, 262
Dasychira fascelina, 70
Deilephila livornica near Norwich, 297
Deiopeia pulchella, 213, — in the Trans-
vaal, 147
Demas coryli, 3, 43, 72, 247,— Eulophus
damicornis bred from, 149, — ab-
normal emergence, 295
Devonshire — Notes from Plymouth, 72 ;
Cuculiia absinthii in, 245, 2U8.
South : Colias edusa and C. hyale
not seen, 74
Diacantha, notes on phytophagous ge-
nus, 236
Diadema nerina, 212
Diamond-back moth, 247
Dianthcecia capsincola, 287; carpo-
phaga, 71, 72, 288,— with five wings,
223 ; cucubali, 72, 218, 288 ; irre-
gularis, 221, 247 ; nana (conspersa),
43, — aberration, 45
Dicranura bifida, 288 ; furcula, 74, 288
Diptera, 203, 262 ; new British, 235
Ditula semifasciana, 97
Dorsetshire — Carabus nitens at Wim-
borne, 45 ; Lepidoptera, 246, — in
Bloxworth district, 97
Drepana binaria, 76, 260 ; hamula, 42,
97 ; harpagula (Platypteryx sicula)
at Clifton, 298
Drymonia chaonia at Christchurch, 171
Dytiscus marginalis, oviposition, 149, —
retaining larval head, 222
Echinomyiafera 151; grossa, 151
Eggs of Endrom is versicolor, 176
Elachista gleichenella, 98 ; monticola,
98 ; paludum, 98
Elampis panzeri, 202
Electric light, Notodonta trepida at,
170 ; captures at, 172, 222, 243, 260
Emergence, late, of Poecilocampa popu-
li, 100; of Hybernia progemmaria,
124 ; of imago after injury to larva,
171, 193 ; of Notodonta trepida, 217
abnormal of Demas coryli, 295
Emmelesia decolorata, 288
Emydia cribrum, 20, 70, 73
Enicodes fichtelii, 80
Endromis versicolor, eggs, 176
Ennomos (Eugonia) alniaria, 76; ero-
saria, 70 ; fuscantaria, 41 ; tiliaria,
75, 299
Entomological myth, 123, 145
Entomological Societies — London, 20,
45, 77, 101, 126, 149, 174, 197, 222,
249, 272, 304; Birmingham, 23, 78,
103, 128, 161, 176, 262, 276, 307 ;
vm
CONTENTS.
Lancashire, 23, 47, 103, 128, 152,
251, 276, 307 ; South London, 21,
46, 79, 102, 127, 149, 175, 198, 223,
250, 273, 306, — annual exhibition,
101, 121, 150
Entomology of the Portsmouth district,
contributions to, 91, 109 ; of Gra-
nada and neighbourhood, 160, 206 ;
of Oxshott, 201, 261 ; forthcoming
works on British, 272
Ephestia sp. ? larvae feeding on cork-
packing in grape-casks, 18 ; kiihni-
ella, 295
Ephippiphorapopulana (ephippana), 288
Ephyra omicronaria, 267
Epinephele hyperanthes, 222, — var., 80,
223,— var. arete, 306 ; ianira, 180,
—bleached vars., 42, 220, 222,—
var. hispuUa, 180, 228, — xanthic
var., 216 ; ida, 180
Epione advenaria, 42, 71, — read for " ad-
vena," 43 ; apiciaria, 5, 74, 308 ;
parallelaria, 71 ; vespertaria, 270
Epunda read for "Chunda," 151; li-
chenea, 151, 246 ; lutulenta, 75 ;
nigra, 80
"Erastria" venustula, on the so-called,
of Europe, 113 ; fasciana, Linn. =
furcula, Schiff., 113
Erebia epiphron, 228, — var. cassiope,
228; euryale, 228; lappona, 228;
Hgea, 228; medusa, 228, — var.
psodea, 228
Eremobia ochroleuca, 4, 71
Eristalis floreus, 204 ; utricarius, 79
Errata, 151, 173, 213, 236
Estigmena chinensis, mimetic resem-
blance to nondescript Lamiid, 175
Euarista conjuncta, 262
Eubolia limitata (mensuraria), 194 ;
lineolata, 305
Euchloe belia, 179, 228, — var. ausonia,
179 ; cardamines, 196, 219,— dwarf
form, 2, — late appearance, 2, 125,
147, — at rest, 175 ; eupenoides,
dwarf form, 2; eupheno, 162; ta-
gis, 179, — var. bellezina, 179
Eugonia alniaria (tiliaria), 289; ero-
saria, 71; (Ennomos) fuscantaria,
41, 71, 75
Eulophus damicomis, bred from Demas
coryh, 149
Eumenes coarctata, 202
Eupisteria heparata, 74, 97
Eupithecia, structure of terminal ab-
dominal segments in males, 129 ;
abbreviata, 129 ; albipunctata, 130,
— var. angelicata, 126 ; absinthiata,
129, 130 ; assimilata, 5, 130 ; casti-
gata, 129, 130 ; coronata, 5 ; dodo-
neata, 129; exiguata, 129; exten-
saria, 198 ; fraxinata, 130 ; helveti-
caria, 129, 130; indigata, 130;
irriguata, 308 ; isogrammaria, 130 ;
minutata, 71, 125, 130; nanata,
129, 130 ; pimpinellata, 130 ; plum-
beolata, 130 ; pulchellata, 129 ; pu-
milata, 129 ; pusillata, 5, 129 ; saty-
rata, 5, 129 ; scabiosata, 130 ; so-
brinata, 129 ; subcihata, 308 ; sub-
f ulvata, 130 ; subnotata, 130 ; tenui-
ata, 71, 129, 130 ; trisignaria, 129 ;
venosata, 5, 71, 129, 130, 288; vul-
gata, 130
Eupcecilia geyerana, 98 ; notulana, 97 ;
pallidana, 97
Euploea asela, on board ship, 20
Eurymene dolobraria, 43, 74, 196
Exhibition, Annual, of the South Lon-
don Entomological and Nat. Hist.
Soc, 101, 121, 150
Fauna, lepidopterous, of New Zealand,
relics of very ancient, 213
Fidonia atomaria, varieties, 5
Field apparatus, query respecting, 149
Flowers, unattractive to Lepidoptera,
72
Food-plant, common laurel of larvse of
Phalera bucephala, 18 ; quince of
Stauropus fagi, 73; birch of light
spp. and oak of dark spp. of Hy-
bernia leucophearia, 128; wood-
sorrel of Larentia didymata, 245 ;
raspberry of Saturnia carpini, 247
Fraudulent colour-varieties, 44
Fungi affecting lepidopterous pupse, 306
Fungus of genus Torrubia, entomogen-
ous, 20
Galerucinae, 236
Gas-lamps, captures at, 99 ; Lepidoptera
at, 299,— Macro-, 304
Gelechia rhombella, 98
Geometra papilionaria, 43, 74, 218, 270,
289; smaragdaria, 198; vernaria,
5,43
Geotrupes typhseus, hybernated speci-
men near Manchester, 124
Gloucestershike — Acronycta alni larva
at Clifton, 267 ; Drepana harpagula
(Platypteryx sicula) at Clifton, 298
Glow-worm, habits and life-history of
in New Zealand, 26
Gnophos obscuraria, 73
Gnophria rubricollis, 70
Gonoglyssum wiedemanni, 308
Gonopteryx cleopatra, 179, — yellow co-
lour, 137 ; rhamni, effect of cyanide
of potassium on colour, 267
Gortyna ochracea, 76
Gorytes mystaceus, 202
Gracilaria elongella, 98
Granada, Entomology of, 160
Gulls, black-headed, CoccinellidaB eaten
by, 122
CONtiJNTS.
IX
Gynandromorphic Trichiura crataegi,
45 ; Argynnis paphia, 216 ; Colias
electra, 216; Lepidoptera, 243
Habits, of New Zealand glow-worm, 26 ;
of Leucophasia sinapis, 172, 196 ;
of young larvae of Liparis monacha,
174
Hadena adusta, 5, 43, 288 ; genistse, 4,
219; pisi, larva, 245, 269, 298;
suasa, 5, 218
Halictus punetatissimus, 202
Hammatorrhina bella, 77
Hants — Notes from New Forest, 42, 73,
220 ; Carabus nitens at Kingwood,
45 ; Entomology of Portsmouth dis-
trict, 91 ; Drymoniachaonia andCu-
cullia chamomillae at Christchurch,
171 ; notes from Brockenhurst, 196 ;
Apatura iris and Argynnis paphia
var. valesina near Basingstoke, 243 ;
Sphinx convolvuli, 297; Ache-
rontia atropos at Gosport, 298 ;
Lepidoptera in New Forest, 299 ;
seven days' larva beating in New
Forest, 300
Hecatera serena, 5, 247
Heliothis armigera, 213, 264, — in Has-
tings district, 298, — var. umbrosa,
102 ; dipsacea, 247, 265
Helorus anomalipes, 262
Hemaris (Macroglossa) bombyliformis,
70 ; fuciformis, 70
Hemiptera, 262
Hepialus lupulinus, var., 197 ; velleda,
42, 79, — var. carnus, 42
Hermaphrodite, Coremia ferrugata, 198 ;
Pieris rap«e, 22o
Herminea (Pechypogon) barbalis, 71
Hesperia actaeon, 74, 180, 228 ; comma,
3, 228, — var. catena, 228 ; thaumas,
269
Hesperiidae, 82
Heterogenea asella, 72
Homoeosoma binajvella, 76; sinuella,
221
Hot springs an attraction for Ornitho-
ptera brookeana, 244
Hybernia defoliaria in February, 99,
124, — late appearance, 147 ; leuco-
phearia, light spp. preferring birch,
dark spp. oak, 128 ; progemmaria,
time-range of emergence, 124
Hybrid between Amphidasys prodro-
maria and betularia, 175
Hydrelia unca, 218
Hydrcecia micacea, 289 ; nictitans in
cop. with female Noctua xantho-
grapha, 299
Hymenoptera, 201
Hypocephalus armatus, 23
Hypoderma bovis, De Geer, 248
Hyponomeuta padellus, Linn., 19
Hypsipetes impluviata, 74
Hyria auroraria, 73
Icerya (Crossatosoma) segyptiaca, 101 ;
purchasi, Lestophonus iceryse bred
from, 101
Ichneumonidas, 202, 262
Illuminated moth-trap, 43
Imago, emergence after injury to larva,
171, 193
Insect, nauseous, eaten by woodpecker,
100
Insecta, re-development of lost limbs,
108
Insect-colours, contributions to the che-
mistry of, 9, 37, 53, 86, 114, 132,
163, 186, 203
Insect-fauna of Middlesex, preliminary
list of, 6, 29. 64, 93, 119, 139, 156
Insect pigments, 278
Insect vitality, in Poecilocampa populi,
147
Insects, birds feeding on nauseous, 122 ;
malpighian tubes of, 175
Ino geryon, 4
Invekness-shibe — Cloantha solidaginis,
126 ; Entomological notes from, 74
Ireland — Sirex gigas, 248
Ionian Islands— Khopalocera in Corfu,
179
Italy — Notes from the Apennines on
butterflies, 2i>.7
Kent — Lithosia quadra at New Cross,
197 ; Sphinx convolvuli at Kams-
gate, 297
Lamiid, mimetic resemblance of Estig-
mena chinensis to nondescript, 175
Lampronia prselatella, 98
Lancashire — Geotrupes typhseus, hyber-
nated sp., 124 ; Acronycta alni near
Manchester, 267 ; Sphinx convol-
vuli, 297
Larentia didymata, larvaB on wood-sor-
rel, 245, — on primrose, 299
Larva, of Cheimatobia boreata, Trixia
variegata bred from, 22 ; of Sa-
turnia pavonia, Masicera sylvatica
bred from, 22 ; of Vanessa urticee,
Phorocera concinnata bred from,
22 ; of Pachnobia leucographia, 51 ;
of Trichiura crataegi, variety with
golden rings, 72 ; emergence of
imago after injury to, 171, 193 ; of
Micropteryx calthella, 198 ; of
Acronycta alni, 288, — near Man-
chester and at Clifton, 267; of
Odontoptera bidentata, 269; beat-
ing, seven days in New Forest, 300
Larvae, abundance of certain autumn,
17 ; of Nudaria mundana, 170 ; of
Ephestia ? sp. feeding on cork-
packing in grape-casks, 18 ; of
Psyche villosella, 70 ; of Troohilium
t
CONTENTS.
berabeciformis, 72 ; of Macroglossa
fuciformis, 74 ; nauseous, eaten by
cuckoo, 77 ; of Agrotis ashworthii,
144 ; of Nudaria mundana, 170 ; of
Xanthia citrago at Eotherham, 173 ;
habit of young of Liparis monacha,
174 ; of Eubolia limitata (mensu-
raria) and Plusia pulcfcrina, 194 ;
of Hadena pisi, 245, 269, 298 ; of
Larentia didymata, 245, 299 ; at
Chinnor, 247 ; of Nematus ribesii
and Abraxas grossulariata, cure for
ravages, 290 ; of Phorodesma
smaragdaria, 298 ; of Apamea
ophiogramma in Notts, 298 ; in
wine corks, lepidopterous, 306
Lasiocampa potatoria, females deposit-
ing ova upon dead leaves of Kubus
fruticosus, 70 ; quercifolia, 4, 218
Lauxania cylindricornis, 151
Laverna lacteella, 98 ; paludicolella, 98
Leiocampa dictsea, 261
Lepidoptera, 93 ; sexes, 1 ; attracted
by light, 4 ; certain spp. occa-
sionally abundant, 60 ; in Britain
and America, 62 ; flowers un-
attractive to, 72 ; at light at Hast-
ings, 76 ; pale variation, 76 ; dis-
tribution in Eastern Asia of certain
spp. occurring in Britain, 81 ; of
Middlesex, 69, 98, 121 ; significance
of occasional and apparently un-
important markings, 105 ; early
spp., 124; new spp. from Queens-
land, 171 ; bananas a bait for, 174,
244; development of red pigment
in, 193 ; gynandromorphous, 243 ;
of Larentia didymata on wood-sor-
rel, 245 ; effects of ammonia on
ova, 277; in York district, 269;
notes on from various localities,
299; at gas-lamps, 299, 304; in
New Forest, 299
Lepidopterist's notes from Chichester,
303
Lepidopterous larvae in wine corks, 306
licptogramma literana, 271
Lestophonus icerysB, bred from Icerya
purchasi, 101
Leucania conigera, and var., 71 ; lith-
argyria, var., 128, 150 ; pudorina,
218
Leucophasia sinapis, 74, — habits of,
172, 196, — large, 179, — ab. dinensis,
179
Libellula depressa, 161 ; quadrimacu-
lata, 287 ; scotica, 289
Life-history, of New Zealand glow-worm,
26 ; of Pachnobia leucographa, 51 ;
of Psyche villosella, 226
Light, Lepidoptera attracted by, 4, — at
Hastings, 76
Limbs, re-development of lost, in Insecta,
108
Limenitis Camilla, 179 ; sibylla, 42, 73,
220,— rearing, 283
Limnia marginata, 22
Liparis monacha, habit of young larvae,
174
Lissonota cylindrator, 203 ; sulphuri-
fera, 203 ; variabilis, 203
Lita maculea, 98
Lithocolletis anderidse, 98 ; vacciniella,
149
Lithophane lambda, 263; zinckenii,
263
Lithosia complana, 218; griseola, 4;
lurideola, 76 ; mesomella, 70 ; quad-
ra at New Cross, 196, — at King's
Cross, 221
Lithostege griseata, 218, 247
Lobophora viretata, 125, 150
Locust, 248
Lophopteryx camelina, 289
Lucanus cervus, 42
Lycaena agestis, 3 ; amandus, 228 ;
alsus, 3 ; argiades, 305, 306 ; argio-
lus, 3, 228 ; arion, 228 ; astrarche,
17, 86; bellargus, 228; bcetica,
85 ; corydon, 3, — var., 266 ; icarus,
variation, 199, — dwarf, 244 ; mela-
nops, 179 ; meleager, 228 ; sebrus,
228; semiargus, 228; telicanus,
228
Lycaenidee, 3, 82, 267
Macroglossa (Hemaris) bombyliformis,
42, 70 ; fuciformis, 42, 70,— larvae,
74 ; stellatarum, 42
Malpighian tubes of insects, 175
Mamestra anceps, 219 ; albicolon, 219
Masicera sylvatica, bred from the larvas
of Saturnia pavonia, 22
Megaspilus fuscipes, 262
Melanargia galathea, 228 ; larissa, 179
Melanippe fluctuata, 47, — var. neapoli-
sata, Mill., 75
Meliana flammea, 218
Melitaea athalia, 85 ; aurinea, 85 ; cinxia,
179 ; phoebe, 179
Mellinus arvensis, 202
Meteorus ictericus, 262
Miana, probable new species, 25, 79 ;
strigilis, 79, and fasciuncula com-
pared, 25, 46, 79, 104, 128,— var.
latruncula, 128, 219
Micropteryx calthella, larva, 198
Middlesex — Insect fauna, 6, 29, 64, 93,
119, 139, 156, 280; Lepidoptera,
98 ; Lithosia quadra|at King'sCross,
221
Mimesa bicolor, 202 ; equestris, 202
Mimetic resemblance between Estigmena
chinensis and nondescript Lamiid,
175
CONTENTS.
XI
Minoa euphorbiata, 197
Miscophus bicolor, 202
Miselia oxyacanthas, cocoon, 71
Moths, notes on synonymy of Noctuid,
237, 263, 292; re-union between
same, 269, 295
Moth- trap, illuminated, 43
Mouse-trap, Choerocampa celerio in, 20
Mutilla sp., spider imitating, 197
Mycetophorus punctus, new to Midlands,
78 J
Myctis symbolica, 80
Myrmosa melanocephala, 201
Nascia cilialis, 218
Natural history museum of Bergen, 231
Nauseous larvaB eaten by cuckoo, 77 ; by
woodpecker, 100 ; by black-headed
gulls, 122 ; by birds, 122, 147
Nematus glutinosae, 262 ; ribesii, Curtis,
19, — cure for ravages of larvae, 290
Nemeobius lucina, 196
Nemeophila plantaginis, 4, — hatching,
195 ; russula, 42, 70, 289
Nemeritis macrocentra, 262
Nephopteryx splendidella, 305
Nepticula seneofasciella, 98 ; gei, 98
Neuria reticulata (saponaria), 4, 219, 246
New Zealand — Glow-worm, habits and
life-history, 2(5; lepidopterous fauna,
relics of very ancient, 213 ; Lepi-
doptera abundant, 211
Nisoniades marloyi, 180
Noctua stigmatica (rhomboidea), 43 ;
xanthographa, female, Hydroecia
nictitans in cop. with, 299; rhom-
boidea, 246 ; rubi, 289
Noctuid moths, notes on synonymy,
237, 263, 292
Noctuidee, 238
Nola centonalis in Hastings district,
221 ; confusalis (cristulalis;, 43
Nomada alternata, 174 ; lateralis, Panz.,
at Box Hill, 174 ; ruficornis, 174
Norfolk — Notes from Yarmouth, 148,
302 ; Deilephila livornica near
Norwich, 297 ; Macro-Lepidoptera
from Norwich gas-lamps, 304 ;
Sirex gigas at Norwich, 304
NoKWAY — Natural history museum of
Bergen, 231
Notes on Lepidoptera, British, from
continental journals, 33, — of Mid-
dlesex, 98 ; on season, 1890, 41 ; on
Khopaiocera in Corfu, 179 ; on Py-
ralidse, 180 ; on life-history of
Psyche villosella, 226; on natural
history museum of Bergen, 231 ;
on synonymy of Noctuid moths,
237, 263, 292; from any diary,
15 ; from Eingwood, 70 ; from
New Forest, 42, 73, 219, 299, 300 ;
from Plymouth, 71 ; from Inverness-
shire, 74; from various localities,
74, 299 ; from Yarmouth, 148, 302 ;
from Brockenhurst, 196 ; from Bead-
ing, 197 ; from Cheshire and North
Wales, 28(j ; from Chichester, 303 ;
from Delamere Forest, 301; on
Lepidoptera in York district, 269
Notodonta camelina, dark form, 102 ;
dictaeoides, 73 ; dodonsea (trima-
cula), 72, 73; trepida, 43, 44, 73,—
at electric light, 170, — emergence,
217, 243
Notts — Sirex gigas, 248 ; larvae of
Apamea ophiogramma, 298. North :
season in, 302
Nudaria mundana larvae, 170 ; senex,
269
Nymphalidffi, 82
Nyssia hispidaria, 143, — in Oxfordshire,
4 ; zonaria, 144
Obituary — Frazer S. Crawford, 24 ;
Eobert Calvert, 104 ; George Perry
Shearwood, 199; Edward Kalph
Pearson, 200; P. J. F. Lowrey,
200 ; Ferdinand Grut, 224 ; E. W.
Janson, 252
Ocneria monacha, 203
Odonestis potatoria, female, 223
Odontoptera bidentata, larva, 269
Oncodes gibbosus, 203
Opsibotys terrealis, 183
Ornithoptera brookeana, hot springs
an attraction for, 244 ; trojana.
Stand., 179
Orthoptera, 263
Orthosia suspecta, 269
Ova of Lepidoptera, effects of ammonia
on, 267
Oviposition of Dytiscus marginalis,
149
Oxfordshire — Nyssia hispidaria, 4 ;
Eurymene dolobraria, 5 ; Stauropus
fagi, 173 ; Lepidoptera, 246 ; Agrotis
ravida at Chinnor, 247, — larvae at,
247
Oxycera morrisii, 248 ; pulchella, 203 ;
terminata, 22, 203, 235, 247
Oxyphora (Tephritis) arnicae, 204, 235,
247 ; miliaria, 235 ; plantaginis,
248
Pachnobia leucographa, 145, — life-his-
tory, 51, — larva, 51
Pachycnemia hippocastanaria, 70
Pachygaster leachii, 235
Palloptera arcuata, 22 '
Pamphilius sylvaticus, 262
Papilio alexanor, 179 ; erithonius on
board ship, 20 ; machaon, 82, 218,
variation in markings, 130; phor-
cas, 131 ; podalirius, 162, 179 ; po-
ntes on board ship, 20
Papilionidae, 81
xu
CONTENTS.
^
PaBdisca rubiginosana, 173; solandri-
ana, var., 103 ; sordidana, 128
Parage egeria, second brood, 3,— rear-
ing, 285 ; roxellana, 180
Parcels for foreign countries, reduced
rates, 150
Pamassius apollo, 227; mnemosyne,
227
Pechypogon (Herminea) barbalis, 70
Pemphredon lethifer, 202
Pericallia syringaria, 41, 71
Peronea comariana, 97; cristana, 271,
— dark, 305, — vars. bentleyana,
brunneana, cristalana, cristana,
desfontiana, sericana, striana, sub-
vittana, ustulana, 271
Petasia cassinea (Asteroscopus sphinx),
72
Pezomachus bellicosus, 262
Phalera bucephala larvse feeding on
common laurel, 18
Phibalapteryx lapidata in Stirlingshire,
208 ; lignata, 271
Phoroceraconcinnata bred from Vanessa
urticse, 22
Phorodesma bajularia, 307 ; smarag-
daria, larvae, 298 ; pustulata, 41
Phylloporia bistrigella, 98
Physiological investigation, material
wanted for, 296
PieridsB, 81
Pieris brassicse, 83 ; ergane, 179 ; dapli-
dice, 162, 227 ; napi, 83 ; rapae, 83,
125,— in February, 77, 99,— yellow
var., 199
Pigment, latent yellow, 138; develop-
ment of red in Lepidoptera, 193
Pigments of insects, 278
Pins, entomological, 215, 272
Pipizella annulata, 204, 235; flavi-
tarsis (— biguttata), 235
Pipunculus ater, 204 ; geniculatus, 204,
235
Platystoma seminationis, 22
Platypteryx sicula (Drepana harpagula)
near Clifton, 298
Platytes cerussellus, 221
Plotheia frontalis, vars., 101
Plusia bractea, 194, 208 ; consona, 194 ;
festucse, 218, 268, 270; illustris.
Fair., 194; ieita, 4, 71; modesta,
194 ; moneta, 44, — in Britain, 194 ;
orichalcea, 218; pulchrina, 4, 17,
— larvae, 194
Plutella cruciferarum, 256
Poecilia albiceps, 98
Poecilocampa populi and insect vitality,
147
Polyblastes pinguis, 262
Polyommatus alciphron, 179 ; phloeas,
85 ; white specimens artifically pro-
duced, 44, — var., 79, — var. eleus.
179 ; alciphron, var. gordius, 228 ;
dorilis, 228; approaching var.
schmidtii, 79 ; virgaurese, 228
Pompilus gibbus, 202 ; pectinipes, 202 ;
viaticus, 202
Priocnemis fuscus, 201
Pseudoterpna pruinata, 71
Psilura monacha, 72
Psoricoptera gibbosella, 97
Psyche pulla, 243, 296; villosella,
larvae, 70, — notes on life-history,
226
PteropcBcila lamed, 204, 230
Pterostoma palpina, 74
Ptocheuusa subocellea, 98
Pupa, of Satyrus megara, variation,
195 ; of Bombyx lanestris five and
seven years in pupa, 246
Pupae of Trochilium bembeciformis, 72 ;
wanted for temperature experi-
ments, 267 ; preserving through
winter, 296 ; destroyed by a fungus,
306
Pupation of Acherontia atropos abnor-
mal, 76 ; of Acronycta alni, 267,
299 ; leporina lasting two years,
175 ; early, of Smerinthus populi,
217
Pyralidae, synonymic notes, 180
Pyrameis cardui, 213 ; dejeanii, 225 ;
itea, read for " stea," 213
Queensland — Lepidoptera, 171
Query respecting field apparatus, 148
Easpberry, food-plant of Saturnia car-
pini, 247
Re-development of lost limbs in the In-
secta, 108
Retinia buoliana, 46 ; pinicolana, 46 ;
pinivorana, 173 ; turionella, 173
Rhodocera rhamni, 83
Rhopalocera, Australian, a correction
in, 171 ; in Corfu, 179
Rubus fruticosus, females of Lasio-
campa potatoria depositing ova
upon dead leaves of, 70
Sallows in Yorkshire, 1891, 145
Saperda scalaris, 195
Sapromyza platycephala, 204, 235
Saturnia carpini on raspberry, 247 ;
pavonia, Masicera sylvatica, bred
from larvse, 22
Satyridse, 82
Satyrus alcyone, 228 ; circe, 228 ; her-
mione, 180 ; ianira, var., 260 ;
megaera, variation in pupa, 195
Scardia arcella, 98
Schoenobius mucronellus, 299
Sciara thomse, from Cannock Chase, 78
Sciomyza dubia, 236
Scodiona read for " Scodonia," 173 ;
! belgiaria, 42, 173
I Scoparia mercurella, var. portlandica, 97
CONTENTS.
XIU
Scotland — Notes from Inverness-shire,
74, — Cloantha solidaginis in, 126;
Daphnis hypothous caught some
years since at Crieff, 78 ; captures
at sugar in Argyllshire in Septem.
ber, 24fi ; Phibalapteryx lapidata
in Stirlingshire, 268
Scotosia vetulata, 218
Scyphophorus interstitialis, 78
Segments, structure of terminal abdo-
minal in males of Eupithecia, 129
Sehirus morio, 262
Selenia tetralunaria (illustraria), 43
Selidosema ericetaria (plumaria), 73,
220
Sericomyia borealis, 79, 204 ; lappona, 79
Sericoris bifasciana, 173
Sesia formiciformis, 198 ; ichneumoni-
formis, 221 ; myopiformis, 176 ;
sphegiformis, 204, 299; tipuli-
formis, 70
Sesiidag, 92
Setina (Lithosia) irrorella, 307 ; meso-
mella, 70
Setting-board, new, 152
Sexes of Lepidoptera, 43
Shrikes eating red-tailed bumble bees,
193
Sirex gigas in March, 148, — in Notts, at
York, in Ireland, 249, — at Norwich,
304; juvencus, 248
Smerinthus populi, 288; early pupa-
tion, 217
Somersetshire — Acronycta alni in, 245
Sophronia emortualis, 297
Spain — Entomology of Granada and
neighbourhood, 160, 206
Sphecodes longulus, 202
Sphenella marginata, 103
Sphinges, 91
Sphingidee, 91
Sphinx convolvuli, 213, — near York, 245,
— at Kipon, 268, — in Kent, Hants,
Lancashire, 297
Sphodrus leucophthalmus, L., emitting
strong acid-like fumes, 193
Spider imitating sp. of Mutilla, 197
Spilosoma lubricipeda, banded form, 223
Spilomicrus nigriclavis, 262
Spilothyrus alceeB, 180, 228 ; lavaterse,
229
Staffordshire — Sciara thomae, from
Cannock Chase, 78
Stauropus fagi, 6, 197, 247,— in Oxford-
shire, 173, — on quince, 73, — parti-
ally double-brooded, 296
Stenia punctalis, 221
Stilbia anomala, 75, 308
Suffolk — Collecting in, 218 ; day at
Tuddenham, 247
Sugar, 75 ; captures at in Argyllshire in
September, 246
Surrey — Tortrix piceana in Esher dis.
trict, 173 ; Andrena bucephala and
Nomada lateralis, Panz., at Box
Hill, 174 ; Entomology of Oxshott
201, 261 ; Vanessa antiopa at Bal
ham, 297
Sussex — Lepidoptera at light at Hast
ings, 76 ; Nola centonalis in Hast
ings district, 221 ; Acherontia atro
pos near Chichester, 243 ; Hehothis
armigera in Hastings district, 298
lepidopterist's notes from Chiches
ter, 303
Syrichthus orbifer, 129, 180
Tabanus bromius, 203
Tachytes pectinipes, 202
TfiBhiocampa opima, populeti, and var.
of incerta, distinguishing marks
between, 44 ; populeti, 145
Tapinostola fulva, 73, 97
Tectocorix banksii, 80
Temperature experiments, 267
Tenthredinidffi, 203, 262
Tephritis (Oxyphora) arnicas, 204 ; leon-
todontis, 262 ; plantaginis, 248
Tephrosia biundularia, var. delameri-
ensis, 287 ; crepuscularia, var., 176 ;
consonaria, 3, 71, 72; extersaria,
97 ; luridata, 43
Tetanocera elata, 22; ferruginea, 22;
punctulata, 22
Tethea retusa, 73 ; subtusa, 72, 75
Thecla betulae, 73; ilicis, 179, 228;
pruni, without antennae, 80 ; quer-
cus, 73 ; w-album, 197
Thera firmata, 74 ; obeliscata, 74 ; simu-
lata, 74
Thersilochus jocator, 262
Time-range of emergence of Hybernia
progemmaria, 124
Tinagma betulse, 98
Tinea albipunctella, 98
Torrubia, entomogenous fungus of
genus, 20
Tortrix donelana, Carpenter, 253, 306,
307; piceana, in Esher district,
173 ; steineriana var. dohriana, 306
Toxoneura muliebris (= fasciata, Mcq.),
236
Trypoxylon clavicerum, 202 ; figulus, 202
Trichiura crataegi, 4, 42, 304, — gynan-
dromorphic sp., 45, — variety of
larva with golden rings, 72
Tripheena comes, 47, — remarks on vars.
adsequa and prosequa, 102; inter-
jecta, 74 ; pronuba bred in January,
103 ; subsequa, 219, 221
Trixia variegator bred from Cheima-
tobia brumata, 19
Trochilium apiformis, 218 ; bembeci-
formis, 70, — larvae and pupae, 72
Trogus nov8B-caledonic8B, 80
XIV
CONTENTS.
Trypeta centauriae, 103 ; serratula, 262
Tryphon trochanteratus, 262
Urtication, 151
Vanessa atalanta, right superior wing
very small, 176 ; antiopa, 179, 228,
— at Balham, 297; c-album var.,
216 ; egea, 179, 229 ; polychloros,
196 ; urticaB, 85,— in February, 77,
— Phorocera concinnata bred from,
22
Variability, changed conditions leading
to, 229
Variation, pale, of Lepidoptera, 76 ; in
markings of Papilio machaon, 130 ;
among physical colours, 187; of
Arge galathea, 192, 230 ; in pupa
of Satyrus megaera, 195, 285 ; of Ly-
csena icarus, 199; of Zygaena fili-
pendulae, 296
Varieties : — Fidonia atomaria, 5 ; Argyn-
nis paphia (valesina), 42, — adippe
(cleodoxa), 228 ; Epinephele ianira
(bleached), 42,— (hispulla), 180,—
(xanthio), 217 ; Boarmia repandata
(conversaria), 42; Taeniocampa in-
certa, 44 ; Polyommatus phloeas
(white), 44 ; Dianthoecia nana, 45 ;
Leucania conigera, 71, — lithargyria,
128, 150 ; of larva of Trichiura cra-
taegi with golden rings, 72 ; Zygaena
filipendulffi (cream-coloured), 73 ;
(cerinus), 234, 296 (cytisi, mannii,
ochsenheimeri, ramburii), 233
(chrj^santhemi), 234,— trifolii (du-
bia), 234 ; Melanippe fluctuata (nea-
pohsata), 75 ; Polyommatus phloeas,
79, — (eleus), 179, — alciphron (gor-
dius), 228 ; Volucella bombylans
(dark), 79; Scoparia mercurella
(portlandica), 97 ; Plotheia frontalis,
101; Heliothis armigera (uni-
puncta), 102 ; Triphaena comes (ad-
sequa and prosequa), 102 ; Pssdisca
solandriana, 103 ; Miana strigilis
(latruncula), 128, 219; Cceno-
nympha pamphilus (albescens),
150; Colias edusa (helice), 211, —
hyale (dark), 150; CucuUia lych-
nitis (? rivulorum), 155; Arctia
menthastri, 175; Tephrosia cre-
puscularia, 176; Euchloe belia
(ausonia),— tagis (bellezina), 179;
Thecla rubi (without green), 189;
Hepialus lupulinus, 197; Vanessa
c-album, 216 ; Botys urticalis, 224 ;
Hesperia comma (catena), 228;
Cidaria reticulata, 266,— truncata
(immanata, perfuscata), 289 ; Saty-
rus ianira, 266 ; Lycaena corydon,
266; Peronea cristana (bentley-
ana, brunneana, cristalana, cris-
tana, desfontiana, sericana, striana,
subvittana, ustulana), 271 ; fraudu-
lent colour, 44; yellow, 186, — of
red spp., 191, — or white of green,
191 ; natural of pigmental colours,
189 ; pale or white on islands,
186 ; retrogressive, 187, 207 ; pro-
gressive, 190, 208, colourless, of ,
chestnut spp., 190, 230; white, ^
of yellow spp., 191, 230 ; chestnut, !
of red spp., 191 ; interchange of red i
and green, 192 ; bronze-brown, of
green, 208 ; red, of yellow, 208, 230,
— of chestnut, 209, — turned yellow
by acids, 209 ; genetic relations of
white, yellow, and red, 209 ; blue,
229 ; Bombyx quercus, 306 ; Epine-
phele hyperanthes, 306; Aplecta
nebulosa, 306
Vespa gerraanica, taken as early as Jan.
17th, 102
Volucella bombylans, dark vars., 79;
pellucens, 151
Wales — North : Collecting in, 219 ;
notes from, 286. South: Notes
from Wye Valley below Builth, 125 ;
collecting in, 219
Woodpecker, nauseus insect eaten by,
100
Wood-sorrel, larvaa of Larentia didy-
mata on, 245
Xanthia aurago, 6, 75, 247; citrago,
247, 268 ; larvae at Eotherham, 173
Xylina petrificata, 73 ; semibrunnea, 75
Xylinidae, 242
Xylota segnis, 204
YoBKSHiKE — Sallows in, 145 ; Xanthia
citrago at Kotherham, 173 ; Sphinx
convolvuli near York, 245, — at
Eipon, 268; notes from Kother-
ham, 268 ; notes on some Lepi-
doptera in York district, 269
Zeuzera aesculi, 222
Zonosoma annulata (omicronaria), 5, 43
Zygaena charon, 234 ; filipendulse, cream-
coloured, 73, — hybrids, 102, — vars.
cerinus, 234, 296, cytisi, mannii,
ochsenheimeri, ramburii, 233,
chrysanthemi, 234; lonicerse, hy-
brids, 102 ; transalpina, 234 ; tri-
folii, var. dubia, 234
Zygaenidae, 92
CONTENTS OF SUPPLEMENT.
New Species of Lepidoptera from China, by J. H. Leech, B.A., F.L.S., &c. . 1
Two new Species and a new Genus of Japanese Coleoptera, by Dr. D. Sharp,
F.R.S., &c 6
Coleoptera from Kulu, in N.W. India, by H. W. Bates, F.R.S., &c. . .7
New Species of Rhopalocera from N.W. China, by J. H. Leech, B.A., F.L.S., &c. 23
Some new Species of Phytophagous Coleoptera from India, by Martin Jacoby 31
On some new Species of Phytophagous Coleoptera from Various Regions, by
Martin Jacoby 35
New Species of Geometrse from China, Japan, and Corea, by J. H. Leech,
B.A., F.L.S., &c 43
Some new Species of Phytophagous Coleoptera, by Martin Jacoby . . 62
New Species of Rhopalocera from Western China, by J. H. Leech, B.A.,F.L.S. 66
Full Index to the Supplement will be published when the volume
is complete.
LIST OF PLATES.
Plate I. Terminal Segments of the Genus Eupithecla.
„ II. Do. Do.
„ III. CUCULUA VERBASCI AND ITS ALLIES.
„ IV. Ornithoptera trojana, Staudinger.
,, V. Early Stages of Argyrolepia maritimana.
All Plates
"together at the-tnUvftJw Volume.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.l JANUARY, 1891. [No. 882.
THE SEXES OF LEPIDOPTERA.
By W. F. de Vismes Kane, M.A., F.E.S.
I AM surprised to find that Mr. Cockerell should have found it
necessary to defend the views he put forward in a former paper
(Entom. xxii. 177) as to the possibility of the sex being determined
in the embryo by external influences, especially food. The
hypothesis is now very generally accepted by biologists in relation
to animals in general, and may be found stated very clearly and
fully in a most interesting volume of the International Science
Series, * The Evolution of Sex,' by Profs. Geddes and Thomson.
Mr. Wailly will find in Chap. IV. a reference to Lepidoptera,
Mrs. Treat's experiments and Mr. Gentry's opinion being cited.
A very strong case is made out in favour of the contention that
differences of nutrition, in conjunction with other conditions of
environment (chiefly bearing on assimilation probably) in the
larval or embryonic state, determine the sexual distinctions.
Evidence bearing on the subject is adduced from the life-history
of the tadpole, bee, aphis, and certain arthropods. I think most
practical entomologists' experience will, in a more or less degree,
bear out the theory. I venture to note one or two observations
of ray own. I have observed in the South of France and in
Italy the dwarfing of L. icarus and astrarche, resulting from the
stunted condition of the food-plant produced by the climate and
dry soil, and not the less striking is the preponderance of males
over females in such localities.
Again, in certain species, we find a vast disproportion in
number between the sexes. I would cite Thestor ballus. The
males emerge earlier than the females and enormously exceed
them in number.
May it not be due to the innutritious foliage of the Lotus
hispidus growing in the arid localities where it is found, namely,
the parched hill-sides of South Europe ?
ENTOM. — JAN. 1891. B
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I
The occurrence of a dwarf form of Euchloe cardamines,
referred to by Mr. Cockerell, is not an isolated instance; and
obtains in other species of the genus, notably E, euphenoideSf
occurring in same locality and same time as the ordinary-sized
imago. I think it possible that the sparse foliage of the chief
food-plant, and its isolated manner of occurrence, may induce
semi-starvation of the larvae when several ova are deposited on a
small plant, and this would account for the large preponderance
of the male over the female specimens of these species.
A concluding suggestion is thrown out by Mr. Cockerell ; that
scarcity of nourishment may well tend to the elimination of
females, which from their size require ample nutrition. Against
this we may place the experiments of Yung on tadpoles, which
showed that in normal conditions the percentage of females was
only slightly in the majority. But by supplying more stimulating
foods of three descriptions, the percentage was raised in Lot 1 to
78, in Lot 2 to 81, and in Lot 3 to 92 per cent. It would be well
if entomologists having leisure would supplement our knowledge
by further experiments in this direction.
Sloperton Lodge, Kingstown, Ireland, November 12, 1890 .
NOTES ON THE LEPIDOPTERA OF THE CHILTERN
HILLS.
By a. J. SPHiLER.
The Chiltern Hills, in Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire,
form a range of considerable elevation, their highest point being
close to Chinnor, where they attain a height of some 800 ft.
They are composed almost entirely of chalk, with in some places
a cap of gravel, upon which two common species of heath grow.
The district worked by me includes that portion of the range
extending from Princes Eisborough, in Bucks, to Watlington, in
Oxon, a distance of some eight miles. The scenery is exceed-
ingly grand, extensive beech-woods occupying large tracts on
this area.
Every sweet, however, has its bitter, and the great drawback
to collecting in this neighbourhood lies in the fact that all the
woods are strictly preserved, and likewise the idea impressed in
the minds of gamekeepers that persons engaged in collecting
insects or plants must primarily have designs upon rabbits or
''birds." My thanks are due to H. C. Brown, Esq., J.P., for
permission to collect in his beautiful woods. This permission
has frequently stood me in good stead, as I have on several
occasions seen entomologists expelled by obtuse-headed game-
keepers.
ON THE LEPIDOPTERA OF THE GHILTERN HILLS. 3
Sallow bloom, on the only occasion I tried it in these woods,
was not very prolific in rarities, only the commoner species
coming to this bait. As the spring advanced I began to search
the tree-trunks for recently-developed imagines, and found
Demas coryli in fair numbers, drying their wings in the evenings
throughout the month of May. Tephrosia crepuscularia appeared
in April and May, and in the latter month T, consonaria was
likewise very common on the tree-trunks. Lophopteryx camelina
and Selenia tetralunaria {illustraria) were also taken in the same
situations. Drepana cultraria (unguicula) was very common
both by day and night. On May 15th I caught a specimen at
light in a window of my house, which I had specially constructed
to act as a moth-trap. As no beech occurs within a mile of my
residence, this is interesting, as showing the attractive influence
of light. Later on, in the autumn, Eupithecia sohriiiata came to
light in the same manner from the same distance. Zonosoma
linearia {trilinearia) was not very common this season ; I was
much disappointed in taking so few.
Butterflies were well on the move by the middle of May, when
Thecla ruhi, as I have already recorded, appeared in great
numbers, frequenting the whitethorn bloom, or fluttering in
merry groups in the beech-glades. The two common May
" skippers " and several of the " blues " {Lyccena argiolus, L,
alsus, L, agestis, L, icarus) were met with, and, at the end of
May, Argynnis euphrosyne in great numbers. In June A, selene
appeared, and Pararge egeria (second brood) was very numerous.
The wet weather in July delayed the appearance of the larger
" fritillaries," but on July 10th A, adippe came on the scene, and
was met with until the middle of August. On July 24th, which
was a lovely day amongst many rainy ones, this butterfly was
very numerous, showing that in a favourable season it must be
an abundant species in all the beech-woods. On this latter date,
likewise, I first met with A. paphia; it afterwards became com-
mon, and I took my last specimen on Sept. 17th. It is plentiful
in a wood about half a mile from Chinnor, and, as I have noticed
several times during my entomological experience of a quarter of
a century, has occasionally a desire to leave its accustomed
haunts for apparently aimless wanderings. At any rate, I
noticed this season single specimens on two occasions flying in
the streets of Chinnor.
Hesperia comma was late in making an appearance ; I first
saw it on August 4th. This species has a very extensive range
here, but is only sparingly met with anywhere. The evening
seems to be the best time for its capture, as, while the sun is
slowly going below the horizon, it delights to rest itself upon the
flower-heads of the scabious, apparently enjoying the warmth.
On August 7th, a warm still evening, I captured 27 specimens in
this manner in half an hour. L, corydon first appeared on August
B 2
4 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
5th ; like H. eomma, it has an extensive range, hut this year
must have been scarce, as a dozen to twenty specimens a day
formed a very good take of this species. On my return from
a holiday, on Sept. 8th, I was surprised to find H. comma
and L. corydon still flying, and my last specimens of each species
were taken on Sept. 16th. The ordinary common butterflies
have on the whole been much scarcer than usual. I failed to
see a single specimen of Pararge megcera, although on the look-
out for it.
Amongst the moths taken upon the hills this season have
been Nemeophila plantaginis and Ino geryon, already recorded ;
Lithosia griseola, Biston hirtariay and Amphidasys betularidf
resting on tree-trunks ; Thy atir abatis, Heliaca tenebrata (arbuti),
Euclidia mi, E. glyphica and Phytometra viridaria {cenea), Plusia
iota and P. pulchrina, Hadena genistce, Bapta temerata, Neuria
reticulata (saponarice) , Metrocampa margaritaria (in abundance),
ZygcBna JilipendidcB, Eremobia ochroleuca (once), Hepialus hectus
and H. sylvinus, Spilosoma mendica, Cilix spimda, and Charceas
graminis. This latter species was frequently to be found during
the day at rest on scabious flowers, and, after reading the account
in Newman's 'Moths' of the time and manner of the flight of
this species, I determined to put it to the proof. Accordingly, I
appeared on the hills by 8 o'clock on several fine August mornings,
and found the insects threading their way in all directions
amongst the grass-stems. I secured a fine series, but found, at
any rate in this neighbourhood, that their flight was continued
to about half-past nine, when they settled for repose during
the day.
At *' light" at the window I secured a large number of
species ; on several occasions they were so plentiful as to remind
me of my Natal experience in this line, where, in little over four
years, I secured 994 species by this means. In the early spring
I took a single specimen of Nyssia hispidaria, plenty of Hybernia
rupicapraria, H. progemmaria, Selenia bilunaria {illimaria), S,
illustraria (1), and numerous Taeniocampae. Later on during
the season my captures were as follows : — Smerinthus populi,
Hepialus sylvinus, Dasychira pudibunda, Calligenia miniata,
Lithosia griseola, L. complanula and L, griseola var. stramineola,
Arctia caia, Spilosoma menthastri and S, lubricipeda by the
score ! Bombyx neustria, Odonestis potatoria, and a single speci-
men of Lasiocampa quercifolia. On my return, in September,
I found that Trichiura cratcegi came in some numbers, unfortu-
nately all worn, but giving me hopes of finding the larvne next
season. Other captures were Cilix spinula, Nola ciicullatella,
Leiicania conigera, L. comma, Hydrcecia micacea, Axylia putris,
Xylophasia rurea, X, hepatica, Neuronia popidaris, Luperina
testacea, Mamestra anceps, M. persicarice, Grammesia trilinea,
Caradrina morpheus, C, alsines, C, blanda, C. cubicularis, Rusina
ON THE lEPIDOPTERA OP THE CHILTERN HILLS. 5
tenehrosay Agrotis puta, Triphcena ianthina, Noctua augur, N,
plecta, N. c-nigrum, N. triangulum, N. hrunnea, N. umbrosa,
N. baia, Anchocelis pistacina, A, litura, Xanthia cerago, Hecatera
Serena, Miselia oxyacanthcB, Aplecta advena, Hadena adusta, H.
suasa (1), H. thalassina, Xylina lithoriza, Habrostola urticce, H,
triplasia, Plusia iota, Epione apiciaria, Euryinene dolobraria (1),
Pericallia sy ring aria, Odo7itopera bidentata, Crocallis elinguaria,
Amphidasys betula^ia, Hemerophila abruptaria, Cleora lichenaria,
Geometra vernaria, Zonosoma omicronaria, Asthena luteata, Aci-
dalia scutulata. A, osseata, A. incanaria. A, emarginata, A. imi-
taria, Timandra amataria, Strenia clathrata, Ligdia adustata,
Eupithecia venosata, E. centaureata, E. satyrata, E. absynthiata,
E. assimilata, E. coronata, E. rectangidata, Melanthia rubiginata,
Melanippe procellata, Anticlea derivata, A, rubidata, Coremia
propugnata, C. unidentaria, Phibalapteryx tersata, Triphosa dubi-
tata, Cidaria miata, C. prunata, C. pyraliata, C. dotata, Anaitis
plagiata, very many more common Noctuse and Geometrae, and
numerous Micros. From long experience, I can confidently
recommend " light " as an attraction for many species of moths.
The conditions for the successful working of light are (1) a wide
uninterrupted view, (2) a dark, damp evening, (3) a thoroughly
good light, three or four lamps with reflectors being " the thing,"
(4) no other light near, the consequence being that in the country,
where there are no gas-lamps, or, where they exist, are put out
at midnight, this mode of collecting can be followed with success
nearly all the year, whilst in or near large towns this plan is
almost invariably a failure.
Fidonia atomaria occurs on the heathy portions of the
Chilterns, and I have taken two specimens so remarkable in
appearance that they seemed to be a new species. They have,
however, been inspected by some half-dozen entomologists of
experience, and the verdict is that they are extraordinary vara,
of this species. No. 1 is a male, unicolorous, dark smoky brown,
a little darker than the ground colour of Minoa euphorbiata.
The wings and fringes are exactly alike in tint, and the only
other markings are the suspicion of a central lunule on each
anterior wing. No. 2 is a female, entirely smoky black.
During a visit to Thrapston, in Northants, I beat dozens of
willows without taking a single larva. On my return, on
Sept. 8th, I at once set to work to collect autumnal larvae.
I found beating the oaks here to be equally a failure, and the
elms seemed only to produce numerous colonies of P. bucephala.
I then turned my attention to the beech, and was surprised at the
difference, for, although the species taken were few, yet their
numbers made ample compensation. Demas coryli larvae appeared
in numbers ; I often beat as many as twenty full-fed larvae from
one beech. Altogether I captured hundreds of this species, most
of them having now safely spun up. Hylophila prasinana were
6 THE iiNTOMOLOGlS't.
also exceedingly numerous, a couple of hundred being beaten.
Lophopteryx camelina larvae were likewise in full force. On
Sept. 16th, I entered a beech-wood on the borders of Bucks, and
in half an hour had beaten 70 larvae of this species, mostly full-
fed. How many more I might have taken I cannot say, for the
sound of the beating- stick brought up our entomological enemies
— the gamekeepers— who requested me to withdraw. Other
larvae taken have been Selenia illustj-aria^ Odontopera hidentataf
Drepana unguicula, Zonosoma linearia, all in fair numbers. But
my chief capture was a larva of Stauropus fagi, from a beech in
Crowle Wood. I sleeved it on an apple-tree in my garden, and
have now the satisfaction to find that it has changed to a pupa
between united leaves.
Imagines of Eugonia quercinaria (angularia) frequently fell to
the beating-stick whilst larva-collecting, and likewise a few fine
X. aurago. Several specimens of this latter species were too
nimble, and easily escaped before they could be safely boxed. I
"sugared" for some time in the beech-woods in the hope of
obtaining a fine series, but was greatly disappointed; in fact,
sugar has been a dead failure here almost the whole of the
season. At ivy-bloom the commoner autumn species were fairly
represented, but I was unable to bag a single rarity.
Chinnor, Oxon, Nov. 4, 1890.
A PEELIMINAEY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF
MIDDLESEX.
Compiled by T. D. A. Cockerell.
(Continued from vol. xxiii. p. 369).
Hymenoptera.
ApidcB.
Panurgus ursinus, Gmel., = banksianus, Kby., Hampstead
Heath (Smith).
Nomada succincta, Panz., Isleworth (Fenn). N. lineola,
Panz., Hampstead (Smith), N. alternata, Kirb., Isleworth (Fenn
and CklL). N, lathhuriana, Kirb., Hampstead (Smith), N, la-
teralis, Sm., Highgate {Smith). N. ruficornis var. signata, Jur.,
Hampstead (Smith). N. borealis, Zett., Hampstead (Smith).
N. ochrostoma, Kirb., Hampstead (Smith). N. ferruginata, Kirb.,
Hampstead (Smith). N.fabriciana, L., Hampstead (Smith).
Melecta luctuosa, Scop., Hampstead (Smith). M. armata,
Panz., Isleworth (Fenn).
Coelioxys quadridentata, L., Isleworth (Fenn). C. elongata,
Lep., = simplex, Nyl., Isleworth (Fenn).
Megachile maritima, Kirb., Hampstead, once (Smith). M
1
»
A I»RELlMlNARy LIST OF THE iNSECT-FAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. 7
willughbiella, Kirb., Isleworth (Fenn). M, circumcincta^ Lep.,
Bedford Park {CklL), M. ligniseca, Kirb., Highgate (Smith).
M. centuncularisj L., Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford Park (CklL).
Anthidium manicatuin, L., Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford Park
(CklL).
Chelostoma campanularumy Kirb., Bedford Park, one on a
flower of Epilohium hirsutum (CklL).
Heriades truncorurriy L., Brentford (Smith).
Osmia rufay L., Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford Park (CklL).
0. coerulescenSf L., Isleworth (Fenn). 0. fulviventris, Panz.,
Hammersmith (Smith).
Anthophora retusa, L., Hampstead Heath (Smith). A. pilipes.
Fab., Isleworth (Fenn). A. furcata, Panz., Brentford (Smith).
A. quadrimaculatay Panz., Kentish Town (Smith).
Psithyrus rupestris, Fb., Isleworth (Fenn). P. vestalis,
Fourc, Isleworth (Fenn).
Bomhus cognataSf Steph., Isleworth (Fenn). B.muscorum, L.,
Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford Park (J. W. Horsley, fide Fenn).
B. latreillellus, Kirb., Isleworth (Fenn). B. hortorum, L., Isle-
worth (Fenn). B. hortorum var. harrisellus, Kirb , Isleworth
(Fenn). B. hortorum var. c, black, end of abdomen grey, Isle-
worth (Fenn). B. pratorum, L., Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford Park
(CklL). B. sylvarum, L., Isleworth (Fenn). B. derhamellus,
Kirb., Isleworth (Fenn). B. lapidarius, L., Isleworth (Fenn),
Bedford Park (CklL). B. terrestris, L., Isleworth (Fenn), Bed-
ford Park (CklL).
Apis mellifica, L., Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford Park (CklL).
A. ligustica. Spin., = A.fasciata var., Kirch.; A. mellifica, var.,
Tasch., Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford Park (J. W. Horsley, fide
Fenn) : doubtless an introduction.
Vespa vulgaris, L., Isleworth (Fenn). V. germanica, Fb.,
Isleworth (Fenn). V. rufa, L., Isleworth (Fenn).
Polistes higuttatus, Halid., London Docks (Smith, Entom.,
1878, p. 172) : an accidental importation from Brazil.
Eumenidce.
Odynerus Icevipes, Shuck., Hampstead (Sfnith). 0. parietum,
L., Bedford Park (CklL), Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.). 0. antilope,
Panz., Isleworth {Fenn). 0. parietinus, L., Isleworth (Fenn),
Bedford Park, July 5 (CklL).
AndrenidcB.
Halictus xanthopus, Kirb., Isleworth (Fenn). H. leucozonius,
Schr., Isleworth (Fenn). H. nitidius cuius, Kirb., Hampstead
Heath (Smith). H. smeathmanellus, Kirb., Hammersmith, olim
(Smith).
Andrena cingidata, Fab., Hampstead (Smith). A. albicans,
^ tHlG ENTOMOLOGIST.
Kirb., Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford Park [CklL). A. atriceps, Kirb.,
Hampstead {S. S. Saunders, E. M. M., 1875, p. 20). A.florea,
Fab., Highgate, olim (Smith). A. trimmeranay Kirb., Isleworth
(Fenn), A. trimmerana var. spinigeray Sm., Highgate (Smith),
A. cineraria^ L., Hyde Park (Smith), A, thoracica, Fab., Isleworth
(CklL), A, nitida, Fourc, Isleworth (Fenn), A. fulva, Schr.,
Isleworth (Fenn), Gunnersbury (CklL), A, clarkella, Kirb.,
Hampstead Heath (Smith, p. 124). A, nigro-cenea, Kirb., Isle-
worth (Fenn), A. angustior, Kirb., Highgate (Smith), A. huce-
phala, Steph., Hampstead Heath (Smith). A, alhicrus, Kirb.,
Hampstead Heath (Smith), A. humilis, Imh., Hampstead Heath
(Smith), A. lahialis, Kirb., Hampstead and Highgate (Smith),
A, minutula, Kirb., Hampstead, on Veronica (Smith). A. nana,
Kirb., Isleworth (Fenn), A. afzeliella, Kirb., Hampstead Heath
(Smith), A. afzeliella var. fuscata, Kirb., Hampstead Heath
(Smith). A. afzeliella ab. convexiuscula, Kirb., Hampstead Heath
(E. M. M., 1875, p. 36). A, wilkella var. xanthura, Kirb., Hamp-
stead (Smith), A. similis, Sm., Hampstead (Enock, fide E,
Saunders, E. M. M., 1888, p. 130). A, conjuncta, Sm., near
Colney Hatch (Smith),
Cilissa leporina, Panz., Hampstead Heath (Smith),
Crabronidce,
Crahro podagricus, V. d. Lind., Bedford Park [D, Allport).
C. cephalotes, Panz., Bedford Park (CklL), Isleworth (Fenn).
Nyssonidce.
Harpactus tuinidus, Panz., Hampstead (Smith).
Nysson interruptus. Fab., Highgate and Hampstead (Smith),
N. trimaculatus, Eossi, near Colney Hatch (Smith). N. dimi-
diatns, Jur., Highgate (Smith),
Gorytes campestris Yav.fargeii, Shuck., Highgate (Smith).
Mimesidce,
Mimesa bicolor, Jur., Hampstead (Smith), M. equestris,
Fab., Hampstead Heath (Smith),
PemyhredonidcB.
Passaloecus insignis, V. d. Lind., Bedford Park, July 5 (CklL).
Larridce.
Trypoxylonfigulus, L., Bedford Park, July 5 (CklL),
Tachytes pectinipes, L., Hampstead Heath (Smith),
Astatidce.
Astata hoops, Schr., Hampstead Heath (Smith).
(To be continued.)
3, Fairfax Road, Bedford Tark, Chiswick, W., Dec. 10, 1890.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S.
(Continued from vol. xxiii. p. 374.)
V. — The Chemical Aspect (continued).
Let us then endeavour, as a first step towards understanding
yellow, to analyse the results tabulated on p. 248, and group
them into subclasses. Without postulating too rigid a separation,
or regarding such subdivisions as other than convenient artifi-
cialities, we seem able to distinguish three main classes of yellow
species. Firstly, those that are utterly unaffected by any reagent ;
secondly, there is the least exact division, consisting of those
species that are affected, but slowly and indefinitely, yielding an
unsatisfactory sickly whitish, or faded yellowish ; thirdly, we have
the highly interesting and satisfactory class of yellows that
rapidly dissolve and leave a pure white wing ; a pigment being
indubitably in evidence here. This difference will be more
clearly brought out if we tabulate the species in three columns
thus (and I take the opportunity of adding, by way of further
illustration, the names of a few among the tropical species sent
me) : —
UNAFFECTED. UNSATISFACTORILY AFFECTED.
All metamorphosed reds.
Callimorpha hera lutescens.
Arctia villica.
Papilio thoas.
Triphsena pronuba.
Heliaca tenebrata.
Catocala palseogama.
Angerona prunaria.
Xanthia silago.
(The last two or perhaps
three not being quite so
absolutely unaffected as
the others).
Papilio machaon.
Vanessa antiopa.
Gonopteryx rhamni.
Lycaena alexis.
Hepialus humuli.
Rumia crataegata.
Venilia macularia.
Camptogramma bilineata.
Catocala cerogama.
Abraxas grossulariata.
(This last species would
perhaps be almost more
justly placed in the third
RAPIDLY DISSOLVKD.
Euchloe cardamines.
Colias edusa.
E uremia hecabe Senegal- -
iensis.
Tsenias nise.
T. vabella(?).
Delias hierte and eucharis,
and one metamorphosed red,
viz., D. hierte (eucharis).
class).
It thus appears that although I have throughout insisted on
yellow being emphatically a pigment colour,* yet the species in
* There is another and somewhat different view as to the nature of these various
yellows that ought, perhaps, to be pointed out at any rate. In the earlier stages of
my experiments it so happened that I had no specimens of edusa or cardaviines to
hand. For a long time, therefore, my knowledge of yellow was derived entirely
from those species that are either entirely obdurate, such as T. pronuba, or very
unsatisfactorily affected, as G. rhamni, &c. Add to this the fact that in every red
species examined the change stopped at yellow, — which could be in no case further
affected, — and it will create no surprise that I was very near concluding yellow to be
always an immovable colour ; a result as disappointing as unexpected. The first
species that opened my eyes was A. grossulariata : in this case I found the yellow
slowly but completely disappear. This result was so contrary to my previous
experience that I carefully repeated the experiments, but with the same result. I
thus had forced upon my notice the fact that some yellow was sensitive to reagents
(a result so strikingly and abundantly confirmed when I came to examine edusa,
cardamines, Ac). Now, if such species a,^ pronuba and rhamni, on the one hand, be
lO THE ENTOMOLOGISt.
which yellow is rapidly and satisfactorily affected (dissolved as it
happens) are but a small minority of the whole. It is incumbent
on me, therefore, to justify my assumption, and to endeavour an
explanation of the seeming discrepancy : and it appears to me
that one all-important clue may be furnished by the distinction,
which I emphasised in section E, between the two kinds of pigment
colour, viz,y the soluble and the alterable. Yellow I regard as
universally a " solution " pigment, although — paradoxical as the
expression may appear — it cannot in the majority of cases be
dissolved. The evidence furnished by the behaviour of yellow
will be found — as it seems to me — to afford additional and
valuable confirmation to my views on this subject, as already
explained.*
But here we are confronted by an illustration of the fact, so
often alluded to already, that it is impossible to go very far in an
experimental investigation without adopting some provisional
hypothesis. We cannot even lucidly or connectedly present the
actual facts obtained without stringing them on the thread of a
working hypothesis ; any more than we can orderly arrange a
row of beads without a thread to string them on. I will there-
fore preface our examination into the behaviour of individual
yellow species by a statement of the theory that I have been led
to form on the subject; merely warning my readers that this
theory is at present extremely provisional and hypothetical, and
— even so — cannot be rigidly or universally applied.
I assume, then, that the yellow pigment, when first evolved,
is exceedingly sensitive and very susceptible of solution by various
reagents. We have examples of this stage in several of the Pieridse,
and, still more interestingly, in Melanargia galatea, where we can,
so to say, actually behold the pigment evolved — and dissolved.
compared with grossulariata on the other, it will be noticed that whilst in the
former the under side of the wing is a " faded " facsimile of the colour of the upper
side, there is in the latter case no sign of yellow below. Seeing, then, that in
grossulariata the yellow is confined to one side, and on dissolving off leaves the
ground colour of pure white, it at first appeared to me that the difference might be
attributable to the fact that in one instance the colour was (if I may be allowed to
use a somewhat loose and figurative expression) simply "laid on " the upper side ,
while in the others it— so to speak — " went through " the wing. Such an explana-
tion might, perhaps, be correlated with the statements of Hargen and Wallace
(•Tropical Nature,' p. 184) as to hypodermal and non-hypodermal colours. Sub-
sequent investigations having, however, given a different turn to my thoughts, I did
not follow up this idea (as perhaps I ought to have done), although it suggests
considerations that I shall be bound to take into account at a further stage in my
work. It still appears to me not impossible that at least a plausible case might be
made out for this hypothesis, although in the instance of Colias edusa one would find
a troublesome objection ; and since it is not quite clear how far such an hypothesis
could be harmonised with, or how far it would be antagonist to, the '* development"
theory provisionally adopted in the text in explanation of these phenomena, it is
certainly incumbent on me to put both views before my readers, that they may
be enabled to form their own estimate as to the tenability or otherwise of my
explanations.
* See p. 372, above.
CflEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. ^ 11
After a time (I know not whether years or centuries or yet
longer periods) the yellow pigment becomes slightly altered in
constitution* (probably accompanied by a greater or less change
in tint), and altered in the direction of greater stability ; or rather,
confining ourselves to what we know, altered to the extent of
becoming far less easily attacked by solvents. Of this stage we
have examples in rhamni and various other species, as tabulated
in column 2. Concerning this secondary change, however, I
make no assumption as to whether it is an inevitable sequel of
the chemical changes which first led to the development of the
yellow pigment, or whether it is an additional and independent
development, brought about — as we may suppose — by the agency
of Natural Selection ; since, whatever biological ends an attrac-
tivet colour, such as yellow, may serve, we must assume that a
distinct advantage would accrue to the species by such colour
being rendered more stable and — possibly its usual accompani-
ment— more brilliant.! A question of this sort cannot be settled
a priorif but only by distinct entomological evidence of facts : of
facts that is as to the comparative ages of various yellow species;
and in saying this I am not oblivious that such facts can only be
of the nature of inferences from comparative entomology and the
study of phylogeny. (But, as I shall show immediately, we have
already one criterion — though a fallible one — of comparative age ;
a criterion, however, that must be used with delicacy and discrimi-
nation.) If we found that the most recently developed yellow
species are uniformly possessed of a readily soluble pigment,
whilst the oldest (I speak always in a phylogenetic sense, of
course, and not in an autogenetic) are very difficultly affected, we
should then have good reason to assume that a yellow pigment is
in its very nature always destined to undergo such further modi-
fications in course of time (or at the very least that — being
susceptible of such change — it is certain to be so affected through
the agency of Natural Selection). In this light one might regard
the behaviour of E, cardamines, since the pigment here is readily
soluble, and may perhaps be regarded as of (comparatively
speaking) very recent development.! But, on the other hand,
there would, I apprehend, be much difficulty in the case of the
Colias species, which I fancy to be very old established. The
subject, however, is a very wide one, and it is out of the question
to attempt dealing with it here ; but, in quitting it, I will add that
I shall be greatly obliged by any direct information bearing on
this point, which appears to me both of interest and importance.
* This change might be, for instance, in the direction of higher oxidation.
t It must not be overlooked, however, that yellow pigments may in many cases
be protective by their resemblance to flowers. Any further evolution towards
stability, if entailing also modification of tint, might therefore, in a given species,
be fatal, and so checked by Natural Selection.
J But E. cardamines must not be forgotten, where the colour, though very
soluble, is very brilliant.
^ Sec Darwin, ' Descent of Man,' chap. xi.
1-Sl- TliE P:NTOMOLOGiST.
Then, thirdly, we have in such species as A. villica, T,
pronuba, &c., examples of the final stage in the evolution of
yellow, — the stage when the pigment has become utterly in-
soluble (in so far, at least, as my reagents are concerned) and
very stable.
Now let me show how this explains the phenomenon of the
metamorphosed red species. We may explain it from two stand-
points,— the chemical or the biological ; and at present I do not
perceive that we have warranty for pronouncing absolutely in
favour of either explanation. Let us take the biological first.
We may fairly assume that the evolution of a yellow pigment in
a formerly white species is — in its biological significance — a very
great advance. Now, without doubt, the further evolution of red
from yellow is another important advance, and (in this aspect)
would depend upon the '* chance " variation of some individuals
to a red form, which red, being especially advantageous in some
way, would be preserved by Natural Selection. Now, the longer
that a species has been yellow the greater is the probability of
such fortuitous red variations occurring;* conversely, the newer
that the yellow of a species is, the less opportunity has there
been given for a variation to red. In this light, then, we would
regard the existence of a normally red species as evidence that it
had passed through a long, long, period in the yellow stage. But,
according to preceding arguments, this is equivalent to saying
that the yellow has reached the thoroughly stable and non-
sensitive condition, which readily explains why a red colour
cannot be retrogressively modified further back than yellow.
From the simply chemical standpoint we should ignore the
action of Natural Selection as prime agent, and merely say that
the metabolic processes that originally led to the formation of
yellow pigment, and then to its further modification into a stable
yellow, tended to culminate in a red. This interpretation equally
supposes a stable yellow as the precursor of the red ; so that
from whichever standpoint we regard the subject, we must con-
sider the existence of red as a guarantee of the stability of its
predecessing yellow ; in either case we have an explanation of
the puzzle.
But that the biological explanation (which, of course, equally
supposes the susceptibility of yellow to a red-producing change)
is safer than the purely chemical seems to me probable, not
only from various general considerations (including this, that it
is unwise to assume what looks like an '* inherent tendency" to
progress — at least without strong cause), but also from the fact
that the biological explanation can be better harmonised with the
exceptional beiiaviour of Delias hierte and eucharis ; for in these
species the modification has been so rapid that the yellow has
• In the concluding part of these articles I shall have occasion to quote a number
of instances illustrating this and allied points.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. . 13
become partly transformed into red, while yet in the primary
unstable stage.* It would be difficult to exaggerate the interest
and importance which these two species possess for me, since
their behaviour both furnished the last and important link in the
chain of evidence as to the genetic relations of red, yellow, and
white ; and also showed that the difference between soluble and
insoluble yellows was one of degree only, and not of kind.
But after emphasising so strongly the interest attaching to
these species, I must not quit the subject without a word of
description of them and their behaviour. They are white species
of Pieridse ; on the under side of the hind wings is a broad patch of
yellow, and adjoining this a red blotch. So that here we have co-
existing the three stages in coloric evolution. Great was the inte-
rest with which I experimented. On adding the usual reagents
the red was instantly changed to yellow, — that of course ; but the
question was, what would happen next ? I had no need to wait
long for an answer ; in a very short time the whole of the yellow
was dissolved, leaving a pure white icing. So at last I had
succeeded in finding an instance in which red was changed to
yellow, and then that yellow dissolved.
This instance of Delias shows, therefore, that although red is
usually preceded by a stable yellow, this is not indispensable ;
red may be evolved direct from an unstable yellow. It would be
exceedingly interesting to follow up this subject into its biological
bearings did not the urgent limits of space forbid ; I must, there-
fore, defer further speculations on this matter to a possible future
period. Three points still remain to be indicated ; firstly, that,
throughout, the flexible biological explanation, demanding nothing
more than the known fact of a yellow capable of progressive
change, and the action of Natural Selection, which may develop
one yellow into a brilliant red and retain another and precisely
similar yellow in its initial condition, harmonises far better with
the complicated facts than does a rigid and more purely chemicalf
explanation involving " necessary " developments and '• inherent
tendencies": secondly, that regarding the distinction between
" soluble" and non-soluble but " alterable " pigments as marking
a real difference in constitution, we can understand how, if
yellow belong (as it does) to the soluble class, it should be in-
capable of alteration by reagents even when by a slight modi-
fication in constitution it has become insoluble ; this lessens the
difficulty seemingly presented by the unaffected yellow species ;
thirdly, we have here, in the existence of one or more red species
in any genus, the criterion above referred to of the phlygenetic
age of all the yellow species of that genus ; but the criterion, as
* These are the exceptional instances to which I alluded in the footnote on
p. 310.
t This may seem somewhat a misnomer, but I wish to distinguish between the
explanation that involves a reference to the totality of the conditions of life, and
that which involves the chemical processes of life and nothing more.
14 THE ENTOMOLOaiST.
already stated, is both fallible and to be applied with discrimi-
nation.
We have now to apply this hypothesis (somewhat digressively
explained) to the facts presented in our tables.
First of all we will examine instances from the red point of
view, and then others from the yellow.
I pass by the species P. apollOf S. ocellatus, and Z. fill-
pendulce — since I know nothing as to any yellow relatives of
these species — with the remark that if any yellow Parnassius,
Smerinthus, or Zygcena exist, the yellow would probably be
unaltered by any reagents. But in the Arctiidse and in the
genus Catocala we have two remarkably interesting sets of phe-
nomena presented, to the which I invite the reader's careful
attention.
First, as to Arctiidse : having found, by so far invariable
experience, that a yellow produced by acting on red could be
moved no farther, and not having, at that time, excogitated in full
detail, any conclusions as to the progressive stability of yellow,
as set forth in preceding paragraphs, I was considerably at a loss
to bridge over the gulf between the metamorphosed-red yellow
and the readily soluble yellow. Now the red of Arctia caia and
Callimorpha hsra could — like all other reds — be modified no
further back than to yellow ; but it occurred to me that if one took
a yellow variety of either of these to start with, that yellow might
possibly be accessible. I therefore experimented, and with con-
siderable interest, on (7. hera lutescens but, as the table shows,
in vain ; lutescens was utterly unaffected. Then it occurred to
me that, by starting still further back, I might yet be successful.
I therefore experimented on Arctia villica, — that is, on a normally
yellow species, — hoping that the yellow here might be less ob-
durate than in a yellow variety of a red species. But here again
my efforts were useless, for villica was practically unaffected.
I was therefore forced to abandon my hopes of getting the con-
nected stages from red to pure white within this group of the
Arctiidse ; and from the point of view which I have now attained
this is quite as it should be.
Next, we will take the case of the Gatocalce. The crimson of
C. nupta is changed to the usual yellow, and of course no farther.
Now, among the specimens kindly sent me by Mr. Jones, from
America, were two yellow species of Catocala, — viz., C, palceogama
with orange hind wings, and C. cerogama with yellow. Thinking
it very interesting to have the opportunity of examining, in a
second group, the reaction of yellow species related to a known
red species, I experimented on C. palceogama. The result was
just what I expected in accordance with the theory already
explained, and by that time familiar to me. The orange of G,
palceogama was quite wjiaffected. And here the matter might well
have rested; but somehow — I don't exactly know why — it oc-
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 16
curred to me to experiment on the second species — C cerogama.
The result was very unexpected, and served as another warning
to me of the danger in assuming too great a generality or rigidity
in the behaviour of these colours. The yellow of C. cerogama
was by several reagents considerably affected : in no case, it is
true, was the pure white of dissolution-phenomena produced, but
the result was a very faded yellow ; in accord with this fact this
species is placed in the second column on page 9. Here, then,
in this genus we have the very interesting fact that all stages in
the evolution up to red are displaj^ed by actually living species.
First of all there are, it seems, species of Catocala in N. America
without any coloured markings at all ;* next we have the type
of C, cerogama displaying a yellow intermediate in character
between the soluble yellows and the thoroughly stable ones : then
we have the type of palceogama, in which the colour has deepened
to orange — which is wholly unaffected by any reagents : and
lastly, we have the nupta type, in which the colour has advanced
to red with its usual characteristics. It seems to me extremely
probable that other species, if examined, might be found to
display intermediate stages of behaviour between these. f
The remaining species recorded in this table I may pass
lightly over ; merely pointing out that in H. humuli^ which has
evolved slight pink markings, the yellow of the ground colour is
not dissolved, but simply modified into a *' sickly yellowish "
(column 2 on p. 9) ; whilst in Xanthia silagOy which has some-
what more pronounced reddish markings, the yellow is wholly
unaffected. It should also be noted that the pale pink of
Deilephila lineata does not become yellow so much as " yellowy
whitish," a phenomenon pointing perhaps to a partial solution
of the pigment: but I am not prepared to discuss this point
until I shall have had an opportunity of examining a larger
number of pink species (as distinguished from red).|
(To be continued.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Notes from my Diary. — June 20th. — Went to the Vale of Llangollen,
the object being Sesia scoliceformis. Stayed at the Chain Bridge Hotel,
beyond Llangollen and half-way up the Vale. Sugared in the early
* See Kirby's ' European Butterflies and Moths,' p. 269. I may add, also, that
in G. palceogama the under-side of the fore wings is marked with yellow, ; so that
here we seem to have signs of a still further advance, — though of what use yellow
in such a position may be I cannot imagine. Perhaps it is simply a case of corre-
lation. Cf. Callimorpha hera.
1 1 am grievously disappointed that there seems no chance of even re-acting the
blue of fraxini genetically with the red and yellow of other species: but the case
is, I fear, hopeless. See future discussion under Blue.
\ Similar results have lately been obtained with other pink species j these would
almost seem to form a separate subclass.
in THE KNTOMOLOGIST.
evening, then worked with the net down the left side of the Vale. Took
Melanippe montanata and Camptogramma hillneata. Nearly trod upon a
larva of Odonestis potatoria, which was requisitioned. Examined the
treacle, — result, nothing ! June 21st. — Went to the Abbey de Valle
Orucis. The curator remembered Ashworth, but had not seen ento-
mologists in the neighbourhood for years. Went to the S. scolicBformis
wood, on the lower slopes of the Bron Vawr (Big Breast). Had a difficulty
with the tenant, which terminated amicably. The slope of the wood (chiefly
birch) is at an angle of something like 45° ; there is much loose slate from
the top of the mountain. Travelling most difficult. There is a legend in
connection with this wood, as follows:—" Once upon a time, a well-known
entomologist took away all the decayed birch trunks, and therefore all the
Sesia scolmformis." (This brief narrative possibly suggested the story of
" The Man in the Moon.") Sticking out of the old birch stumps were
pupa-cases (empty) of the Sesia family. Living pupae of S. culiciformis had
been taken in the neighbourhood about a fortnight before, and the imagines
successfully bred. I was too late ! I found two sizes, or species, of empty
cases, — a small one and a large one ; but they might be male and female.
Took M. sociata var. suhtristata and Euholia plumbaria in the wood.
As no Sesia were to be had, we climbed up the Vawr to its crest, the
Eglwyseg Rocks, said to be one of the haunts of Agrotis ashworthii.
Easier getting up than down ; in fact the latter was dangerous. One of
the party suggested a military " right close " to where the descent was
clothed for a couple of hundred feet or more with close, short grass. We
then sat down at distances from each other, and using our hands and feet
to regulate the speed, &c., came down tobogganin fashion. It was
delightful ; but, like other delights, brief, for the debris was soon reached.
In the evening, crossed the railway, and netted along the edge of a birch,
oak, &c., wood. Took Drepana falcataria (falcida), Cabera pusaria,
Melanippe montanata, Rumia luteolata [cratagata), and exceptionally large
and brilliantly green Larentia viridaria (pectinitaria). Sugar again useless.
June 22nd. — Walked through the fir and oak woods on the Holyhead
road to Glyndyfrdwy. Saw our only representative of the " whites."
Took Arctia menthastri at rest by the wayside; also thirty or forty leaden-
coloured Micro-looking larvse from spun-together heads of St. John's wort.
These larvae all died after reaching Chester. Stretched out along the stem
of a garden-rocket (one of the sweetest of flowers) was a caterpillar of,
probably, one of the Tceniocampa tribe. It pupated, June 28th. Lunched
at the Berwyn Hotel, Glyndyfrdwy. The hotel is perched high up on the
right bank of the Dee. From the lawn in front is a magnificent view
over a long, placid, and beautifully wooded stretch of the river. These
pools are still navigated, for fishing purposes, by the basket-like coracle.
Walked back to our hotel again by the road (total, eight miles). Took
young larvae of Vanessa urticce from wayside nettles. Also a D. falcataria
at rest. Wind, up to date, a gentle breeze from the N.W. Threatened for
rain ; then showers. In the afternoon, came across, near Llangollen, an
Acidalia; hoped it might be the rare A. contiguaria; turned out to be only
a form of A. aversata. Also Asthena candidata, Panagra petraria, Acronycta
psi. The last mentioned were exceedingly light in coloration. Sent on
traps by last train to Llangollen. Evening wet. The rain was of the
species "small "; more like mountain mist. Went to birch and oak wood
of the previous evening. Took lodis lactearia, 0. bilineata, L. viridaria,
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC, 17
Xylophasia rurea and var. combiistata. The two last were plentiful and
flying promiscuously. June 23rd. — Up at 5 a.m. to catch the first train
from Llangollen. On the landing at the top of the stairs I took a farewell
look at a big trout, whose haunt was in the clear depths below ; then up at
a flock of swifts, which raced and screamed continually to and fro past the
window. What a natural rockery : such ferns, and red valerian (the last
did not attract a single moth) ; such trailing, drooping woodbine ! Turning
away I spied a Noctua at rest on the glass. It was a fine specimen of
Plusia pulchrina. Breakfast A delightful walk down the Vale to Llan-
gollen amid the changing lights on the mountain tops. These, bathed in
heavy dews, were silvered at intervals by the rising sun. June 23rd to
July 16th. — From 36 larvae of Agrotis ashworthii, 34 imagines appeared
between these dates; 32 out of the 34 were perfect. August 7th. —
The Vale of Llangollen again. Ran along by rail with a London friend to
Glyndyfrdwy. Worked down the Vale on the left bank of the river to the
Chain Bridge Hotel. Well-wooded with high fern-clad grounds, suggesting
fritillaries. Hazels abundant ; hanging with clusters of nuts. A dull day ;
saw nothing worth recording. The locality, however, should be well worth
working under favourable circumstances. August 8th. — Friend and I went
near " The Loggerheads," between Ruthin and Mold. This is scenery that
cannot be beaten in North Wales. A hot, sunny day. Satyrus semele,
Ccdnonympha pamphilus, Polyommatus phloeas, Lyccena astrarche, L. agestis,
L. icarus, unusually abundant. Saw occasionally Vanessa cardui and
Epinephele ianira. Came across hundreds of full-fed V, io larvge on
nettles. Said to be a neighbourhood for A. contiguaria ; another local
moth hidden away from extinction.— J. Arkle ; 2, George Street, Chester,
September 22, 1890.
Abundance op certain Autumn Larv^, — One of the most remark-
able features of the entomological record of 1890 was the extraordinary
abundance of autumn larvae. In a garden in Norwich, where I was
staying during the month of September, everything was infested with
larvae, even to the ferns, which were in many cases almost entirely stripped
of their green parts. The many-coloured larvae of Orgyia antiqua (the
common vapourer) were by far the most abundant, proving a perfect nuisance
by their curious habit of constantly flinging themselves to the ground, from
a Wisteria arbour which spans the path. What could induce these insects
to act in this manner I was unable to ascertain, as there was nothing but
an iron garden-seat and the pebbles of the path to tempt them. This
falling was not produced by wind or birds, or any other obvious cause, for,
during perfect stillness of all their surroundings, they would fall by dozens
upon the unfortunate occupants of the garden-chair. Nor is this a habit
confined to any particular age or period of the larva's existence, for among
those that fell were small, large, and intermediate-sized individuals. More-
over, this habit caused a great mortality among them, for they were no
sooner fairly down than they began to make for a white-washed wall which
forms one boundary of the path, and attempt to climb up again to the
arbour from which they fell. Now it so happened that many small garden
spiders had elected to weave their webs from this wall to the iron frame-
work of the arbour, and as the larvae came to this part of their journey
they often became entangled in the webs, were captured, and preyed upon
by the small spiders. Is it a usual thing for garden spiders to attack,
ENTOM.— JAN, 1891. C
18 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
conquer, and suck the juices of larvae many times bigger than themselves?
I was the more struck by this procedure on their part as the antiqua larva
is supposed to be a distasteful morsel to birds and other predatory creatures,
owing to the barbed hairs with which it is so abundantly furnished. I also,
on one occasion, observed a quarter-grown antiqua larva hanging from
the same arbour by a long silken thread, up which it was laboriously
climbing at the rate of about two feet per hour ; this it did by rolling the
silk into a ball with its abdominal feet. I never before saw a larva of this
species hanging by a silken thread, though I should not be astonished if
they had the power to produce them, seeing that they weave a silken pupa-
case. The other larvae which were conspicuous by their numbers were those
of various Noctuse, and of Spilosoma menthastri, of which there are always
a few in the garden. Larvae of Rhopalocera were much less abundant than
usual. Although I worked diligently, I have been able to procure scarcely
any imagines except those of Tortrices, which were fairly abundant. —
E. W. Carlier ; 36, London Street, Edinburgh, Oct. 18, 1890.
LARViE OF EpHESTIA SP. ? FEEDING ON CoRK-PACKING IN GrAPE-
CASKS, — Some six or more years ago I found in some Almeria grape-casks
a number of larvae feeding on the cork-dust used in packing. They were
placed aside, and forgotten. Some months later, looking into the box in
which the larvae had been placed, some dead moths were found ; so far as
I am able to remember, they were of a darker grey than Ephestia
cahiritella (passulella), and with more distinct transverse lines. Until a
few days ago I had not again met with the larvae ; and now I have about a
dozen before me, from which I have drawn the following description :—
Larva : Three-quarters of an inch in length, pink or whitish pink (the
mature larva more pink than that of E. cahiritella), with a few whitish
hairs ; head horn colour ; mandibles darker ; frontal plate paler, the basal
half darker in some examples. Living in cocoons of cork-dust, loose, or
attached to the sides of the cask. The larva of E. cahiritella forms silk-
lined passages through dried currants, and may be found in almost any
case of them ; there appears to be a constant succession of broods
throughout the year. They are flying at the present time in our stores,
but are most numerous in the summer mouths. In the cases with the
larvae may sometimes be found the cocoons of a small black ichneumon.
I may add that I obtained a very pretty ichneumon from the first lot of the
larva now described. — W. T. Pearce ; 101, Mayfield Road, Seafield,
Gosport, November 24, 1890.
Phalera bucephala larv^ feeding on common Laurel. — Several
records have been made during the past year of larvae feeding on the
common laurel {Cerasus laurocerasus). 1 can add to the list Phalera
bucephala. A colony of these larvae, about three-fourths grown, I observed
feeding on the above-named plant in July last, at Bickleigh, South Devon.
The shrubs were forming a fence to the station-master's garden, which is
situated close to the railway station. — G. C. Bignell; Stonehouse,
Plymouth.
The Cheshire Plague of Caterpillars. — It would appear from
Mr. Arkle's remarks (Entora. xxiii. 293) that Cheshire, during the present
year, has been almost free from the attacks of " caterpillars," for he states
(I. c.) *' not merely from personal observation, but from exhaustive enquiry,
KOTES, CAPTURES, ETC* 19
that no extraordinary appearance of caterpillars has occurred in Cheshire
this year." I am sorry Mr. Arkle should have committed so grave an error
in making such statements, and that his " exhaustive enquiry " should have
been confined to such a small portion, or portions, of Cheshire, — which
must have been the case, or he would have arrived at a very different con-
clusion. For the last four years I have devoted much time to the study of
Economic Entomology, and during that period I do not remember having
seen certain injurious larvse so abundant as they have been this year in
certain portions of Cheshire.
Nematus ribesii, Curtis, was so abundant in one district, by the end of
June, as to have completely defoliated the gooseberry bushes, thereby ren-
dering the fruit useless and destroying the would-be " bearing buds " for the
coming season. I am glad to state that this only happened in cases of
gross neglect on the part of the owners who took no measures to destroy
the larvae in any shape or form. All the bushes in this particular district
were equally attacked ; but those who took the precaution to have their
bushes beaten about once a week, and the larvae killed, had excellent crops
and plenty of wood left for the future. This was not at all an exceptional
case, but I quote it as my own personal observation. Has this Hymeno-
pteron any insect parasites ? I have never yet bred any from the larvae,
although I have kept quantities of them. The larva seems to be very
nauseous, as the only bird that I have found to feed upon it is the cuckoo
(Cuculus canorus). In the year 1879, at Upwell, Cambs,, I shot two male
specimens of this bird, the stomachs of which were quite distended with
the larvae of N. ribesii; and last year (1889), on dissecting another speci-
men of this bird, I found in it many larvae of Abraxas grossulariata. This
proves that it is one of the most useful of our insectivorous birds, and, so
far, the only Britishbird known to feed upon nauseous larvae.
Cheimatobia brumata. — I never remember having seen the larvae of this
insect so abundant here as it was this spring. Almost all kinds of fruit
trees suffered more or less from its ravages, especially the apple ; many
crops of the latter were seriously injured, and in one locality — about two
miles from here — the crop was a complete failure, entirely through the
ravages of these *' looper grubs." In another district the ravages committed
by them on a plantation of nut trees were so extensive as to ruin the whole
crop. During the last week in October, 1889, the males simply swarmed
at the gas-lamps ; just outside our city I counted as many as thirty-five
individuals on a single lamp. Probably this accounts for the unusual
abundance of the larvae this year. Up to the time of my writing this
(Nov. 20th) I have only seen about half-a-dozen males at the "lamps,"
which is strange, as the weather seems favourable for their development,
Are the apterous females attracted by light ? I once, in October, 1888.
took a female at a gas-lamp, which might have been attracted by the light,
or it is just possible that she might have mistaken the lamp-post for a tree
trunk. In this county very little seems to be known of this pest of the
orchard, consequently nothing is done to keep it in check. " Stick banding"
seems to be quite unknown, which is much to be regretted.
Hyponomeuta padellus, Linn. — This web-making pest has favourite
localities in this county, which it infests more or less every year. This year
it occurred in all its force, especially near Chester, where many bucketsful
of the larvae and their webs were collected and burned.
By the foregoing remarks I do not wish to convey to the reader the
20 1?HE iJNTOMOLOGtSt.
idea that we had a *' plague of caterpillars," in the true sense of the word.
I only wish to show that some species were unusually abundant here.
I may just mention that the Aphidse infesting the apple, plum, currant,
and rose were never known to be so abundant as they were this year. From
what I saw myself I think that the two latter suffered most. — R. Newstead ;
Grosvenor Museum, Chester, Nov. 20, 1890.
Emydia cribrum. — I think Mr. Fowler rather under-estimates the
percentage of males of E. cribrum netted by collectors, when he puts it at
60 per cent. ; 97 per cent, would be nearer the mark. It may be of
interest to note that this insect may be freely taken by " assembling," as
we found by the sport which followed the capture of a freshly-emerged
female, on the night of the 18th June. Mr. Corbin also tells me that in
one night, many years ago, he took over sixty males by this means. —
V. Gerrard ; 47, Foulden Road, Stoke Newington, N.
Ch(Erocampa celerio found in a Mouse-trap. — Mr. Esson, of
Aberdeen, has sent me a very fine specimen of C. celerio, which is supposed
to have flown into a shop in Aberdeen, and was found by a boy in a
mouse-trap, which had been set with a piece of meat. I may add that,
altogether, I have had over twenty specimens of C. celerio pass through my
hands from time to time. Four of these came from Carlisle ; three from
Manchester ; three from Bolton ; two from Doncaster ; and one example
from each of the following places — Kendal ; Preston ; Littlehampton ;
Whalley ; Grange ; Stockton ; Brighton ; Aberdeen. In addition to
these is one from the collection of the late Mr. B. Standish, without
locality.— J. B. Hodokinson ; Ashton-on-Ribble.
SOCIETIES.
Entomologtcal Society of London. — December 3rrf, 1890. — The
Rt. Hon. Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair. Mr.
Samuel James Capper, F.L.S., of Huyton Park, near Liverpool; and Mr.
John Gardner, of 6, Friar Terrace, Hartlepool, were elected Fellows of
the Society. Dr. D. Sharp exhibited specimens of Papilio polites, P. eri-
ihonius, and Euplcea asela, received from Mr. J. J. Lister, who had caught
them on board ship when near Colombo, in November, 1888. Dr. Sharp
read a letter from Mr. Lister, in which it was stated that from the ship
hundreds of these butterflies were seen flying out to sea against a slight
breeze. Many of them, apparently exhausted by a long flight, alighted on
the deck of the ship, and large numbers perished in the sea. Lord
Walsingham exhibited a coloured drawing of a variety of Acherontia
atropos, which had been sent to him by Mons. Henri de la Cuisine,
of Dijon. He also exhibited specimens of an entomogenous fungus,
apparently belonging to the genus Torrubia, growing on pupa?, received
from Sir Charles Forbes, which had been collected in Mexico by Mr.
H. B. James. Mr. M'Lachlan expressed an opinion, in which Mr. C. O.
Waterhouse and Mr. G. C. Champion concurred, that the pup® were those
of a species of Cicada. Mr. F. D. Godraan said that at the meeting of the
Society on the 3rd October, 1888, he had exhibited a larva of a Cicada
with a similar fungoid growth. The specimen was subsequently produced,
and the fungus proved to be identical with that on the pupse shown
i
SOCIETifcS. ^1
by Lord Walsingham. Mr. R. Adkin exhibited male specimens of
Spilosoma mendica, Clk., bred from ova obtained from a female of the Irish
form which had been impregnated by a male of the English form. These
specimens were of a dusky white colour, and were intermediate between the
English and Irish forms. Mr. F. Merrifield showed samples of a material
known as "cork-carpet," and explained its advantages as a lining for
cabinets and store-boxes. Dr. Sharp fully endorsed the opinion expressed
by Mr. Merrifield. Mr. R. W. Lloyd exhibited specimens of Anisotoma
triepkei, Schmidt, and Megacronus inclinans, Er., collected last August at
Loch Alvie by Aviemore. Mr. Merrifield read a paper entitled, " On the
conspicuous changes in the markings and colouring of Lepidoptera caused
by subjecting the pupae to different temperature conditions." In this paper it
was stated that the results of many experiments made on Selenia illustraria
and Ennomos autumnarla tended to prove that both the markings and
colouring of the moths were materially affected by the temperature to which
the pupae were exposed : the markings by long continued exposure before
the last active changes ; the colouring, chiefly by exposure during these
last changes, but before the colouring of the perfect insect began to be
visible, a moderately low temperature during this period causing darkness,
a high one producing the opposite effect, and two or three days at the right
time appearing in some cases sufficient. Dryness or moisture applied
during the whole pupal period had little or no effect on either markings or
colouring. Applying the facts thus ascertained, Mr. Merrifield said he had
obtained from summer pupae of illustraria some moths with summer
colouring and spring markings, some with spring markings and spring
colouring, and some with summer markings, but an approach to spring
colouring. These specimens, with enlarged and coloured photographs of
them, were exhibited. Mr. C. Fenn, who said he did not agree with Mr.
Merrifield's conclusions, exhibited a very long and varied series of specimens
of Ennomos illustraria, all of which, he stated, had been bred at the same
temperature. He expressed an opinion that the presence or absence of
moisture, rather than differences of temperature, was one of the principal
causes of variation. The discussion was continued by Lord Walsingham,
Colonel Swinhoe, Mr. Waterhouse, Mr. Jenner Weir, Captain Elwes,
Mr. M'Lachlan, Mr. Porritt, Dr. Mason, Mr. Barrett, and others. Mr. G.
T. Baker read a paper entitled, " Notes on the Lepidoptera collected in
Madeira by the late T. Vernon WoUaston." The paper was illustrated by
a number of figures drawn and coloured some years ago by Prof. Westwood.
Mr. Hamilton H. Druce exhibited several very beautiful species of butter-
flies, belonging to the genus Hypochrysops, from the Solomon Islands and
Australia, and read a paper on the subject entitled "A Monograph of the
Lycaenoid genus HypochrysopSj with descriptions of new species." Mr. C.
J. Gahan read "Notes on some species of Diabrotica.'' — H. Goss and
W. W. Fowler, Hon. Secretaries.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—November ^7th, 1890.— W. H. Tugwell, Vice-President, in the chair.
Mr. R. South exhibited examples of Melanippe fluctuata^ L., from various
localities, and called attention to the var. costovata of Haworth, also to an
unusually large specimen from Scotland; he also referred to Milliere's
figure of the variety known as neapolisata, and expressed a doubt as to
the occurrence of this form in Britain. Mr. Hodges, Leucania vitellina,
SJIJ THJB! ENTOMOLOGist.
Hb., taken Sept. 26th, 1890 ; also specimens of Caradrina ambigua, Fb.,
Isle of Wight, Aug. 1888, and one from Guernsey, Sept. 1890. Mr. R.
Adkin, a series of Spilosoma menthastri, Esp., bred from ova received from
the North of Ireland, the whole of the moths having a distinct brownish
tinge of colour, which was common to both sexes, the specimens also
varied much in the arrangement of the spots ; he remarked that he under-
stood this form was the prevalent one in the district. Mr. Tugwell said
that Mr. Adkin 's specimens were very similar to those from the neighbour-
hood of Perth. Mr. Short, series of the two forms of Lobophora viretata, Hb.,
bred from ova received from the Birmingham district, and stated that he
occasionally took the species in the North of London. Some discussion
took place as to the difference in colour and size of the respective broods.
Mr. Short also exhibited three examples of Spilosoma fallglnosa, L., from
Aberdeen, much larger and paler than those usually received from the
north. Mr. Adye, forms of Anchocelis lunosa, Haw., from Christchurch,
Hants. Mr. Tugwell, insects from New Caledonia ; also long series of
Triphcena comes, Hb., from English and Scotch localities, and extreme
forms from Shetland ; the series showed considerable variation ; and
T. orbona, Hufn. {subsequa, Hb.), which species, the exhibitor remarked,
was more stable in colour, and the variation was less decided than in
T. comes, Mr. Billups, foreign Coleoptera; also numerous species of
Diptera, taken by himself during the past season, among which were
Tetanocera ferruginea, Fen., T. elata, Fen., T. punctulata, Scop., Acidia
cognata, W., A. heraclei, L., Palloptera arcuata, Fen., Limnia marginata,
F., Platystoma seminationis, Fen., &c.
December llth. — W. H. Tugwell in the chair. Mr. R. Adkin ex-
hibited Peronia hastiana, L., bred from larv88 received from the Isle of
Man ; Hepialus sylvanus, L., taken in Kent ; and called attention to a
peculiar habit of the latter species of hanging from the herbage when in
copula. Mr. R. South, LyccBna astrarche, Bgstr., vars. allous, Hb.,
salmacis, St., and artaxerxes, Fab. ; and made some observations thereon.
Mr. Tugwell, long series of Eupithecia satyrata, Hb., English and Scotch ;
also the var. callunaria ; also several specimens of a Eupithecia from
Paisley, which Mr. Tugwell said he could not think were referable to E.
satyrata. Mr. C. G. Barrett expressed an opinion that they were E. tri-
signaria. Mr. Fenn said he had never heard of this species so far north
as Scotland. There was considerable discussion relative to this exhibit.
Mr. Short, Epunda lichenea, Hb., from Portland. Mr. Farrant, a small
form of Hypsipetes sordidata, Fb., and a Deltoid which he stated was taken
in Somerset. Mr. Tugwell expressed an opinion that this species was new
to the British list. Mr. South remarked that he had seen the species
from Japan ; and Mr. Fenn said he had seen something very like it from
Jamaica. Mr. T. R. Billups, Masicera sylvatica. Fn., bred by Mr. Fenn
from the larva of Saturnia pavonia, Schiff. Mr. Winkley had also bred the
same species from Pieris brassicce, L. ; Phorocera concinata, Mg., by Mr.
Frohawk from Vanessa urticm, L ; Trixia variegator. Mg., from Cheima-
tobia boreata, Hb., by Mr. South. Mr. Billups also called attention to
three specimens of the rare Oxycera terminata, Mg., one of which he had
bred from a pupa found in his own garden, Dulwich, August, 1889, the
other two being captured in the same locality in August last ; he also ex-
hibited several species of Hymenoptera' parasitic on the ova of Lepi-
doptera and Diptera. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
SOCIETIES. 83
Birmingham Entomological Society. — November 17th, 1890. — Mr.
W. G. Blatch, President, in the chair. Mr. M. Stanger Higgs was elected
a member of the Society. Mr. H. M. Lee showed Calocampa vetusta,
Scopelosoma satellitia, &c., from Sutton Park. Mr. P. W. Abbott showed
a fine series of Tapinostola fulva, taken in Sutton Park, flying at night, in
the company of Nonagria arundinis. Mr. R. C. Bradley showed two
varieties of Abraxas grossulariata. A discussion followed on the causes of
colours in insects, in which Messrs. W. G. Blatch, C. F. Thornewill,
R. C. Bradley, and C. J. Wainwright joined. Mr. C. J. Wainwright
showed several wings of Selenia tetralunaria denuded of scales, one of
which lacked half of one longitudinal vein. A discussion followed, in which
Messrs. Blatch, Thornewill, and Wainwright joined. Mr. Blatch mentioned
a curious case of a specimen of Habrostola urticcB, which had the body filled
with scales like those on the wings. Rev. C. F. Thornewill showed a
collection of Lepidoptera, made at Abbott's Wood in June, 1890, and made
remarks on them.
December 1st, 1890. — Mr. W. G. Blatch, President, in the chair. Mr.
Blatch reported that, during 1890, he had taken sixty species of beetles new
to the Midlands. Messrs. C. F. Thornewill, R. C. Bradley, W. Harrison,
G. W. Wynn, and A. Johnson showed collections of insects taken during
1890. Mr. ThornewiU's included a specimen of Scotosia certata, taken on
8th September, and seeming, therefore, to point to a second brood of the
species. Mr. G. T. Baker showed a collection of butterflies, taken in the
Madeira Islands. Mr. C. J. Wainwright showed Cosmia affinis and
diffinis, taken from near Bromsgrove. — C. J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
Lancashire and Cheshire Entomological Society. — Monday,
November 10th. — The President, Mr. S. J. Capper, in the chair. Mr. E.
C. Stott was elected a member. Referring to Miss Ormerod's new
* Manual of Injurious Insects,' a copy of which the authoress had presented to
the Society, the President said that the volume had been greatly enlarged
since the last edition. It contained a large number of new figures, and
remarks on twenty new insects, which had been found to be injurious to
crops since the last edition was published. There was also a portrait
of Miss Ormerod; and he recommended all interested in economic entomo-
logy to procure a copy. Mr. J. Cosmo Melvill read a paper on " Hypo-
cephalus armatus (Desin.), the rarest and most extraordinary member of
the Coleoptera," giving an account of its structure and probable affinities,
and exhibited one of the nine specimens known to exist in collections; also
various members of other families, with which H. armatus had been com-
pared. During the conversazione, the President exhibited some fine
varieties of Abraxas grossulariata ; Mr. Newstead, Acherontia atropos,
large nests of wasps, and the only three specimens known of a Coccid,
Orthezia occidentalis, sent him for figuring by Mr. J. W. Douglas;
Mr. Gardner showed Goedart's 'Metamorphosis et Historia Naturalis
Insectorum,' a.d. 166^; Rev. H. H. Higgins exhibited Apatura pavoni ;
and Mr. C. S. Gregson, 100 varieties of Abraxas grossulariata, picked out
of 4000 specimens bred by him in 1890.
Monday, December Sth. — The President in the chair. Mr. B. H.
Crabtree was elected a member. Mr. R. Newstead read a paper on
" British Wasps, their parasites and scavengers," in which he gave the
life-history of the wasp, from the commencement of the nest by the single
m THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
queen to the complete formation of the colony, and enumerated twenty-two
species of insects, which he had found inhabiting these nests. The paper
was fully illustrated with specimens and diagrams. The President exhibited
Acidalia immorata, from Lewes. Mr. Gregson, cases of Artlculata, showing
manipulation before being presentable at public and private museums. Mr.
Sydney Webb, his two specimens of Plusia moneta. Mr. Beschorner, foreign
Papilios. Mr. Stott, a very variable series of CharcBos graminis. Mr. P.
Schill, Parnassim apollo and P. phcebus, from Switzerland ; also specimens
of Papilio machaon, showing the marked difference between English and
Swiss examples of this species. — F. N. Pierce, Hon. Sec.
OBITUAEY.
Mr. Frazer S. Crawford, of Adelaide, South Australia, died
October 80th, 1890, in the 61st year of his age. He was an expert
photographer, and held the position of photo-lithographer to the
Survey Department; but he also discharged the duties of another
office in the Government service, viz., that of Inspector of Vine and
Fruit Pests. "His demise is a very great loss to the whole of the
Australian Colonies, and to the branches of scientific investigation in
which he has rendered such great service during the later years of his
life. Southern Californians have to thank him for ridding them of the
Icerya purchasi, which already had nearly ruined a large number of
their horticulturists; and Australians, especially South Australians,
owe his memory a deep debt of gratitude for his researches into and
advice concerning the codlin moth (Carpocapsa pomonella), apple and
pear * scab,' and a host of other insect and fungus pests which have
afflicted them." The above information and extract is from the
Australian ' Garden and Field,' kindly communicated by Miss
Eleanor A. Ormerod, who wrote of the deceased as follows : — " Mr.
Molineux' obituary notice of Mr. Crawford conveys some idea of his
work, but not of the important aid that he gave as a referee and
co-operator in investigations as to the history and prevention of
attacks which, like that of Icerya purchasi, affected the welfare both of
Australasia and the U.S.A. Up to the time of his decease, he paid
especial attention to the parasites of this wide-spread pest, and his
skill as a photographer was utilised with great benefit to his corre-
spondents in illustration of his observations. He was especially on the
watch to guard against the introduction of insect infestations into the
colony of which he was the entomological care-taker, and from my
many years' correspondence with him, I have personal knowledge of the
prompt and conscientious exactness with which he devoted himself to
such work. He at once procured the most trustworthy information,
and brought it forward officially. As a co-operator in such parts of my
own work as affected both home and colonial service he was invaluable,
—never grudging trouble, or the hardly-pressed time he could so ill
spare, to look into the accuracy and serviceableness of every point.
During the latter months of his life, when from the increase of his
illness the use of crutches had become necessary, he still continued at
work, and may truly be said to have died in harness."
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] FEBRUARY, 1891. [No. 838.
REMARKS ON MIANA STRIGILIS. M. FASCIUNCULA AND
A PROBABLE NEW SPECIES OF THE GENUS.
By Richabd South.
In 1881 I secured a long and variable series of Miana strigilis
in North Devonshire. Comprised in this series were several
specimens which I considered to be merely forms of M. strigilis ;
some of these examples have been sent to correspondents, and
at the present time I have but three of them in my collection.
Probably these would have continued to grace my series of
M. strigilis if the suggested identity of that species and M. fasci-
uncula had not aroused my dormant interest in Miana, and
induced me to look with a critical eye at my series of the two
species in question.
The first point upon which I satisfied myself was that con-
fusion of M. fasciwicula with M. strigilis, or vice versd, was not
possible to anyone who would make himself acquainted with the
differential characters of these well known and distinct species.
My series of each species comprises detachments from several
British localities, and careful examination of these has enabled
me to tabulate the differences between the two species as
follows : —
M. strigilis. M. fasciuncula.
1 . Abbreviated basal line'i' distinct indistinct or absent
2. Area between base and \
marginal lines J
3. Claviform stigma large and distinctly out- inconspicuous and often
lined in black entirely absent
4. Under surface some shade of grey suf- some shade of ochreous
fused with fuliginous suffused with fuliginous
* Transverse markings are absorbed by the dark ground colour of var. cethiops.
JfiJ^TOM, — FEB. 1891, D
26 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
1
Apart, however, from the differences to be found in the
markings, the two species are easily separable by other characters
alone. Thus, in proportion to the respective length of their fore
wings, we find that the thorax of strigilis is much narrower than
that of M. fasciuncula and the latter is not crested. Both sexes
of M. strigilis have distinct dorsal tufts on the body, but in
M. fasciuncula these tufts are only found in the male, and are
very insignificant even in that sex.
Having convinced myself of the distinctness of these two
species, it now remained for me to determine the position of the
three specimens I had so long regarded as varieties of M. strigilis.
Examination of these specimens, which on former occasions
when I had looked at them I am bound to confess had been only
superficial, was now careful and minute. The result is that I
find the specimens are not identical with either M, strigilis or
M. fasciuncula. Neither can they be considered forms inter-
mediate between those two species.
Although very similar to forms of M, fasciuncula in colour of
ground and markings of fore wings, they can be separated at once
from that species by the strigilis-lika dorsal tufts on the body. It
was chiefly owing to the presence of these dorsal tufts, that I sup-
posed the specimens to be aberrations of M. strigilis, but they are
larger than any example of that species I have ever seen and
altogether more robust ; the nervures are thicker ; the first trans-
verse line is decidedly curved, not unlike the same line in M,
literosa, and the basal area is more uniformly coloured. I am
inclined to think that these ipseudo-strigilis are forms of a distinct
species which so far has been overlooked, and shall be pleased to
hear from anyone who may have specimens of a Miana which
he cannot reconcile with either of the known European species
or forms.
THE HABITS AND LIFE-HISTORY OF THE
NEW ZEALAND GLOW-WORM.*
I
By G. V. Hudson, F.E.S.
My first attempt to discover the nature of the New Zealand
glow-worm was in January, 1885, when I captured several speci-
mens and recorded them as dipterous larvae, but, through pressure
of other work, did not figure or carefully examine them.
Exactly a year later I had the insect again brought under my
notice during a conversation with Mr. E. Meyrick, who told me that
he had written a short note on the animal, which is quoted in full
in my previous paper (Trans. Well. Phil. Soc. vol. xix., page 62).
He stated, as his opinion, that the larva was referable to one of the
* Bead before the Wellington Philosophical Society, October 8th, 1890.
LIFE-HISTORY OF THE NEW ZEALAND GLOW-WORM. 37
Staphylinidae (Coleoptera), and carnivorous. The light he con-
sidered attracted, and the web entangled, minute insects on which
he supposed the larva to feed. It will be seen that his supposition
as to the nature of the insect is entirely contradicted by subse-
quent investigation, whilst the latter conjecture has not in any
way been corroborated, as we are still entirely in the dark as to
the use of either the web or the light to the larva.
During February and March, 1886, I instituted very careful
observations on the larvae, keeping several specimens in captivity.
From these I ascertained that the light was not exhibited at all
regularly, sometimes being brightest at night and sometimes in
the early morning hours. I have since noticed that, in the
natural state, the larvae shine most brilliantly on dark, damp nights
with a light N.W. wind.
The web referred to above is suspended in a rocky or earthy
niche in the banks of a stream, in the densest parts of the forest.
It consists of a thick glutinous thread stretched across the niche,
and supported by several smaller threads running right and left,
and attached to the sides and end of the cavity. On this the
larva invariably rests, but, when disturbed, immediately glides
back along the main thread, and retreats into a hole which it has
provided at the end of it. From the lower side of this central
thread numerous smaller threads hang down, and are always
covered with little globules of water, resembling a number of
minute silver-beaded necklaces, constituting a conspicuous —
though apparently unimportant — portion of the insect's web. It
should be mentioned that all these threads are constructed by
the larva from a sticky mucus exuded from the mouth.
The organ which emits the light is situated at the posterior
extremity of the larva, and is a gelatinous and semi-transparent
structure, capable of a great diversity of form. It can be withdrawn
or extended at the will of the larva, which, however, can immedi-
ately cease to shine without withdrawing it. This action is most
likely effected by shutting off the air from the tracheae ramifying
through the " light organ," which being, no doubt, largely com-
posed of phosphorus only, becomes luminous when in contact with
the oxygen in the air- tubes. Larvae cease to shine on very cold
nights, in the daytime, and in a room which is artificially lighted.
During my observations in 1886 one of the larvaa disappeared,
and I naturally assumed that it had buried itself in the earth,
and was undergoing its transformation into the pupa state. This
was apparently confirmed by the emergence, in about a month's
time, of a fly, which was afterwards identified by Baron Osten-
Sacken as Trimicra pilipeSy the larva of which is well known and
has nothing to do with the present insect. It is most unfortunate
that a larva of this Trimicra should have got into the breeding-
cage without my knowing it, and tbu§ deceived me,
V2
28 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Further investigations were instituted at the end of 1886, when
I discovered a luminous pupa suspended in one of the webs, which
I have since several times reared from the glow-worm, and which
is consequently the real pupa. It is a curious animal, and fur-
nished with a large process on the back of the thorax, which is
attached to the web, and holds the pupa suspended in the middle
of the niche previously inhabited by the larva. The light is
emitted from the posterior segment of the pupa, but is much
fainter than in the larva, and a distinct organ is not apparent.
It is frequently suppressed for days together. This pupa died in
a few days, and all the larvae then under observation also died.
Larvae were again procured in August, 1888, but this time I
did not succeed in getting any of them as far as the pupa stage.
I should mention that the larvae are only to be obtained by
walking up the bed of the stream, in the big gully of the Botanical
Gardens, at night, with a bull's-eye lantern. A piece of thin
stick is rapidly introduced behind the larva, as soon as it is
detected, which always adheres to it, and is thus taken away, web
and all, and carried home in a tin box, with damp moss, &c.
On September 1st, 1888, 1 obtained another supply of larvae,
placing them this time in a large bell-glass, with stones and ferns,
the bottom of the glass having about one inch of water in it : this
I conceived would closely resemble their natural habitat. During
all my expeditions I always examined a great number of the webs,
and could never find any remains of insects entangled. I also
noticed that the largest larvae were always concealed in the deepest
niches in the bank, and frequently behind large cobwebs, where
they would stand a poor chance of capturing insects. I also think
that there must be a very great mortality among the larvae, judging
from the number of minute ones always observed, in natural con-
ditions, compared with large ones. On December 21st I found
that two of the larvae had changed into pupae resembling the one
I found two years before. These unfortunately became mouldy,
and died ; and it was not until the following April that I suc-
ceeded in rearing the true fly, which I discovered, on the morning
of the 4th, standing beside its old pupa-skin. Two enlarged
drawings were then made, and forwarded to Mr. Skuse, of Sydney,
and Baron Osten-Sacken, of Heidelberg, Germany. Both these
gentlemen had been previously furnished with specimens of the
larvae in alcohol. They then expressed their opinion that the
fly, of which I sent a drawing, probably did not result from the
luminous larva, and that it would be desirable to postpone pub-
lication until another specimen had been reared. Convinced
though I was of the accuracy of the observation of April 4th, I
determined to verify it, and again procured larvae, which all died.
On July 10th, 1890, I got about twenty large larvae, spending
upwards of three hours in the bed of the stream : two of these
changed during August into pupae, one of which died, but the
A Preliminary list of the insect-fauna of Middlesex. 29
other gave rise to another fly exactly resembling the one reared
on April 4th, 1889. The circumstances connected with the
emergence of this fly are so entirely conclusive that it may per-
haps be well to relate them in detail. On examining the pupa
at 8 a.m., on the 14th, I observed that it had become much paler
in colour. At 2 p.m. I noticed the fly perched on it, with its
head down towards the tail of the pupa, and the extremity of the
abdomen of the fly still ivithin the pupa-skin. In this position it
remained until the following day at 5 p.m., when I transferred the
fly into a large glass-topped pill-box, which I placed on the table
in my sitting-room. On returning to the room at 7 p.m. without
a lamp, I was astonished to see the inside of the box brilliantly
lit up, the extremity of the fly's abdomen giving out a strong
light, about half as bright as that emitted by a full-grown larva.
The whole phenomena relating to the emergence of this fly from
the pupa, and its subsequent luminosity, were also observed by
my brother, who was present at the time, and can fully corrobo-
rate these statements if necessary. As this was a female fly I
decided to take her up into the big gully in the gardens, where
the larvae are abundant, and see if she would attract males. As
soon as I arrived I put the box down in the bed of the stream,
and the fly immediately lit up so as to again strongly illuminate
the inside of the box. There were lots of larvse all round, so
that I considered it likely there were also flies. After thirty-five
minutes I visited the box, but found nothing had arrived. I then
left her for ten minutes more, and returned with the same result.
During this expedition I again carefully examined many webs of
the larvse, and took a quantity of the mucus from them home,
and examined it with the microscope. I could, however, find no
trace of insects entangled or their remains. I am quite at a loss
to explain either the light or the web, also the food of the larva.
I must leave these points for future investigation.
I should mention that the flies reared on April 4th, 1889, and
Sept. 14th, 1890, were both females, as it is conceivable that this
may have an important bearing on future inquiry as to the use of
the light.
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF
MIDDLESEX.
Compiled by T. D. A. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 8).
Since the first part of the list was written, a good many new
records have come to hand, the additional sources of informa-
tion being as follows : —
(9.) A. Bacot. A MS. list of 77 Lepidoptera, taken by Mr.
Bacot, his brother, and Mr. A. Campling, within a radius of a
,16 i^E fiNTOMOtOGt^t.
mile from Clapton Station, but on the Middlesex side of the
Kiver Lea. The Khopalocera were mostly caught five or six
years ago, but the rest, with the exception of G. elyenor, within
the last two years.
(10.) A. V. Legros. A MS. list of 114 Coleoptera, taken at
Hanwell and other localities.
(11.) Louis B. Prout. A MS. list of Lepidoptera, taken in
the Stamford Hill and Tottenham district, at Clapton, and at
Tottenham.
12.) There is in the British Museum a most interesting
collection of insects, all taken within the precincts of the
Museum at Bloomsbury. Many species were taken which are
not in this collection, but these are all represented by labels, as
Mr. Waterhouse kindly informed me. I have therefore cata-
logued all the labels as well as the insects in this collection, the
result being 305 Coleoptera, 7 Lepidoptera, 2 Hymenoptera,
and one Dipteron. The collection makes no attempt to be com-
plete except as regards the Coleoptera, but the number and
interest of the beetles found in such an unpromising-looking
locality as Bloomsbury is amazing. Concerning some of these
beetles, see Mr. E. Waterhouse, in Ent. Mo. Mag., vol. ii.
pp. 13, 14 (1865).
(13.) J. C. Melvill. ' The Flora of Harrow,' New Edition,
edited by Eev. W. M. Hind. With notices of the birds of the
neighbourhood and of the butterflies and moths. (1867).
Lepidopteba.
PapilionidcR,
Papilio machaorif L., " Once seen in Whitton Park," Isle-
worth (E, 0. Meyers). Newman gives a Middlesex record in his
* British Butterflies,' p. 153.
Aporia cratcegi, L., " Isleworth," reported to Mr. Fenn by
Mr. E. 0. Myers. I know nothing further about the record.
Pieris brassicce, L., Clapton {Bacot) generally common {God-
win) y Mill Hill (South), Dalston (Prout), Isleworth (Fenn),
Bedford Park (G. R. Fenn). P. rapce, L., Clapton (Bacot),
generally common (Godwin), Mill Hill (South), Dalston (Prout),
Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford Park (Gkll.). P. napi, L., Clapton
(Bacot), Kingsbury, Old Oak Common (Godwin), Mill Hill (South),
Dalston (Prout), Isleworth (Meyers), Bedford Park (J. Gray).
Euchloe cardamines, L., Old Oak Common (Godwin), Mill
Hill (South), Stamford Hill and Tottenham district (Prout),
Isleworth (Meyers), Bedford Park, (Miss E. Sharpe),
Colias edusa, Fb., Clapton (Bacot). Generally common in
1867 (Godwin), one in 1875, very abundant in 1877, two bred
from larvae in 1877, at Mill Hill (South), Isleworth (Meyers),
Bedford Park, in 1884 {J. Gray). C. edasaYa^r. helice, Hb., West
Jind Lane, Kilburn (Godwin), C. edusa ab. duplex, Ckll., Enfield,
A iPREtiTMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. 31
1877 ; Finchley, 1876 ; see Entom. 1878, p. 52, and coloured
figs. ; Entom. 1889, p. 6.
Gonopteryx rhamniy L., Bishop's Wood, Hampstead ; Old Oak
Common, Kingsbury (Godivin) ; gardens and railway banks.
Mill Hill {South), Dalston (Prout), Isleworth {Fenn and CklL),
Bedford Park {J, Gray),
NymphalidcB.^
Argynnis (Brenthis) selene, Schiff., "Isleworth" (Meyers,
reported to F, Fenn). There is also a Middlesex record in
Newman. A, adippe, L., Isleworth (C. R. Fenn). A.papUa, L.,
"Enfield Chace, Enfield" {W. P. Ellis, Pract. Nat. 1883,
p. 131). See also Henry Walker, Nat. Hist, Notes, 1882, p. 4.
A. aglaia, L., " Enfield Chace, Enfield " (TF. P. Ellis, 1. c.)
Melitcea aurinia, Kott., Kingsbury (F. Bond, in Newman,
Brit. But. p. 42).
Grapta c-alhum, L., "Isleworth" (Meyers), near Edgeware
(F. Bond, in Newman).
Vanessa poly chloros, L., Kingsbury, rare (Godivin) ; Mill Hill,
common in 1876, pupae under branches of fruit-trees (South).
V. urticcB, L., Clapton (Bacot), Mill Hill (South), generally
common (Godwin), Dalston (Prout), Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford
Park (CklL). V. io, L., Clapton (Bacot), Mill Hill (South), generally
common (Godwin), Dalston (Prout), Isleworth (E. M. Fenn),
Bedford Park, 1886 (L. M. Cockerell), and Sept. 1st, 1890
(CklL). V. antiopa, L. There is a record in the * Flora of
Harrow, and it is reported from the New Kiver (F. A. Walker,
Entom., 1887, p. 177), and near Kinsbury (F.Bond, * Zoologist,'
1847, p. 1791).
Pyrameis atalanta, L., Clapton (Bacot), Kingsbury, generally
common (Godwin), Mill Hill (South), Isleworth (Fenn). P. ata-
lanta ab. b., the red band on upper surface of primaries nearly
divided in two a little below its middle. Bedford Park (CklL).
P. cardui, L., Clapton (Bacot) ; generally common, but scarce
some years (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, observed June, 1877, for the
first time, two worn specimens (South) ; Dalston (Prout), Isle-
worth (Fenn), Bedford Park, imago (J. Gray), and a larva on
Cnicus arvensis, July 12th, 1885 (CklL).
Limenitis sihylla, L., Mill Hill one recorded in Entom. 1874
(South).
Apatura iris, L., Caen Wood, near Hampstead (J. F. Stephens,
see Newman, p. 76).
Melanargia galatea, L., Mill Hill, railway bank, 1875 ; two
in orchard, 1876 (South).
Pararge megcera, L., Clapton (Bacot) ; edge of Bishop's Wood,
Hampstead (Godwin), Mill Hill (South), Isleworth (Meyers).
Satyrus semele, L., recorded in the * Flora of Harrow.'
* Including, as subfamilies, Aj^aturince and Satyrince.
si fHE ENTOMoLOGlSt.
Epinephele ianira, L., Mill Hill (South) , Clapton {Bacot), Old
Oak Common, in profusion (Godwin) j Dalston (Prout), Isleworth
(Fenn), near Ealing (CklL). E. tithonus, L., Clapton (Bacot) ,
Mill Hill (South). E. hyperanthes, L., ** Isleworth" (Meyers).
Coenonympha pamphilus, L,. Clapton (Bacot) ^ generally
common (Godwin), Mill Hill (South).
LyccenidcB.
Thecla ruhi, L., one example, Acton Lane, Acton side of Old
Oak Common (Godwin). T. quercus, L., Mill Hill, one larva
beaten from oak in the garden (South).
Chrysophanus phloeas, L., Clapton (Bacot), Mill Hill (South),
generally common (Godwin), Stamford Hill, &c., district (Prout),
Isleworth (Fenn), Bedford Park (J. Gray and L. M. Cockerell).
C. phlceas ab. fasciatus, CklL, Finchley (W. P. Weston), see
Entom. 1878, p. 25, and 1889, p. 99.
Lyccena cegon, Schiff., Scratch Wood (F. Bond in Newman.
L. astrarche, Bgstr., one in a field near farm. Mill Hill, 1875
(South); "Isleworth" [Meyers). L. icarus, Rott., generally
common (Godwin), Mill Hill (South), Clapton (Bacot), Dalston
(Prout), Isleworth (C. R. Fenn), Bedford Park (CklL). L. cbry-
don, Fb., Old Oak Common, one example, end of July, about
1869 (Godwin). L. argiolus, L., Hampstead Heath, three
specimens (Godwin), Mill Hill (South).
Hesperidce,
Syrichthus malvce, L., Old Oak Common, Kingsbury ; foot of
Hampstead Heath, towards Hendon ; Dolton Hill (Godwin),
Mill Hill, in a hollow at the back of Bunn's Farm (South). S.
malvce var. taras, Meig., four or five at Old Oak Common, smaller
than type (Godwin).
Pamphila thaumas, Hufn , Old Oak Common (Godwin), Isle-
worth (Meyers), P. sylvanus, Esp., Old Oak Common (Godwin),
Mill Hill, on the common (South), P. comrna, L., Old Oak
Common (Godwin),
Sphingidce,
Acherontia atropos, L., Mill Hill, one pupa found (South),
Isleworth ( E. 0, Meyers).
Sphinx convolvuli, L., Mill Hill, two netted, flying over
flowers (South) ; Blenheim Passage, St. John's Wood, in 1869,
one specimen (Godwin) ; Bedford Park, one specimen in 1885
(F. Nash), Isleworth (Meyers). S. ligustri, L., Mill Hill, larva
on privet (South) ; generally common (Godwin) ; Woodstock
Road, Bedford Park (Fenn) Isleworth (Meyers) ; larvae common
at Ealing, 1879 (R. South).
Deilephila galii, Schiff., see Entom. 1888. p. 210 and p. 274.
Choerocampa nerii, L., see Entom. 1888, pp. 258 and 265, and
1889, p. 120. C. porcellus, L., Mill Hill, two specimens (South),
Q, eljpenoVf L., Clapton, about fifteen years ago (Bacot),
Notes on British LEpiDopTfinA. 5^
Smerinthus ocellatus, L., Hampstead Heath and Kingsbury
(Godwin) ; Mill Hill, larvae rather common on apple, sallow, and
willow (South) ; Bloomsbury (Brit Mus.), Bedford Park (J. Gray),
Isleworth (Meyers). S. populi, L., generally common (Godwin),
Mill Hill, larvae on poplar (South), Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.),
Bedford Park (L. M. Cockerell and J. Gray), Stamford Hill and
Tottenham district (Prout), Clapton (Bacot) ; St. John's Wood,
sometime common, especially in larval stage (South) ; Isleworth
(Meyers). S. tilice, L., The Butts, Brentford, a larva under a
lime tree, Aug., 1890 (Fenn) ; Clapton (Bacot), generally common
(Godtvin) ; Mill Hill, larvae on elm, also pupae, elm (South) ; Bed-
ford Park (J. Gray) ; Isleworth (Meyers) ; St. John's Wood, some
years larvae not uncommon, imago not often seen {South).
Macroglossa stellatarum, L., Mill Hill, several {South) ; mode-
rately common (Godioin), Isleworth (Meyers), St. John's Wood,
several times seen {South).
Hemaris fuciformis, L., Westbourne Park Station (H. Walker,
Nat. Hist. Notes, 1882, p. 4). The occurrence of this insect in
London is explamed by the supposition that it had flown on to
an up train somewhere, and thus been carried to town. The
genus Hemaris, Dalman (1816), seems a well-defined one, as
distinct from Macroglossa, Och. (Should not this be Macro-
glossum. Scop., 1777 ?).
It is intended next to treat of the following groups : —
Lepidoptera : Sesiidce, Zygcenidce, Bombyces, Pterophori. Cole-
optera : Aleocharince, Longicornia, Chrysomelidae, Diptera :
Syrphidce. Information about any of these will be gladly
received.*
In some instances above I have given only the name of the
collector as authority, contrary to my first intention. This is
done in the case of several Bedford Park insects, some of which
were not identified or recorded by the collectors themselves.
(To be continued.)
NOTES ON BRITISH LEPIDOPTERA; EXTRACTED FROM
CONTINENTAL JOURNALS.
By W. Warren, M.A., F.E.S.
In the * Stettiner Entomologische Zeitung' for 1890, January
to June, there occur some notices of Micro-Lepidoptera, the
perusal of which should, I think, be of interest to British
collectors. The extracts here given are, it must be understood,
a condensed summary of the chief items of information.
* Kecorda may be sent to the compiler, at 3, Fairfax Road, Bedford Park
Chiswick, V\^.
34 'THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
On pp. 48 and 49 there are described, by Herr C. A. Teich, of
Riga, two new varieties of Penthina (Sericoris), viz., P, rivulaiia.
Scop., var. stangeana^ and P, lacunana, Scop., var. hoffmannianay
both of which occur along the shores of the Baltic. The first of
these, var. stangeana, differs from the type form by (i) its smaller
size (13 — 14 mm. against 16 — 18 mm.) ; (ii) its darker colour
(brownish black with olive dusting, instead of olive with black
dusting) ; (iii) the dulness of the silvery lines ; and (iv) the
deeper tint of the hind wings, and under side generally. The
other var., hoffmanniana, differs likewise from the typical form
of P. lacunana (i) in point of size (13 — 15 mm. against 18 mm.) ;
(ii) in its brighter tints (the cross-bands being pale yellowish
white, not so much dusted with darker as in the stem form, and
with their central metallic line brighter blue) ; (iii) in having the
submarginal dark shade, which runs from the apex to the inner
margin, divided by an elbowed pale line, starting from the
penultimate gemination; (iv) in having the hind wings and
under side darker. This form appears to me to be identical
with our Cambridgeshire fen specimens, which, however, are
not smaller than the usual examples of lacunana.
On p. 53 we find some remarks on larvse of Micro-Lepidoptera,
by Herr F. Eppelsheira, of Griinstadt, some of which are decidedly
interesting : —
Perinephele lancealis (the long- winged pearl). — " Larva stated
to occur, viii. e., ix. b., on the under side of rolled leaves of
Teucrium scorodonium." The only plant, hitherto, I believe,
given for this larva is Eupatorium cannabinum, on which it
always feeds in England.
Acrobasis sodalella. — "Larva on oak in the second half of
May, earlier than its two allies, consociella and tumidella. Its
mode of feeding differs ; instead of spinning the oak leaves flatly
together, as the other two species both do, it makes a cluster of
them. The larva itself is described as striped with brownish
black and white, the stripes being of uniform width, and the
dorsal one brown ; head black, with yellow speckles ; thoracic
segment shining black, with a white edge in front ; anal flap and
hind legs of the ground colour ; fore legs black. Imago emerges
from the second half of June, onwards."
Homoeosoma cretacella, Rossler (= senecioniSf Vaughan). —
" Larva in heads of species of Senecio, drawing several flower-
heads together with a web, mixed with excrement; differing
therein from the larva of H. nimbella, which bores into a single
flower, and remains concealed therein, the only indications of its
presence being the protrusion of some of the dislodged florets."
Conchylis {Eupoecilia) ambiguella. — "Additional food-plants
recorded : Red currant and snowball (SympJioricarpus racemosus) ,
in the fruit and berry; Dianthus carthusianorunif in the seed-
heads."
1
Ko1?ES ON BRlTlSEt LE^IDOPTERA. 36
At p. 57, Herr H. Disque, of Speier-oii-the Rhine, gives a
description of the larvae of Psamotis pulveralis, Hiib., and
Acentropus niveuSy Ollivier : —
Psamotis pulveralis. — *' Larva : ground colour grey, with
violet-red stripes ; six black white -rimmed warts on each
segment ; head marbled, dark and light brown ; thoracic segment
black, divided down the middle, where it is paler ; anal segment
pale brown. A female, taken in the beginning of August, laid
eggs, which hatched in about a fortnight's time, and produced
three imagos at the end of September ; these were bred in-doors.
The majority of the larvse died through being kept too dry." Is
there, under natural conditions, a regular second brood ? Can
the Folkestone collectors answer?
Acentropus niveus, — "Larva with sixteen feet; dirty whitish ;
head and thoracic segment inclining to yellowish ; the 4th to 8th
segments clouded, laterally, with brownish. Living free, on leaves,
or enclosed, like the pupae, in a whitish web, on Ceratophyllum
demersum. Of gills, through which the larvae are said to breathe,
no traces were to be seen. Except for size, they are very much
like the larvae of Hydrocampa stagnata. Larvae and pupae were
found in the beginning of May, and also in autumn. Imagos,
likewise, in August. The larvae were found, but more sparingly,
feeding also on other water-plants, — Myriophyllum, Trapa
natans, and species of Potamogeton, The whitish cocoons con-
taining the pupae were visible a yard below the surface of the
water, fastened to the axils of the leaves. From as many as
100 larvae and pupae collected, and which produced imagos
in fair numbers, only a very few females were bred. The
female imagos sat under water on a leaf, and there kept waving
to and fro their stumps of wings. In order to set them, it was
necessary to remove them straight from the water to the setting-
board, otherwise the wings became, as it were, glued to the body."
Herr Disque records a fact, connected with the powers of flight
of this species, which astonished him : — " He was sitting one
night on an elevated piece of ground, at least three-quarters of a
mile from the haunts of A. niveus, when a specimen fell at his
feet, attracted apparently by the glare of an electric-light close by.
As a rule, the males never rise far above the surface of the water
they frequent."
At p. 81, the same writer describes the larvae of some Tortrices
and Tineina, which were previously, as far as I am aware,
unknown : —
Teras fimhriana, Thnbg.— " Larva full-fed, viii. e. ; to be
found between united leaves of sloe; greenish yellow; head
pale brown ; thoracic and anal segments like the body. Imago
emerged, ix. e. — xi. m."
T, luhricana, Mn.— "Larva dirty grey; head black; thoracic
segment brown, black on the sides; less frequently entirely
36 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
black ; fore legs black ; anal legs of the ground colour : v. e. in a
web, just like that of Tortrix rosana, which occurred at the same
time on the same sloe bushes. Imago, vi. e."
Tortrix murinana^ Hiib. — *' Larva green ; head and thoracic
segment black; anal plate like the ground colour; six black
warts on each segment. Bred from the neighbourhood of Baden,
where the larvae had destroyed whole fir plantations."
The last three species have not yet been recorded from Great
Britain ; but there seems no reason why, as their food-plants are
so common, they may not occur with us. It appears that in
Germany they are all very local.
Grapholitha microgrammana. — "Larva, viii. e. ix. b., in the
still green seed-pods of Ononis spinosa : yellowish white ; head
pale brown ; thoracic segment paler, with black dots ; the six
usual warts on each segment slightly darker, hardly visible ;
anal plate of the ground colour. Imago, vi. e. vii. b." The
imago has been bred in England from small oval sand-cocoons
found under Ononis, and caught flying always over that plant.
The larvee were suspected to feed in the seed-pods ; but, as far as
I know, had not been actually detected therein.
Symmoca signatella. — " The imagos were found tolerably
commonly, vi. e. vii. b., resting on the trunks of an old lime tree,
and singly on oak and plum stems. The larva, which is slender
and full-fed, vi. b., lives in the chinks of the bark under a slight
web, feeding probably on lichens. It is very difficult to get it out
of its hiding-place. In appearance it bears much resemblance to
the larva of H. bracteella, being grey, with scarcely visible paler
warts; head and thoracic segment black-brown; on the 1st
segment (? 3rd) are four chitinous brown dots, the two lower
being the larger ; anal plate grey-brown. Pupa among the bark
in a slight web." This account is peculiarly interesting just now,
as the species has lately been taken in the London neighbour-
hood by Mr. A. F. Griffith, of Brighton.
The only paper in the first two numbers of the * Tijdschrift
voor Entomologie ' for the present year, that will have any
interest for British lepidopterists, is a critical monograph, by
Herr P. C. T. Snellen, on the genus Hypenodes, Guen. He
distinguishes this genus from Hypena by the differently shaped
terminal joint of the palpi. In Hypenodes this is conical and
upright; in Hypena^ flattened and blunter. Eight species are
enumerated as belonging to the genus, viz. : — H, costcestrigalis,
Steph. ; H. tcenialis, Hiib. ; H. kalchbergi, Stand., S. E. Z., 187 6,
p. 139, from Sicily, Macedonia, and Derbent; H, balneorum,
Alpheraki, Hor. Ross., 1879, p. 137, from the Caucasus;
H, jucundalis, Snell., Tijd. v. Ent. xxiii. p. 121, xxiv. pi. 5,
fig. 10, from Celebes; H. piidicalis, Snell., Tijd. v. Ent. xxxiii.
p. 178, pi. 7, fig. 9; H. minimalis, Snell., loc. cit., fig. 10, both
from Celebes and Java; H. obliqualis, Snell., loc. cit., p. 179,
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 37
fig. 11, from Java. The synonymy of our two British species,
as carefully worked out by Herr Snellen, I give in full : —
Hypenodss costcestrigalis,
Cledeohia costcestrigaUs, Steph., 111. iv. p. 20, 1834 ; Wood,
Ind. Cat. fig. 772, 1849 ; de Graaf., Bouwst. iii. p. 57, 1862.
Hypenodes costcestrigalis, Guen., Delt. & Pyr. p. 42, 1854;
Staint. Man. ii. p. 129, 1859; Snell., Vlind. p. 494, 1867.
Hypena tcenialis, H.-S., Panzer, Deutch. Ins. 166, 1, 1839.
Cledeohia acuminalis, H.-S. ii. p. 442, fig. 619 (pars.), 1845.
Hypenodes tcenialis.
Pyralis tcenialis , Hiib., Pyr. fig. 151, 1796.
Cramhus alhistrigatis, Haw., Lep. Brit. p. 368, 1810.
Cledeohia alhistrigatm, Steph., 111. iv. p. 20, 1834 ; Wood,
Ind. Cat. fig. 771, 1839.
Hypenodes alhistrigalis, Guen., Delt. & Pyr. p. 42, 1854 ;
Staint. Man. ii. p. 12H, 1859 ; Hein., Schm. D. i. p. 620, 1859 ;
Snell., Tijd. v. Ent. xxx. p. 219, 1887.
Hypena acuminalis, H.-S., Panzer, Deutsch. Ins. 163, 2, 1839.
Cledeohia acnminalis, H.-S. ii. p. 442, fig. 619 (pars.), 1845;
Wocke, Bresl. Zeits. Eat. pi. 5, fig. 16, 1850.
(To be continued).
CONTRIBUTIONS to thr CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S.
Continued from p. 15.
V. — The Chemical Aspect. F. (continued).
Passing now to the simply yellow species, we have some
very interesting considerations forced upon us. First of all,
as to the genus Euchloe : in E, cardamines we see an ex-
ceedingly soluble orange pigment. Now there is an extra-
British species, E, eupheno, in which the ground colour is
yellow, whilst the tips are red : this is a species on which I have
not experimented, and its behaviour can therefore only be
surmised. The red would, of course, be instantly changed to
the ground yellow, but the real interest centres in the question,
what next ? The analogy of nearly every red species points to
the answer that the yellow (both that already existing and that
produced by the transformation of red) would remain unaffected :
but, on the other hand, the exceptional behaviour of Delias
reminds us that it is not impossible that the total yellow might
dissolve away entirely ; whilst the relationship of eupheno to
cardamineSy with its highly soluble pigment, lends some support
to this possibility. We can, then, — failing actual experience, —
only reserve our decision.
38 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Next, as to Gonopteryx : G, rhamni is in the halfway con-
dition (column 2 on p. 9) between the species with soluble
yellow pigment and those with stable. And, correlated with this,
we have the very interesting fact that in the sister species, G.
Cleopatra, there is already a red flush at the base of the primaries.
No doubt this red would at once be turned to yellow, and we may
fairly legitimately conclude that the total yellow would be even
less affected than in G, rhamni.*
Next, in ColiaSyf we have converse instances: the yellow
is exceedingly soluble, and there are (at least so far as I am
aware) no red species in this genus. But — to repeat my warn-
ing—we must not fall into the error of applying this fallible
criterion too indiscriminately. Colias affords an illustration and
a warning: for although there may be no red species in the
genus, one or two extraordinary red or reddish varieties are
reported of C. edu8a:l and a further illustration of the progress
which the Colias pigment is making towards red may be found
not only in the one or two reddish spots and borders which occur
on the wings, but also in the remarkable artificially-produced red
obtained by Mr. Edwards.
With regard to the remaining yellow species, L. alexis calls
for no particular comment : and the Arctiidse have been already
disposed of. As to the half-dozen Georaetrine species, I will
merely point out that whilst in none of them is the yellow
rapidly dissolved in the satisfactory fashion that prevails with
edusa, cardamines, and Delias, yet, in not a single case is it
entirely obdurate : in no instance at present to hand has the
Geometrine yellow reached the stable stage : and correlated with
this we have the fact that red is almost unknown in Geometrse. I
am very anxious not to insist on this coincidence, or over-rate its
importance, since, in the present state of our knowledge, and
without examining a far larger number of species, it is impossible
to decide whether this be anything deeper than a coincidence :
but at least it is prima facie very significant.
* Only since this was in type have I seen actual specimens of E. eupheno and
G. Cleopatra : the colour which had been described to me as " red " is, I find, simply
deep orange, and in the former species apparently identical with the orange of
cardamines, with which, no doubt, it would agree in its reactions. As to cleopatra,
Mr. Warburg informs me that he has experimented thereon, and found the orange
to •' disappear marvellously, the bright and intense orange being transformed to a
paler shade than the natural colour of the female." Nothing is said, however, as
to the effects on the ground yellow ; but, since Mr. Warburg has sent me specimens
of cleopatra, I shall be able to clear up this matter immediately.
t In this section I had intended to redeem my promise of giving the details of
the experiments made in reddening the yellow of Colias. (See Entom. xxiii. 235).
Since my note on this subject, last July, I have continued the experiments, and
have obtained most unexpected and interesting results. A full account of these
was written out, as appendix to this subsection ; but, owing to the length to which
this ran, it has been found necessary to hold it over for the present.
X For instance, Mr. Anderson describes a specimen displaying a " glowing rosy
violet " tint, Entom. xxii. p. 73.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 89
I might, perhaps, add that many of these Geometrine yellows
are on the very border-land of yellow, and might with almost
equal justice be described as chestnut, with which, too, their
reaction betokens a strong similarity. They afford an additional
example to those presently to be adduced, of the close relations
in constitution between chestnut and yellow.
There remain, then, only the remarkably impervious T, 'pro-
nuba and its miniature analogue, Heliaca tenehrata, I suppose
that, a prioriy every one would have anticipated, as I did, that
the magnificent orange of this species, — T. pronuhaj — would be
rapidly affected by reagents ; but, as a matter of fact, I cannot
touch it. After all the preceding remarks in this section on the
character of yellows, it may probably be considered very safe to
refer this species to the subclass of those possessing a stable
yellow pigment ; but, as a matter of fact, I think we shall exercise
a wise caution in withholding any such judgment until further
evidence be forthcoming. The case is peculiar, since, unlike the
apparently similar instance of villica, &c., we have here no col-
lateral evidence. I can see no reason why there may not be a
" physical absorption " yellow as well as pigment yellows ; and,
granting this, we have absolutely no proof that pronuba-yellow is
not such. The doubt might be cleared in two ways : in the first
place, the existence of a red species (or even a red variety) in the
genus would settle the matter at once — as in the Arctiidae — in
favour of pigments ; or, secondly, if other yellow species of Tri-
pJicena were found to be affected, as is Catocala cerogama, that also
would be tolerably conclusive. At present I have examined no
other species of Triphcena, but my impression is rather that the
wings of the less brilliant species are more suggestive — in super-
ficial appearance — of physical colours than of pigments. Any-
how, for the present we must leave this question an open one.
And finally, now to complete the consideration of red and yellow,
we have yet to take into account the intensely interesting subject
of reversible effects, which, so far as I at present know, are displayed
by this colour — red — alone. Perhaps the simplest manner of ex-
plaining this will be to proceed historically, — following the order
of my discoveries. We will start from the fact that all reds are
turned yellow, — by acids especially. Wishing to preserve a few
permanent preparations of these artificial varieties, I soaked the
wings of one or two perfect insects, Euchelia jacobcece and
Zygcena filipendulcSf with hydrochloric acid, washed them with
water to remove the acid, then with alcohol (perhaps — but I am
not sure now) to assist the drying, and when dry put them away
in a store-box. On opening this some time afterwards I found,
to my utter disgust, that my beautiful yellow varieties had re-
verted to their original red. Of course, it is scarcely necessary to
say, that I saw at once the great importance of this unlooked for
phenomenon, and the consequent necessity for a thorough and
2
40 THE ENTOMOLOGHST.
exhaustive examination of the relations between red and yellow :
a development as unexpected as discouraging, coming as it did at
a time when I fancied myself to be pretty well acquainted with
the phenomena of the red pigment. At this time my articles
were already in course of publication in the * Entomologist ' ; and
not knowing what modifications in views already foreshadowed
might be necessitated by this new departure, I inserted, — in
order to guard myself somewhat, — the footnote on p. 186 as to
the " after phenomenon," confining it, however, to the case of
hydrochloric acid ; at the last moment, before this was published,
I obtained further results, which led me to add, *' and other
acids.'* We will now consider the question in detail.
Three, and only three, explanations seemed possible, of this
reversion to the original red : it might be a time effect pure and
simple : it might be due to washing with water ; or to washing
with alcohol.
I first made a set of experiments with Z. JUipenduUe
A. & B. Wings were exposed to HCl for one hour.
C. Similar exposure for two hours.
D. Similar exposure for one week.
In each case a parallel experiment was made with HNOs in
order to determine whether the reversion phenomenon was or
was not confined to specimens originally transformed by HCl.*
The wings, at the expiration of their periods of exposure,
were respectively treated as follows : —
A. By merely washing with distilled water a large part of
the red returned there and then in the HCl specimen. The
HNOs specimen remained immovably yellow.
B. Washed as above, then with alcohol, and finally left
standing in alcohol.
C. Simply washed as with A., and with the same result.
The HCl specimen recovered its red ; the HNO3 remained
yellow. But on examining these A., B. and C. (HCl) speci-
mens after a lapse of 24 hours, I found that they were again
yellow; and at the end of a week still yellow (C. orange). But
on washing again with water the red was partly restored.
All the HNO3 specimens had retained their yellow from
first to last.
D. The HCl specimen (after one week's exposure to acid),
was at once restored to red by simple washing,
The HNO3 specimen remained immovably yellow.
A., B. (or C.) and D. HCl specimens, after having regained
their red, as above related, were left alone for a week. At the
end of that time they were still the full red.
The HNO3 specimens of course had retained their yellow.
* This whole Bet of experiments was made in the same mode as usual, viz., by
treating wings gummed on to watch-glasses.
(To be continued.)
41
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Notes on the Season, 1890. — The experience of many entomologists
seems to be that Lepidoptera have been scarce during the past season, but,
as far as I am concerned, the year 1890 has been quite up to the average;
at least as regards numbers. T append a list of some of my captures in
Enfield. From pupae obtained at the roots of oak trees during the winter,
I bred Taniocampa gothica, T. incerta {instabills), and T. stabilis freely ;
also Phigalia pedaria, two females of which emerged in January. In March
I captured Amphidasys strataria, and males of Hybernia marginarla were
to be had in plenty at the street-lamps. Two specimens of Smerinthus
populi emerged in May ; and on the 1 0th of that month I caught a stray
T. gothica at a street-lamp, although the last of those I had bred emerged
on the 5th of April. During May insects were very abundant, notably
Euchloe cardamines, Nisionades tages, and Euclidia glyphica : of these three
species I could have taken hundreds. Syrichthus malvcB, Heliodes tenehrata
(arbuti), and Euclidia mi were fairly common. Two specimens of Dicranura
vinula and one of Acronycta megacephala emerged early in June from pupse
obtained the previous year; I also bred Metrocampa margaritaria from
larvae beaten off hornbeam in May. Noctua augur, common ; Hepiahis
humuli, twice taken ; Plusia iota, once. Larvae, as a rule, were scarce ;
but Miselia oxyacanthm larvae were not uncommon, and those of Diloba
caruleocephala and Bombyx neustria were extremely abundant ; on the 7th
of June I took two nests (numbering about 150 individuals) of the latter off
one sloe-bush. Most of the common species of Rhopaiocera were fairly
abundant, with one striking exception : Hesperia sylvanus appeared in its
usual numbers ; but of H. thaumas [lined), usually so common during the
latter part of June, I did not see a single specimen during the whole of the
year. In July ray chief captures were Phorodesina pustulata and Hemithea
strigata ; also Plusia chrysitis and Pericallia syringaria at syringa-bloom,
which is considerably more efiScacious than sugar while it lasts. Perhaps
the most abundant moths were the day-flying Eubolia limitata [mensuraria)
and Cidaria associata (dotata) ; this latter flying over our currant-bushes
during the evening. In August I sugared vigorously and frequently ; but
the only species rewarding my exertions were : — Aruphipyra pyramidea
(fairly common, though not nearly so much so as in former years), Mania
typica, M. maura, Calymnia affinis and C. diffinis, Boarmia getmnaria,
Noctua xanthographa, Triphcena comes and T. pronuba, and, " last, but not
lea.st," Xylophasia monoglypha (polyodon). On the 15th of the month I
found a batch of ova of Arctia caia on willow ; this is the second time I have
found them on this plant; I usually find the larvae on stinging-nettle, and
feed up nearly all my larvae on it. I have never seen either of these food-
plants mentioned before, although I have never found the larvae on any
other plant, except the common dead-nettle [Lamium album). The first fort-
night of September I spent at Lowestoft, where I took the following species
at gas-lamps : — Bryophila perla, Luperina testacea, Melanippe Jluctuata,
and Pionea forJicaUs [common) ; also single specimens oi Porthesia [Liparis)
similis [aurifiua). Mania maura, and Eugenia [Ennomos] fuscantaria. On
the 12th of this month I caught a specimen of Eubolia limitata; in Enfield
T never see it later than the first week of August, and it is most abundant
at the beginning of July. I returned home on the 14th, and found a larva
BNTOM»— FEB, 1891. E
42 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
of Smerinthus ocellatus Rwsatmg me. A day or two after I took a Polia
flavicincta at su»ar. In October my only captures were Anchocelis
pistacina and Mi sella oxyacanthcB. In November I took Phlogophora
meticulosa at ivy-bloom ; and Himera pennaria and Cheimatobia brumata at
gas-lamps.— H.D. Sykes ; The Cedars, Enfield, Middlesex, Dec. 10, 1890.
Notes from the New Forest. — On May 31st, 1890, my brother and
I took up our quarters at Broekenhurst for a week's collecting. Unfortu-
nately, the weather was not all that could be desired, the greater part of
the week beincr rainy and dull, so that butterflies were not abundant.
Argynnis euphrosyne showed itself freely whenever there was a gleam of
sunshine; and towards the end of the week A. selene began to appear.
Nemeobius lucina was locally plentiful, and one morning we took eight
specimens. Only two examples of Thecla rubi put in an appearance, but
that was probably owing to the dull weather. Gonopteryx rhamni, in a
battered condition, was fairly common. Euchlo'e cardamines not so plentiful
as usual, but the males and females in about equal proportions. Beating
produced a few moths: — Vrepana hamula, D.falcula, D. lacertula, Zono-
soma punctaria, and Epione advenaria, from oak and birch ; while Bupalus
piniaria and Thera obeliscata swarmed about the pines. From the heaths,
Bombyx rubi and Phytometra cenea in hundreds, amongst which were some
exquisite specimens, and Scodlona belgiaria. A bright, sunny day produced
Macroglossa fuciformis in tolerable abundance ; M. stellatarum and M.
bombyliformis (one specimen only). Other captures were, Dasychira piidi-
bunda, Tanagra chcerophyllata, Bapta tamlnata, Anaitis plagiata, &c. By
beating, the following larvae were obtained : — Thecla quercus, T, betulce,
Pcecilocampa populi, Trlchiura cratmgi, Eriogaster lanestris, Miselia
oxyacanthm, Asteroscopus cassinea, Hypsipetes elutata, in countless num-
bers, &c. Accompanied by a cousin, Mr. R. E. James, a second visit was
made in the middle of July, from the 12th to the 19th of the month ;
Argynnis paphia and Limenitis sybilla were out in large numbers and in
beautiful condition, and among the latter my cousin was fortunate enough
to capture a fine specimen of the black variety. The females of A. paphia
were not well out, and we only took three specimens of the variety valesina,
A. adlppe and A. aglaia were fairly plentiful; A. selene and Lycmna agon
were common on the heaths ; and among the swarms of Epinephele ianira
we took several " bleached " varieties. A few Nemeophila russula from
heath. The only Noctuae taken were Pluna iota, Aplecta nebulosa,
Agrotis porphyrea, Leucania lithargyria ; treacling being a total failure.
Among the Geometrse were captured, Ellopia fasciaria, Boarmia roboraria,
Pseudoterpna cytisaria, Phorodesma bajularla, and Boarmia repandata var.
conversaria. The following larvae were also obtained : — Hadena proteuSf
Cidaria miata, Saturnia carpini, and Macroglossa fuciformis ; five speci-
mens only of the latter, and all unfortunately proved to be ichneumoned.
Among Coleoptera, Cicindela campestris and Lucanus cervus were very
abundant; and a specimen of Calosoma sycophanta was captured. —
William J. Ogden; 93, Clapton Common, N.E.
The Cheshire Plague of Caterpillars. — If Mr. Newstead will do
me the favour to again read my remarks (Entom. xxiii. ^93), he will find
that my expression, *' extraordinary appearance of caterpillars," is synony-
mous with what it clearly refers to, viz., " plague of caterpillars." He
writes (Entom. 19), " I do not wish to convey to the reader the idea that we
NOTES, CAPTUEES, ETC. 43
had a plague of caterpillars, in the true sense of the word." Clearly, then,
for anyone to say we had such a plague would be to say what was untrue,
which is exactly my case, — " Quod erat demonstrandum ! " Some readers
will have probably noticed two points in this controversy. First, the
editor's note on "A Plague of Caterpillars," with invitation to corre-
spondents, appeared in the August number of the 'Entomologist.'
Although devoted to the study of Economic Entomology, more than three
months elapse before Mr. Newstead says anything on the subject ; and
then, when he does write, on November 20th, it is to nullify evidence care-
fully collected, and perfectly consistent with the character of the past season.
Secondly, he gives no localities. It is, therefore, impossible to test the scope
or accuracy of a single case that he quotes. — J. Arkle ; 2, George Street,
Chester. [We feel sure that each correspondent, who has kindly commu-
nicated with us upon this subject, has simply stated such facts as
were either within his own knowledge or obtained from trustworthy
sources. — Ed.]
The Illuminated Moth-trap. — The following is a completed list of
Lepidoptera taken in illuminated moth-traps at Watergate, in the years
1887 to 1890, inclusive. Only in the present year have the traps been used
after the end of July : — Sphinx Uyustri, Nola confusalis [cristulalis),
N. mundana, Lithosia mesomelia, Euchelia jacoh(B(B„ Arctia caia, Spilosoma
lubricipeda, S. menthastri, Hepialus lupulinus, H. velleda and var. carnuSf
H. hectus, Psilura monacha, Dasychira pudibiinda, Pcecilocampa populi,
Drepanafalcataria (falcula), Cilix glaucata [spinula), Lophopteryx camelinaf
Notodonta trepida, Phalera bucephala, Cymatophora duplaris, Demas coryli,
Acronycta ligustri, Leucania conigera, L. lithargyria, L. impura, L.pallens,
Hydrcecia nictitans, Xylophasia monoglyplia (polyodon), Neuronia popularise
Cerigo matura{cytherea), Luperina testacea, Mamestra persicarice, M. didyma
(oculea), Caradrina taraxaci [hlanda), Rusina tenebrosa, Agrotis segetum,
A. corticea, A. cinerea, Noctua triangulum, N. stigmatica [rhomboidea),
N. /estiva, Amphipyra tragopogonis, Tcsniocampa gotliica, Cosmia trape-
zina, Dianthoscia nana {conspersa), D. cucubali, D. carpophaga, Cleoceris
viminalis, Aplecta advena, Hadena adusta^ H. dentina, Asteroscopus
sphinx (cassinea), Flusia chrysitis, P. v-aureum, P. gammas P. moneta,
Toxocampa pastinum. Geometrse : — Epione advena, Rumia luteolata
[cratcegata), Metrocampa margaritaria, Eurymene dolobraria, Pericallia
syringaria, Selenia bilunaria [illunaria), 8. tetralunaria (illustraria), Odon-
toptera bidentata, Crocallis elinguaria, Eugonia quercinaria {angularia\
PJimera pennaria, Hemerophila abruptaria, Cleora lichenaria, Boarmia
repandata, B. abietaria, B. roboraria, Tephrosia crepuscularia or biundu-
laria (perhaps both), T. luridata [extersaria), T. punctularla, Geometra
papilionaria, O. vernaria, lodis lactearia, Zonosoma porata, Z. linearia
[trilinearia), Z. annulata [omicronaria], Asthena sylvata, Acidalia dimidiata
[scutulata), A. bisetata, A. marginepunctata [promutata), A. remutariaf
A. imitaria, A. aversata, Timandra amataria, Cabera pusaria, C. exanthe-
maria, Aleucis pictaria, Strenia clathrata, Panagra petraria, Numeria
pulveraria, Abraxas grossulariata, Ligdia adustata, Lomaspilis marginata,
Hybernia aurantiaria, H. defoUaria, Cheimatobia brumata, Larentia didy-
mata, L. viridaria [pecthiitaria), Eupithecia oblongata [centaureata),
E. plumbeolata, E. nanata, E. vulgata, Hypsipetes sordidata {elutata),
Melanthia ocellata, M. albicillata, Melanippe unangulata, M. rivata?,
M. sociata [subtristata), M. montanata, M. Jiuctuata, Anticlea badiata,
ii THfi Ei^ToMotoaisf.
A. nigrofasciaria (derivata)^ A. ferrugata, Phibalapteryx tersata, P. vital-
bata, Cidaria corylata, C. truncata {russata), C. immanata /, C. fulvata,
C. dotata (pyraliata), C. associata {dotata), Eubolia limitata (mensuraria),
E. plumbaria (palumbaria), E. bipunctaria. — About 130 species. The
season of 1890 has not been a good one for light. There have been very
few favourable nights, and it has only been by the use of two traps, and
their being almost constantly at work, that I have obtained so many
species by nieans of the attraction of light. As it may be of interest, I
append particulars, meteorological and otherwise, of three of the best
nights this year. May 20th. — Warm, several violent squalls, with drench-
ing rain, during the night: — E. dolabraria, 1 ; M. montanata, 1 ; A. remu-
tata, 2 ; T. crepuscularia, 4 ; E. lariciata ; N. trepida, 2 ; L. camelina, 1 ;
D. pudibunda, (3 ; D. coryli, 1 ; E. vulgata, 1. June 7th. — Minimum
during night 40°, windy ; the trap was placed in a narrow wood-ride, to be
protected from the wind : — H. velleda, 1 ; L. camelina, 1 ; S. lubricipeda,
several ; S. menthastri, several ; R. tenebrosay 1 ; H. adiista, 1 ; C. biden-
tota, 2 ; N. pidveraria, I ; L. vindaria [pectinitaria), 3 or 4 ; E. lariciata, 1 ;
E. vulgata; E. plumbeolata ; M. montanata^ abundantly ; M. fluctuata, 2 ;
C. truncata {russata), 1. July 2nd. — Warm; at 11.30 p.m. the
thermometer stood at 57°; W.N.W. wind; moon full, but well obscured
by clouds : — S. lubricipeda and S. menthastri, as usual ; jR. tenebrosa, 1 ;
N. /estiva, 1 ; F. moneta, 1 ; M. margaritariay 5 ; G. papilionaria, 1 ;
C. exanthemaria, 1 ; P. tersata, 2 ; T .amataria, 1 ; A. imitariaf 1. —
W. M. Christy ; Watergate, Emsworth.
FfiAUDUiiENT Colour-varieties. — I think that it is incumbent on me
to utter a note of warning on this subject to collectors. We all know that
occasionally " varieties " are manufactured and passed off upon the unwary
as being genuine examples ; and some time since an imposture of this sort
was detected, and described in the * Entomologist.' In that case, however,
as also, I believe, in many others, the fraud was perpetrated by means of
painting, and was, therefore, pretty easy of detection. Now, however, anyone
who cares to take a hint from my experiments may manufacture the most
excellent varieties, and without fear of detection. I would undertake to
produce, myself, yellow varieties of normally red species, milk-white speci-
mens of P. phlaas, '• sea-bleached " varieties of the heath butterflies, and
so on, that would, I think, defy detection as artificial, and would very safely
be pas&ed off as genuine varieties. Since, then, I feel that I have thus
opened a door to the unscrupulous, it is only right that I should fairly warn
the readers of the 'Entomologist' against the chances of such deception.
I would strongly recommend collectors, therefore, to buy no varieties
similar to those artificial ones that I have described in the tables on pages
248 — 251, &c., of the last volume, and neither even to accept them in
exchange, unless from correspondents whose good faith is already known to
them. If, after this warning, any enthusiastic variety -hunter is cheated by
imitators of my experiments, I shall feel that I have washed my hands of
responsibihty. — F. H. Perry Coste; Ravenshoe, Burnt Ash, Hill, S.E.,
January 9, 1891.
The Distinguishing Marks between TiENiocAMPA opima, T. popu-
LETi, and VARIETIES OF T. INCERTA. — Will any readers of the ' Entomologist '
kindly inform me of the definite difference in the markings of the above
iusecls? I have read Newman and Staiiiton closely on all three insects;
SOClEttfiS. iS
but I have caught insects which, I have been told by good entomologists,
are varieties of T. incerta {instabilis), but which I have thought have been
either T. opima or T. populeti. As the sallow season is coming on, if this
weather ever changes, I should be obliged for any information on the
subject through the ' Entomologist.' — Throwley; Lees Court, Faversham.
Gynandromorphic specimen of Trichiura crat^gi. — This specimen
(bred in August last) only differs from the one previously recorded (Entom.
xxiii. 345) in having both pairs of wings perfectly developed. The line of
division down the thorax and abdomen, between the pale grey of the male
on the right hand, and the brownish grey of the female on the left, is very
sharply defined. — R. M. Prideaux ; 9, Vyvyan Terrace, Clifton, Bristol.
Aberration of Dianth(Ecia nana. — In August, 1889, I took, at
Mullion in Cornwall, many DiatUhcecia larvae in the capsules of Silene
injiata, and its var. rnaritima. In June and July, 1890, five perfect
Z). nana came out, in four of which the cream-white markings are entirely
replaced by the buff; both the buff and smoky markings have an olive-
green tinge, which was very noticeable on emergence. In the fifth, the
change of colour is only partial. In all, the markings are otherwise
typical. — W. S. Riding; Buckerell Lodge, Honiton.
Carabus nitens at Wimbornw and Ringwood.— I have taken two of
these beetles, both in the spring; one at Wimborne, near a pond; the
other upon my lawn, whilst cutting the grass. — J. H. Fowlbr ; Ringwood.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — January 2lsi, 1891. — The
Fifty-eighth Annual Meeting; the Right Hon. Lord Walsingham, M.A.,
F.R.S., President, in the chair. An abstract of the Treasurer's accounts
was read by Mr. Herbert Druce, one of the Auditors, and the Report of
the Council was read by Mr. H. Goss. It appeared therefrom that the
Society had lost during the year five Fellows by death and had elected
twenty-seven new Fellows ; that the volume of Transactions for the year
extended to nearly 700 pages, and comprised twenty memoirs, contributed
by seventeen authors and illustrated by twenty-one plates. It was then
announced that the following gentlemen had been elected as OfiScers and
Council for 1891 : — President, Mr. Frederick DuCane Godman, M.A.,
F.R.S. ; Treasurer, Mr. Robert M'Lachlan, F.R.S. ; Secretaries, Mr.
Herbert Goss, F.L.S., and the Rev. Canon Fowler, M.A., F.L.S. ;
Librarian, Mr. Ferdinand Grut, F.L.S. ; and as others. Members of the
Council, Prof. R. Meldola, F.R.S., Mr. Edward Saunders, F.L.S., Dr.
David Sharp, F.R.S., Mr. Richard South, Mr. H. T. Stainton, F.R.S.,
Colonel Charles Swinhoe, F.L.S., Mr. George H. Verrall, and the Right
Honble. Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S. It was also announced that the
new President had appointed Lord Walsingham, Prof. Meldola, and
Dr. Sharp, Vice-Presidents for the session 1891 — 1892. Lord Walsing-
ham, the retiring President, then delivered an Address. After alluding to
some of the more important Entomological publications of the past year,
46 TilE ENTOMOLOGIST.
and making special mention of those of Edwards and Scudder in America,
of Romanoff in Eussia, of the Oberthiirs in France, and of Godman and
Salvin in England, the President referred to Mr. Moore's courageous under-
taking in commencing his * Lepidoptera Indica,' on the lines adopted in
his * Lepidoptera of Ceylon.' Attention was then called to the unusual de-
velopment during the past year of the study of those problems which have
been the object of the researches of Darwin, Wallace, Weissmann, Meldola,
Poulton, and others, and to the special and increasing literature of the
subject. In this connection allusion was made to Mr. Tutt's ' Entomo-
logist's Record and Journal of Variation,' to Mr. Poulton 's valuable book
* On the meaning and use of the Colours of Animals,' and to the interest-
ing and important papers and experiments of Mr. F. Merrifield on the
subject of the variation in Lepidoptera caused by differences of tempera-
ture. After alluding to the International Zoological Congress held at Paris
during the past year, and to the rules of nomenclature which had been once
more reviewed and revised, the President concluded by referring to the
losses by death during the year of several Fellows of the Society and other
Entomologists, special mention being made of Mr. E. T. Atkinson, Mr.
J. S. Baly, Mens. I'Abbe de Marseul, Mr. Owen Wilson, Mons. Lucien
Buquet, Mons. Eugene Desmarest, Prof. Heinrich Frey, Dr. R. C. R.
Jordan, Mr. W. S. Dallas, Dr. L. W. Schaufuss, Dr. Hermann Dewitz,
Mons. Louis Reiche, and Herr Peter Maassen. A vote of thanks to the
President for his services during the year and for his address was proposed
by Dr. D. Sharp, F.R.S., seconded by Mr. M'Lachlan, F.R.S., and carried.
Mr. M'Lachlan then proposed a vote of thanks to the other Officers of the
Society, which was seconded by Mr. S. Stevens, and carried. Lord
Walsingham, Mr. Goss, and Mr. Grut replied. — H. Goss, Hon. Secretary.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
— Jan. Sth, 1891. — W. H. Tugwell, Vice-President, in the chair. Messrs.
H. Williams, of Hornsey ; and T. J. Washford, of Dulwich, were elected
members. Mr. R. Adkin exhibited Boarmia repandata^ L., bred from ova
obtained from a moth taken at Westerham. During hybernation the larvae
were divided into two equal lots, one kept on growing privet, the other on grow-
ing birch. Although each lot produced some few individuals varying from
the majority, there was no marked difference between the bulk of the one
lot and the other. Mr. Adkit) also exhibited Retinia huoliana, Schiff., and
R. pinicolana, Dbl., bred from larvae collected in the neighbourhood of
Poole, the New Forest, and Surrey. Those from Poole and the New
Forest emerged between June 26th and July 27th, and were all buo-
liana; those from Surrey emerged between July 12th and August 3rd;
from July 12th to 22nd, all huoliana\ from July 25th to August 3rd, all
pinicolana, with the exception of one huoliana bred on July 27th. Mr.
Tugwell exhibited two series of Miana striyilis, St., and M. fasciunculaf
Haw., and referred to the statement recently made by Mr. Tutt, that these
two species were only forms of one, he having received specimens which
were intermediate between the two from the Rev. W. F. Johnson, of
Armagh. Mr. Tugwell said this statement had considerably surprised him,
and he at some length pointed out what he considered were the differences
between the two. He also referred to the published descriptions of the
larvae respectively made by Newman and Buckley. Mr. Fenn remarked
that he did not think Newman's descriptions of the larvae were very
SOCIETIES. 47
reliable, as that gentleman never adopted any system in describing them.
He thought, also, that larva6 varied so much in their different states, that
the descriptions of solitary larvae were of very little value. Mr. South ex-
pressed an opinion that the two species were undoubtedly distinct, in
which opinion Mr. Barrett concurred, pointing out what he considered
good distinctions between the two, adding that the larvae, which were
internal feeders, were very difficult to obtain and rear, and would no doubt
vary considerably, although he had never himself bred any of the Miance.
Mr. Tutt said that he considered the points of difference alluded to were
only superficial and unsatisfactory ; the remarks made by him as to the
two species being identical were based, not on an isolated specimen of the
form received from Ireland, but on a long series of the form which was cer-
tainly intermediate between strigilis and fascluncula ; he would, however,
at a future meeting, exhibit the specimens referred to. Mr. Tutt, on
behalf of Mr. Reid, of Pitcaple, exhibited long series of Agrotis simulans ;
a fine series of TriphcBna comes, Hb., varying from pale to very dark, some
of the specimens being beautifully banded ; very bright forms of MeUtcBa
aurinia, Rett. ; also dark examples of Melanippe fluctuata, L. ; and some
specimens of Abraxas grossulariata, L. ; this species Mr. Tutt stated had
been introduced by Mr. Reid in the vicinity of Pitcaple with some success,
and had apparently developed sexual dimorphism, the males becoming
darker and females paler every year. Mr. Manger showed a box of
Coleoptera from Australia. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
Lancashire and Cheshire Entomological Society. — January.
— The Annual Meeting of this Society was held in the class-room of
the Free Library, William Brown Street, when the President, Mr. S. J.
Capper, occupied the chair, and delivered an address. He remarked
that, having been frequently asked the question why have a special
society devoted solely to the study of insects, viz., an "entomological
society," in towns where there were biological societies and natural history
societies, which, of course, included this study, it had occurred to him that
an apology for the Society, even though it had now been in existence four-
teen years, might not be altogether inopportune. Before replying, he
expressed his warmest sympathy with all societies and individuals interested
in natural history, and in this feeling he was sure they all reciprocated,
whilst many of them were, in addition to their own, members of other
similar associations. It was, however, the vast field of investigation em-
braced by such associations as those alluded to, that led to the formation of
societies like their own, where the studies were more circumscribed.
However inexplicably, there appeared something peculiar in insect life that
attracted certain minds specially. Most of those thus attracted would
probably be naturalists generally, but they would acknowledge that they had
a special predilection in this direction. This led to the formation of a
special society. It was most fortunate for the advancement of knowledge
that men's minds were so constituted, and that they were enthusiaists in
different directions and became specialists, otherwise the fields of research
were so inexhaustible that little real permanent work would be achieved.
It would be found, in societies with more pretentions, that the men who
made the greatest discoveries and did much practical work were specialists
in some department. Briefly, the necessity for a society like their own
was that the study of insect-life was attractive very specially to certain
persons, drawing them into deep sympathy with each other, and
48 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
establishing a kind of bond of union — he might say a kind of freemasonry —
between them. Accordingly they made the study of insects the object of
their Society. They admitted the comprehensiveness of their pretentions,
and when they meet together it was found that most members had a special
interest in some particular group, and in this became specialists, as, for in-
stance, they had lepidopterists, coleopterists, &c. Fortunately, from an
experience extending over fourteen years, they still claimed very great
enjoyment in associating together, and found, in the discussion of matters
connected with insect life alone, full employment for the hour or two
monthly at their disposal, which in other societies were devoted to more
general natural history. With the exception of a few months in the
summer seasons, they had met regularly once a month. At most of their
meetings original papers or essays on entomology had been read and dis-
cussed. A list of these papers, numbering 13 i, was printed in their last
annual report, and over fifty of these were considered of sufficient import-
ance to merit publication in their periodicals and other literature. Any
surplus income had been devoted to the purchase of books on entomology,
and they were gradually acquiring a valuable library. They had from time
to time made known, and would now through the public press repeat,
their wiUingness to give all the information in their power to agricul-
turists and others who suffered from the attacks of injurious insects,
pointing out the best means of avoiding or remedying the same. In
several instances they had been able to give most valuable assistance. In
the future he proposed that, in addition to a complete insect fauna of their
two counties, they undertook the investigation as far as possible of the life-
history of each individual, ascertaining whether it was beneficial or
injurious, so as to encourage its preservation or extirpation. They should
in this set a noble example to other entomological societies, and let them
hope that the day was not far distant when they should have such associa-
tions in each county. He also proposed that they form typical collections
of all orders of insects, which would be valuable as instruction for their
younger members. One of their hon. members, Mr. James Fletcher, en-
tomologist and botanist of the experimental farms, Canada, had kindly for-
warded for their acceptance reports of their Proceedings, 1887, 1888, and
1889, together with other printed interesting entomological matter. In
these reports were published most elaborate observations on injurious
insects, similar to those of Miss Ormerod and Mr. Whitehead in their own
country, with the best means of remedying injurious attacks. Depend
upon it, the work of societies like their own would be more and more the
study of economic entomology. It had only been within the last decade or
so that the importance of this had been prominent. Now it was recognised
all over the world. With the exception, however, of Miss Ormerod's
excellent work in their own country, the importance of these investiga-
tions were almost confined to America, but were now acknowledged in
Belgium, Germany, France, Russia, Australia, and other countries. Let
them, then, undertake economic entomology, modestly confining their observa-
tions to their own counties ; but, having as it were circumscribed their
work, let them hope it might be the more efficiently performed, and that
their example might be followed by entomologists in other counties or dis-
tricts, until the whole of the country was systematically embraced. The
officers elected for the ye-a.Y were : — Mr. S. J. Capper, President ; the Rev.
B. H. Higgins, Vice-President: find Mr. F. N. Pierce, Hon. Secretary.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] MARCH, 1891. [No. 884.
NOTE ON AGROTIS SUBGOTRICA, Haw.
By J. Jenner Weir, F.L.S., &o.
An insect is figured under the above name in Stephens's
111. Br. Ent., Haust. II., 126, pi. xxii. f. 3 (1829), and again by
Wood, Ind. Ent. 36, pi. ix. f. 149 (1839). Rennie very imper-
fectly describes it in his Cons. Butt, and Moths (1832), and
says that it is ** scarce; Norfolk, near London, and Devon."
Doubleday's Syn. List Brit. Lep. (1850), p. 12, gives the name
under the head of "Reputed British Noctuse. ' Stainton, in his
Man. Br. Butt, and Moths (1857), does not mention the name;
nor does Newman advert to it in his 111. Nat. Hist. Brit. Moths
(1869), except as a variety of A. tritici. Lastly, the name does
not appear in South's Syn. List Br. Lep. (1884).
So completely has the name of the insect been lost sight of
that, during my intercourse with British entomologists for more
than half a century, I cannot recollect that I ever heard it
mentioned as having been taken in England.
Haworth's name of the species seems to have migrated to
America, but whether the common species, known under that
name there, is that figured by Stephens is doubtful. I find that my
excellent friend Prof. Riley, in his * First Annual Report on the
Noxious, Beneficial, and other Insects of the State of Missouri'
(1869), p. 82, gives a figure of the moth (fig. 29, a, 6), and appends
Haworth's description, and states that Dr. Fitch concludes that
it is an American insect, the eggs or larvse of which have been
accidentally carried to England. Since this decision Haworth's
name has been generally applied to the American species, which
is said to be synonymous with Walker's Feltia ducenSy Lep. Het.
ix. p. 203, n. 1 (1856).
Prof. Riley, in the same Report adverted to above, pp. 82, 83,
gives an account of another Agrotis as the A. jacuUferay of which
ENTOM.— MARCH, 1891. F
50 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
he writes that it resembles the preceding species almost in every
particular, pointing out certain differences ; this latter species is
figured in pi. i. fig. 11, he states, and it appears by the plate to
be a smaller moth than A. suhgothica,
Mr. Butler, in ' Transactions of the Entomological Society of
London' (1889), p. 377, gives both species in his "Synonymic
notes on the moths of the earlier genera of Noctuites" thus: —
Agrotis suhgothica^ Haw. (Feltia ducenSj Walk.), and Agrotis
jaculifera, Guen. ; stating the latter to be the A, tricosa of
Lintner, and the A. herilis, Grt. to be a very slight variety of it,
but that as its specific identity is unproved he has retained it as
a distinct species in the collection. So far all seems very clear,
at least to the extent that it is possible to judge from figures and
descriptions of so difiicult a group as Agrotis and its allies.
Through the liberality of the Smithsonian Institution, I have
of late become possessed of the ' Bulletin of the United States
National Museum,' No. 38 (1890), in which there is a most
elaborate and truly valuable paper entitled, *' A Contribution
toward a Monograph of the Insects of the Lepidopterous family
Noctuidae of Temperate North America : Revision of the Genus
Agrotis" by John B. Smith. In this work I find the insect,
identified by Riley as A. suhgothica^ given as Feltia jaculif era, Gn.,
and the Agrotis jaculif era of Riley, in the Report quoted above,
is given as Feltia suhgothica; in other words, the names are
reversed, and Feltia herilis^ Grt., is treated of as a distinct
species.
Mr. Tutt, in the 'Entomologist's Record,' p. 10, writes thus : —
" As is well known to British lepidopterists, suhgothica, Haw., is
not a distinct species at all, but simply a synonym of A. triticif
Linn., or at most a variety of that species."
I am puzzled : to what insect was the name of Agrotis suh-
gothica given by Haworth and figured by Stephens ?
In the 'Bulletin' mentioned I find the following British
species are also North American, viz. : — Agrotis ypsilon, Rott.
{suffusa, S.V.) ; Peridroma occulta, Linn. ; P, saucia, Hiib. ; Noctua
haja, Fab. ; N, c-nigrum, Linn. ; N.plecta, Linn. ; and, of course,
N.fennica, sometimes claimed as a British " casual or accidental
visitor."
I have omitted to mention that Staudinger, in his * Catalog
der Lepidopteren des Europseischen Faunengebiets,' does not
include the name of Agrotis suhgothica,
Beckenham, Kent.
( M )
LIFE-HISTORY OF PACHNOBIA LEUCOGRAPHA.
By J. Arkle.
I AM indebted to Dr. Chapman, of Hereford, for an acquaint-
ance with the life -history of this rare, local, and interesting moth
— so rare that it frequently figures amongst " the few unrepresented
species " in the cabinets of the older entomologists. During the
last two seasons, early in the month of April, I received eggs
from Hereford, which is one of the few localities for the insect.
What I considered to be a careful description of the egg got lost ;
but Dr. Chapman again comes to my aid, and, in kindly helping
out these observations with his own remarks upon the egg, con-
verts my loss into a material gain.
*' The diameter," he observes, *' is '78 mm. ; height '69 mm. ;
not quite spherical, but rather flattened below and narrowing
upwards ; about 44 ribs, terminating upwards in a raised waved
margin round micropylean area : ribs sharp, fluted by indications
of cross ridges, which are obsolete. Colour orange-yellow, with
brownish red markings crowded together into an apical blotch,
and a marginal zone, with an intermediate subapical zone nearly
free (a common pattern in Noctua eggs). The top patch of brown
is very large, and the zone below more regular than in egg of
P. ruhricosa (which has 40 ribs). Newly laid : — colour pale
greenish or greenish-yellow."
The eggs I kept in a glass tumbler, with the usual gauze covering,
elastic band, and square of glass over the top. They hatched
about the 7th of May. Upon the larvae, fed throughout on
duckweed, I made the following notes, which correspond to the
different moults or changes of skin. The caterpillar is not of
active habits. It is apparently averse to much climbing or
travelling, and is very easily reared.
1st. — After hatching: — head light brown; 2nd, 3rd, and
4th segments dark green ; remaining segments very pale green.
In moving, the caterpillars *' loop '' like Geometers ; if disturbed
they immediately assume a Sphinx-like attitude, sitting up in the
form of the letter S, and looking very much — in colour, shape,
&c. — like a bit of chickweed stem. At the slightest touch they
fall to the ground.
2nd. — Head pale green, suffused with brown. Body uniformly
green, but paler underneath. Characteristics as in 1st stage.
The larvae were now changed into large flower-pots, three parts
filled with light soil. A covering of net was substituted for the
gauze, and retained, with a glass covering, until the emergence of
the perfect insect.
3rd. — Head inclining to russet-colour. Dorsal area olive-
green ; under surface pale apple-green. Each segment on the
f2
62 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
back is divided by a silvery- white thread-like line. There is a
thin medic-dorsal silvery-white line, and a similar line (subdorsal)
along each side. Below each subdorsal line is a stripe of the
same colour. The Geometer method of progression is now
changed for that of the Noctua.
4th. — Head light pea-green. Dorsal area pea-green and
mottled with white. Each segment is divided by a well-defined
yellowish line. Under surface pea-green, but a shade darker
than the dorsal area ; legs and claspers same shade as the under
surface. On the back of each segment are two oblique pea-green
marks, which, in the next stage, meet like the arms of the
letter V» In this stage, however, they are not joined, but show
a disposition to converge on each anal division. There is an
interrupted medio-dorsal white stripe. On each side is a well-
defined silvery- white line, immediately bordering on which, above,
is a line of dark green.
Last stage. — The caterpillar is uniformly apple-green, viz.y a
shade darker than pea-green ; all the segments above and below
being beautifully mottled with deep yellow. The segments —
especially the 5th, 6th, 7th, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th — are well
divided by a line of this broom-yellow colour. Head yellowish-
green. Legs, claspers, and under surface the same mottled green
as above. The green oblique marks referred to in the preceding
stage meet on the centre of the anal division of each segment in
a V) each arm of the V being slightly curved outwards, and then
inwards, before meeting. An interrupted, white, medio-dorsal
line runs along the back of each segment, beginning with the
2nd and intersecting the angles of the V-shaped marks. The
caterpillar is further ornamented by a supra-spiracular dark green
line along each side, bordered below by a silvery-white line,
especially distinct on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th segments. In
the last stages there are two or three short, dark, and scattered
hairs emitted from the dorsal area of each segment.
Pupation begins about the 20th of June. My notes show
that all my larvae had disappeared in the soil by the second week
in July. The moths appeared early in the following March : my
diary for 1890 gives the time between the 6th and 22nd. In the
Chester district, owing to the cold weather last spring, I did not
find the sallows in bloom before the 15th, and even then only in
sheltered places. Some allowance must therefore be made for
the early emergence of the bred insect, as " it appears with the
sallows, three or four days after they come out ; the same tem-
perature produces both " (Dr. Chapman).
It will be seen that P. leucographa remains in the pupal state
about eight months. To keep pupae for that length of time in a
healthy condition is not a very easy matter, and it occurred to me
that as close an imitation as possible of natural conditions would
be most likely to lead to success, I placed the pots on a brick
OiiEMISTRV OF INSECT COLottRg. 53
floor, out of doors, against the north aspect of a wall, and had
the satisfaction of seeing evidence — in the germination of chick-
weed seeds, &c. — of a continued natural moisture so necessary
under the circumstances. In February and March the glasses
were occasionally taken oflf, the pots treated to a gentle shower
of rain, exposed in the sunshine, and so on.
I can add little to Newman's graphic description of the
moth. The fore wings are deep brickdust-red, — in fact,
mahogany colour, — sparingly dusted with grey scales. The or-
bicular and reniform are clearly marked out in whitish grej^,
the orbicular being filled in with a darker shade of gre3^ The
reniform is transversely lengthened, and is composed of two
lobes clearly defined in whitish-grey, the upper lobe being filled
in with the same darker grey as the orbicular, the lower one with
dark brown, almost black. This lower lobe is almost concolorous
with a dark transverse shade of the wing-colour, which, beginning
on the costal margin, surrounds the discoidal spots, and widens
out so as to include nearly the whole of the inner margin. There
is a marginal dark brown band of the same shade as that in the
lower reniform lobe ; and two very indistinct lines of spots,
darker than the ground colour, cross the wing, the first before
the orbicular, the second beyond the reniform. The hind wings
are light grey, a shade darker than those of T ceniocamjpa miniosa ;
in Newman's figures they appear almost identical. A smoky shade
increases towards the outer margin, and terminates in a delicately
marked mahogany-coloured line. The wing-rays are dark and
smoke-coloured. These hind wings show a rosy, iridescent tint.
All the wings have a glossy appearance, and the ample fringes
are beautifully tinted with rose-colour.
The antennae of the female are simple ; those of the male are
very slightly pectinated. "The palpi are short" (Newman).
The thorax is densely clothed, and of the same colour as the fore
wings. The body is of the same grey as the orbicular interior,
and slightly tufted anally and on the sides with the rosy colour
of the wing-fringes.
Chester, January 3, 1891.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S., F.L.S.
(Continued from p. 15.)
V. — The Chemical Aspect. F. {concluded).
Specimens of A» caia, E, jacohcece and C, nupta, were then
subjected to strong HCl for one hour. They were instantly
yellowed, of course. Washing restored a faint reddish tinge,
which quickly disappeared. Finding them after one to two hours
5i TUk EJ^TOMoliOGlgt.
Still acid to the tongue, I again washed, and with this result :
jacohcBce became red ; nupta flesh colour ; caia remaining still
nearly yellow. But on examining them after three days, they
were all of the natural red : after another four days they
were still the same, and finally, at the end of another week,
the red was still permanent. Here the observations were
stopped.
Wings of S. ocellatus and P. apollo (which had already been
once yellowed by HCl and had afterwards recovered their full na-
tural colour) were treated just as the foregoing three species. The
first washing restored the full red to apollo, and the pink some-
what to ocellatus (entirely removing the yellow anyhow). A
week later apollo was found still of its full natural colour,
ocellatus being a very faded slightly pink tint (the colouring
matter probably having been nearly all removed by this time).
The lapse of another week produced no difference, the restored
natural colours being permanent.
Now these experiments had already clearly proved several
points : firstly, that the reversion was not due to treatment with
alcohol ; and secondly, that the whole secret lay in removing the
acid — in which fact alone there evidently lay the virtue of washing
the wings ; so that the yellow was permanent only so long as the
wing was actually acid. Here was an entirely novel and unlooked-
for phenomenon, — something quite different from any former
experience with other insect colours; and I would draw the
reader's special attention to this peculiarity, to which I must
revert when seeking to explain these results. Thirdly, it is
clearly proved, so far, that the yellow produced by nitric acid is
permanent and immovable. The question then arose : Which is
typical of acid behaviour generally, HCl or HNOa ? This could
only be settled by further experiment. Fourthly, it was at
present somewhat uncertain how far washing could be altogether
dispensed with, and the same result obtained as a mere time
effect
Wings of Z. filipendulce were treated with dilute sulphuric
acid (about 45 per cent.) for (A.) one hour and (B.) two hours.
A., on being washed, was restored to a very faded red, which was
still permanent after seven days. B. was also restored in the
same way ; examined two hours or so later it was found fairly
yellow, and acid to the tongue ; further washing restored it to the
full red, which was still permanent in seven days' time. A wing
of S, ocellatus was treated as A., and washing restored a little pink
(?), which was unaltered seven days later.
These fresh results clearly pointed to the necessity for
further investigation, and I therefore determined on an extensive
set of experiments, in order to thoroughly clear up this question.
Wings of the following six species were selected, viz., F. atalanta,
Z. filipendul<B, E» jacobace, Deiopeia hella, C. hera, and C. nupta,
CHEMISIRY OF INSECT COLOURS.
55
— and treated with some or all of the following acids :* Hydro-
chloric (HCl) ; Nitric (HNO3) ; Sulphuric (H2SO4) ; Phosphoric
(H3P04)Hydrofluosilicic (H2S1F6); and Oxalic (C2H2O4).
Each experiment was made in duplicate, in order to ascertain
(A.), the effect of simple washing; (B), the time effect, if any. I
must explain, however, that finding the process of washing
exceedingly tedious, owing to the large quantity of water
required in order to remove every trace of the acid, I had
modified the process to this extent, that, after a slight wash, I
added a drop of ammonia to neutralise the residual acid, and
again gave a sliglit wash ; this constituted in every way a great
improvement in the method.
The following experiments then were made (in duplicate) : —
C2H2O4
C2H2O4
C2H2O4
We will take first the A. batch. These were started on
June 8th, treated with acid for one hour, and then washed and
neutralised and again washed, as above described. The follow-
ing are the results : —
F. atalanta. Not the least reversion in any case,
Z, filipendulce. \
E, jacobcBcB,
C, liera.
(7. nupta.
These reverted specimens were allowed to stand until July
25th, when the red was found still permanent in all of them (as
V. atalanta
HCl
HNO3
H2SO4
H2SiF6
H3PO4
Z. filipendulce
—
—
H2SO4
HaSiFe
E. Jacob cece
HCl
HNO3
—
HaSiFe
—
D. bella
HCl
—
—
H2S1F6
—
C. her a
HCl
HNO3
H2SO4
HaSiFs
—
C, nupta
HCl
HNO3
H2SO4
—
—
In each species the HNO3 specimen 7'e-
mained perfectly yelloio. All the others
reverted to red.
also in Deiopeia bella HCl and H2SiF6). Here, therefore, this
part of the experiment terminated.
The following notes were made on the behaviour of these red
wings : —
In C, nupta the reversion was the least thorough.
In hera and jacobcece, treated with HCl, the red when re-
stored was not the exact natural red, but rather more cerise (or
in hera mauve -cerise) ; and in the case of hera this cerise tint was
permanent.
All these reds dissolved a little \ (wwpia least so), hut not in
HNO3 more than in, e.g,, HCl.
The behaviour of atalanta red is altogether abnormal, and en-
tirely different from that of all the others : in which circumstance
we have another proof that its constitution is different from that
* For strength of these see pp. 184, 185, of vol. xxiii.
f See Entom. xxiii. p. 372.
W THE ENTOMOtOGist.
of other reds. Its red dissolved in the acids (except apparently
in H2SiF6) just as, e.g.y urticcB chestnut does; and in conse-
quence of this it was, of course, entirely impossible to restore the
red by washing and neutralising. The further consideration of
this exceptional and interesting species I am purposely deferring
until after we have considered the nature of the chestnut pig-
ment, from which, and not from yellow, the atalanta red is, I
think, certainly derived.
We will now return to the B. batch. These (the duplicates
of A.) were started on June 1st. (except the Deiopeia wings,
which were started a week later). After one hour's exposure,
the acid was simply poured off, as completely as possible, — the
wings not being washed or neutralised at all, — and the watch-
glasses (to which the wings were gummed) were then inverted
and left standing on gauze-covered box-lids; the object of this
treatment was to ensure that, in the first place, the residual acid
(which of course cannot be poured off) should have an oppor-
tunity of running off the wing instead of accumulating on it, as
would be the case if the wing were left in the lowest position
(i.e., in the centre of a concave watch-glass) ; and, in the second
place, to ensure the access of plenty of air, and, in fact, secure
ventilation ; for it appeared to be possible that air might sloivly
produce the same effect as washing does quickly.*
These wings were left alone for many weeks, or in some
cases months, and the following are the entries made at intervals
in my note-book, as to the progress of the experiments : —
June 8th (one week). None of these wings show the least
reversion to red as yet.
June 22nd (3 weeks, except for D. bella, 8 weeks). The
following show no signs of reversion to red : —
F. atalanta. HCl, HNOs, H2SO4, HaSiFg (= all).
G, hera. HCl, HNO3, H2SO4, HgSiFe, C2H2O4 (= all).
C. nupta. HCl, HNO3, H2SO4, C2H2O4 (= all).
Also E, jacob(Bce, HNOs.
Z.filipendulce. H2SO4.
The following have somewhat reverted to red : —
Deiopeia bella HCl (after 2 weeks, that is).
E,jacob(S(e. HCl (and H2SiF6 : this had been originally the
least completely yellowed).
The following have entirely reverted to red : —
Z.filipendulce. HCl,t H2SiF6 (emphatically so).
August 3rd (9 weeks). The above-noted reversions are per-
manent {viz. Jllipendul<Sy HClf and H2SiF6).
* This is what I mean by the " time effect,"— not the most happily chosen
term, I admit.
t This is the entry in my note-book : but it must be a lapsus penna intended
almost certainly for H2SO4.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOtTRS.
6*
The partial reversions of Deiopeia HCl, and E. jacoh(B(B,
HCl, have now become complete reversions to the natural red.
The partial reversion of jacohcece H2SiF6 is still only in the
intermediate condition.
And in addition the following reversions have also occurred: —
Deiopeia bella. H2SiF6, pretty fairly red (pink).
C. nupta. HCl, almost fleshish.
C. hera HCl, a red (i. e., not quite the natural red ; cp. supra).
Here, owing to the pressure of other work, my observations
were discontinued, and the experiments were left to themselves
for several months. The following observations were made on
November 5th : —
Z,Jilipendul(B. H2SO4, red.
E.jacobcEce. HaSiFe, reversion to red never completed.
D. bella. HgSiFe, red (pink).
C, hera, HCl, deep red; HaSiFe and C2H2O4, fairly red.
HaS04, red not recovered ; but the wing not so much yellow as
transparent.
C, nupta. HCl and C2H2O4, a tolerable red. H2SO4, reddish
orange.
Finally, a last observation on Nov. 30th showed —
(7. nupta, HCl, H2SO4, C2H2O4 : all fairly red, or at least
deep flesh.
C. hera. C2H2O4 and H2SiF6, also red.
As to the remaining experiments, I should say that two (of
which it may be noticed that no record is given above), viz., Z,
Jilipendulce, H^POi and C2H2O4, came to an early and untimely
end ; whilst the atalanta experiments, in which it was perfectly
clear that no reversion ever could take place, were abandoned after
a few weeks' standing. Were it not entirely superfluous and
unnecessary as evidence for what I had already abundantly proved,
there would be considerable interest and importance attaching to
the fact that two of the nitric-acid specimens, viz., hera and
nupta^ which had been allowed to remain for over five months,
were still as yelloio as a lemony although not the least acid could
be detected in them by that most sensitive test of — the tongue.*
I may add that, complete as the evidence for reversion now
seems to be, fresh data are accumulating ; for now, in experi-
menting on the various red species that have been sent to me,
I make a rule of ascertaining afterwards the reversion behaviour.
It is, however, — at least for the present purpose, — hardly necessary
to add anything to what is stated above.f
* It is not uninteresting that in— at least some — cases where the red colour is
restored, it could be seen that the other side of the wing, viz., that gummed to the
glass, remained still yellow.
t I was anxious to know whether or not it would be possible to restore the red
of Delias. I therefore touched it with a drop of acid, and then instantly washed
copiously with water : the result was a return of a faded washed-out red. Con-
sidering the rapid and easy solubility of the pigment here, this was certainly as
much as could be expected.
58 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
It now only remains to sum up the facts arrived at above, and
then to endeavour a satisfactory explanation of them. First of
all, the facts are these ; — Putting aside altogether for the present
the anomalous case of Vanessa atalanta, all reds are instantly or
rapidly changed to yellow by any tolerably strong acid. If the
acid used be nitric acid, the yellow so produced is permanent, and
by no possible means can the original red be restored. In the
case of every other acid, however (even in several instances after
a week's exposure to the acid), the red may be restored by copious
washing with WMter ; or, better still, by neutralisation with am-
monia and a slight washing. The same effect may be brought
about by a longer or shorter exposure (to the air), without any
washing or neutralisation at all. The resuscitated reds are
usually of the natural tint, but in one or two cases may be somewhat
different ; and this difference is sometimes permanent {Callimorpha
hera, e.g.). These resuscitated reds maybe again yellowed by
acids, the red again restored, and, in fact, this process repeated
several times. With the exception of HNO3 specimens, the
yellow colour produced is entirely dependent upon the presence of
acid; and the efficacy of neutralisation, washing, or air-drying,
consists simply in the rapid or slow removal of such acid ; as
soon as the acid is gone, the red is recovered.
Now for the explanation : — I will not trouble the reader with any
prefatory generalities, but will state at once the explanation
which I have provisionally adopted until either it be disproved or
abetter found. Let us denote the molecule of red pigment by X:
when any acid (except nitric) is added, I assume that this forms
with X a so-called molecular compound : for instance, if we add
hydrochloric acid we obtain a hydrochloride of X* — X.HC1„. Such
molecular compounds are very common both in organic and
inorganic chemistry, and are of various degrees of stability or
instability. The most interesting examples, however (as bearing
on our present purpose), are perhaps the various salts of the
alkaloids, — as, for instance, quinine (hydro) sulphate and morphine
hydrochloride ; but still more emphatically interesting is the tri-
hydrochloride of rosaniline, as will appear directly.
Now, since we do not know anything of the ultimate nature of
anything, we of course cannot explain why the molecule should
be red, and the X.HCl, &c., yellow ; but we do find that this
is so, and our ignorance equally disqualifies us for being in the
least surprised that such should be the case.
Next for the resuscitation of red : — We must suppose (as I
* Note carefully, not a chloride (XClj which would be produced by double
decomposition (as, for instance, XY + HC1=: XCl + HY), and would be, of course,
far more stable. Eeal molecular compounds are necessarily comparatively un-
stable : one of the most familiar instances is that of water of crystallisation in a
salt : the union of the salt and the water molecules is of the nature of a molecular
compound.
CHEMISTRY 01^ INSECT COLOUttS. 69
have already said) —what is certainly to all appearance very clear
— that these compounds of X and an acid are highly unstable.
Now it is one of the most familiar facts in chemistry that unstable
compounds may be decomposed or resolved into their generators
by (an excess of) water. This applies not only to molecular
compounds, but even to true salts also. One or two instances
may serve to render this clear to the non-chemical reader :
for example, arsenious acid and hydrochloric acid form arsenioiis
chloride, but this is subsequently decomposed again by water ;
and a precipitate of phosphate of alumina may be decomposed,
by excessive washing with water, into free phosphoric acid and
aluminic hydrate. But out and away the most interesting example
for our purpose is that of the tri-hydrochloride of rosaniline above
mentioned : this is a brown dye (the mono-hydrochloride is
magenta)y and very unstable, being at once decomposed by ivater.
After this, further justification for my explanation of the red-
yellow phenomenon seems superfluous ; but there remains to be
explained the gradual restoration of red by air-drying. As to
this, we can only suppose that the highly unstable molecules of
X.HC1„, &c., are also gradually decomposed by some such process
as that of oxidation. I may perhaps, at some future time, be
able to throw further light upon this interesting subject.
We have, in conclusion, but to dispose of the HNO3 pheno-
menon. It may be thought, perhaps, that this exceptional
phenomenon is a grave difficulty in the way of my explanation ;
but that were entirely an error. Nitric acid is an acid per se ;
and it is not in the least surprising that a reagent notoriously so
powerful and destructive should have a far more potent and per-
manent effect than other acids. There can be very little doubt
that nitric acid does not form a hydro-nitrate comparable with
the compounds previously referred^to, but exercises an action of
an oxidative nature, resulting in a permanent alteration of the
structure of the X molecule —forming a stable oxidation product.*
This being so, it is obviously out of the question to expect any
decomposition from treatment with water, even though we had
Niagara at our command.!
* Glycerine, under certain circumstances, will react with nitric acid to form
glycerine nitrate (" nitro-glycerin " — dynamite) ; but under other conditions it is
completely oxidised up to glyceric acid, &c.
t The explanation proposed as to the mode of action of the other acids on the
red pigment might be stated in somewhat different terms, although leading
practically to the same result. Suppose we start with the original yellow pigment :
call that Y. Suppose the red pigment to be developed by the union of Y with
another molecule of ( — ?) =r Z : then the red pigment will be represented by Y Z.
Suppose the action of an acid — say hydrochloric — be to decompose this, thus : —
YZ + HCl=r.Y+ Z.HCl.
Thus we get the original yellow pigment Y in evidence again. The action of water
would be to decompose Z.HCl again, so liberating the molecule Z to re-combine
with Y, thus re-forming the pigment Y Z. Since the ec^uation by which we
60 THE ENTOMOLOGiS*.
And here I think we may conclude this very lengthy sub-
section, and for the present take leave of the two most interesting
and instructive colours that it has been my fate to meet with
during the course of this investigation,*
(To be continued.)
ON THE OCCASIONAL ABUNDANCE OF CERTAIN
SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA.
By Robert Adkin, F.E.S.
A THEORY founded upon such careful observations as are
recorded by Mr. W. W. Smith, in his able article on the * Abun-
dance of Lepidoptera in New Zealand' (Entom. xxiii. 305), is of
considerable value in elucidating this interesting problem, not
only in its bearing upon such phenomena in that district, but
equally so in other parts of the world. As this gentleman has
kindly referred to, and commented upon, a paper on a similar
subject for which I am responsible, an abstract of which
appeared in this journal (Entom. xxiii. 177), I propose to offer a
few further remarks on the matter.
The drift of Mr. Smith's argument appears to be directed
towards showing that seasons productive of luxuriant vegetation
are favourable to the abundant development of Lepidoptera.
Thus he says, "Less snow fell in the higher Alps (New Zealand)
during the winters of 1888 and 1889 than for the previous
twelve years, while the meteorological records show a corres-
ponding mildness of temperature, and a considerable diminution
of north-west or snow-melting winds. The summers following,
each have been dry and hot, and naturally adapted to the life-
habits of Lepidoptera ; all species I observed during the past
season, from the earliest spring-appearing species to those
which appeared in late autumn, emerged in great numbers, and
were all beautifully-developed insects." (The italics are mine.) I
may say at once that I fully agree with the foregoing ; it has
always been my opinion, and in this I believe I am by no means
singular, that certain meteorological conditions are fa,vourable to
represent the reaction is entirely hypothetical, and no more or less hypothetical in
the one case than in the other, it is entirely immaterial which explanation we adopt :
the broad result is the same in either case, and my readers are perfectly welcome to
follow their own inclinations as to whether they amuse themselves by adopting the
equations given in the text, or the alternative offered here.
* It may be surmised that I have forgotten my promise to fight out to the bitter
end my amicable controversy with Mr. Cockerell as to the genetic relations of
white, yellow, and red. I may assure my readers, however, that I am — like Scott's
hero — liaud immemor. But the matter is deferred for the present, not merely
because this sub-section is already so immoderately long, but also because there are
involved in such a discussion various entomological arguments which can be more
fitly introduced in Section VI., on the biological aspect.
OCCASIONAL ABUNDANCE OF LKPIDOPTERA. 61
the development of Lepidoptera in abundance, while others tend
in an opposite direction. But this would apply, and as Mr.
Smith tells us in this case did apply, to the great majority of
species ; whereas the particular point that I sought to follow up
was the cause of the unusual abundance of one or two particular
species in seasons when the great majority of species were scarce.
Whether cases of sporadic abundance, such as I have
indicated, occur in New Zealand, I am not fully aware, but I
gather from the writings of Messrs. W. W. Smith and G. V.
Hudson that they are not altogether unknown ; and I think we
should not too hastily assume that migration can have no
bearing upon them, or even upon the abundance or otherwise of
Lepidoptera generally. Mr. Smith tells us that, " The main
facts adduced to account for the occasional abundance of certain
species in the British Islands will not fully apply to the same
phenomena in New Zealand," because, as he explains, *' the
British Islands and New Zealand are both insular areas ; but
while the former is separated only by a few miles from the
European Continent, the latter is situated at least one thousand
miles from the Continent of Australia." And further, that " the
migration theory, as explained by Mr. G. V. Hudson (Entom.
xxiii. 133), can have no bearing on the question in New Zealand."
I cannot admit that this greater distance would form an insur-
mountable obstacle to immigration ; if it were so, it seems highly
improbable that that essentially New World sjDccies, Anosia
2)lexippus, would have reached Great Britain (Proc. South Lond.
Entom. Soc, 1886, pp. 17, 42, 60) ; and, except for this greater
sea-space, the relative position of the British Islands and New
Zealand to their respective continental bases are singularly
alike. As the former occupies the position of the western
boundary of the Asio-European region, so the latter forms the
eastern extremity of the Indo-Australian : the lepidopterous
fauna of the British Islands is essentially that of its continental
base, and that of New Zealand, so far as it has been investigated,
appears to belong to the Indo-Australian region. That migra-
tions of Lepidoptera from the continental portion of the Euro-
pean area to the British Islands do occur has already been
shown, and is it not reasonable to suppose that a similar condi-
tion of things exists in regard to New Zealand ? .
It is not many years since the annual migration of birds to
and from the British Islands was regarded by many as nothing
more than a wild theory, but thanks to careful and persistent
observation we now know it to be an established fact ; in
the course of these observations material has been gathered
which points to the conclusion that the occasional migrations of
Lepidoptera follow the routes taken by the birds in their annual
movements. Should this ultimately prove to be so, a case of
bird migration recently reported from Tasmania should be of
62 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
value as indicating a probable direction in which lepidopterous
migrations should be sought in the southern hemisphere.
In the * Papers and Proceedings of the Royal Society of
Tasmania for 1889 ' is a paper by Colonel W. V. Legge, R.A.,
dealing with the Australian curlew, which species, he tells us,
migrates north through the Malay Archipelago, being there met
with on passage in Borneo, New Guinea, the Philippines, and
other islands, and that New Zealand seems to be its eastern limit.
It is on the limits of a great faunistic region that the species
inhabiting that region are least likely to maintain a permanent
footing ; consequently it is there that we njay most reasonably
expect their abundance to be affected in the greatest degree by
the influence of migration.
Lewisham, S.E., February 10, 1891.
LEPIDOPTERA FOUND IN BRITAIN AND AMERICA.
By Richard South.
In his * Bibliographical Catalogue of the Described Transfor-
mations of North American Lepidoptera 't Mr. Henry Edwards
gives copious references to the published descriptions of the early
stages of 1069 species of Lepidoptera occurring in North America.
Seventy-nine of the species enumerated are found in Britain,
and as the majority of these are well known, a list of them may
be of interest to entomologists of this country.
For present purposes it has been thought sufficient to give the
first British and first American reference cited by Mr. Edwards
in those instances where any stage in the early life -history of a
species has been noted by authors in both countries. The second
date is, in all cases, the American one. Where only one date is
given in this list the name of the authority is added, and an
asterisk is used to denote the American.
The nomenclature adopted by Mr. Edwards, when different to
that used in this country, is placed in brackets.
RHOPALOCERA.
Papilio machaon, L. (var. aliaska, Scud.), 1884, W. H. Edwards.*
P. 7iapi, Esp., 1828, 1886. P. rapa, L., 1828, 1869.
Vanessa cmtiopa, F., 1828, 1841. V. (Pijrameis) atalanta, L., 1828,
1862. F. {Pyrameis) cardui, L., 1828, 1854.
HETEROCERA.
Sphinges.
Deilephila livornica (n. a. form lineata), 1797, Abbot-Smith.*
Trochilium apiformis, L. (apiforme), 1828, Stephens.
Sesia (Mgeria) tipuliformis, L., 1828, 1839.
t • Bulletin of the United States Nation9,l Museum.' No. 35,
LEPIDOPTERA IN GREAT BRITAIN AND AMKRICA. 63
BOMBYCES.
Sarothripiis undulanus, Hiibn. {Sarrothripa reveyana, S. V.), 1859,
Stainton.
Zeuzera pyrina, L. {asculi, L.), 1829, Stephens.
Nocture.
Arsilonche albovenosa, Gotze (Grote), = henrici, Gr. 1877, Thaxter.*
Leucania extranea {^Heliophila unipuncta^ Haw.), 1860, J. Kirkpatrick.
Hydrcecia (Apamea) nictitans, Bork., 1859, Stainton.
Apamea immanisy Guen., 1884, T. J. Edge.* (? = Hydrcecia petasitiSj
Doubl.).
Dipteryffia scabriuscula, L., 1829, Stephens.
Apamea gemina, Hiibn. [Hadena remi.ssa, Hiibn.), 1882, Kirby.
Ayrotis suffusa, Hiibn. (ypsilon, Rott.), 1829, 1869. A. saucia, Hiibn.,
1859,' 1869.
Noctua {Aqrotis) plecta, L., 1829, Stephens. N. (Agrotis) c-nigi'um,
L., 1829, 1877. N. (Agrotis) baia, Fabr., 1829, Stephens.
AmpMpyra [Pyrophila) trayopogonis, L., 1829, 1870.
Tceniocaynpa incerta, Hufn., 1859, 1856.
Eiiplexia lucipara, L., 1829, 1883.
Aplecta [Agrotis) prasma, Fab., 1859, Stainton. A. [Agrotis) occulta,
Hiibn., 1829, Stephens.
Hadena [Mamestra) trifoUi, Rott., 1882, 1881.
Gonopteryx [Scoliopteryx) libatrix, L., 1829, 1881.
Anarta coi'digera, Thnb., 1859, Stainton.
Ueliothis armiyera, Hiibn., 1859, 1855.
Geometry.
Eugonia autuinnaria, Wernb. [Ennomos alniariaf Esp.), 1859, 1876.
Packard quotes Goddeli and Scudder in litt.
Metrocampa margaritaria, L., 1859, Stainton.
Numeria [Anagoga) pulveraria, L., 1869, 1876. Packard quotes
Merryfield.
Tephrosia [Cymatophora) crepuscular ia, Hiibn,, 1859, 1878.
Melanippe [Rheumaptera) Jiuctuata, L., 1859, 1876. Packard quotes
Newman. M.[R.)imangidata, 1859, 1816. Packard quotes Newman.
M. [R.) tristata, L., 1859, 1876. Packard quotes Newman. M.
[B.)hastata, L., 1829, 1885.
Coremia [Ochyria)ferrugata, L., 1859, 1876. Packard quotes Newman.
C. [0.) munitata, Hiibn., 1869, 1876. Packard quotes Newman.
C. (0.) designata, Hiibn., 1859, 1880.
Cidaria [Petrojjhora) te>itata,Ij., 1859, 1876. Packard quotes Newman.
C. (P.) prunata, L., 1859, Stainton. C. (P.) tnmcata, Hiibn.,
1869, 1876. Packard quotes Newman.
Hypsipetes [Hydriomena) sordidata, Fabr., 1869, 1876. Packard quotes
Newman.
Oporabia [Epirrita) dilutata, Bork., 1869, 1858.
Venusia [Kpirrita) cambncaria, Curt., 1869, 1876. Packard quotes
Newman.
Camptogramma [Plemyria) fliiviata, 1858, 1876. Packard quotes
Newman.
64 THE ENTOMOLOGlsf .
Larentia (Glaucopteryx) ccBsiata, Lang, 1859, 1876. Packard quotes
Newman.
Eupithecia absynthiata, L., 1859, 1876, Packard quotes Crewe.
Pyralides.
Pyralis (Asopia) farinalis^ L., 1859, 1841. P. (A.) costalis, Fab.,
1870, T. Glover.^:^
Ephestia elutella, Hiibn., 1859, Stainton.
Plodia (Ephestia) interpunctella, Hiibn., 1859, Stainton.
Aphomia sociella, L. (colonella), L., 1868, Packard. =:'
Galleria mellonellaf L. (mellinella, Fabr.), 1836, 1841.
TORTRICES.
Peronea (Teras) hastiana, L., 1859, Stainton. P. (T.) permutana,
Dup., 1881, Coquillett.=:^ P. {T.)fernigana, Tr., 1859, Stainton.
Tortrix (Cacacia) rosana, L., 1859, Stainton. T. [Lophoderus)
ministrana, L., 1859, Stainton.
Dictyopteryx {Tortrix) hercpnanniana, L., 1837, Westwood.
(Enectra pilleriana, Schiff., 1859, Stainton.
Chrosis [Conchylis) rutilana, Hiibn., 1859, 1878.
Reti7iia sylvestrana, Curt., 1859, Stainton.
Bactra lanceolana, Hiibn., 1859, Stainton.
Penthina capreana^ Hiibn., 1859, Stainton.
Hedya (Tmetocera) oceUana, Schiff., 1859, 1841.
Hyperniecia {Steganoptycha) angiistana, Hiibn., 1859, Stainton.
Phoxopteryx (Phoxopteris) lundana, Fabr., 1859, Stainton.
Carpocapsa pomonellaf L., 1837, 1819.
TiNEiE.
Tinea tapetzella, L., 1859, 1864. T. pellionella, L., 1859, 1841.
Tineola (Tinea) biselliella, Hml., 1859, Stainton, Clemens.*
Scardia (Tinea) granella, L., 1837, 1841.
Hyponomeuta evonymella^ Chambers = (? evonymella^ Scop. Sta.), 1872,
Chambers.*
Plutella cruciferarum, Zell., 1856, Fitch* (as C. brassicella),
Depressaria heracliana, De Geer, 1859, 1869.
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF
MIDDLESEX.
Compiled by T. D. A. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 33).
Since the publication of the last part, a number of valuable
records have been received, as follows : —
(14.) Arthur J. Chitty. A MS. list of Coleoptera and
Lepidoptera, taken at Hatton and other localities.
(15.) Charles W. Watts. A MS. list of Lepidoptera, from
the district N.W. of London, taken from 1865 to 1884. The
A PRELIMINARY LIST OP THE INSECT-FAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. 65
"garden at South Hampstead," mentioned, is in the King
Henry's Koad.
(16.) Hy. Eowland-Brown, Jr. A MS. list of Zygsenidge and
Bombyces, observed in North Middlesex.
(17.) (>eo. Wall. A MS. list of Lepidoptera taken at Hare-
field, 1880 to 1890.
A few additions should be made to the lists published.
Mr. Francis C. Woodbridge writes that Crabro interruptus, DeG.,
occurs in his garden at Uxbridge. Mr. C. W. Watts adds
Argynnis enphrosyney L., " which was, and probably still is,
common in the woods about Pinner and Euislip; " Sbud Nisoniades
tageSy L., " common at Kuislip, in meadows." He also remarks
that Epinephele hyperanthes is abundant in the same localities as
A. euphrosyney "with a strong tendency to var. arete y though I
never got one altogether spotless." Mr. Eowland-Brown adds
Thecla w-alhurriy Enoch, " a single specimen, taken in 1887 by
Mr. Peers, on the lawn at Harrow Weald Eectory;" and
Mr. Geo. Wall gives me notes of Deilephila livornicay Esp.,
Harefield, one in 1884 ; and Choerocampa celerioy L., Harefield,
Aug. 1 886, one specimen given to him by J. Milton.
Some other interesting notes have been sent, which will be
useful for a list of addenda and new localities, to be prepared
perhaps at some future date ; but in such a list various new
localities for the very common species will not be inserted, as
they are scarcely of sufficient importance to justify the amount
of space they would occupy. It is no doubt desirable that every
parish in the county should have its fauna and flora catalogued
accurately and in detail, but special information of this kind is
best published by the local societies, and obviously cannot
appear in full in a journal like the * Entomologist.*
Lepidoptera.
Sesiidce,
Trochilium apiformey Clerck, Hammersmith Marshes (God-
win). T. crahroniformey Lewin, Hammersmith Marshes, olim
(Godwin).
Mgeria tipuliformiSy Clerck, generally common in gardens
(Godwin) ; Isleworth (Meyers) ; Bedford Park, one at thistle
flowers, July, 1886 (Ckll.) ; South Hampstead, common (Watts) ;
St. John's Wood, common in some gardens where there are
currant bushes, imago on sallow leaves, and on the pavement in
Abbey Eoad, once (South) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout), M,
asili/ormisy Eott., Hyde Park (Godwin). Je. myopiformisy Bork.,
generally common in gardens (Godwin) ; Isleworth (Meyers) ;
Bedford Park (J. Gray) ; and one on a willow tree, Aug. 3, 1885
(CklL) ; South Hampstead (Watts). JS, formiciformisy Esp.,
ENTOM. — MARCH, 1B91. Cr
i
66 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Hammersmith Marshes, common {Godwin), M, culiciformiSf L.,
Isleworth (Meyers),
Zygcenidce,
Ino statices, L., Mill Hill, abundant on the common {South) ;
Old Oak Common, sometimes {Godwin) ; Kuislip, June 10, 1883
(Watts); Harrow- Weald, L. & N. W. Eailway bank, Pinner (Row-
land-Brown) ; Harefield, common (Wall).
Zygcena trifolii, Auctt., Mill Hill, on railway bank (South) ;
Euislip, June 14, 1883 (Watts) ; Harefield, common (Wall). Z.
JilipendulcB, L., Mill Hill (South) ; Old Oak Common, in numbers
(Godwin) ; Isleworth {Meyers) ; near Ealing {CklL) ; Euislip
(Watts) ; Harrow-Weald (JRowland-Broion) ; Harefield, very
common (Wall),
Nycteolidce.
Sarothripus undulanusy Hb., rare. Bishop's Wood (Godwin)
Harefield, common (Wall) ; Mill Hill (South),
Earias chlorana, L., Hammersmith Marshes (Godwin).
Hylophila prasinana, L., Bishop's Wood, Hampstead, common
(Godwin), H, hicoloranay Fues., rare, Hampstead (Godwin);
Harefield, one specimen, bred from pupa found on a plant, 1887
(Wall),
Nolidce.
Nola cucullatella, L., Mill Hill, larvae very common, beaten out
of hawthorn, sloe, &c. (South) ; generally common, especially
larvae (Godwin); South Hampstead (Watts); Harrow Weald
(Rowland- Brown) ; Dalston, showing perhaps some melanic ten-
dency (Prout). N. strigula, Schiff., near Uxbridge (J. E, Benbow,
Entom. 1878, p. 21).
Lithosiida, iMm
Nudaria mundana, L., Mill Hill, common in the garden, flying '
at night (South) ; Clutter House Lane (Godwin) ; Harefield, once
taken (Wall), N. senex, Hb., Harefield, once taken [Wall),
Calligenia miniata, Forst., Bishop's Wood, Hampstead,
common (Godwin).
Lithosia lurideola^ Zinck., Mill Hill (South) ; Bishop's Wood,
Hampstead (Godwin) ; Oxhey Lane (Rowland-Brown) ; Harefield,
common {Wall), L. complana, L., Bishop's Wood, Hampstead
(Godwin), L, griseola, var. stramineola^ Dbl., two taken, 1887, at
Harefield (Wall),
Arctiid(B.*
Euchelia jacohcBce, L., Mill Hill, two on the Common, 1876
(South) ; very common near Addison Eoad Station as recently
as 1879 (Godwin) ; Isleworth, abundant (Fenri and Ckll.) ; Chis-
* Including as subfamilies EucheliiiKB {Euchelia and allies) and Arctiince
[Arctia and allies).
A PRELIMINARY LIST OP THE INSECT-FAUNA OP MIDDLESEX. 67
wick {Miss E. Sharpe) ; Bedford Park {J. King and C. Rowland) ;
Pinner (Watts) ; Harefield, one taken, 1888 {Wall).
Euprepia caia, L., Mill Hill, common in the larva stage
{South); generally common {Godwin) ; Isleworth {Meyers) ; Bedford
Park {Ckll.) ; South Hampstead ( Watts) ; Clapton {Bacot) ; Oxhey
Lane {Rowland- Br oivn) ; Harej&eld, common {Wall). E. villica,
L., Mill Hill, common in the larva stage {South) ; Old Oak
Common, exceedingly common, West End Lane, Dollis Hill
{Godwin) ; Isleworth {Meyers) ; Oxhey Lane {Rowland-Brown).
Spilosoma fuliginosay L., Mill Hill, one specimen, 1876
{South) ; larvae only, rare, Old Oak Common {Godwin). S. men-
dica, Clerck., Old Oak Common {Godwin) ; Hampstead, 1882
{Watts) ; Harefield, one taken, 1889 {Wall). S. luhricipeda,
Esp., Mill Hill, common, flying just before dusk {South) ;
generally common {Godwin) ; Isleworth {Meyers) ; Bedford Park
{Ckll.) ; South Hampstead, larvae {Watts) ; Clapton {Bacot) ; Oxhey
Lane {Rowland- Brown) ; Dalston {Proiit) ; Harefield, common
{Wall). S. menthastriy Esp., Mill Hill, common, flying just
before dusk {South) ; generally common {Godwin) ; Isleworth
{Fenn); Bedford Park {CklL); South Hampstead, larvae {Watts);
Clapton {Bacot) ; Oxhey Lane {Rowland-Brown) ; Dalston {Prout) ;
Harefield {Wall).
Hepialidce.
Hepialus humidi, L., generally common {Godwin) ; Bedford
Park, abundant {Ckll.) ; South Hampstead, common, second
brood, Aug., 1881 {Watts) ; Clapton {Bacot) ; Oxhey Lane
{Rowland- Brown)\; Tottenham {Prout) ; Harefield, usually com-
mon {Wall). H. sylvanus, L., Mill Hill {South) ; near W. Hamp-
stead Station {Godwin) ; Hendon {Watts) ; Clapton {Bacot). H.
velleda, Hb., Bishop's Wood {Godwin). H. lupulinus^ L., Mill
Hill {South) ; generally common {Godwin) ; Isleworth {Fenn) ;
Bedford Park {Miss E. Sharpe); Hampstead and Hendon
{Watts) ; Clapton {Bacot) ; Oxhey Lane {Rowland- Brown) ; Dalston
{Prout); Harefield, abundant {Wall). H. hectus, L., Bishop's
Wood, common {Godwin) ; Harefield, common, {Wall).
Cossidce.
Cossus cossus, L. = C. ligniyerda, Fb., Mill Hill, larvae and
pupae, from an old ash, imago at sugar {South) ; Isleworth
{Meyers) ; Hampstead {Watts) ; Clapton {Bacot) ; Oxhey Lane
{Rowland-Brown) ; Tottenham {Prout) ; Harefield, two bred from
larvae, 1887 {Wall).
Zeuzera pyrina, L., Mill Hill {South) ; Bedford Park {F. Fenn,
Miss E. Sharpe, and Miss Gertrude Blogg) ; South Hampstead,
bred from larvae in mountain ash {Watts); Clapton {Bacot);
Dalston {Prout) ; Bloomsbury {Brit. Mus.).
q2
68 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
lAparida,
Porthesia chrysorrhoea, L., Mill Hill {South) ; Isleworth
(Meyers), P, similis, Fues., common generally (Godwin) ; Isle-
worth (Meyers) ; Bedford Park (F. Fenn and C, Eoivland) ; Hamp-
stead (Watts); Oxhey hsme (Rowland- Brown) ; DsLlsion (Proutj;
Harefield, common (Wall).
Leucoma salicis, L., common generally (Godwin) ; Bedford
Park (Miss E. Sharpe); South Hampstead, larvae on poplar
(Watts) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout).
Ocneria dispar, L., near Uxbridge (J. E, Benhow, Entom.
1878, p. 21).
Psilura monacha, L., rare, Bishop's Wood, only larvae
(Godwin) ; Pinner Woods, 1881 and 1882 (Watts).
Dasychira pudibunda, L., Mill Hill (South) ; Bishop's Wood,
moderately common (Godwin) ; Pinner Woods, and larvae on
Hampstead Heath (Watts); Harefield, one bred from larva,
1887 (Wall).
Orgyia antiqua, L., Mill Hill (South) ; generally common
(Godwin); Bedford Park, a larva on Salix, 1886 (L. M. Cockerell) ;
Clapton (Bacot) ; Oxhey Lane (Rowland- Brown) ; Dalston (Prout) ;
Harefield (Wall) ; Isleworth, 1890 (CklL),
BombycidcB*
Trichiura cratcegi, L., Mill Hill, a few larvae found each year
on hawthorn and sloe (South); Pinner (Rowland- Brow 7i) ,
Eriogaster lanestrisy L., Mill Hill, many batches of larvae
found on sloe (South) ; Kingsbury (Godwin) ; Oxhey Lane (Row-
land-Brown).
Clisiocampa neustria, L., Mill Hill (South) ; generally com-
mon (Godwin) ; larvae common on Cotoneaster in garden. South
Hampstead (Watts) ; Oxhey Lane (Rowland-Broivn) ; Dalston
(Prout) ; Harefield (Wall).
Bombyx rubi, L., Mill Hill, larvae very abundant, 1875, a
female at rest amongst grass, 1876 (South) ; Old Oak Common
(Godwin). B. quercus, L , doubtfully quoted from Mill Hill
(South). B. trifolii, Esp., Hampstead, one specimen (Rowland-
Brown) .
Odonestis potatoria, L., Mill Hill, very plentiful in larval stage
(South) ; generally common (Godwin); Isleworth (Meyers); Hamp-
stead (Watts) ; Oxhey Lane (Rowland-Brown) ; Harefield, occa-
sionally taken (Wall).
Lasiocampa quercifolia, L., Mill Hill, a few bred from larvae
found on sloe (South) ; one pupa spun up on a willow tree near
Addison Eoad Station, place now built on ; scrub bushes of white-
* Including as subfamilies Bomhycin<e (Bomhyx and allies) and Saturniina
{Saturnia and allies).
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE IHSECT-PAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. 69
thorn, blackthorn, elm, and stumps of willows, pupa about six
feet from ground (Godwin).
Saturnia pavonia, L., Isleworth (Meyers),
Drepanulidce.
Drepana lacertinaria, L., Pinner Woods, Aug. 5, 1881 (Watts) ;
Harefield, one taken, 1886 (Wall), D, falcataria, L., Chiswick,
larva on birch (Alfred Sich), D. hiniaria^ Hufn., Mill Hill, one
netted on the Common, 1875, and one bred from pupa found in
spun leaf under an oak by the roadside, 1876 (South) ; Bishop's
Wood, rare (Godwin) ; Hampstead (Watts). D. cultrariay Fb.,
Bishop's Wood, rare (Godwin) ; Hampstead, one larva (Watts).
Cilix glaucata. Scop., Mill Hill (South) ; fairly common (God-
wi7i); Hampstead (Watts); OxheyLane (Rowland-Brown); Hare-
field, common (Wall),
DicranuridcB.
Dicranura fiircula, L., bred from larva, Hampstead Heath
(Watts). D. bifida, Hb., Mill Hill, four bred from larv«, 1875-6
(South); Harefield, once taken (TFaZy. D. vinula, L., common
in the larval stage on willow, sallow, &c. (South) ; generally dis-
tributed (Godwin) ; Isleworth (Fenn) ; Bedford Park, larvae on
poplar (Ckll.); South Hampstead (Watts); Clapton (Bacot) ;
Oxhey Lane (Rowland-Brown) ; Harefield (Wall),
Notodontidce,
Pterostoma palpina, L., Oxhey Lane, at light (Rowland-
Brown),
Lophopteryx camelina, L., Mill Hill (South) ; Hampstead
(Watts) ; Harefield, one larva found, 1887 (Wall).
Notodonta dictcea, L., Mill Hill (South). N. dictceoides, Esp.,
Hampstead (John Lea, Entom. 1887, p. 275). N, ziczac, L.,
John Street, Bedford Kow, London (Meldola, Entom. 1887,
p. 235).
PygceridcE.
Phalera hucephala, L., Mill Hill (South) ; Isleworth (E. A,
Ormerod) ; Bedford Park, larva, and a wing in a web of Epeira
diademata (Ckll.) ; larvae abundant generally (Watts) ; Clapton
(Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout) ; Harefield, taken occasionally (Walt).
Pygcera curtula, L., one specimen at Highgate (Watts).
CymatophoridcB.
Cymatophora duplaris, L., Mill Hill, at sugar (South).
Asphalia diluta, Fb., Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ; Harefield,
moderately common (Wall).
Thyatira derasa, L., Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ; Bedford
Park (C. Rowland). T. batis, L., Mill Hill (South).
3, Fairfax Road, Bedford Park, Chiswick, W.
(To be continued.)
70 TftE EN*tOMOLOG18±.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
The Entomological Season of 1890: —
Notes from Eingwood, — In my notes of December (Entom. xxiii.
831) I gave an account of Ehopalocera taken here during last season,
and now append further notes upon the moths and larvae. Sugar
here, as elsewhere, has been almost a failure, still by other means I
have taken a fair number of species, and, upon the whole, I consider
moths have been plentiful, only the rare species rarer than usual.
A favourite mode of netting with me is to post myself under a thick
sallow or sloe growing in the hedges of lanes, and net any insect that
hovers about ; many Noctuae and Geometrse may be taken this way.
Some larvaB have been abundant here, especially species of the Lasio-
campidsB ; Clisiocampa nemtria in thousands upon apple trees, bramble,
&c. ; on one tree I saw five batches feeding ; Lasiocampa quercus, upon
sloe ; L. calluncBf upon heath ; also L. rubi, of which I have about one
hundred hybernating ; L. potatoria, upon various grasses, and the
imago very common ; several times I have seen the females deposit
ova upon the dead leaves of Rubusfruticosus, in clusters of four or five ;
other larvsB plentiful, which I will mention in due course. Sphinx
ligiistri (one) ; Smerinthus tilice, from sallow ; S. populi, common ; S.
ocellatus, sallow ; Macroglossa stellatarum, few seen at geraniums ;
TrochiUum bembeciformis (one), larvsB in sallow stems; Hemaris [Macro-
glossa) bombyliformis, scarce ; H, (M.) fuciformis, several, and many
bred, some of the same set with the wings quite covered with rich
brown scales ; to obtain them in this way the imago must be killed
almost immediately upon emergence, as at the least flight the wings
become clear : Sesia tipuUformis, common in my garden ; Setina
(Lithosia) mesomella, in company with Emydia cHbrum and Fachy-
cnemia hippocastanaria, common upon certain heaths. Lithosia com-
planula, common on the wing between ten and twelve, p.m. ; Gnophria
rubricollis, rather scarce, pupse from moss upon oaks, the cocoon
of which resembles S. mendica, only smaller ; Euchelia jacobcea and
larvae, common ; Nemeophila russula, few ; Arctia caia and larvae
abundant ; Spilosoma lubncipeda, S. menthastri (common) ; S. mendica,
female taken and sixty-seven pupae obtained ; males of Orgyia antiqua
flying through the ridings in the forest ; Dasychira fascelina, D. pudi-
bundttj scarce ; larva of Ocneria monacha, few ; Porthesia aurifiua,
Hepialus lupulinus, scarce ; larvae of Psyche villosella, fairly common,
and now hybematinng upon the heaths ; to obtain these curious case-
makers I go to the collecting ground about March or April, and
if there are fir trees scattered about, search the trunks from one to two
feet from the ground — it is a favourite position they take before
pupating ; failing trees, I have collected many from the ends of twigs
of Ulecc europcBus, and in this position they greatly resemble the dead
shoots with which the furze is usually covered : Cilix glaucata,
common ; also Saturnia carpini ; of this species I found two cocoons
upon the tops of Calluna vulgaris, quite conspicuous; Pcedlocampa
populi (one) ; Pygmra pigra and Phalera bucephala, common ; Cerura
bifida, at sallow ; Cymatophora fluctuosa, scarce ; larva of Asphalia
KOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 71
ridens, about a dozen ; Diloba ccBruleocephala, larvsB very plentiful upon
several shrubs ; Acronycta psi, Bryophila perla, Leucania pallens, L. cojii-
gej-a (one of these has the hind wings golden) ; L. lithargyreaf Cara-
drina morpheus, Grammesia trigrammica, Anchocelis lunosa ; at sallow
bloom, Tceniocampa gothica, T. cruda, T. stabilis, and T. instahilis ;
Cosmia trapezina, larva common ; C affinis, C. dijinis ; Scoliopteryx
libatrix, common ; Amphipyra tragopogonis, scarce ; last February and
March I searched the herbage in the lanes for larvae and found plenty,
from which I have bred fine series of Triphcena ianthina, T. interjecta,
T. comes [orbona], T. pronuba, Habryntis (Phlogophora) meticulosa, and
others ; I fed them up in a large bell-glass out of doors, and upon
several occasions the lot were subjected to severe frosts, still it did not
affect them, as few died: Agrotis pophyrea, on heath ; A. puta, A. sege-
turn J A. saucia, Noctua c-7iigrum, N. plecta, Axylia putris, Cerigo cytherea,
Hadena [Miana) strigilis, and numerous vars. ; H. (M.) furuncula (two),
and Eremohia ochroleuca ; larvae of Miselia oxyacanthcB, abundant upon
hawthorn and sloe — I could have taken thousands ; several bred ; I
was interested in the curious cocoons they form — quite an earthen
wall between two layers of silk : Dianthcecia carpophaga and larvae,
common ; also Hadena [Xylophasia) monoglypha, Mormo {Alania) maura,
Ncenia (M.) typica, Xylocampa areola, and Cucullia lychnitis, Anarta
myrtilii and larvae, common ; Abrostola tripa7'tita {urticcB), bred from
pupae found ; Plusia chrysitis, abundant ; P. iota, P. gamma, scarce ;
Prothymia [Phytometra) viridaria, common ; Zanclognatha nemoralisy
Z. tarsipennalis, Herminea (Pechypogon) barbalis, Hypena proboscidalis,
and H. rostralis ; larv» of Halias prasinana beaten from oak ; H. quer-
cana and pupae, from oak in autumn. The Geometrae fairly represented,
some species quite plentiful ; Urapteryx sambucata, common ; I saw a
female deposit a large number of ova upon a grass stem underneath
hawthorn, and several yards away from ivy ; Ellopia prosapiaria (two),
Metrocampa margaritaria, Odontopera bidentata, common ; Epione adven-
aria, one male ; E. parallelaria, local ; Bapta bimaculata, Macaria litur-
ata, common ; Eugonia erosaria, E.fuscantaria, Selenia bilunana, Himera
pennaria, Crocallis elinguaria, larvae common upon sloe ; Pericallia syrin-
garia, common; also larvae upon honeysuckle; Rumia luteolata, Abraxas
grossulariata, Ligdia marginata, Hemerophila abruptaria, and Thamno-
noma wavaria [Halia vauaria), all plentiful ; Cheimatobia brumata.
C. boreata, Hybernia dejoliaria, H. aurantiaria, bred ; H, leucophearia, in
great variety ; the restless little Odezia at^ata was to be seen in pro-
fusion; also Venilia macularia, Fidonia (Bupalis) piniaria, and Ema-
turga atomaria, common ; Cleora lichenaria, Tephrosia rhomboidaria, T.
consonaria, T. crepuscularia, and Pseudoterpna pruinata, common ;
Acidalia emarginata, Timandra amataria, Biston hispidaria (one), larvae
scarce; Anaitis plagiata, common ; OrtJwUtha {Eubolia) cervinata,
larvae abundant upon mallow ; 0. {E.) limitata, Anticlea badiata,
Scotosia [Eucosmia) undulata (two) ; Larentia viridaria, Hypsipetes sor-
didata, Melanippe montanata, M. fluctuata, Melanthia ocellata, Thera
Jirmata, Camptogramma bilineata, all plentiful ; Zonosoma punctaria,
Acidalia imitaria, Aspilatis strigillaria, abundant ; Ortholitha [Eubolia)
palumbaria, Opoi'abia dilutata, scarce ; Eupithecia minutata, E. nanata,
E, venosata, E, tenuiata, E, rectangulata, and other pugs, common.
72 . THE fiNTOMOtiOGlSf*
Botys ruralis and B. urticata, plentiful ; also Hydrocampa nymphwata.
Nemopho7'a sivaminerdameUa, scarce ; Adela Degeerella and A. viridella,
both extremely common in the forest. In the foregoing I have
mentioned a lot of common species ; perhaps my notes of next season
may contain some of the rarer kinds that are to be found in this dis-
trict, It is impossible to take all the different species in one season,
and this being my first here, I am well satisfied with my captures. —
J. Hy. Fowler ; Poulner, Ringwood, January, 1891.
Notes from Plymouth. — This year (1890) larvae have been far more
abundant in this district than imagines, at least this is my experience.
Natural attractions in the way of favourite flowers were unproductive
until towards the end of the year, when some common species were
abundant at ivy bloom. At sallow blossom scarcely anything was taken
until the end of March, when Tceniocampa stabilis, T. cruda, and T,
rubricosa, made their appearance, and were joined early in April by
T. gothica, which was then more abundant, perhaps, than any of them.
As early as the 13th of March, a specimen of Selenia illunaria came to
light. From the end of February till towards the end of March,
.Hyhernia leucophearia was very common in oak woods, accompanied
during March by H. progemmaria and Anisopteryx CBscularia. Out Of a
number of larvse and pupae of Trochilium bernbeciformis obtained from a
willow-bed in April, I only succeeded in rearing one specimen, the rest
being attacked by mildew. Coremia ferrugata and Melanippe subtristata
were a perfect pest during May, June, and the early part of July.
Tephrosia crepuscularia and T. consonaria, Newman, were abundant in
Bickleigh Vale at the end of May ; Fidonia atomaria on heathy ground
near by. Six larvae of Psilura monacha fell to the beating-stick ; this larva
seems especially fond of the short weak shoots that so often encircle the
trunks of oak trees. Two larvae of Pwcilocampa populi, and three each of
Petasia cassinea (Asteroscopus sphinx) and Tethea subtusa were taken about
the beginning of June. Thecla betula larvae were abundant in some
localities not far from here. As before recorded (Entom. xxiii. 264), two
specimens of Heterogenea asella were beaten on June 20th. I am nearly
certain that a third specimen which was secured was the same species, but
not knowing the rarity of the species it was discarded, as it had been
rubbed in capturing. During July larvae of Dianthcecia capsincola were
very abundant, feeding on the seeds of Lychnis dioica; D. carpophaga and
D. cucubali rarer on Silene inflata. This year I have come across both
varieties of the larva of Trichiura craimgi. In former years we have found
the variety of the larva with golden rings the commoner. This year only
one of this variety was beaten, while I obtained a couple of the other. Has
it been positively ascertained that these two most dissimilar larvae are not
separate species producing very similar imagines ? There seems to be no
more reason for classing them as varieties of one species, than for regard-
ing the larvae of Acronycta tridens and A. psi as belonging to one species,
unless, indeed, the two varieties (?) of the larva of T. cratagi have been
obtained from the same parent. I beat a larva of Notodonta dodonea or
N. chaonia (am uncertain which until moth emerges) on Slst June, and on
2nd July found a full-fed larva of Cymatophora ridens drowned in a stream.
This year I reared Boarmia rhomboidaria var. perfumaria from larvae taken
in the neighbourhood ; I beheve this variety to be new to the locality.
Young Vemas coryli larvae were taken as early as Aug. 6th ; they seem to
tJOTUS, CAt»TtJfe1SS, ETd. ^3
be local, but not uncommon. I obtained fifteen young larvae by beating,
and failing to rear these, I again beat for them about the middle of Sep-
tember. These latter, eleven in number, were nearly all full-grown, and
some had taken that beautiful pinkish-yellow tinge which these larvae
usually assume before pupation. I beat Cleora glahraria on 7th August,
near Bickleigh Vale. Larvae of Notodonta dwmedarius were taken at
various stages of growth, from Aug. 7th to Sept. 16th. Those taken on
the former date were spinning up two days later ; the one on the latter date
was quite young. Last year I took a larva of this species on hazel.
Thecla hetulcR began to emerge on Aug. 10th. On Aug. 12th I beat a fine
Tethea retusa, and the next day found a full-fed larva of Notodonta
dictceoides, together with larvae of Drepana falcula and D. lacertinaria on
birch. Zygmna filipendula was plentiful on the 18th, in a locality near
Plymouth, where we have once taken the variety in which the red colouring
is entirely replaced by cream-colour, but we only noticed the type this
year. On the 29th of August I took Tapinostola falva in a meadow close
here (Reading says it only occurs in two localities in the district, viz.^
Exeter and Teignmouth). On the 3rd of September I took one larva each
of Thyatira hatis and Gnophria quadra (?). The latter died ; I could not
see that it ate any of the oak lichens with which I supplied it. Aspilates
citraria was plentiful by Whitsand Bay, near Plymouth, on the 4th ; and
larvae of Bomhyx rubi swarmed. A fine larva of Acronycta aliii was taken
on the 6th, and the next day one of Stauropus fagi on quince, both in the
immediate vicinity. I beat another alni larva on Sept. 11th, near Bick-
leigh Vale. The first A. alni prepared for pupation on Sept. 9th, the
second on the 15th, S. fagi on the 29th. During the autumn, larvae of
Notodonta camelina have been abundant ; those of Hylophila prasinana not
uncommon. Some of the other insects taken this autumn are Anchocelis
rufina, A. pistacina, Oporina croceago, Miselia oxyacanthcB, Xylina
petrijicata (one), Xanthia silago, X. ferruginea and Orthosia lota; while
0. macilenta, Cerastis spadicea, C. vaccinii, and Phlogophora meticulosa
swarmed at ivy. The latest record is two Pcecilocampa populi on Dec. 29th,
one of them reared from larva, the other captured at light. — F. J. Briggs ;
Fursdon, Egg Buckland, December 31st, 1890.
Notes from the New Forest. — From the last week in February to the
first week in June I found the past season a very favourable one, for the
imagines of many species were much more abundant than usual, but the
continuous rains after the latter date seem to have caused a great many
disappointments in many parts of the country. The New Forest was
certainly not an exception, the dearth of many common species being very
marked. In July sugar was an absolute failure, and netting at dusk use-
less. Argynnis pai^hia and Limenitis sibylla were not in anything like
their usual numbers, while the variety valesina was very infrequently
encountered. Not one specimen of Thecla quercus was observed, although
generally a plentiful species, and I failed to sight Apatura iris for the first
time in five years. Vanessa polychloros had not emerged, but three pupae
were discovered. On the heaths Selidosema ericetaria (plumaria) and
Gnophos obscuraria were taken sparingly, whilst Satyrus semele and Lyccena
(Egon were abundant. An expedition with Mr. H. Robson after Emydia
cribrum was unsuccessful ; either the insect was over, or we were not fortu-
nate enough to strike the right locality. Two specimens of Hyria auro-
raria turned up, and the males of Bombyx quercus were frequently met
7i
Tiffi ENTOMOLOGIST.
with iu their wild flight over the heath. It soon became evident that larvas-
beating was the best thing to be done. The oaks yielded Dasychira pudi-
hunda, Amphidasys strataria (prodromaria), Cidaria siderata, Odontopera
hidentata, Notodonta trepida, N. dodonea [trimacula) ; and from the sallows
were obtained Dicranura furcula, Pterostoma palpina, and Notodonta
dromedarius, but we found it useless to attempt birch-beating. A few larvae
of Macroglossa fuciformis were discovered, one of which could not have
been hatched more than a few days, while another was about full-fed. Light
attracted but few insects, the best thing perhaps being Aventia flexula.
The extraordinary abundance of Euchella jacobcBce is worth recording ;
these larvae were in thousands, and every plant of ragwort stripped, large
quantities upon the herbage searching for food. — Alfred T. Mitchell;
5, Clayton Terrace, Gunnersbury, W., January 24, 1891.
Notes from Invernesshire. — Judging from various notes on the subject,
the season of 1890 seems to have been a poor one for Lepidoptera through-
out England. I spent August and twenty-four days in September at
Beananach, about a mile from Carrbridge, Invernesshire. The neighbour-
hood was all that could be desired from an entomological point of view, and
I was little prepared for the utter lack of Lepidoptera of all kinds, notably
Diurni and Noctuae. There were a good many Geometrae iu the pine
woods, but almost exclusively confined to the following species: — Thera
Jirmata, T. simulata, Cidaria populata, and Larentia cmsiata. Treacling
and light (moth-trap) were both failures. Mothing during the day was the
sole productive employment. — D. H. S. Stewart; 66, Albert Hall |
Mansions, W., February 6, 1891- i
Notes from Various Localities. — On May 15 th my brothers and myself j
went to Wickham Wood, having been told by a friend that he had found
there several larvae of Geometra papilionaria. We searched the whole
afternoon and were fortunate enough to get four full-grown larvae of this
insect, three of which attained the perfect state on June 11th, 13th, and
15th, respectively. The fourth turned out to be ichneiimoned. On June
9th we visited the same locality, but the only larvae worth mentioning which
we could find were seven Asphalia fiavicornis on the birches ; we took, how-
ever, the following insects : — E. dolohraria, B. consortaria, E. heparata,
H. impluviata, C. propugnata, M. notata (2). T. obeliscata (abundant), M.
montanata, V. maculata, M. rivata, P. petraria, A. remutata, were all very
common, while E. punctulata could be seen at rest on almost every tree.
From August 2nd to Sept. 6th we were collecting at Sidmouth, in South
Devon, and, as in the previous year, netted numbers of Hesperia actcBon,
Pararge semele, and Argynnis paphia ; A. adippe and A. aglaia were both
worn and scarce ; Leucophasia sinapis, Lyccena argiolus, and Nisoniades tages
were not, as usually, abundant. Colias edusa and C. hyale were nowhere
to be seen (I should like very much to hear from any of your correspon-
dents concerning the appearance of these insects last season). Sugaring
during this month was ineffectual, but hedge-beating proved very produc-
tive. In this way we captured C. spinula, E. apiciaria (abundant), H.
elutata, U. samhucata, C. dotata, G. ohscurata, C. elinguaria, A. subseri-
ceata, P. cytisaria, H. thymiaria, C. testata, C. ribesiaria, E. affinitata, C.
ferrugata, C. unidentata, C. pusaria, M. ocellata, M. galiata, C. imma?iata,
S. illunaria, E. rectangulata, C. propugnata, C. picata, A. plagiata, A.
promutata, M. furuncula, C. cubicularis, D. capsincola. In the daytime
B. quercu^y P. anea, and T. interjecta were common along the clififs ; and
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETO. 75
having found a female of the first-named, we were able thereby to procure
as many males as we wanted. On one night, amid drizzling rain, we took
on two lamp-posts close to the town N. popidaris (15), C. affinis, D. diffinis,
N.plecta, and E. fuscantaria. Among the larvae whicli we found at Sid-
mouth were Smerinthus populi, Sphinx ligustri, Dicranura vinula (ex-
tremely abundant, but for the most part ichneumoned), Brephos partheniaSf
and G. lihatrix. The sallows yielded a plentiful supply of L. marginata^
0. bidentata, and C. pusaria. Saturnia carpini and Bombyx ruhi were very
prominent upon the brambles on the heaths, and while collecting a number
of these we came across a few Stilhia anomala, which were, however, sadly
battered. On our return home (Sept. 8th), we tried sugaring till the end of
the month, but insects seemed scarce, the only exceptions being M. maura,
P. meticulosa, X. polyodon, M. brassiccB, T.pronuba, and C. nupta. By light
we captured N. xanthographa, C. trapezina, E. lucipara (1), H. micacea
(3), N. popularis, E. angularia, E. tiliaria (on nearly every lamp), T. sub-
tusa (one in a spider's web). Larvae of A. betularia, 0. bidentata, M. persi-
caricB, M. oleracea, H. chenopodii, E. lucipara, H. triplasia, S. menthastri,
S. lubricipeda, and A. aceris were unusually abundant. We also found one
S. ocellatus (on an apple tree), and one D. bifida (crawling down a poplar
trunk).— C. M. Wells; Hurstfield, The Avenue, Gipsy Hill. S.E.
Melanippe fldctuata var. neapoltsata. Mill. — In the account of
the meeting (November 27th) of the South London Entomological and
Natural History Society (Entom. 21), Mr. South is reported to have
expressed a doubt as to the occurrence of Melanippe fi,uctuata, L., var.
neapolisata, Milliere, in Britain. In 1886, I sent a number of our dark-
banded forms of M. fluctuata to Professor C. Blachier, of Geneva, and, as
he thought them interesting, he forwarded a few to his friend the late
Monsieur Pierre Milliere, who at once identified them as exactly the same
as his var. neapolisata, which he discovered a few years ago in and near
Naples, and figured in his * Iconographe,' vol. iii. pi. 131. In the
' Annales de la Societe Entomologique de France,' 1887, Mons. P. Milliere
describes, and on pi. v. fig. 7 figures, a fine female example of our Aber-
deenshire var. neapolisata, which was captured by me near Pitcaple in 1886 ;
he at the same time expresses great surprise that a South European form
should have been taken in such abundance in North Britain. As a number
of specimens have now been found intermediate between the variety and
type, several of my entomological friends have expressed a doubt whether
the variety is worthy of a distinctive name ; but this does not affect the
fact that Milliere 's variety neapolisata is not only widely distributed, but
common in many parts of Great Britain, especially towards the North of
Scotland. — Wm. Reid ; Pitcaple, N.B., January 5, 1891.
Sugar. — Sugar in this locality, as in others this year, has proved dis-
appointing; the only good thing that appeared during the summer was
jSoctua stigmatica, of which I took nine. From two females I obtained
ova, and have now nearly fifty larvae hybernating ; these fed well on chick-
weed and plantain till the frost came. Though I laid on sugar some weeks
nightly, I obtained nothing again of moment till the 3rd week in Septem-
ber ; then, as the result of six nights' work, I succeeded in getting a short
but very fine series of Xanthia aurago, graduating in colour from the
deepest orange to pale yellow. The same week I obtained one Xylina
semibrunnea and one Epunda lutuletita ; then, with the exception of one
^6 tiifi ENTOMOLOGIST.
wet Tuesday, when common things were plentiful, the season terminated
abruptly. — J. Clarke ; Reading, December, 1890.
Lepidoptera at light at Hastings. — From the end of August to
the end of October I paid a good deal of attention to the lamps,
particularly those on the outskirts of the town, with the result that I took
about fifty species of Heterocera, and as I am about the only lepidopterist
in Hastings, it may be worth while recording a few of the species taken.
This season has been a particularly bad one for Lepidoptera here ; many
species which usually occur commonly at light, such as Xanthia Jiavago,
Cidaria miata, &c., I have not seen at all this season, while many others
which are generally common only occurred occasionally. The commonest
species this season were Luperina testacea, Neuroma popularis Diloba
cceruleocephala, Melan'ippe flactuata, and Pionea forficalis. Among those
which I found somewhat commonly I may mention Bryophila perla,
Hydrcecia micacea, Ennomos alniaria, Acidalia marginepunctata, Eupithecia
oblongata, Anaitisplagiata, Crambus geniculellus, Platyptiliagonodactyla, &c.,
while among those which only occurred occasionally or singly were
Lithosia lurideola, Hydrcecia nictitans, Gortyna ochracea, Orthosia lota,
Anchocelis lunosa, Drepana binaria, Ennomos erosaria, Ephyra porata,
Coremia ferrugata, Phibalapteryx vlttata, Thera variata, Cidaria immanata,
C. testata, Eubolia cercinata, Chesias spartiata, Cataclysta lemnata (female),
Scoparia angustea, Homceosoma bincevella, Conchylis straminiana, Xantho-
selia zcegana, &c. The weather has not been at all favourable for working
the lamps, as the evenings have very frequently been cold or windy, so that
I have had very few really good nights, otherwise the above list would
doubtless have been considerably increased. — A. Ford ; Alexandra Villa,
Braybrooke Road, Hastings.
Abnormal Pupation of Acherontia atropos. — Last autumn I
received two larvae of the above species from Evenlode (Worcestershire),
one of which was evidently about to pupate. The morning after arrival
I found that the change had taken place, but the pupse presented a curious
spectacle. The larval skin seemed to have been shed successfully, but the
wing-cases, instead of being drawn down in the usual way, were fully dis-
tended in a globular form and charged with the fluid which the upper part
of the abdomen should have retained. It seemed probable that the surface
of the pupa would harden in this form, but such was not the case, for but
a short period had elapsed before a second inspection, when I found that
the wing-cases had burst, discharging their contents. However, they were
soon again fully charged and subsequently discharged. This process
continued until all the liquid part of the pupa was ejected, leaving little
but a shrunken skin. It should be mentioned that the larva had sustained
no apparent external injury. Having bred a considerable number of
imagines from the larval state without a similar occurrence, I thought this
worth recording. — Alfred T. Mitchell ; 5, Clayton Terrace, Gnnners-
bury, W., December 28, 1890.
Pale Variation of Lepidoptera. — Having seen many remarks
lately about the dark varieties of Lepidoptera in the London district, I
would draw attention to the occurrence of pale varieties also, which, although
met with as frequently as the dark ones, do not seem to attract the amount of
attention they deserve. The problem to be solved with regard to the cause of
pale and dark varieties appears to be equally difficult in both cases. If we
d
SOCIETIES. 77
are curious to ascertain the causes of dark varieties, let us also hear the
reason of the pale aberrations. — H. Sharp ; 23, Union Street, Langham
Place, London, W.
PiERis EAP.E AND Vanessa URTiCiE IN P'ebruary. — A Small white
butterfly was seen flying about some gardens at the north end of the town,
on the iSth February, by my brothers, who gave chase, but did not succeed
in capturing it. By the description given it would seem to be Pieris rapes.
The weather has been somewhat mild during the last week or two, but the
night previous to the appearance of the insect was attended with a sharp
frost; at about 11 a.m. the atmosphere became very cold, accompanied by
rain and snow. While looking over my note-book I came across an entry
of a white butterfly that appeared on the 11th Feb., 1890, in the same
locality. A specimen of V. urticce flitted about the aforesaid gardens on
the 16th of the same month. — J. E. Knights ; North Denes, Great
Yarmouth. [One of Mr. McArthur's children saw a white butterfly flying
in Fulham on the 12th of February last. — Ed.].
Nauseous Larv^ eaten by the Cuckoo. — Mr. Newstead's note in
the January number of the * Entomologist,' about the cuckoo, is specially
interesting, as showing that it is an exception to the rule which the late
Mr. Darwin considered to be established by Mr. Jenner Weir's experiments,
that birds would not eat brightly coloured and nauseous larvae. This pro-
pensity of the cuckoo probably accounts for the comparative scarcity of the
larvae of A. grossulariata, D. cceruleocephala, and C. verbasci in this neigh-
bourhood, which has been frequently noticed, for we have an unusual
quantity of cuckoos. It would be interesing to know whether the cuckoo
will also feed upon the larva of Mania typica, the inedible exception of the
protectively-coloured larvse. — J. C. Moberly ; Woodlands, Bassett, South-
ampton, Jan. 17.
SOCIETIES.
Entomolooioal Society of London. — February Uh, 1891. Mr.
Frederick DuCane Godman, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair. The
President nominated the Rt. Hon. Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S.,
Professor Raphael Meldola, F.R.S., and Dr. David Sharp, F.R.S., Vice-
Presidents for the Session 1891 — 92. Dr. Thomas A. Chapman, M.D., of
" Firbank," Hereford ; Mr. Horace St. John Donisthorpe, of 37, Courtfield
Gardens, S.W.; Mr. F. W. Frohawk, of 9, Dornton Road, Balham, S.B.;
Mr. E. Ernest Green, of 10, Observatory Gardens, W. ; Mr. G. F,
Hampson, B.A., of Thurnham Court, Maidstone ; Mr. Frederick J. Hanbury,
F.L.S., of 69, Clapton Common, Upper Clapton, N.E. ; and the Hon.
Mary Cordelia E. Leigh, of Stoneleigh Abbey, Kenilworth, were elected
Fellows of the Society. Mr. C. J. Gahan called attention to a larva
which he had exhibited at the meeting of the Society on the 1st October
last, when some doubt was expressed as to its affinities. He said that Prof.
Riley and Dr. Packard had since suggested that the larva was that of a
dipterous insect of the family Blepharocerida ; he was quite of the same
opinion, and thought it might probably be referred to Hammatorrhina bella,
Low, a species from Ceylon. Mr. Tutt exhibited a long series of Agrotis
pyrophila, taken last year by Mr, Reid, near Pitcaple, in Aberdeenshire,
and remarked that this species had been commoner than usual last year in
Scotland, the Isle of Portland, and the Isle of Man. He also exhibited
78 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
long and variable series of Melitma aurinia (artemis), Triphana orbona,
Abraxas grossidariata, SiXid Melanippe fliictuata, all from the same locality
in Aberdeenshire. The Rev. Canon Fowler exhibited a cocoon of Deiopeia
pulchella, recently received from Lower Burmah. Mr. C. 0. Waterhouse
exhibited specimens of Scyphophorus inter $titialis, a Mexican species, and
Aceraius comptoni, a Ceylonese species, recently taken by Mr. Bowring in
his greenhouse. He also exhibited, on behalf of Miss Emily M. Sharpe, a
specimen of Daphnis hypothous, Cramer, a native of Borneo, Java, and
Ceylon, caught some years ago at Crieff, N.B. The specimen had long
been confused with Chcerocampa nerii, under which name its capture was
recorded in the * Entomologist,' xiii. p. 162 (1880). The Rev. Dr. Walker
exhibited a collection including many species of Orthoptera and Scorpions
recently received from Jerusalem. Mr. Frederick Enock read an interest-
ing paper entitled "The Life-history of the Hessian Fly." This paper was
illustrated, by means of the oxy-hydrogen lantern, with a number of
photographs of original drawings showing the fly in all its stages and
transformations. Mr. G. H. Verrall said he believed the Hessian Fly was
no more a recent introduction into this country than the Cabbage White
Butterflies. The discussion was continued by Mr. Godman, Mr. Enock,
and others. Mr. Roland Trimen communicated a paper entitled " On
some recent Additions to the List of South African Butterflies." Mr.
H. W. Bates communicated a paper entitled " Additions to the Cara-
bideous Fauna of Mexico, with remarks on species previously recorded."
Mr. W. F. Kirby read a paper entitled " Notes on the genus Xantho-
spilopteryx, Wallgr. Dr. D. Sharp contributed a paper entitled " On the
Rhynchophorous Coleoptera of Japan," Pt. 2. — H. Goss & W. W. Fowler,
Hon. Secretaries.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — December 16th, 1890. — Mr.
W. G. Blatch, President, in the chair. Mr. H. J. Sands Harborne was
elected a member of the Society. Mr. R. C. Bradley showed Emmelesia
albulata, type, from Knowle, and var. thules from the Shetlands. Mr. W.
G. Blatch showed Mycetophorus punctus and Conurus immaculatus from
Knowle, two beetles new to the Midlands. Mr. G. T. Baker read a paper
on the Butterflies of Sunderland, giving a list of species to be obtained
there, and exhibiting many of the most interesting.
January 6th, 1891. — Mr. W. G. Blatch, President, in the chair. Mr.
P. W. Abbott showed Noctua glareosa and Euholia cervinaria from Sutton
Coldfield. Mr. R. C. Bradley showed Sciara thom^ce from Cannock Chase.
Mr. W. G. Blatch read a paper on the Coleoptera he had collected, during
1890, in the Church Stretton district; he showed ninety species, all of
which were rare and interesting.
January 19th. — On this date the first annual Conversazione of the
Society was held in the Library Hall at the Medical Institute. Over one
hundred friends were present, and an instructive and pleasant evening was
spent. Among the exhibits may be mentioned the following : — Collection
of Midland Coleoptera in ten drawers, by Mr. W. G. Blatch ; also Hemiptera-
Heteroptera and Hymenoptera-Aculeata, by Mr. Blatch. Collection of
British Butterflies, by the Rev. C. F. Thornewill ; ten drawers of
Hemiptera-Homoptera, by Dr. P. B. Mason ; seven drawers of South
American butterflies, by Mr. G. H. Kenrick ; ten drawers of exotic butter-
flies, by Mr. G. T. Baker ; fen Lepidoptera and others, by the Rev. E. J,
Nurse ; coUectiou of Tipulidse in seven boxes, by Mr. R. C. Bradley ; and
SOCIETIES.
79
other exhibits by Messrs. G. W. Wyan, E. C. Tye, A. H. Martineau,
P. W. Abbott, J. W. Neville, and C. J. Wainwright.
February 2nd,— Annual Meeting.— Mv. W, C. Blatch, President, in the
chair. The Secretary read the Annual Report, which showed the Society
to be in a satisfactory position. The Treasurer presented his Financial
Statement, showing a slight balance in hand. Votes of thanks were
passed to the officers for their services during the past year, and the
following were elected for the ensuing year : — President, Mr. W. C.
Blatch ; Vice-President, the Rev. C. F. Thornewill ; Treasurer, Mr. R. C.
Bradley; Secretary, Mr. Colbran J. Wainwright; Librarian, Mr. A.
Johnson ; Auditors", Mr. H. Stone and Mr. A. S. Wainwright. Messrs.
P. W. Abbott and A. H. Martineau were elected as remaining members of
the Council— Colbran J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
[The Secretary Will be glad to hear from any entomologists in the
Midlands, not now members of the Society. The Society meets on the
first and third Monday in each month, at 8 p,m., at the Medical Institute,
Edmund Street, Birmingham.]
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—January 22nd, 1891. W. H. Tugwell, Vice-President, in the chair
Mr. J. C. Dacie, of Putney, was elected a member. Mr. South
exhibited specimens of what he thought to be a new species of Miana, the
examples which had been until lately in his cabinet as M. strigilis, Clerck.,
were taken with others in North Devon. Mr. South read notes relative to
his exhibit. Mr. Tugwell remarked that an examination of a larger
number of specimens would be necessary before coming to any conclusion
as to whether those now shown were a new species or only strongly
divergent forms of M. strigilis. Mr. J. A. Clark, a variety of Arctia caia,
L., in which almost all the white of the superior wings was replaced by
brown colour. Mr. Short, specimens of Polyommatus phlceas, L., approach-
ing the variety schmidtii, Gerh. Mr. Tugwell, Hepialus velleda, Hb., from
Paisley, showing considerable variation in colour and size. It was
mentioned that this species occurred at Darenth Wood and Folkestone,
Kent ; and at Sutton and Box Hill, Surrey. Mr. Tutt, specimens of
Miana received from Ireland, which he contended were intermediate
between M. strigilis and M.fasciuncula, and remarked that he and Mr. At-
more had that afternoon examined his series, consisting of one hundred
and seventy of the one species and eighty of the other ; and that they had
been unable to find a single typical point of difference between the two,
either in the stigma or the transverse lines ; and as to the dorsal tufts,
these were common to both species. In the discussion that followed,
Messrs. South, Tugwell, Adkiu, Fenn, Hall, and others took part. Mr,
Billups exhibited Sericomyia borealis, Ten., and the rarer species S. lap-
pona, L., Chilosia astracea, L., Arctophila nussitans, F., Eristalis utri-
carius, L., and Volucella bombylans, L., with very dark varieties of the
same, all taken in Aberdeenshire last season. A communication from the
President was read by the Secretary. The Treasurer submitted his balance-
sheet, showing a balance to the Society's credit of £71 17s. 9d. The
Secretary read the Council's report for 1890, from which it appeared that
32 members had been elected during the year, making a total membership
of 2'd2. The election of officers was next proceeded with, and resulted as
follows :— Mr. W. H. Tugwell, President; Mr. J. Jenner Weir, F.L.S.,
80 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
&c., Vice-President ; Mr. E. Step, Hon. Treasurer ; Mr. W. West, Hon.
Curator; Mr. D.J. Rice, Hon. Librarian ; Mr. H. W. Barlcer and Mr. D.
J. Puce, Hon. Secretaries; Messrs. R. Adliin, F.E.S., T. R. Billups,
F.E.S., C. A. Briggs, F.E.S., J. T. Carrington, F.L.S., C. Fenn, F.E.S.,
R. South, F.E.S., and J. W. Tutt, F.E.S., Council. The meeting closed
with votes of thanks to the various ofi&cers.
February ]^th, 1891. — W. H. Tugwell, President, in the chair.
Mr. R. Adkin exhibited Aplecta occulta^ L., bred during November and
December last from ova received from Forres in the previous August. The
specimens were all of a light form, the pink shade in the primaries being
strongly produced in many of them. Mr. Tugwell said there was a darker
shade of colour in the specimens shown than those obtained in the south.
Mr. Tugwell exhibited Melanlppe hastata, L., from Sussex and the Shet-
lands, to show the desirability of obtaining insects from various localities.
Mr. Nussey, bred specimens of Thecla pruniy L., and called attention to a
large specimen of the female which had emerged from the pupa without
antennae. Mr. W. H. McLachlan, Polii cJii, L., dark forms of Noctua
xanthographa, Fb., Agrotis lucernea, L., and Epunda nigral Haw.,
all taken at Aberdeen. Mr. Farrant, a richly coloured specimen of
Smerinthus tilicB, L., and an example of Epinephele hyperanthea, L.,
approaching var. arete, Miill. Mr. Auld, a coloured drawing of a pale
variety of Abraxas grossulariata, L. Mr. Billups, Tragus novm-cale-
doniccB, Moutrouze, Enicodes Jichtelii, Schr., and Cicindelidae, Caledonica
lanegera, Chan., and stated that the three species seemed to be exclusively
confined to New Caledonia; also two species of Hemiptera from the same
locality, Tectocorix banksii, Don., and Myctls symbolica, Don. ; and re-
marked that, unUke the Coleoptera, these two species had a very wide
range, the former having been taken in Java, Australia, Timor, the Celebes^
and Tonga, while the latter, in addition to the above-mentioned places, had
also been met with in the New Hebrides and Coram ; also a number of
miniature MoUusca obtained from drift collected by Mr. C. G. Barrett on
the Pembrokeshire coast, and read note relative thereto. — 11. W. Barker,
Hon. Sec.
REVIEWS.
The Lepidoptera of Suffolk. Compiled by E. N. Bloomfteld, M.A., F.E.S.
London: W. Wesley & Son. Colchester : W. H. Harwood, 1890.
This very useful annotated local list of Lepidoptera will be welcomed by
entomologists generally, but especially perhaps by those who are interested
in the distribution of Lepidoptera in this country.
The Honey Bee: its Natural History, Anatomy, and Physiology. By
T. W. Cowan, F.L.S., &c. London : Houlston & Sons. Fop. 8vo.
200 pp. 1890.
There are many excellent works on the Honey Bee, but it has been
reserved for the author of the present little book to produce a work which
will probably prove as indispensable to the student as it certainly will be
useful to everyone who is interested in Hive Bees. Although treated in a
concise manner, all phases of the subject are thoroughly dealt with. Nu-
merous well-executed illustrations, and a list of 172 works consulted and
referred to in the text, add considerably to the value of the book.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] APRIL. 1891. [No. 335.
ON THE DISTRIBUTION IN EASTERN ASIA OF CERTAIN
SPECIES OF LEPIDOPTERA OCCURRING IN BRITAIN.
By Richaed South.
In drawing up the accompanying table of distribution I am
indebted for much of my information to the following papers,
and I would refer the reader to these if he desires further
acquaintance with the subject : —
" On the Butterflies of Amurland, North China, and Japan."
ByH. J. Elwes (Proc. Zool. Soc. 1881).
" On Butterflies from Japan." By A. G. Butler (Proc. Zool.
Soc. 1881).
" Catalogue of the Lepidoptera of Japan." By H. Pryer
(Trans. Asiatic Soc. of Japan, vols. xi. xii.).
" On the Lepidoptera of Japan and Corea." By J. H. Leech
(Proc. Zool. Soc. 1887, 1888, and 1889).
**A Catalogue of the Lepidoptera of Sikkim." By H. J.
Elwes (Trans. Ent. Soc. 1888).
" On a Collection of Lepidoptera from Kiukiang." By J. H.
Leech (Trans. Ent. Soc. 1889.)
Table showing the distribution in Eastern Asia of some British
Species of Rhopalocera.
Amur.
N.W. India.
China.
Corea.
Japa:
Papilionid^
Papilio machaon
PlERID^E
+
+
+
+
+
Aporia cratfegi
Pieris brassicse
+
+
+
+
.+
„ rapae
+
+
+
+
,, napi
,, daplidice
Euchloe cardamines
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
Leucophasia sinapis
+
+
+
NTOM. — APRIL, 1891.
H
82
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Amur.
N.W.India.
China.
Corea.
Japan.
Rhodocera rhamni
+
+
+
+
+
Colias hyale
+
+
+
+
+
Nymphatjd^
Argynnis selene
+
„ latona
+
+
+
„ aglaia
+
+
+
+
+
„ adippe
+
+ ?
+
+
+
„ paphia
+
+
+
+
Meliteea aurinia
+
+
„ athalia
+
+
+
Vanessa c-album
+
+
4-
+
+
„ urticse
+
+
+
4-
io
+
+
+
„ antiopa
+
+
+
+
„ cardui
+
+
+
+
+
Limenitis sibylla
+
+
+
Apaturh)^
Apatura iris
+
+
Satyeid^
Satyrus semeie
+
Epinephele hyperanthes
+
+
+?
Ltc^enid^
Thecla w-album
+
+
pruni
+
„ rubi
+
+?
Polyommatus phlceas
+
+
+
+
Lycaena bcetica
+
+
+
„ argiades
+
+
+
+
„ aegon
+
+
+
„ astrarche
+
+
„ icarus
+ ?
+ ?
„ argiolus
+
+
+
+
,, semiargus
+
„ minima
+
,, arion
+
Hesperiid^
Syrichthus malvae
+
Nisoniades tages
+
Hesperia lineola
+
„ sylvanus
+
+
+
+
„ comma
+
+
Carterocephalus palsemon
+
Papilio machaon, Linn. — Mr. Elwes says : — " The forms of
P, machaon found in N.E. Asia seem to be similar to the European
ones, though usually larger. In Kamtschatka, according to
Menetries, the variety which he calls asiatica differs
generally in the broader black band and markings, which, how-
ever, vary extremely, and gradually increase until in the var.
hippocrates (which I have only seen from China and Japan)
the yellow is half obliterated by the black markings."
There are several broods in each year, the first batch of
imagines appearing in March and April. From ova deposited
by a typical female captured at Nagasaki, Japan, in the last-
named month, Mr. Leech bred, in the following June, a fine
series of vars. asiatica and ]iippoc rates ; "some specimens had
the usual proportion of black and yellow, others were of a much
deeper yellow than the ordinary type, and some were nearly all
ON CERTAIN BRITISH LEPIDOPTERA IN EASTERN ASIA. 8-1
black, being by far the most pronounced var. hippocmtes I have
yet seen. Every specimen was much larger than the parent."
An almost tail-less form occurs in Kashmir.
PiERis BRAssiCiE, Liuu. — So far this species does not seem to
have been received from either China or Japan. The Indian
examples do not differ materially from European specimens,
except that those taken at high elevations (11,000—17,000 ft.)
are smaller.
PiERis RAP^, Linn. —Common in Japan, Corea, and N. China,
where it is often abundant in market gardens and on other
cultivated ground, as in England. A local form of this species,
known as crucivora, has the fore wings of the female thickly
sprinkled with grey-brown scales, especially at the base ; in the
male the second spot of the under side of the fore wing is repro-
duced more or less distinctly on the upper surface. This form
has been considered as a local race of P. hrassicce, but Mr. Leech
has shown that it is connected by intermediate forms with
typical P. rapcBj which also occur in the same localities ; and
he adds : — " Mr. H. Pryer informs me that the larvae, which
feed on the cultivated Cruciferae, do not differ from the typical
forms, nor does the pupa."
PiERis NAPi, Linn. — Extremely variable : occurs all over
Japan and Corea, and has been received by Mr. Leech from
several localities in N.W. China. Although typical napi are by
no means uncommon, most of the specimens from East Asia
are of the form melete^ Men. Mr. Leech says of it : — " In
Central and Northern Japan napi seems to be the spring form,
and there are specimens in Mr. Fenton's collection in no way
separable from British examples, and I have all the intermediate
forms between napi and melete in my own collection. In
Southern Japan the larger and darker forms predominate, and
there is less difference between the broods." Besides other
named forms of this species occurring in East Asia is one
analogous to bryonies from Europe ; this has been named aglaope
by Motschler, who obtained specimens from Japan.
Rhodocera rhamni. — Various forms (?) of this species are
found in East Asia, and these are referred to by Mr. Elwes as
follows : — " The European form E. rhamni was found in the
Burisja Mountains by Radde, and, according to Bremer, at
Pekin. The form called E. aspasia occurs in various parts of
the Amur region, and is usually known by its rather smaller size
and paler colour, and, according to Menetries, may be certainly
distinguished by the shape and venation of the wings, though I
am unable to follow the distinctions he draws in the specimens
before me. The Japanese form is like the one described by
h3
84 ' THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Felder as R, acuminata, which he says differs in its larger size,
brighter colour, more distinct discal spots, and in having the
apex of the fore wing more produced. Chinese specimens, in
Dr. Staudinger's collection, are more like JR. aspasia ; and
Bremer states that a Chinese specimen he examined agrees with
jR. rhamni ; so that the differences are evidently not constant.
The Himalayan form, distinguished as R. nipalensis, is known
by its bright colour, and by the wings having the marginal
spots more conspicuous than usual in R. rhamni, which, how-
ever, it resembles more in colour and shape than it does R.
aspasia,^'
R, maxima, Butl., is a large deeper-coloured insect from
China.
Mr. Leech, in his remarks on R. rhamni, says : — " Occurs all
over Japan and Corea. The rhamni (maxima) form occurs at
low elevations in Central Japan. I only took acuminata on the
mountains ; from Gensan I have a specimen of true rhamni, and
I have received from Ningpo two specimens which resemble
acuminata in the shape of the wing, and rhamni var. farinosa
in colour. There can be little doubt that these refer to one
species, but I can form no opinion with any certainty until I
receive larger series."
CoLiAS HYALE. — Sevcral forms of this species have been
named and described as distinct. Concerning some of these
so-called species, Mr. Leech gives his observations whilst at
Nagahama : — " I found," he says, " the forms described as polio-
graphus, simoda, suhaurata, and elwesii all together ; and of six
pairs which I took in copula, and kept separately labelled, only
two pairs were of the same form, viz., simoda ; the remainder
were as follows : — Two cases of simoda ^ and elwesii 5 ; one
case of suhaurata ^ and elwesii 2 ; one case of simoda S' and
poliographus ? . The inference is that they belong to the same
species."
Aegynnis adippe, Linn. — A very variable species. The forms
known as chlorodippe, cleodoxa, and cleodippe occur, and three
other varieties from Japan and China have been considered
distinct, and named respectively pallescens, vorax, and locuples.
Argynnis paphia, Linn. — The Japanese form described as
paphiodes by Mr. Butler is rather larger and darker than
European paphia, but it cannot be considered specifically
distinct. Mr. Leech says that female specimens from Japan
and Corea are intermediate between typical paphia and var.
valesina, and that the specimens from Kiukiang, China, are
rather larger than those from Europe, the females being all of
the valesina form ; but some are darker than others. Both
forms of the female occur at Chang-Yang, Central China,
ON CERTAIN BRITISH LEPIDOPTEHA IN EASTERN ASIA. 85
MELiTiEA AURiNiA, Rott. — Accoi'ding to Mr. Leech, the Corean
specimens are larger and paler than European examples. Mr.
Elwes says that the species is rare in Amurland.
Melit^a athalia, Rott. — Mr. Elwes writes : — " The forms of
M. athalia, found in Eastern Asia, are somewhat different from
the European ones ; but the Japanese M, niphona is like those
from Askold. The variety orientalis from the Ussuri differs, in
the female sex, in having whitish instead of yellowish spots
beneath." The Corean specimens are stated, by Mr. Leech, to
be usually paler than Japanese, but he adds : — " This species is so
variable that it is impossible to form a correct opinion concerning
it, without longer series than at present exist in this country."
Vanessa urtic^, Linn. — This species appears to be repre-
sented in Eastern Asia by certain local forms, some of which are
more distinctly characterised than others. The Japanese V. con-
nexa, Butl. {vide fig., Entom. xxii. pi. viii. fig. 3), is a very hand-
some form. Mr. Leech met with it about half-way up the volcano
near Hakodate, and he is inclined to believe that it does not occur
in any other part of Japan. The Kaschmir form is usually larger
than the type, and the colour is duller in tone and more suffused.
From N. W. China, Mr. Leech has a very large form, which is
exceedingly bright in coloration, and the usual yellow spots on
the costa of fore wing are suffused with tawny.
Apatura IRIS, Linn. — This species appears to be very common
in some parts of China. In Thibet a brown form occurs, to which
M. Oberthiir has given the varietal name of hieti.
PoLYOMMATus PHLCEAS, Linn. — The late Mr. Henry Pryer,
writing of this species, says that in Japan it is very susceptible
to temperature, and is subject to great variation in the matter of
size, colour, and markings. He adds : — ** I have specimens
measuring from 1 to 1 J inch. Some specimens are almost black,
others are very light, and some have a row of blue spots on the
hind wing. I have taken the dark forms in Boshiu, and the light
ones about Yokohama, both in the month of November. As a
general rule, with this and many other species, the hotter the
weather the darker and larger the specimens ; and Boshiu is
decidedly warmer than Yokohama."
A dark form of the species known as timeuSy Cram., is of
common occurrence throughout Eastern Asia, and is very similar,
if not exactly identical, with the form with which British entomo-
logists are famihar as var. eleiis. Fab. The other forms, some of
which have been described as species, are also represented in
Europe.
Lyc^na bcetica, Linn. — A common species in many parts of
India, China, and Japan. It varies in size and in depth of
colour.
86 ttlE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Lyc^na astearche. — Does not exhibit any material difference
from European examples.
The Heterocera will be considered in a future paper.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S., F.L.S.
(Continued from p. 60.)
V. — The Chemical Aspect (continued),
G.
In this subsection we have to consider the case of chestnut, a
colour sufficiently interesting,* but one which need not detain us
for an unduly long time.
My readers are already familiar with the broad facts as to this
colour, viz., that it is a close analogue of yellow, and, like it, has
been developed on or in, but not from, white wings, and also in
one or two cases in wings of another " colour " than white ; that
it also, like yellow, belongs to the class of soluble, as distinguished
from alterable, pigments ; and that in exceptional cases it may also
— as yellow so frequently does — develop into a red. Furthermore,
we are able to distinguish with chestnut, as with yellow, pro-
gressive stages in stability (insolubility) ; and, as apparently a
yet closer analogy, we find it possible that the chestnut pigment
may advance to a very high stage of brilliancy, while yet remain-
ing in the primeval stage as to solubilit}'. This fact is exemplified
by F. urticce, and Polyommatus phloeas and virgaurea — instances
that may, perhaps, be compared with E. cardamines among the
yellows. And, in saying this, I should like to take the opportu-
nity of clearing up a passage that I fear is reprehensibly ambiguous,
and very liable to misinterpretation, in the foregoing subsection.
In classifying the yellows (Entom. xxiv. p. 9), I divided them into
three classes, according to their solubility or otherwise, and I placed
E, cardamines in the first class, as possessing a very soluble pig-
ment. So far, this is all right ; but I fear that my subsequent
remarks may very well be interpreted as implying that E. carda-
mines represented the initial stage of colouring — a stage beyond
which the yellow species in classes 2 and 3 have considerably
advanced. Now, seeing that cardamines is far more brilliantly
coloured than many of the species in these two later classes, such
a statement must seem very incongruous. But I ought to have
more strongly emphasised the fact tliat while in so many yellow
species an advance in depth of colour seems to go pari passu
with a decreasing solubility, — this being the contention that my
* And the more so since — to quote Wallace — " reddish or yellowish brown is,
perhaps, the commonest colour among butterflies " (' Troi^ical Nature,' p. 190).
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 87
remarks in part of the last subsection were intended especially
to enforce, — yet in certain instances, as in cardatnines, a remark-
able brilliancy of colour has been attained without any decrease
in solubility.* But it should be noted, as of especial interest,
that this cardamines colour is, as it were, developed in a collateral
line, and not in the direct line of ascent to the stable oranges and
yellows.f I merely note this now, since it will be necessary to
recur to the subject.
Furthermore, it is necessary for me to retract my remarks on
brown, as being distinct from chestnut. It will be remembered
that I designated as chestnut all those brownish species that proved
amenable to my reagents, and separated off as a distinct class,
under the name of brown, all those that were unaffected. But I
have since concluded that this is hardly justifiable ; at any rate, it
is both illogical and inconsistent, so long as we recognise among
the analogous yellows three stages, of which one is perfectly
indifferent to all my reagents. Whatever mode of treatment we
adopt in dealing with yellow, we must adopt the same with
regard to chestnut; and, accordingly, I now propose to restore
the eliminated brown species to the class of chestnuts, recognising
in chestnut several different stages exactly as in yellow. And, in
fact, so closely similar is the behaviour of chestnut to that of
yellow, that a very large portion of the remarks made on yellow 1
are almost equally applicable, mutatis mutandis, to this colour. I
shall, therefore, to avoid needless repetition, refer the reader
back to subsection F for the bearing of the phenomena of
chestnut on natural, selection and coloric evolution.
The main headings, to which I wish to direct attention in this
present subsection, are the following : —
1. — That in chestnut, as in yellow, there is reason to suppose
that the pigment has been developed on an — usually white —
wing ; that this pigment was at first of a very soluble nature, but
in process of time becomes increasingly stable. That we may
* An exactly parallel case is found in the Delias species, already referred to.
See also following footnote.
t Since the preceding subsection (F)— on yellow and red— was written, I have
been a good deal exercised in my mind about these species of Euchloe. At one time
it appeared to me that I had been wrong in assuming that cardamines orange had
been developed via pale yellow at all, and that rather it was a distinct and
independent development altogether. This view would, of course, entirely evade
the necessity of supposing that a yellow had progressed into so brilliant an orange,
while still remaining so soluble ; and I was inclined further to support this by
arguing from the chestnut species, such as L. phloeas, &c. But further reflection
and experiment have resulted in bringing me back to my original vie^ys. For, on
examining the species E. eupheno (with its orange tips — identical with those of
cardamines — on a brimstone-yellow background), I feel almost convinced that the
orange here is a development from the yellow. Unfortunately, I have been unsuc-
cessful in my attempts to obtain specimens for experiment ; but, in the very
analogous Gonoptcryx cleopatra, I find that the orange is rapidly converted into the
ground colour of yellow, and then the w}iole yellow dissolves, leaving a whitish wing.
This is exactly analogous to Delias.
I Antea, pp. 11, 12, 13.
88
THE ENTOMOLOGlSt.
thus distinguish several (say three) different stages or planes in
chestnut also, and that in the highest (most stahle), it is at
present not possible to determine certainly whether we are
dealing with a " physical," or with a very stable, pigment colour.
And, finally, that in chestnut, also, a very marked advance in
brilliancy of colour may take place without a concomitant increase
in stability (i. e., decrease in solubility). This latter, as already
stated, I consider to be of the nature of a collateral advance, not
a stage in the main-stream of coloric evolution.
2. — That chestnut, as well as yellow, may evolve into a red.
On the other hand, several differences must be noted : —
1. That the concomitance of increased brilliancy, or depth of
colour with increased stability (insolubility), is by no means so
clear (if, indeed, it can be legitimately maintained at all) in
chestnut as in yellow; and, on the other hand, the "collateral"
brilliant, but soluble, colours appear far more common in
chestnut than in yellow.
2. — That the advance to red, which is so common among
yellows, is very rare among chestnuts ; though ivhy this should
be so — considering, especially, how brilliant a colour has been
evolved in the case of atalanta — is by no means clear.
Let us now arrange the various chestnut* species in three
divisions, corresponding with those of yellow : —
3. Unaffected.
2. Intermediate ;
somewhat affected.
1a. Brilliant;
but soluble easily.
1. Soluble easily.
Orgyia antiqua
Melitcea athalia
Vanessa io
Vanessa cardui
Bombyx quercus
Epinephele tithonus
V. antiopa
Argynnis paphia
OrtJiosia macilenta
Satyrus viegcera
V. urticce
A. selene
Mamestra oleracea
Athyma penus
Polyommatus
Canonympha
Cidaria suff'umata
and perhaps
phlceas
pamphilus
Coremia ferrugata
E. ianira
P. virgaurea
Hesperia sylvanus
C. munitata
Danais chrysippus
Rumia cratcegata
D. hegesippus
Fhalera bucephala
and perhaps
Limenitis sibylla
t
t
Several interesting points are brought out by this tabulation.
First of all, it is to be noted that, with one doubtful exception,
no Rhopalocera are to be found in No. 3 column, and no Heterocera
in the others. Whether this distinction will hold good when
larger numbers of species come to be examined, it is, of course,
as yet, impossible to say. And in this connection we must note,
also, another point, viz., that among the yellows several of the
species placed in the " unaffected " column were known (by other
reactions or by their relationships) to be certainly pigmented
* See Entom. xxiii. pp. 221 and 250.
f Note that alkalis seem considerably more efficacious, on the whole, than
acids in dissolving chestnut. See Entom. xxiii., p. 250.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 89
species ; but, unfortunately, we have no such clue to the chestnut
species in column 8, and, in fact, are entirely in the dark about
them. It is unnecessary to add any details here about these
" unaffected " chestnut species, since such have already been
given.*
In the next place, this tabular arrangement emphasises the
remark made, in a previous paragraph, that among the chestnuts
increasing stability by no means connoted increased brilliancy,
for the species in column 2 can scarcely be considered more
brilliant or deep coloured than those in column 1.
The species noted in column 2 call for no individual remark,
and we may, therefore, pass on to briefly consider those in
column 1 A. The two species, P. phloeas and P. virgaurea, appear
to me to be the most exact analogues of E. cardamines, since in
both cases, alike, the pigment has acquired an intense brilliancy,
and in both it is completely soluble, leaving a pure white wing ;
and just as this behaviour of cardamines may be compared with
the reaction of the similarly soluble pale yellow of, e.g,, species
of Terias, so, too, we may compare the behaviour of P. phloeas
and P. virgaurea with that of the pale brown displayed by
Coenonympha pamphilus — a brown that is equally soluble, and
equally leaves a pure white wing. The point which I wish to
make in drawing this comparison is that, just as we may consider
that a pale yellow developed into the brilliant orange of
cardamines, without any loss of solubility, so also a pale soluble
brown, such as that of C. pamphilus, was the precursor of the
brilliant colour of P. virgaurea.
Turn we now to the species of Vanessa, which form a specially
interesting and important group. First, as to F. urticce : this is a
very important species, as forming a (coloric) link between so
many other species. The chestnut colour of F. urticce is readily
soluble, and can be seen oozing out and rising in dark vortices in
the solvent. t Now exactly the same result is observed in V. antiopa
and io. There can be no possible doubt that the same pigment
is present in all these three species. But — and here we come to
a very interesting point — whereas, in urticce, a white is produced,
in the other two species we find black. This puzzled me a good
deal in the early days of my experiments, but the explanation, of
course, is really very simple ; indeed, it was the study of these
species that first taught me that chestnut (and by inference,
yellow t) is not evolved from, but on or in, white ; that its origin is,
therefore, genetically independent of white. This obviously clears
up the whole matter at once. The reason why the wings of io and
antiopa "are transformed from chestnut to black" by my reagents,
* Entom. xxiii. p. 221.
t I can recommend this as a singularly pretty experiment to any who are
interested in observing such things.
J I have, as yet, met with no yellow similarly evolved on a black wing ; but I
live in hope.
90 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
is simply that the ground colour of the wings is black, on which
ground colour the chestnut has been evolved by the same pro-
cesses which produced a similar chestnut on the whitish wing of
urticcB.
In another respect, also, I consider urticre an important link,
for the colour — in superficial appearance — is, as it were, interme-
diate between such dull colours as those of S. megcera, &c., on
the one hand, and the brilliant copper of the Lycsenidse, on the
other. Some hesitation might be felt in classing together such,
apparently, very different colours as those of P. virgaurea,
S. megcera, or C, pamphilus ; but very little violence to our
prejudices is done by classing together such colours as those of
virgaurea and urticce ; and from urticce we have coloric transitions,
by easy stages, through Argynnis, Melitcea, and Epinephele, down
to the palest and dullest of colours. Moreover, the contrast of
virgaurea and pamphilus is no more than that of cardamines or
C. edusa and Abraxas grossulariata, or the species of Terias.
The remaining species (column 1) call, I think, for no further
remark at present. I will merely add that the species of Danais
are so richly endowed with the chestnut pigment, that one hour
is insufficient time for the total solution thereof.
Now, as to the evolution of red from chestnut. My readers
are already pretty well aware of the grounds for holding that
atalanta red has not been evolved — as almost all other reds —
from yellow, but is descended from the chestnut of cardui. The
proofs are, I think, very conclusive ; indeed, we have a concursus
of both entomological and chemical evidence.
The red does not — like all other reds— instantly turn yellow,
but becomes of a " cardui-hrown " ; there is no reversion ; but
the pigment dissolves, just as does the chestnut of the other
Vanessa species. Moreover, from the entomological side, atalanta
and cardui are exceedingly closely allied — as the most cursory
inspection will show ; there is an intermediate Asiatic species,
V. indica, marked like atalanta, but ivith the scarlet band replaced
by one of cardui-brown ; and, lastly, in cardui itself we find a
delicate pink colour developed on the under surface. It seems
to me, therefore, very clear that atalanta-red is a derivative
of chestnut, and in this fact we have — as already pointed out — a
very strong proof of the intimate relationship in constitution between
the two pigments, chestnut and yellow. But why so conspicuous
and presumably serviceable colour as red, which is so constantl}^
developed by yellow species, has been so rarely developed by the
far more numerous chestnuts, is a puzzling problem that I must
confess myself totally unable to even conjecturally solve.* Some-
* One experiment with atalanta has not yet been recorded. I treated several
wings with a strong solution of silver nitrate. The effect was to change the red of
atalanta into a very deep chocolate. It was this that induced me to experiment on
so many species — but unsuccessfully — with a (probably weaker) solution of this
reagent. See Entom. xxiii. p. 185.
ENTOMOLOGY OF THE PORTSMOUTH DISTRICT. 9l
thing comparable with the reaction of atalanta-red is, perhaps,
found in the behaviour of the reddish-marked species, Hyria
auroraria and Acidalia ruhricata* It is exceedingly interesting
that these belong to the Geometrse, among which, as I have
already pointed out,t red seems to be so exceedingly rare.t
(To be continued.)
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ENTOMOLOGY OF THE
PORTSMOUTH DISTRICT.
By W. T. Pearce.
RHOPALOCEEA.
In my former paper (Entom. xxiii. 227), by some means I
omitted Gonopteryx rhamni. The Pieridse, therefore, should
be credited with 9 species ; and the total number of Rhopalocera
for the district, 47 species.
Gonopteryx rhamni. — Common in woods north of Portsdown Hill ;
sparingly on Portsdown Hill. I have seen it on the ramparts at Gosport,
and in the Stoke Road; it occurs sparingly in Alder Marsh; and is
common at Grange and Rowner. On Portsea Island, Mr. H. Moncreaff
tells me it occurs at Tipnor; and no doubt it occurs at Fareham, a district
I have not yet worked.
The former possessor of my copy of Stainton's 'Manual' notes Shed-
field, a village near Botley, as a locality for the following species : — Colias
edusa and C. hyale, Satyrus seniele, Limenitis sibylla, Vanessa cardui,
Argynnis paphia, MelitcBa aurinia [artemis], Thecla betulcBf Lyccena agon,
Syrichthus malvm (alveolus), Nisoniades tages.
HETEROCERA.
SPHINGES.
In dealing with this group, I shall confine myself more closely
to the district proper than I did with the butterflies. From an
area of about 28 square miles, a large proportion of which is
water, there are recorded no less than 18 species, including such
rarities as Deilephila livornica, Chocrocampa celerio and C. nerii.
To these we must add 5 species, which occur within easy distance
of Portsmouth ; thus making a total of 23 species for the district,
rather more than half of our British species.
Sphingid^.
Acherontia atrojios. — This species is to be found here in one or more
stages nearly every year, and sometimes in numbers. In 1885 over 200
* See Entom. xxiii. p. 249. I find it noted in my records of experiments that
on washing this species [ruhricata) a "faintest possible pinkish tinge " was restored.
t See antea, p. 38.
\ Quite recently I have found another species, viz., Anartia amalthea, which
is marked with scarlet, identical in its behaviour with the scarlet of atalanta. The
red of Ueliconhis aviary His is intermediate between the two classes of red.
92 TflE ENTOMOLOGiSf.
larvsB and pupae were obtained by Mr. R. Stent and myself from the
potato diggers at Portsmouth and Gosport. Several imagines were also
taken.
Sphinx convolvuli. — Occurs throughout the district, but is rarely found
in any great numbers. In 1885 it appeared rather freely, and several
specimens, captured at Portsmouth, came under my notice. In one case
a neighbour sent for me, as there was something she was very much afraid
of on her door-mat. I was not at home, but my sister went, and secured a
slightly worn female of this species.
S. ligustri. — Common throughout the district. On one occasion I
secured 16 full-fed larvae at Cosham.
Dellephila livornica. — One at jasmine blossom, by Mr. T. H. Larcora, in
his garden at Gosport, July 18th, 1884. This specimen was recorded as
D. lineata by myself (Entom. xvii. 234), and is now in the collection of the
Rev. A. C. Sladen, of Newbury, Berks.
Choerocampa nerii. — In August, 1885, at Portchester, a milkman,
named Gates, whilst going his rounds, found a larva of this species on the
periwinkle {Vinca sp.). He picked the stem on which it was resting, and,
after carrying it some distance in his button-hole, gave it to a beginner,
named Russell, who was successful in rearing the imago. Messrs. Moore
and King, to whom I am indebted for this information, say the specimen is
a very fine one.
C. celerio. — Three specimens at Gosport : one taken by Mr. Larcom in
his garden, September 15th, 1879, recorded, Entom. xv. 190, and now, I
believe, in the collection of the former editor of the ' Entomologist,' Mr.
Carrington ; one, found in the Royal Academy, is in the collection of Mr.
Spriggs; and Mr. Lacey has one which was found by Mr. Loney on his
vine in Stoke Road. Some years ago, Mr. Moncreaff found a larva of this
species near a vine at Southsea, but was not successful in rearing it.
C. porcellus. — Fairly common at Gosport and in Portsea Island. Is
probably to be found throughout the district.
C. elpenor. — Gosport. Not common.
Smerinthiis ocellatus. — Fairly common at Gosport (Mr. Larcom took
14 larvae in one season) and in Portsea Island.
S. populi. — Probably the commonest Sphin:; in the district. It is very
numerous some seasons on the street-lamps ; at Gosport I have seen as
many as three on one lamp.
S. tilicB.— Scarce: 1 larva at Fureham in 1887 [Mr. W. King); 7 larvae
at Portsmouth, 1889 [Mr. Jones and Mr. Careless). About ten years ago I
was told of a capture on a street-lamp at Gosport ; but neither Mr. Larcom
nor myself have met with the species.
Macroglossa stellatarum.- Common at the flowers of the viper's-bugloss
on Portsdown Hill; Cumberland Fort, Portsea Island. Mr. Stent captured
a specimen indoors at Portsea, it having probably been attracted by bright-
coloured wall-paper. I once found a specimen sunning itself on a gate at
Gosport; but Mr. Larcom and myself have not found it very numerous here.
M. fuciformis. — Not common. Stakes Wood; Purbrook Common;
Grange.
M. bombyliformis. — Two, Stakes Wood, Mr. Larcom, 1886.
SESIIDiE.
Sesia tipuliformis. — Common among currant bushes.
S. asiliformis.— One, Scratch-face Lane, 1888 (W. T. P.j.
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. 93
S. myopiformis. — *' Used to be common at Copnor," Portsea Island
(Mr. J. J. Moore).
S. culiciformis. — One, by a beginner, in Stakes Wood, 1887 ; now in
ray collection.
S. ichneumoniformis. — Portsdown Hill. Not common.
S. chrysidiformis. — Bred from roots of dock at Southsea, 1885 (Mr. H.
Moucreaff).
Zyg^nid^.
Ino statices. — Some years common in a meadow at Purbrook.
Zygmna trifolii. — In the same locality as /. statices, and, like it, rather
uncertain in its appearance, but is usually the commoner of the two. It
also occurs near Denmead (Mr. King). Var. confluens. — Occasionally at
Purbrook.
Z. JilipendulcB. — Common. Portsdown Hill ; Cosham ; Eastney ;
Browndown.
101, Mayfield Road, Seafield, Gosport, March 12, 1891.
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF
MIDDLESEX.
Compiled by T. D. A. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 69).
The following sources of information are additional to those
already given: —
(18.) F. C. Pratt. A MS. list of Coleoptera, taken mostly in
South Kensington.
(19.) R. South. A MS. list of Middlesex Pterophorid^.
(20.) Alfred Sich. A MS. list of Lepidoptera, taken at
Chiswick.
(21.) A. H. Shepherd. A MS. list of Lepidoptera, taken in
the N. and N.W. districts of London, 1865 to 1890.
(22.) F. A. Walker. A list of the insects of Hampstead, in
' Hampstead Hill/ by J. Logan Lobley, 1889.
Lepidoptera.
Pterophorida,
This family, as here constituted, includes as subfanailies
Chrysocoridince (Chrysocori/s) ^ Pteropliorince {Pterophorus and
allies), and Alucitince (Alucita =^ Orneodes) . The nomenclature
of the group has been much altered of late, but I have preferred
to follow the older arrangement in the present paper, not feeling
competent to decide how far the proposed changes should be
adopted. Most of what is known about the plume-moths of
Middlesex is from the investigations of Mr. South.
Cnoemidophorus rhododactylus, Fb., " not uncommon between
1874 and 1878 at several places near Mill Hill Station. I have
94 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
not met with the species lately in that locality. A specimen was
once taken on a gas lamp at Finchley Station, G.N.E., by Mr.
E G. Meek " (South). See also Entom. 1878, p. 253.
Platyptilia gonodactyla, Schiif., Dalston (Prout) ; Mill Hill,
Harrow (South). P. hertrami^ EossL, near Mill Hill Station
(South). See also Entom. 1885, p. 97.
Amblyptilia acanthodactylay Hb., Chiswick, two larvae on wild
geranium (Alfred Sich),
Mimcsseoptilus hipunctidactylus^ Haw., often common at Mill
Hill; occurs among the herbage in the hedgerows bordering
meadows (South). M. pterodactylus, L., between Pinner and
Rickmansworth (South).
CEdematophorus lithodactylus, Tr., Isle worth (Miss A. S.
Fenn, fide F. G. Fenn) ; Bedford Park, on the railway-bank
(CklL). This species must be rare or absent in the northern
part of the county, as Mr. South remarks that he has not met
with it.
Pterophorus monodactylus , L., Hampstead, Kingsbury, Har-
row, Mill Hill, very common (South).
Aciptilia pentadactyla, L., in the same localities as P. mono-
dactylus (South) ; Bedford Park (Fenn); Isleworth (Fenn) ; Dalston
(Prout); Finchley (Shepherd) ; KsLre^eld, common (Wall). In
Entom. 1883, p. 27, Mr. South mentions only Calystegia sepium
as the food-plant of this species. At Beckenham, in Kent,
I used to find the larvae abundantly on Convolvulus afvensis, v/hich
is perhaps the more usual food-plant in the London district.
Alucita hexadactyla, L., Harefield, common (Wall) ; Mill Hill
(South) ; Tufnell Park (Shepherd). Mr. South writes (in litt.y
Feb., 1891) : — " Aciptilia galactodactyla, Hb., ought most cer-
tainly to occur in the county, but so far I have not met the
species in any stage." A. galactodactyla has been recorded from
Kent and Surrey, and probably some other of the bordering
counties.
COLEOPTERA.
StaphylinidcBy subfam. Aleocharince.
Autalia rivularis, Grav., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.).
Falagria sidcata, Payk., South Kensington (Pratt) ; Blooms -
bury (Brit. Mus.). F. obscura, Grav., South Kensington (Pratt).
Silusa rubiginosa, Er., Han well, on bark of elm trees (Fowler).
Ocalea latipennis var. rivularis, Mill., near Hammersmith
(Champion).
Euryusa laticolliSy Heer, Highgate (Foivler),
Microglossa suturalis, Sahl., Acton (Pratt).
Aleochara ruficornis, Grav., Hampstead (Fowler). A.fuscijjes,
Grav., near Pinner (Legros) ; South Kensington (Pratt) ; Blooms-
bury (Brit. Mus.). A. 7norion Grav., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.).
A. lanuginosa, Grav., Neasden (Legros) ; South Kensington
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. 95
(Pratt) ; Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.). A. rnoesta, Grav., Blooms-
bury {Brit. Mas.). A. nitiday Grav., South Kensington (Pratt) ;
Bloomsbury (Brit Mus.).
Myrmedonia humeralis, Grav., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.).
Astilhus canaliculatus. Fab., Bloomsbury {Brit Mus.).
Ily abates nigricollis, Payk., Notting Hill, olim (F'owler).
Calodera nigrita, Mann., Hampstead (Foivler). C. rubens^ Er.,
Cowley, near Uxbridge (Fowler). . C. umbrosa^ Er., Bloomsbury
(Brit. Mus.).
Alianta incana, Er., Notting Hill, olim (Fowler).
Chilopora longitarsis, Er., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.).
Tachyusa concolor, Er., Bloomsbury [Brit. Mus.).
Oxypoda sp>ectabilis, Mark., Highgate (Fowler). 0. vittata^
Mark., South Kensington (Pratt). 0. lentula, Er., Notting Hill
(Fowler). 0. pectita. Sharp, Hammersmith (Fowler). 0.
umbrata, Gyll. = brevicornisy Steph., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.),
0. mutata, Sharp, Colney Hatch (Fowler). 0. alternans, Grav.,
Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.). 0. recondita, Kr., Highgate (Fowler),
0. hoemorrhoay Sahl., South Kensington (Pratt) ; Bloomsbury
(Brit. Mus.). 0. (amoena var. ?) waterhousei, Eye, Hampstead
(Waterhouse). O. annularisy Sahl., Hampstead and Highgate
(Fowler). 0, tarda. Sharp, South Kensington (Pratt),
Homalota : As this genus is so inconveniently large, I divide
our species provisionally into sections or groups as seems con-
venient, mainly after Canon Fowler's arrangement.*
a. Languidce.
Homalota languida, Er., Hammersmith Marshes (Fowler).
d. Fallaces.
H.fallax, Kr., Notting Hill (Fowler),
e. Elongatulce.
H, luridipennis, Mann., Bloomsbury (Brit, Mus.). H. hygro-
toporay Kr., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mas.). H. elongatida, Grav.,
Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.),
f. Glossolce.
H. gregaria, Er., Bloomsbury (Brit, Mus.).
g. Pagance.
H. vestita, Grav., South Kensington (Pratt). H. sylvicola,
Fusa., Highgate (Fowler). H. vicina, Steph., Bloomsbury (Brit.
Mus.). H. paganay Er., Bloomsbury [Brit. Mus.).
* It is rather an innovation to give plural names to the sections, and Canon
Fowler, to whom I sent a copy of the list of species and section-names, writes,' ■ .
must confess that I do not Uke the plan at first sight." But the same method has
been long in use in Botany, &c., and I believe is a very advantageous one.
90 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
T). '
la,
sa,
i. Occulta,
H. occulta, Er., Bloomsbury (Brit, Mus.), H. picipes, Thorns.,
Bloomsbury {Brit, Mus,), H, debilis, Er., Notting Hill (Fowler),
1. Gemince,
H, gemina, Er., Hammersmith Marshes (Fowler),
m. Viles.
H, analis, Grav., South Kensington (Pratt) ; Bloomsbury
(Brit. Mus.), H, decipiens, Sharp, Hammersmith (Fowler)
0. Hepaticce,
H, hepatica, Er., Bloomsbury (Brit, Mus,).
q. Palustres,
H. xanthopus, Thoms., Kilburn and Hampstead (Foivler)
H. triangidum, Kr., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.). H. nigritula,
Wat. = boletobia, Thoms., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.). H. divisa,
Mark., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.), H. palustris, Kies., Blooms-
bury (Brit. Mus.),
r. Autumnales,
H, autumnalis, Er., Hampstead (Fowler),
s. InconspicucB,
H, mortuorum, Thoms., Highgate (Fowler). H, (mortuorum
var. ?) atricolor, Sharp, = inconspicua, Wat., BloomsJjury (Brit.
Mus.). H. inquinula, Grav., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.).
u. Sordidulce,
H. nigra, Kr., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.), H, (celata var.?)
germana, Sharp, Highgate (Fowler). H. celata, Er., Hampstead
(Fowler). H. sordidula, Er., Bloomsbury (Brit, Mus.). H, can-
escens, Sharp, Kighgsiie ^(Fowler),
V. Marcidce.
H. marcida, Er., Highgate (Foivler). H, intermedia, Thoms.,
Highgate (Fowler). H. longicornis, Grav., South Kensington
(Pratt). H. Icevana, Muls., Highgate (Fowler). H. cinna-
moptera, Thoms., Hampstead (Fowler). H. villosula, Kr.,
Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.), H. atramentaria, GylL, South Ken-
sington (Pratt) ; Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.). H. (Icevana var.)
setigera. Sharp, Hampstead (Fowler),
w. Sordidce.
H. sordida. Marsh. = melanaria, Sahl., South Kensington
(Pratt) ; Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.). H. testudinea, Er., Highgate
(Fowler) ,
X. Suhsinuatce.
H, laticollis, Steph., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.), H.suhsinuata,
Er., castanipes, Wat., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.). H. monti-
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 97
vagans, Woll., Hanwell {Fowler), H, fungi, Grav., South Ken-
sington (Pratt) ; Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.). H, orphana, Er.,
Hammersmith Marshes (Foioler),
Placusa pumilio, Grav., Highgate (Fowler).
P. denticulata, Sharp, Bishop's Wood (Fowler).
Phloeopora corticalis, Grav., Hampstead (Fowler).
Oligota atomariay Er., Colney Hatch (Fowler). 0. inflata,
Mann., Bloomsbury (Brit. Mus.). 0. flavicornis, Lac, Ken-
nington (Fowler).
Gyrophcena nana, Payk., Bishop's Wood (Fowler). G. luci-
dula, Er., Hammersmith Marshes, olim (Fowler). G. minima,
Er., Bishop's Wood (Fowler).
3, Fairfax Eoad, Bedford Park, Chiswick, W.
(To be continued.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Notes on Lepidoptera taken in the Bloxworth District in
1890. — It seems rather late in the day, now that we are just entering
upon the season of 1891, to record the entomological doings of 1890 ; but
various circumstances have hitherto prevented the earlier compilation of the
following notes. On the general character of the entomological year 1890 I
can fully endorse the accounts given of it by many other entomologists.
I think I have known seasons as barren, but scarcely any one more so than
the past. One night at sugar, in June, produced eight Aplecta herhlda, one
Leucania comma, and a few other common Noctuidae, but on several
following nights not a single moth of any kind was seen. Sugaring was
again wholly unproductive in August. Many of our commonest Geome-
tridsB were either missing altogether or only appeared as great rarities ; nor
did I see a single Plusia gamma during the whole season. Even wasps were
here very scarce (though at Cadbury, in Somerset, there were swarms of
them about the end of August). Psorlcoptera glhhosella was worked for,
but not a single specimen was seen where in 1888 we took it in abundance.
The above being the general character of the year, we still captured some
good things, among which were — Nemeobius lucina (not nearly as abundant
as in 1889, when twenty-five were netted in one day) ; Drepana hamula ;
Tapinostola fulva ; Tephrosia extersaria ; Cleora glabrarla, one specimen,
just out, in an orchard, new to Dorsetshire ; Eupisteria heparata, one, worn,
new to this district; Aventia flexula ; Scoparia mercurella^ a var. of the inland
form, corresponding exactly to the var. S.portlandica, which occurs amongst
those of the species found in the Isle of Portland. Aciptilia paludum, only
ten examples during many evenings' work. Peronea comariana in great
abundance among Comaria palustris in a swampy spot on the heath ; out of
320 specimens taken only three were females ; the reddish brown variety of
the male was less abundant than the greyer form. Ditula semifasciana, two
specimens ; Phoxopteryx lundanoy abundant, many of them of large size ;
Cnephasia sinuana, three examples only. Chrosis audouinana, one, rather
worn : this is only the second specimen I have ever met with here ; the
other was taken in 1865. Eupoecilia notulana, one ; E.pallidana, several,
ENTOM. — APRIL, 1891.
^8 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
on the borders of the heath near Warehara ; E. geyeriana, between fifty
and sixty, on a small patch of swamp, from August 5th to 2*2nd, flying
freely at dusk. I am indebted to Mr. Barrett for kindly examining and
determining this addition to the Dorset list. Argyrolepia cnicana, rather
abundant. Scardia arcella, several, flying at dusk; Tinea cdbipunctella,
one, beaten out among overgrown coppice wood in a swamp : Phylloporia
bistrigella, several flying at dusk ; Lampronia prcBlatella, very abundant ;
Cerostoma lucella, three specimens only ; C. alpella, only one, where two
years ago it was fairly abundant. Of C. sylvella, in most seasons fairly
common, not one was taken. Gelechia rhombella, several in an orchard ;
Lita maculea, one only ; Fcecilia alblceps, one ; Ptocheuusa subocellea,
several, among marjoram: Cleodora cytisella, one only; Chelaria hubner-
ella, unusually abundant — among them a variety with the usually dark
blackish mark on the costa of a bright rufous colour ; Glypliipteryx thra-
sonella, so abundant as to be quite a pest. Tinagma betulce ; the occurrence
of this species has already been noticed in the * Entomological Monthly
Magazine' (Feb. 1891, p. 48), by Mr. Eustace Bankes, who was the first
to observe its work here on the birch leaves last autumn. Subsequently T
found a fine example of the perfect insect in my cabinet, doubtfully placed
under respleiidellum, and kindly determined to be T. betulcB by Dr. Wood.
This specimen was caught on the wing in July, 1887. The little oval
holes cut out by the larvae, near the footstalk of the birch leaves, were
abundant; on the dwarf birch bushes I often found six or seven on each.
Whether we shall be able to detect the larvae while feeding inside the birch
shoots, next summer, or obtain the perfect insect in any quantity by breeding
or sweeping, remains to be seen ; but that it is an abundant species here
there seems to be little doubt. Gracilaria elongella, in an oak and birch
wood; Chauliodus illigerellus, frequent, flying at dusk, but not as abundant
as in some past seasons ; Laverna paludicolella, one only, of unusual size ;
L. lacteella, not unfrequent, flying rapidly at dusk, and swept among
herbage ; Chrysoclysta schrankella, fairly abundant, by sweeping, and flying
in sunshine, but very local. Asychna termlnella : several of this little gem
flying at dusk, and swept among low underwood and coarse herbage. Ela-
chista gleichenella, several ; E. monticola, not rare (appears to be very like
E.poellcB), new to Dorset — my examples have, some of them, been determined
by Mr. Stainton ; E. paludum, four examples, in a swamp among sedgy
grass, new to Dorset. LithocoUetis anderidcB, bred from mines in birch-
leaves gathered in the previous October, new to Dorset : on this species see
notes by Mr. N. M. Richardson (Ent. Month. Mag., Jan. 1891, p. 22), and
by Mr. H. T. Stainton {l. c. 1890, p. 192). Bucculatrix aurimaculella,
several, swept ; Nepticula cBneofasciella, several, bred from mines in wild
strawberry-leaves gathered in November, 1889 ; iV. gei, one, bred also
from wild strawberry-leaves. — 0. P. Cambridge ; Bloxworth Rectory,
March 10, 1891.
Notes on the Lepidoptera of Middlesex. — Argynnis euphrosyne
was formerly common in Highgate Wood ; when I first visited this
locality, in 1855, I met with the species in abundance, and took it there
for several subsequent years, Hesperia sylvanus was also common then in
the same spot ; and a few Syriclithus alveolus. In some grassy hollows on
the edge of Coleford Wood at Fortiss Green, I used, about the same time, to
take Thanaos tages, Hesperia linea, Epinephele hyperanthus, and many other
species. I merely mention the above Rhopalocera, as being the nearest
NotES, CAtTUHES, ETC. W
place to the metropolis that I have ever met with them, and where (alas !)
they will, I fear, never be met with again. — C. J. Biggs ; 3, Stanley
Terrace, West Ham Park, E.
Captures at Gas-lamps. — My notes record the final break-up of " the
great frost " on January 23rd. On and after the 27th, a few Cheimatobia
hrumata appeared on the gas-lamps. Whether before or after Christmas, I
have never previously seen this moth in such small numbers at the lamps.
I worked hard in November for Poscilocampa populi and Asteroscopus
sphinx [cassiyiea), but failed to come across a single specimen. In fact, to
quote another local entomologist, " there have been very few moths at the
lamps this season." February 3rd brought out Phigalia pedaria {pilosaria,
dark forms) and Hybernia rupicapraria. Additional insects up to date
(February lOth) are as follows: — February 6th, H. marginaria {progem-
maria) ; February 7th, dark forms of H. defoliaria. C. brumata apparently
disappeared with the end of January. — J. Arkle ; 2, George Street, Chester.
Assembling. — I shall be greatly obliged to any reader of the
* Entomologist ' who can give a complete catalogue of all the species in
which " assembling " has been observed. I believe that besides the
Bombyx group, instances are known also among the Geometrse. Has it
ever been observed in any Noctuse or Sphinges also ? — F. H. Perry
Coste; Ravenshoe, Burnt Ash, March 4, 1891.
PiERis RAP^ IN February, 1891. — I noticed a specimen of this
insect flying about some laurels in this neighbourhood on February 25th.
Besides the ones recorded in the March number, the only instance I have
been able to find of so early a date is quoted by Newman (* British
Butterflies '), from * Entomologist,' vol. iv. p. 80: this was February 24th.
— H. A. Evans; Westward Ho, North Devon.
Hybernia defoliaria in February. — Last month (February) I
heard from a friend, who only began to collect in 1890, and whose
knowledge is, therefore, chiefly derived from books, that he had just taken
an insect which seemed to agree with H. defoliaria, but which could not be
that species, as Newman gives October, and Stainton, October and November,
for its appearance. I wrote back to say that the moth was, nevertheless,
H. defoliaria. The first year I ever remember seeing defoliaria later than
November was in January, 1884, and, being much surprised, I mentioned
it when writing to Mr. Harwood, of Colchester, who informed me that he
came across the species occasionally during the early months of spring.
Since that year I have noticed it once or twice sitting on park fences
in January and February ; but, whereas last year I found a single specimen
only (January 16th), this year I came across as many as ten — one each on
January 23rd and 28th, seven on February 4th, and one on March 4th, the
latter being the latest date I have recorded. These specimens were all
males ; but I find I have in my cabinet a female, labelled " 24th February,
1885." None of the males were in fine condition, so that I presume they
were born in October or November, and managed to survive the rigours of
an English winter; hence 1 am surprised at taking so many specimens
this spring, the winter of 1890-91 being one of the severest on record. If
my hypothesis (of hybernation) be correct, H. defoliaria is by far the earliest
hybernated species to venture forth after its winter sleep, preceding even
Depressaria applana, so far as my experience goes. — (Rev.) Gilbert H.
Raynor ; Victoria House, Brentwood, Essex, March 16, 1891.
loo Tiii; ENToMoL6Gisi'4
Entomology of the Portsmouth District. — I am desirous of making
a complete catalogue of the entomology of the Portsmouth district, and
would be glad if entomologists who have collected in this district will let
me have lists of their captures in all orders. Lists will be returned, if
desired. — W. T. Pearce ; 101, May field Road, Seafield, Gosport.
Another Nauseous Insect eaten by a Woodpecker. — On the 28th
of January last, I received from Mr.W. Perry, of Broxton Old Hall, Cheshire,
a female specimen of the great spotted woodpecker {Picus major, L.), which
had been shot in that neighbourhood. On examining the stomach of this
bird, I was very agreeably surprised to find that it contained at least four
specimens of a Coccinella, undoubtedly the very common Hippodamia
variegata, Goez. (= mutabilis, Schrib.). In addition to these there were a
number of the larvae, and two imagines, of Rhaglum hifasciatum ;->' the
former almost filled the stomach, and several of them were almost digested,
their heads only remaining, which proves, beyond all doubt, that they were
eaten sometime before the Coccinella^ as the latter were quite fresh at the
time of my examination. This, I think, should prove of some interest to
those who are at all interested in the " uses of colours in animals," or in
the Darwinian theory. In his very interesting little book (' Colours of
Animals,' p. 180), Mr. E. B. Poulton says : — " That ladybirds are eaten by
green tree-frogs in winter, when other insect-food is scarce ; and also by
hungry birds, although intensely disliked, and are refused (at any rate, by
the frogs) if other food can be obtained." Mr. Poulton kindly informed me
that these facts are based entirely upon experiments with captive animals ;
hitherto, nothing in a state of nature has been known to feed upon the
Coccinellidse. At first sight my observations appear to verify Mr. Poulton's
statements, but the woodpecker could not have been in a state of hunger
when it ate the nauseous insects, for reasons previously stated. We must
also bear in mind that the woodpeckers are less affected by severe weather
than any other bird, as the greater part of their food is obtained from timber,
which is always available. I am, therefore, of opinion that this species of
woodpeckers, and probably other members of the genus, like the cuckoo
{ante, pp. 19, 77], will feed upon nauseous insects at any time of the year;
this, however, can only be proved by the examination of birds during
months when plenty of edible food is available. I hope that ray very brief
remarks may incite others, who have the opportunity to examine the
stomachs of insectivorous birds, to do so whenever opportunity offers ;
curators of museums, abroad as well as in this country, could help very
materially by preserving the stomachs for any specialist who might care to
examine them. Degraded as this branch of Entomology may appear to
many, it is, nevertheless, of very great interest. I should be very glad to
hear the opinions of others who are interested in this subject. — R. Newstead ;
Grosvenor Museum, Chester, March 14, 1891.
Late Emergence of Pcecilocampa populi. — During the week ending
January 24th a female specimen of Pcecilocampa populi emerged in breed-
ing-cage kept out of doors. Doubtless the extreme cold for some time
previous retarded its emergence. I have obtained many ova from this un-
impregnated specimen, the greater portion dark in colour, with all the
appearance of fertile ova, the remainder being a light red*brown. — T. B.
Jefferys ; Bath, February 3, 1891.
* The larvfiB of this coleopteron seem to be their favourite food, as I have
found them in other examples that I have examined. — R. N.
SOClETiES. lOl
Annual Exhibition of the South London Entomological and
Natural History Society. — The Exhibitions of this Society have, year
by year, been increasingly successful, and there is but little doubt that the
exhibition announced to be held at the Bridge House Hotel, London
Bridge, on the 16th and 16th of April next, will be quite equal to, if it
does not surpass, any of the Society's previous achievements. Evidence of
the popularity of these •• shows " is found not only in the very large
attendance on each occasion that an entertainment of the kind is provided,
but also in the fact that if from any cause the exhibition is not held in any
year there is general disappointment, and a feeling that a distinct void has
occurred in the record of that year. Several circumstances conspired to
prevent the Society holding their " Annual " last year ; but the outcome of
the failure in the autumn of 1890 is a spring exhibition in the present year,
so that instead of a loss we have what should prove a decided gain. The
Hon. Sec, Mr. H. W. Barlier, 83, Brayarda Road, Peckham, S.E., will be
pleased to hear from anyone wishing to assist by exhibiting entomological
or other objects of Natural History.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — March Ath, ]S9[. — The Right
Hon. Lord Walsingham, M.A., F.R.S., Vice-President, in the chair.
Mr. H. St. John Donisthorpe, Mr. F. W. Frohawk, Mr. Charles Fryer,
Mr. G. F. Hampson, B.A., Mr. Frederick J. Hanbury, F.L.S., and
Mr. G. B. Routledge, were admitted into the Society. Mr. F. P. Pascoe
exhibited, and made remarks on, a curious Coleopterous larva with a case
somewhat resembling that of the Lepidopterous genus Psyche, which was
found at the Theatre of Bacchus, Athens. Mr. J. W. Douglas sent for
exhibition specimens of Icerya {Crossatosoma} cegyptiaca, which, through
the kindness of Mr. A. D. Michael, he had received from Alexandria on
the 19th January last. It was stated that in travelling most of them had
become loose, and had lost their waxen appendages ; but a few still
remained on the stems of their food-plant. In connection with this subject,
Mr. G. H. Verrall alluded to a Dipterous parasite oi Icerya from Adelaide,
— Lestophonus icerycBt WiWistou, — which had been bred from Icerya pur-
chasi, Mask., last February. Mr. M'Lachlan and Lord Walsingham
continued the discussion. Mr. R. Adkin exhibited a long and interesting
series of Triphcsna comes from various parts of the South of England,
Yorkshire, Forres, the Isle of Man, the Isle of Lewis, and the North of
Ireland. Mr. G. F. Hampson exhibited a series of varieties of Plotheia
frontalis, Walk., which was the only species in the genus, and confined to
Ceylon. He said that the varied forms of this species had been described
under twenty-one different names by Walker, Felder, and Moore. Mr. F.
Merrifield showed a number of specimens of Selenia illustraria, of three
different stocks, proving that the spring brood of this species, which passed
the winter in the pupal stage, was, like the summer pupa, materially
affected in colouring by the temperature to which the pupa had been
exposed in its later stages. He thought this fact, coupled with similar
results ascertained with respect to the single-brooded Ennomos autunmaria,
indicated that the operating cause was one of wide general application, and
that valuable results might be looked for if entomologists would turn their
iOS fHE fitfTOMoLOGlSt.
attentiou to the subject. Capt. Elwes said that in his experience in many
parts of the Palsearctic region, in Japan, in the Taunus Mountains, in the
Canary Islands, and elsewhere, where there was a combination of heat and
moisture, all the commoner species of Lepidoptera occurring in this
country attained a larger size and a greater brilliancy of colouring than in
colder and drier regions ; and he referred to such species, amongst others,
as Pieris brassiccB and Argynnis paphia. The discussion was continued by
Mr. Jacoby, Mr. Fenn, and others. Mr. W. H. B. Fletcher exhibited a
long series of Zygcsna lonicerm from York, and Zygcena Jilipendulm from
Shoreham, Sussex ; also a series of hybrids obtained by crossing these two
species. He stated that the eggs obtained from these hybrids were all
infertile. Lord Walsingham said this latter fact was extremely interesting.
Mr. F. W. Frohawk exhibited a living specimen of an ichneumon which
had just emerged from a chrysalis of Papilio taunus. Mr. C. J. Gahan
exhibited a number of species belonging to the genera Lema and Diabrotica,
and read a paper on them, entitled "On mimetic resemblances between
species of the Coleopterous genera Lema and Diabrotica.'' Lord Walsing-
ham, Mr. Jacoby, Colonel Swinhoe, and Mr. Champion took part in the
discussion which ensued. — H. Goss and W. W. Fowlee, Hon. Sees.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—February 2Qth, 1891. Mr. W. H. Tugwell, President, in the chair. Mr.
E. J. Anderson, of Suez, was elected a member. Mr. Adye exhibited an
unusually dark form of Notodonta camelina, L., with other forms of the
species. Mr. H. Moore, Erebus odora from South America. Mr. Turner,
Melanippe fluctuata, L., taken at Brockley ; the specimens showed con-
siderable variation. Mr. Cockerell, Heliothis armigera, var. umbrosa, Grote,
from Wet Mountain Valley, Colorado, larger than the type, the upper wings
more or less ohvaceous above, the under wings almost without markings
below. Mr. Cockerell made some remarks on Leucania unipuncta, which
he stated was a great scourge in America, and was there known as the
army worm. Mr. E. Adkin exhibited long series of the species of the
genus Triplmna, Och., from many localities in the British Islands, together
with continental series of some of the species for comparison, and read notes
dealing with the geographical distribution and general and local variation of
the species exhibited. In dealing with T. comes he pointed out Hiibner's
typical form, the varieties adsequa and j^^osequa of Treitschke, and curtisii
of Newman, also Hiibner's consequa, which he considered should be regarded
as a form of this species rather than of orbona, Hufn., to which it had
hitherto been referred, and supported his contention by specimens known
to be forms of comes, Hb., which agreed with Hiibner's figure of consequa.
He also described the distinguishing characters of these varieties, and gave
notes on the nomenclature of the species. Mr. C. Fenn exhibited examples
of the genus Triphana from Forres. Mr. McArthur, T. comes from the
Isle of Lewis, and T. ianthina from Northumberland. Mr. Turner, T.pro-
nuba from Brockley, Kent. Mr. South and Mr. Tugwell also showed
varieties of many species of the genus, and a discussion ensued, Messrs.
South, Fenn, Tugwell, Adkin, and others taking part. Mr. E. Step
exhibited an hybernating specimen of Vespa germanica{iemd\e); Mr.Billups
remarked that he had taken this species as early as the 17th January in a
previous year.
March 1 2«/i.— The President in the chair. Mr. E. F. Elton, of Woking
ham, was elected a member. The Secretary read a report of a Committ
1
SOCIETIES. 103
which had been appointed to enquire into the numerical and financial position
of the Society, from which it appeared that since the year 1885 the number
of members had increased yearly, and as a consequence, so also had the
finances of the Society. Mr. R. Adkin exhibited PcBdisca solandriana, L.,
bred from larvas feeding in shoots of birch from Aberdeen ; and, on behalf of
Mr. W. Smith, sundry Tortrices and Crambites from Paisley, including a
white and dark blotched variety of Padisca solandriana^ and an unusually
white form of Crambus pratellus, L. Mr. R. South, Vanessa urticcB, L., to
show the geographical distribution and local variation. Mr. Adye, varieties of
Abraxas grossulariata, L. Mr. Robinson, specimens of a Pygcbra which he
stated had been supposed to be P. curtula; they were bought cheap in 1876.
Mr. Tugwell stated it was difficult to say what the species was if it was not
curtula; he had seen the form before. Mr. Tutt remarked that he had
seen the form in the Doubleday Collection. Mr. Carrington exhibited and
made remarks upon some plants collected by him at Toulon. Mr. Billups
read a paper on the Hymenopterous and Dipterous parasites bred by members
of the Society during the years 1889-90 ; the paper was illustrated by the
exhibition of the various species mentioned in the paper, and in many cases
by the host from which the parasites had been bred. — H. W. Barkee,
Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — February IQthf 1891. — Mr.
R. C. Bradley in the chair. Messrs. C. J. Fryer, Warwick ; and A. Madeley,
Dudley, were elected members of the Society. Mr. R. C. Bradley showed
Sphenella rnarginata from Bournemouth. Mr. E. C. Tye read a paper
(written conjointly with Mr. G. W. Wynn) on the Lepidoptera of Marston
Green. It was written with the purpose of showing what might be, rather
than what had been, done there ; and to urge the members to work the
district, which was the best ground lying within easy reach of Birmingham.
The paper described the ground, which includes Packiiigton Park and
many fine lanes and woods ; and also included a short list of good things
already taken there.
March 2nd, 1891.— Mr. R. C. Bradley in the chair. Mr. J. J. Quirke,
jun., Handsworth, was elected a member. Mr. R. C. Bradley showed
Trypeta centauries from Moseley. Mr. G. H. Kenrick, a specimen
of Triphcena pronuba, bred January, this year, from egg found on
a withered lime leaf in first week of September, 1890. Mr. Kenrick read
a paper on " Temperature, its effects on some insects not found in this
district," in which he pointed out the great importance of temperature in
affecting the distribution of insects. He pointed out the fact that most
insects were very susceptible to heat or cold at some period in their life,
which period varies in different species, and that a few degrees would often
seriously affect them ; and he quoted a number of species of butterflies in
illustration, showing how their range in this country was undoubtedly
affected by temperature. He suggested that species would often be isolated
by their inability to stand slight alterations in heat and cold, and would
thus be in a position to diverge from closely-allied forms, thus favouring
evolution.— CoLBRAN J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
Lancashire and Chkshire Entomological Society. — March 9th,
1891.— The President, S. J. Capper, F.L.S., F.E.S., in the chair. Mr.
Brocton Tomlin was elected a member. A paper by Mr. Herbert Stott was
read, on " A parasitic fungus forming its base in the larva of a New
Zealand Lepidopteron," illustrated by specimens and drawings. The Hon.
104 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Sec, F. N. Pierce, read a paper entitled " Notes on the genital armature
of the genus Miana,'' in which he referred to the recent controversy
respecting the distinctiveness of the two species, M. strigilis and
M. fasciuncula, and proved, by the examination of the structure of the
genital armature, that they were specifically different ; the paper was
illustrated by the author's preparations thrown on a screen, by the aid of
oxy-hydrogen Micro lantern ; and exhibits of specimens from various parts
of the country by the President and members. — F. N. Pierce, Hon. Sec.
OBITUARY.
Robert Calvert, of Bishop Auckland, in the county of Durham, died
on the 21st of February last, in the 76th year of his age. Mr. Calvert
commenced his business career as a printer in his native town, but subse-
quently he went to Sunderland, where he successfully carried on a grocery
business. Ultimately, however, he returned to Bishop Auckland, and
became the leading auctioneer and valuer of the district. Throughout an
active and busy life, he always found time to study the fauna and flora of
the county of Durham ; and perhaps there are few men so intimate with the
Natural History of their own county as Mr. Calvert was with that of his.
No natural object, whether animate or inanimate, was passed unheeded. If
it was known to him, then perhaps the locality in which it occurred would
be new, and the circumstance be duly noted. If, on the other hand, the
object was something with which he was unacquainted, it was secured, and
the work entailed in its subsequent identification looked upon as a distinct
pleasure. His entomological collections testify to the assiduity with which he
investigated this section of his county's fauna. Although he persistently
refrained from taking an active part in the discussion of scientific matters, he
had well-formed opinions on most of the questions which exercise the
minds of naturalists generally and entomologists in particular. His
memory was a veritable storehouse of facts and observations ; and it was
this which lent a special charm to his companionship in an entomological
ramble, for he always had some interesting reminiscence in connection with
almost every nook and corner of his native county. In 1884 he published
a most interesting and valuable book, entitled * Notes on the Geology and
Natural History of the county of Durham,* in the preface to which he
^rote : — " For upwards of fifty years of a busy life, the observation of
Natural History objects and the collection of specimens have formed the
recreation of my leisure hours, and, in the retrospect of the past, yield
unalloyed satisfaction and pleasure. About two years since, affliction
forced me to give up the active duties of life, and since that time 1 have
had to spend the greater portion of my time at home, deprived of the
longed-for rambles to which the pursuit of Natural History ever gives a
charm. To occupy my time, I commenced to write the notes which have
swelled out to the present volume ; and some of my friends thinking they
may be of service in directing youth in the pursuit of Geology and Natural
History, they are now submitted for their use." The perusal of this book
causes one to feel regret that it is the only contribution to Natural History
literature from his able pen. — R. S.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] MAY, 1891. [No. 836.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF OCCASIONAL, AND APPARENTLY
UNIMPORTANT, MARKINGS IN LEPIDOPTERA.
By J. Jenner Weir, F.L.S., &o.
It has, no doubt, not escaped the notice of British entomo-
logists that in Papilio machaon the first submarginal lunule, on
the upper side of the lower wings, is often not purely yellow, but
more or less suffused with red.
In English specimens of the insect I find this marking
existing in females very commonly ; in a female from Hyeres it
is faintly visible ; in one out of four, from Japan, it can be seen ;
and is very well shown in a large female I have from Loo Choo
Islands. I do not find this red mark in specimens taken by
myself in Saxony, and in the Alhambra, at Granada, in Spain.
Judging from those in my own cabinet it does not exist in the
European Papilio alexanor, the Japanese P. xuthus, the American
P. zolicaon and P. americus : in Mr. Edwards' work on the * Butter-
flies of North America ' the marking is not shown in the plates
of P. indra and P. bairdii ; it reappears very faintly in the
female of P. polyxenes, and very prominently in the female of P,
hrevicauda ; this latter has, however, the yellow markings much
suffused with red.
In the allied genera of Papilioninae I do not find the marking
in Iphiclides podalirius, nor in the American I, ajax and its
horeomorphic varieties.
In the genus Jasoniades, another allied division of that aptly-
termed " magazine genus" Papilio, it exists very strongly marked
in J. glaucus, the black dimorphic female of J. turnus, and
in the latter yellow form in both sexes ; but in this species it is
often very indistinct, and I have a male specimen from Moose
Factory, St. James' Bay, in which no trace of it can be seen.
In Jasoniades rutilus there is sometimes a faint trace of red
in the lunule, but not in J, earymedon ; and in J. daunus there is
ENTOM. MAY, 1891. K
106 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
not the faintest trace of the markinpf — indeed, the first sub-
marginal lunule is almost obsolete.
In the American Euphceades troilus a bright red spot is found,
but it is shifted back, and is a costal marking, appearing at the
upper end of the blue central band of the under wings ; but even
in this butterfly, where it is usually very strongly developed, it is
not always to be found. Mr. Scudder, in his admirable work on
the * Butterflies of the Eastern United States and Canada '
(p. 1317), writes of *' a specimen in which the normally orange
lunule next the costal edge of the upper surface of the hind
wings has no orange in it, but is of the same greenish colour as
the other spots " ; and I fortunately possess in my cabinet a
similar example. Mr. Scudder does not state the sex of the
variety, but mine is a female — a most important fact, as will be
seen below, to my argument. Euphoeades palamides does not
show a trace of the reddish suffused mark under consideration.
It is well here to remark that it often happens that the second
lunule of the hind wings has a trace of the reddish or orange
colour : this may be occasionally found in Papilio machaon.
Enough has been written to illustrate the fact that through-
out several of the species of Papilioninse, belonging to at least
three different but more or less allied genera, there is a reddish
suffusion in the upper lunule or lunules of the hind wings — that
it is sometimes absent in species that usually possess it, but
that, as far as my experience goes, when so absent it is in the
male sex. The problem I have now to deal with is the significance
of such a trivial marking. Is it rudimentary of a coloration in
course of evolution ? or, on the other hand, is it vestigial of a
marking which has become partially, or even perfectly in some
specimens, obsolete ? I am inclined to hold the latter view, for
the following reasons : — In all the species dealt with there is, at
the anal angle of the hind wings, a more or less distinct ocellus,
with red pupil or patch : this is very well marked in Papilio
machaon. The red becomes more of an iris in some species,
because there is a black spot in the centre, as in P. xuthus^
P, polyxenes, P, hrevicauda, P. zolicaoriy and P. americus. In
Jasoniades and Euphoeades the ocellus is blurred, but the red
colour is to be found in every species of these genera at the anal
angle of the hind wings.
Arguing from a priori considerations, one would be inclined
to consider that the reddish or orange suffusion in question was
the nearly obsolete trace of an ocellus which had once existed in
the ancestors of these butterflies. The question then arises as
to whether any facts can be adduced in support of such a
hypothesis.
Africa is a continent which has not undergone those stupendous
geological changes which have affected so profoundly the
palsearctic and nearctic regions, from which my illustrations
MARKINGS IN LEPIDOPTERA. 107
have been drawn, and in which, therefore, some archaic forms of
Papilioninse might be expected to be found.
Orpheides demoleus is a well-known and very common African
butterfly, which has an ocellus both on the costa and on the anal
angle of the lower wings, but it is only the lower ocellus that has
much red around the pupil ; still I have a specimen with the
costal ocellus well marked with red, exactly in the same part of
the wing that a similar orange spot is found in Euphoeades troilus,
and in all cases the dark centre of the pupil is suffused with red.
In the very closely allied Indian species, Orpheides erithoniuSj
I cannot detect any red around the upper ocellus ; the lower has
a large patch of that colour, but, regarded as an ocellus, it is
indistinct, especially in the males ; indeed, in both these species
the costal ocellus is much better defined than that at the anal
angle. Both are without tails, and it would seem that the develop-
ment of the tails in Papilio, Jasoniades and Euphoeades, destroyed
the original bilateral symmetry of the under wings, and reduced
the costal ocellus to a mere vestige : and in IphiclideSj where the
tails are more developed, even the slight vestige has disappeared.
The shape of the wing in this last- mentioned genus is quite
different from that of Papilio — the length of the tails seem to
have been effected at the expense of the breadth of the wing ;
indeed, in this respect Iphiclides approaches more nearly to the
contour of the wing of Leptocircus.
A similar remark applies to the Indian genus of Swallow-tails,
Pathisa : in P. agetes there are red spots above an obsolete ocellus
in the anal angle of the wing, but no red at the upper angle ; in
some of the other species even the red at the anal angle has faded
into yellow — e. g., P.paphus and P, glycerion, and in P. antiphates
the yellow above the pseudocellus has disappeared.
There is another genus of African Papilioninse possessing
large tails, and in the male sex, on the upper wings, there are
androconia on the submedian nervure and median nervules clothed
with short cotton-like scales. I do not think this genus has been
named, but it appropriately might be called Erioptera, In E,
ophidicephaluSy although a tailed species, the upper ocellus is
developed in the lower wing ; but it may be added that, in this
species, the ocellus at the anal angle is very largely developed,
and that there are indications of a second one above the third
submedian nervule. In the very closely allied species, E, me-
nestheus, the upper ocellus is absent, and in its place there is a
costal red spot, exactly in the same position as the orange spot
in Euphceides troilus, above adverted to. In E. constantinus
there is no trace of red in the upper lunules of the under wings.
The possession of a costal ocellus is very rare in the Papilio-
ninse. In Dr. Staudinger's *Exotische Schmetterlinge,' where
nearly a hundred species of this subfamily are figured, the only
k2
108 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
one delineated with the ocellus in question is Orpheides demoleuSy
which, as before stated, is, in my opinion, an archaic form, the
larva of which has considerable resemblance to that of Jasoniades
glaucus.
I am therefore of opinion that the insignificant red suffusion
on the first lunule of Papilio machaon is the evanescent vestige
of an ocellus, in the ancestral form from which this and several
other allied species of Papilioninse have descended, and, as such, is
not without its value as a contribution towards the philogeny of
the genera above dealt with. I am the more inclined to* this view
because I find this vestigial marking more often to be found in
the females of a species than in the males, the former being, as
very well put by Prof. Westwood, the more conservative sex,
Beckenham, March 28, 1891.
THE EE-DEVELOPMENT OF LOST LIMBS IN THE
INSECTA.
By John Watson.*
It is by no means rare to find instances of the re- develop-
ment of lost limbs in the Crustacea and spiders ; but I have not
found any such cases mentioned as occurring amongst the
Insecta.
That it is not unusual amongst insects, I have now no doubt,
as I have myself had three cases of re -development of limbs
and one case of complete cicatrisation (or healing of a wound),
which prove that such re-development can and does take place ;
and at either the larval or pupal stages of the insect's metamor-
phosis. By re-development I mean, the renewal or growth of a
new limb, or part, from the socket or stump of one which has
either been pulled off, or amputated. The first case of insect
re-development which I recorded, occurred in the larva of Platy-
samia cecropia (a North American silk moth). This was an
accidental case, and induced me to experiment, with a view to
further my knowledge of this subject.
While rearing the larvse of this moth a year or two ago, I
noticed one, in the fourth age (i. e., one that has moulted three
times), had had one of the mesothoracic legs bitten off, or other-
wise amputated, probably bitten off by another larva. There
was no trace of the femur, except a small piece of the skin, loose
and dead. The amputation had only taken place the day I had
noticed it, as the surrounding skin was still wet with the extra-
vasated blood, which, at the edges, was already hardening as it
dried. I carefully watched this larva through its last larval
moult, and on its emergence in the fifth age, I saw that where the
leg should have been was a small conical swelling with a black
* A paper read before the Scientific Section of the Manchester Literary and i
Philosophical Society.
RE-DEVELOPMENT OF LOST LIMBS IN THE INSECTA. 109
apex. This swelling was slightly paler in colour than the
surrounding skin.
At the time this occurred, I was undetermined whether this
cone was the commencement of the re-developing leg, or was
merely an inflamed area, and the black tip the cicatrix of the am-
putation ; but, as subsequent events have lately proved, I believe
it to have been the early development of a new leg.
During the fifth age this swelling (appreciably) did not grow
more in proportion than the rest of the body, and the larva spun
up its cocoon as usual. An early examination of the pupa
revealed the fact that no new leg had then been developed ; at
all events as far as could be determined by outward examination.
In the front of the pupa there was a groove, just as if when the
pupal skin was soft the leg had been lifted up and severed of£ as
high and near the body as could be reached. I examined this
pupa at various times, to see if I could observe any trace of a
new leg, as the pupal skin at the base of this groove was
thin, chitinous, and almost transparent. However, I could not
see any growth, even as late as two days prior to the insect's
emergence, when it was minutely examined by myself and Mr.
E. C. Stump, of the Manchester Microscopical Society. The
moth emerged, and lo ! there was a leg. This I examined, and
found it had the usual number of joints, and was freely movable,
the only difference being that it was about one-third the size
of the corresponding leg on the other side. I exhibited this
moth alive, and gave its history, at the Lower Mosley Street
Natural History Society, where it attracted considerable atten-
tion. When running or walking, it tucked this leg up under the
thorax, and used the other five.
The second case to mention is not one of complete re-
development, but rather one of complete cicatrisation of a wound
received by a pupa ; cicatrisation being the primary commence-
ment before re-development can take place ; and as this occurred
at a late stage of insect life, it is my excuse for mentioning
it here.
I was opening a cocoon of Antherea mylitta, when my pen-
knife went a little too deep, with the result that I cut into the
pupa in a diagonal line across the right antenna cover, and in a
line from about the middle of the costal margin of the forewing
to near the centre of the discoidal cell. The wound bled freely,
so freely indeed that I had no hopes of it living, and not liking
to throw it away, but rather wishing to have it as a specimen, I
put it away. Examination a day or two later showed that the
pupa was still alive, and the wound had stopped bleeding. The
blood had hardened over the wound and prevented any more
oozing out. The pupa was much shrunk and contracted. Seeing
it still alive, I again placed it in my hatching cage, hoping it
would still live on and emerge, which it did. This moth emerged
a little later than the others, and when examined I found that
110 THE ENTOMOLOfiisT.
the cut wing had totally healed, and cicatrisation of both
nervures and membranes had taken place. The right antenna
had never developed beyond the cut, and only the stump was left.
There is here also a tendency to re-development, inasmuch as the
stump of the antenna was split down the shaft for a half of the
distance, and what would have been the centre of the shaft had
rounded oif, and along this side there is a slight trace of the
pectination developing. The pectination on the other and
normal side of this half of the antenna being as usual, though
somewhat distorted ; when I saw the moth emerge, I never
expected to see its wings develop, and was much surprised to find
they did. The mark of the cut and cicatrix can be noticed on the
right upper wing, extending from the middle of the costal
margin to just the inner side of the eye spot.
The third case was in the instance of the larva of the puss
moth. In the fourth age I ligatured with fine silk two legs of
this larva, as high against the body as I could ; I then severed
the legs off with fine scissors. I let the larva feed, and at the
next moult I found that two new legs had developed, though not
perfect, as the last joint and the hooks were missing; but they
had developed to a much further degree than had the larva of my
first case — cecropiaf because they were at a much earlier period
of larval life. This larva is now undergoing preparation for
microscopical examination and sectioning, with a view to working
out the histology of the subject.
The fourth case I now exhibit alive. About November last
(1890), I obtained some dragonfly larvae {Agrion, I believe), and
ligatured up against the body the left mesothoracic leg of one of
them. I then severed it off. This larva I then placed in a tank
where there was a good supply of food. Not having previously
bred these insects, I began to doubt (as two months elapsed, and
no new leg) of its ever re-developing the leg. I thought it had
moulted and I had not seen it. But while in Mr. James Hart's
possession (who was taking microscopic life out of the tank the
larva was in), it moulted and produced the new limb. As far as
I can discern there are the usual number of joints, but the hook
at the last joint is missing. This leg (as usual in all these cases
of re-development) is much inferior in size than its fellow
member. I shall endeavour to keep this larva alive, as perhaps,
at the next moult, the leg will grow to a larger size, till, with each
succeeding moult it becomes larger, and will equal the normal
size. I find that the tendency to re-development is much greater
at the early ages of insects, and also that the lower groups of the
Insecta can re-develop to a greater degree, and at a later stage
of their existence than higher members of the Insecta. I am ex-
perimenting now with pupse, and may have some other cases to
record later on.
177, Moss Lane East, Moss Side, Manchester*
Ill
CONCERNING DR. CHAPMAN'S DIVISIONS OF THE
GENUS ACRONYCTA (auct.).
By A. G. Butler. F.L.S., F.Z.S., &c.
In the * Entomologist's Eecord' for May, 1890, vol. i. n. 3,
Dr. Chapman proposed three names — Viminia, Cuspidia, and
Bisulcia — to be used in a subgeneric sense for groups of Aero-
nycta. The types of these subgenera are respectively —
A, rumicis for Viminia.
A . psi „ Cuspidia,
A, ligustri „ Bisulcia.
In the Index to some of the plates these names appear as
genera, and consequently they have been adopted as genera by
several writers in the * Entomologist's Eecord,' as follows : —
Viminia auricomay Chapman, Ent. Rec. 1890, p. 39.
„ myriccB, „ „ „ 84.
„ menyanthidiSf „ „ „ 84.
„ venosa, „ „ „ 84.
„ rumicis, ,, „ „ 29.
Cuspidia psi, Tutt, „ „ 89.
„ tridens, Chapman, „ „ 39.
„ alnij B. Smith, ,, „ 136.
„ megacephala, H. L. Turner, „ „ 349.
„ leporina, Hewett, „ „ 133.
,, acms, Lewcock & Hanes, „ „ 167.
Bisulcia ligustri. Chapman, „ „ 29.
For the above facts I am indebted to my friend Mr. T. D. A.
Cockerell, who wishes me to call attention to the fact that, as the
genus Acronycta was subdivided many years previous to Dr.
Chapman's revision, his subgeneric or generic names for the
species cannot be admitted as valid.
As long ago as about 1820, Hiibner broke up the genus in
his * Verzeichniss bekannter Schmetterlinge,' pp. 301, 302, as
follows : —
Hyhoma strigosa and unicornis.
Tricena psi. cuspis, tridens; tritona, and teligera.
Jochecera alni.
Acronicta leporina and bradyporina.
Pharetra auricoma and menyanthidis,
Arctomyscis aceris, euphorbice, esulce, euphrasies, cyparissice.
and megacephala.
In my paper on the natural affinities of Acronycta (Trans.
Ent. Soc. 1879, pp. 318 — 17) I called attention to Hiibner's sub-
division of the group, and proposed to adopt his names as genera,
based principally upon larval characters.
In Augustus R. Grote's * New Check-List of North American
112 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
^
Moths,' published in 1882, at pp. 22, 23, the author adopts
Hiibner's stirps Apatelce, in the singular number, to supersede
Acronycta (literally Acronictaf sic, Ochs.), and subdivides it into
groups as follows : —
Trisena,
to include 20
Jochesera,
2
Merolonche,
» 2
Acronycta,
3
Megacronycta,
3
Apatela,
„ 14
Lepitoreuma,
5
Arctomyscis,
1
Mastiphanes,
4
Eulonche,
3
Grote's species, when placed under Hiibner's generic names,
are nearly allied to the European species referred to these genera
by Hiibner.
When a genus has already been broken up into about a dozen
named groups, it is absurd for a later author to ignore the types
of those groups, and to break up the original genus on his own
lines without reference to the work already done by his prede-
cessors ; it is, in fact, a wilful burdening of the synonymy with
names which will only be used by those unacquainted with the
laws of zoological nomenclature, and will consequently be a
source of considerable confusion.
Viminia, Chapman, falls before Pharetra.
Cuspidia, „ „ Tricena,
Bisulcia, „ „ Arctomyscis.
Supposing Dr. Chapman to be in accord with those authors
who are unconstitutional enough to ignore Hiibner ; he cannot,
upon any ground whatever, ignore either my paper or the works
of Grote ; so that the names proposed by Hiibner must stand,
even though the authorship of the divisions so named be denied
to him, and Butler or Grote be quoted as author of the genera
which Hiibner indicated.
Natural History Museum, South Kensington.
[I am rejoiced to find that, in the above communication, Mr.
Butler has dealt with the proposed renaming of the old divisions
of the genus Acronycta by Dr. Chapman : not having lately been
paying much attention to the Heterocera, I could not take the
matter up in a satisfactory manner. I felt that the suppression
of the name Acronycta could not be justified, as it was at variance
with all the canons of zoological nomenclature. With regard to
the proper spelling of the name, Acronicta, as used by Ochsen-
heimer, was an error, and was early corrected to Acron?/cta, in
accordance with the spelling of the Greek words from which the
name is derived*— J. J. Weir.]
rs^
)t. I
il3
ON THE SO-CALLED ^' ERASTEIA'' VENUSTULA
OF EUEOPE.
By a. G. Butler, F.L.S., &o.
In Lederer's revision of the European Noctuse, which forms
the basis of the classification adopted by Staudinger in his Cata-
logue, E. venustula is unhesitatingly referred to Erastria. When
re-arranging the collection here, I was struck by the dissimilarity
from the other forms which this species offered, and, upon exami-
nation with an ordinary pocket lens, I at once discovered characters
which separate it widely from Erastria.
Typical species of Erastria (I ignore the Tentamen of Hiibner,
the publication of which was never proved, and therefore take
E, fasciana, Linn. = fuscula, Schiff., as type) are characterised
b^ a more or less tufted abdomen, although in E, candidula the
basal tuft alone remains; by porrected palpi with well-exposed
terminal joint, and by the radial of the secondaries being emitted
just beyond the third median branch, as in Acontia and all the
genera of the later groups of Noctuites,
Lederer's arrangement is very faulty, inasmuch as the species
of his group A, characterized by species not having a tufted
abdomen, are not typical ; moreover E. candidula, as already
stated, has a tuft on the basal segment of the abdomen, and is
also closely related to the North American E, carneola, in which
the abdomen is very heavily tufted ; with the exception of E.
scitula, which differs in having the second and third median
branches of the secondaries emitted from a footstalk, and there-
fore is not an Erastria^ and E. candidula, which is an Erastria,
none of the species even resemble the genus.
With regard to E, venustula, it has an untufted abdomen,
thick upright palpi, with very short terminal joint, and the radial
of the secondaries emitted from the centre of the disco-cellular
veinlet — a character which at once removes it to the earlier groups
of Noctuites, According to Lederer the larva would appear to be
a semi-looper, and, if this is so, it would be best to place it at the
end of the first section immediately preceding the Eriopidm : but
I question Lederer's having personally examined the larva, and I
should like to know from Mr. Cooper, who has had opportunities
of rearing it, whether it at all nearly resembles the larvae of the
species with which it has been wrongly associated.
It now becomes necessary to assign E. venustula to a different
genus.
In his * Verzeichniss,' Hiibner, at p. 254, included the fol-
lowing species in his genus Hapalotis : — H.furvula, now referred
to Caradrina ; H. lupula and ravula, referred to Bryophila ; H.
fuscula, atratula, and candidula, referred to Erastria ; lastly, H,
venustula, which, by the process of restriction now adopted for
fixing the types of these mixed genera, becomes the type of
lu
THIS ENTOMOLOGIST.
Hapalotis» I prefer to adopt Htibner's name, rather than to pro-
pose a new one ; and those who object to quoting the genus as
Hiibner's, on the insufficient ground that it is imperfectly charac-
terised, are welcome, so far as I am concerned, to imagine that I
am the author of it.
Natural History Museum, South Kensington.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S., F.L.S.
(Continued from p. 91.)
V. — The Chemical Aspect {continued),
H.
The next colour whish we have to consider is green ; a very
interesting colour, but an exceedingly difficult and perplexing
one to deal with. The difficulty is owing to the fact that under
the one term of green are included several different colours —
different in constitution and behaviour, though broadly similar in
appearance. This was already evident from the reactions tabulated
on page 251 of the last volume; but since then I have been able
to experiment on a number of exotic species, with the result that
I have discovered still more variability in the greens. Clearly,
then, our first step must be to classify these various greens, and,
as a preliminary, I will prefix a list of the fresh specimens recently
examined, with a summary of their reactions. J
Name.
Colour.
Acid effect.
Alkali effect.
Papilio codrus . .
P. agamemnon . .
Leaf-green
Deep green
0
Yellow
Whitish
0(exceptbyHN03)
P. policenes
Leaf -green
White
White
P. antheus
Limenitis procris .
Pale green
Sage-green
White
Somewhat affected
Dun-grey
Dun-grey
Parthenos gambri-
sius, below . .
Sage-green
Dun-brown
Dun-brown
Parthenos gambri-
sius, above . .
Metallic green
Purplish bronze . .
Blackish
Eronia argia ....
Very pale bluish grn
White*
White
Hesperia sp.? ....
Dark metallic green
Blackish or 0 ... .
PurpUsh bronze
Urania fulgens ..
Metallic bronze-grn
Bed or vio
let bronze
Let us, first of all, adopt the same course that was followed in
treating of yellow and chestnut, and arrange the various greens in
different groups, according as they behave when tested with the
reagents. We shall find it necessary to form — at least provi-
sionally— three groups, as shown in the following tabulation : —
* Dissolution not certain ; so little pigment in the wing to start with.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOUtlS.
116
Pigment colours. Dissolve,
Physical colours.
Physical (?).
leaving white wing ; but,
Became bronze.
Became bronze-brown, &c.
in some cases, wing is
yellowed.
Parthenos garnbrisius,
Argynnis
Papilio codrus
above
Limenitis procris
P. agamemnon
Hesperia sp. ?
Parthenos gamhrisius,
P. policines
Urania fulg ens
below
P. antheus
Ino statices
{Eronia argia)
I. globularice
Halias prasinaTia
Thecla rubi
Moma orion
Dichonia aprilina
Larentia viridaria
Nemoria vernaria
Hemithea strigata
Metrocampa margaritaria
Tortrix viridana
Cidaria miata\ /f,v
C.psittacata j ^''
It may be noticed that in this table I have ignored one
species, E. cardamines, the green of which, as shown in my
original tables,* is invariably turned black by all reagents. The
omission here of so unique a species may cause surprise ; and,
indeed, were the colour of this really a true green, which green
becomes black by the action of my reagents, we should certainly
have a most interesting example to deal with. But, as a matter
of fact, the green of this species cannot be rightly reckoned as
green at all. My experiments have fully convinced me that Mr.
Cockerell was quite right in the statement made some time since,
in his article on Variation,! that the green of cardamines is
apparent only, being merely a mixture of black and yellow. This
entirely accords with my experiments : the slight amount of yellow
is rapidly dissolved and the black left standing only. Therefore,
although this wing, previously to all appearance green, remains
black, we cannot reckon that a green has been changed to black.
Now, in discussing the character of green, the first point to
be noticed is that whereas in red we had indubitably a pigment
colour only, and in yellow and chestnut (yellow especially) had
no certain evidence of any " physical colour," here, in green, on
the contrary, we have indubitably both physical and pigmental
colours to deal with, as well as a class of colours that are very
probably physical, though it is scarcely possible to speak
decidedly about them at present.
Let us first dispose of the physical greens, of which we have,
undoubtedly, examples in Urania fulgens, Parthenos gamhrisius^
and the Hesperia sp. All of these are metallic colours, and, by a
practised eye, can be instantly and with certainty detected as
"'physical^' colours. I think that I may safely venture to lay
Entom. xxiii. 252.
t Entom.- xxii.
116 tilE ENTOMOLOGIST.
m
down the rule that when a patch of colour visibly consists not of
a continuous mass, but of a number of isolated distinct spots of
colour, that colour is certainly physical. So far as my experience
goes, this kind of appearance is found only in the metallic greens*
and the blues; among the latter Papilio machaon affords an
excellent illustration. I hope that my description of the kind of
effect to which I wish to draw attention is intelligible ; but if not,
I will ask any of my readers to carefully examine the blue
markings on P. machaon, after doing which I think that they
will no longer be under any doubt.
Now, as to the reactions of such ** physical " blues and greens,
it must not be hastily assumed that because such colours are not
pigmental, therefore they will be totally unaffected by any
reagents. This would be erroneous. Of course there can be no
dissolution effect, neither can there be any " reversible " effect,
such as the reds display. But it must be remembered that,
since the colour in such cases depends on the molecular structure
of the surface, any temporary or permanent alteration of this
surface may be expected to temporarily or permanently alter the
colour. It would be strange indeed, if a thorough soaking with
even any indifferent liquid did not temporarily affect the molecular
structure, and so alter its effect on the light rays ; much more
might we anticipate that any such powerful and destructive
reagents as caustic potash, or nitric acid, would permanently
alter the surface structure, and so lead to a coloric alteration.
And this is just what we do find in many cases, as will more
clearly appear after the phenomena of blue species have been
discussed. Accordingly, one of three things may happen when
we experiment on these "physical" colours: — (1) They may be
unaffected ; or (2) the colour may disappear, but gradually return
on drying ;t or (3) the colour may be permanently either altered
to, usually, another metallic-looking colour, or permanently
dulled or destroyed.
Eeturning now to the three green species just referred to
(U. fulgens, P. gambrisius, and the Hesperia), we find that the
greens are changed to some sort of a bronze — a reaction which
is perfectly intelligible in the case of a physical colour. Since
further examples of such changes will be found among the blues,
we need linger no longer to consider them here; but I may
observe that the green of Parthenos gambrisius (upper surface)
suffered unusually for a colour of this class, since the final effect
of most of the reagents was to destroy all lustre and colour
altogether, and I found no return after several days' standing.
The " physical " greens seems to possess by no means so
*' strong a constitution " as the physical blues.
* I ought, however, to add, that with some of these metallic colours it is a toss up
whether to call them green or yellow ; all depends on the angle at which the light
falls on them.
t This is very marked in P. macliaan.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 117
In column 2 we have an exceedingly interesting and equally
puzzling group — one, too, that has caused me not a little mental
exercitation. Originally, I had split this into two groups, the
second of which possessed one solitary representative, T. ruhi ;
but further reflection and experiment have led me to class
r. ruhi with the other species, as in the present arrangement.
The difficulty with this group is to obtain some decided evidence
that shall justify us in stating certainly that these greens are or
are not "physical" colours. The facts that I have found no
solution of pigment (indeed, the change from green to brown is
so instantaneous as to well nigh preclude any supposition of
solution taking place), and have no evidence of a *' reversible "
effect comparable with that in the case of red, both tell against
the existence of a green pigment in these instances. But this
evidence is not conclusive. Considerably more conclusive is the
fact that in Limenitis procris I have been able to effect the
change from green to brown (or rather, in this case, a sort of
dun-grey) by simple water ; and this change was permanent. In
T. ruhi, too, it is possible to abolish the green colour by water ; but
the colour rapidly returns. In Argynnis I have been less successful
in inducing this change by water only ; but in both these two last
species I have effected it by alcohol. In the case of ruhi the green
returned very quickly, as soon as the wing was dried in fact. In
Argynnis the return was less rapid. I must point out that the
argument from the action of alcohol must be applied with con-
siderable reservation.
Summing up the case of group 2, it seems to me that we may
lay down the following conclusions : — That the green of Parthenos
gamhrisius is physical; this is strongly supported by the un-
doubtedly physical character of the green on the upper surface of
that species. The similar green of Limenitis procris* is also
physical ; and the green of Ino statices and glohularia is, in all
probability, of the same nature. As to T. ruhi and the Argynnis
species, the evidence is strongly in favour of the former being of
a physical green ; while as to the latter, the evidence, so far as it
goes, favours the same supposition, but is less strong perhaps.f
Turning now to group 3, — the most interesting of all, since
here we have clearly pigment colours in evidence, — we shall find
a brief notice, in addition to the facts published already in the
tables,! sufficient. Taking, first, the English species, which in all
cases, except the ambiguous one of Cidaria miata and psittacata,
dissolve, leaving a white wing, the case is evidently exactly com-
* This derives additional support from the fact that in L. sibylla we have this
colour represented by a physical pale blue. See next subsection.
t I shall be greatly obliged to any correspondents who will inform me, either by
letter or through the pages of the 'Entomologist,' of any species marked with
apparently the same green as rubi or argynnis ; and also of any varieties (if any
such be known) of these species — varieties, I mean, so far as concerns the green.
t Entom. xxiii. 252.
118 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
parable, so far, with the behaviour of the soluble yellows and
chestnuts ; and it is exceedingly interesting that we should find
the same green pigment in such very divergent groups as Noctuse,
Geometrse, and Tortrices ; whilst the evidence of the exotic
Papilionidse extends this statement to the Rhopalocera. As to
the case of Cidaria, I am inclined to think it not impossible
(though I am not sure about this point) that the exception may
be no more real than is the behaviour of Vanessa io among the
chestnuts ; I mean that the green of Cidaria may be identical
with that of the remaining species, but developed on a grey or
brown ground wing instead of on a white.* If this supposition be
correct, these two species are of especial interest.
Now, any reader who will turn to the original tables of
reactions,! published last August, will observe that in the case of
Halias prasinana I especially emphasised the somewhat startling
phenomenon that one reagent (ammonia) turned the green to a
prominent yellow; not a pale, dubious yellow, but a genuine
" ochre-yellow." This phenomenon is not, moreover, entirely so
isolated as might appear at first sight ; for in the case both of
M. orion and D, aprilina a faint yellowish tint was produced by
nitric acid. Neither are parallel instances wanting among the
Geometrse ; for in both H. strigata and M, margaritaria a
yellowish tint was produced, whilst it is noted that N. vernaria,
under the influence of acetic acid, changed from green to white,
" passing through a phase with pale j^ellow streak."
Turn we now for a moment to the Papilionidse. When I first saw
the beautiful leaf-green of P. codrus, agamemnon, &c., I concluded
it pretty certainly to be a pigment colour. But the earlier expe-
riments did not seem to bear out this view : for instance, both
these species were unafi'ected by the acids ; but the other two
species noted were more amenable ; and in all cases the greens
were acted on by potassic and sodic hydrates. + I concluded,
therefore, that the green was identical with that of our English
Heterocera, already referred to, although of a somewhat more
stable or less soluble character. But there is yet stronger
evidence ; for, as shown above, the effect of the alkalis was to
change the green of codrus into a yellow, which was permanent
when looked at five days afterwards. In the case, too, of
policenes, although the wing was not yellowed, yet the solution
of the dissolved pigment was ; or, to quote the entry made in my
note-book, it " dissolved as yellowish." We may, therefore, very
safely consider, I think, that the Papilionidse green is practically
the same as that of the other species.
Now let us revert to the " yellowing " phenomenon : how is
this to be interpreted ? The facts, so far as they go, appear to
* Entom. xxiii. 340.
t Entom. xxiii. 252.
X With this cf. the fact that chestnut seems in many cases more soluble in
alkalis than in acids.
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. 119
me to point very significantly to one conclusion, that green has
been evolved from yellow similarly as red has. I am, however,
anxious not to insist upon this interpretation at present, since
the data to hand are far too scanty for a definite decision to be
made; but it is certainly justifiable to point out the probability
of this view. For the rest, I can only wait until, by experiment-
ing on a large number of green species, further data shall have
been accumulated. I may add that, in forming this opinion as to
the relations of green and yellow, I have relied not simply upon
the fact that in several cases green has been changed into a per-
manent yellow, but also, especially, on the apparent evidence
afforded by various species of yellow being a transition stage in
the course of the dissolution ; just as, for example, the red of
Delias and the orange-red of G, cleopatra are first changed to
yellow, and then that yellow dissolved.
This much must serve for green ; and now we pass to the last
colour to be considered, viz.y blue,
(To be continued).
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF
MIDDLESEX.
Compiled by T. D. A. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 97).
Additional records have been obtained from the following
sources : —
(23.) Rev. J. E. Tarbat. A MS. list of Lepidoptera taken
mostly at Brook Green, Hammersmith, between the years 1881
to 1883 inclusive.
(24.) A. W. Mera. A MS. list of Lepidoptera taken in
Middlesex, chiefly between the years 1862 and 1879.
(25.) Canon Fowler. *Coleoptera of the British Islands.'
Records quoted from this work are for the most part credited to
its author, as the name of the collector is not often mentioned
therein. It would be better, no doubt, to quote the original
sources of information from which Canon Fowler got his records,
most of which have probably been published before ; but this
would involve more bibliographical research than the present
recorder has time for.
Two additions are so interesting that they may be noticed
now. Mr. Mera gives me records of Leucophasia sinapis, L.,
"in a lane near Acton, one specimen taken by a friend";
and Stauropus fagi, L., one taken in his garden at Hammersmith
about 1863. Additional records for several of the rare species
have also been received, and will be published later on.
It has happened not unfrequently that the same locality for
120 THE ENTOMOLOGIST,
a species has been sent to me by two observers : in such cases I
have usually only quoted the name of one of them. In Entom.
1888, pp. 247, 248, Mr. J. W. Tutt records several species and
varieties of Noctuse from " London." These are omitted from
the present list, as I learn from Mr. Tutt that the records refer
to parts of London outside Middlesex.
Lepidopteba.
Noctuidce, subf. Bryophilince*
Bryophila perla, Fb., Hall Koad, St. John's Wood; Kings-
bury ; Harrow Koad, Willesden (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar
(South) ; Isleworth (Fenn) ; Bedford Park (L. M, Cockerell) ;
Highgate (Shepherd) ; frequent on walls about South Hampstead
(Watts) ; Hammersmith (Tarbat),
Subf. Bomhycoince,
Demas coryli, L., Oxhey Lane (Rowland-Brown),
Acronycta psi^ L.,t Kegent's Park ; St. John's Wood (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill (South) ; Isleworth (Fenn) ; Ealing (Ckll) ; Bedford
Park (Miss E. Sharpe) ; Highgate (Shepherd) ; Hammersmith
(Mera) ; common, larvas or birch (Watts); Chiswick, larvae on
fruit trees, including medlar and quince (Sich) ; Bayswater
(Chitty) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout). A. tridens, Schiff.,
Highgate (Shepherd). A. leporina, L., larvae beaten from birch
at Bishop's Wood, Hampstead (Godwin) ; S. Kensington (Pratt),
A, aceris, L., Kegent's Park; St. John's Wood (Godwin); Mill
Hill, at rest on ash (South) ; Bedford Park, a larva in Woodstock
Koad (Ckll.) ; Highgate (Shepherd) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ;
Hampstead, larvae on sycamore (Watts) ; Chiswick, at rest on
trunk of apple tree, larva on palings near horse-chestnut trees,
pupa on trunk of same (Sich) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout) ;
S. Kensington (Pratt). A. megacephala, Fb., Kegent's Park;
St. John's Wood (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Bedford Park,
larva on poplar (Ckll.) ; Tufnell Park (Shepherd) ; Hammer-
smith (Mera) ; South Hampstead (Watts) ; Chiswick, larva on
poplar and willow (Sich) ; South Kensington (Chitty) ; Clapton
(Bacot); Dalston (Prout). A. alni, L., doubtfully quoted from
Bishop's Wood (Godwin). A, rumicis, L., Hampstead, olim
(Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar (South) .
Diloha cceruleocephala, L., generally distributed (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill, larvae very common on hedges (South) ; Old Oak Com-
mon (Mera) ; Harefield (Wall).
* Probably the arrangement of the Noctuid moths usually adopted in this
country will need modification. I here reduce most of our "families" to sub-
families, which is certainly the highest rank they deserve. Grote, in his recent
check-list, treats similar divisions merely as tribes.
+ Dr. Chapman has, I think with sufficient reason, split Acronycta into three
genera or subgenera (Ent. Kec. 1890), but, as I learn from Mr. Butler, the names
he has proposed for them will not any of them stand as valid.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 121
Subf. Leucaniincp,*
Leucania\ conigera, Fb., Clutterhouse Lane; Cricklewood ;
Hampstead ; Old Oak Common {Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ;
Harefield (Wall). L. conigera ab. B, Tutt, Clatter House Lane
(Entom. 1878, p. 169). L. vitellina, Hb., Finchley (W, T. Sturt,
Ent. Mo. Mag. xxiii. p. 110). L, lithargyria, Esp., Clutterhouse
Lane; Hampstead; Old Oak Common {Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at
sugar and bred from larvaB (South) ; Highgate (Shepherd) ;
Chiswick (Sich) ; Harefield (Wall). L. comma, L., Mill Hill
(South) ; Harefield, frequent (Wall), L, straminea, Tr., Ham-
mersmith, olim (Newman, * Brit. Moths,' p. 266). L. impura,
Hb., Clutterhouse Lane ; Hampstead ; Old Oak Common (God-
win) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Bedford Park (J. W, Horsley fide Fenn) ;
Finchley (Shepherd)-, Harefield (Wall)-, Clapton (Bacot), L,
pallens, L., Clutterhouse Lane ; Hampstead ; Old Oak Common
(Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Finchley (Shepherd) ; Harefield
(Wall),
Senta maritima, Tausch.
Tapinostola fulva, Hb., Bishop's Wood, Hampstead (Godwin).
Nonagria arundinis, Fb., Willesden ; Old Oak Common ;
Hampstead Heath ; Hammersmith (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at
sugar (South), N, geminipuncta, Hatch., t Hammersmith Marshes
(Newman) ; N. lutosa, Hb.,§ Hammersmith (Mera),
(To be continued.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &o.
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
The Annual Exhibition of this Society, held on the 15th and 16th of
April last, was an undoubted success. The general arrangements were
excellent, and the exhibits were very pleasingly varied, and represented all
branches of Natural History. Among other important exhibits in the
Entomological Section was one, by Mr. Billups, of Ichneumonidae bred by
members of the Society from various species of Lepidoptera during the
past four years. In all cases the imago of the lepidopteron upon whose
larva the ichneumon was parasitic was shown, and in many instances the
larva also. Mr. Leech's contribution, which showed the geographical dis-
tribution and local variation of several species of Lepidoptera found in
Britain, attracted considerable attention, as also did Mr. Adkin's geo-
graphical arrangement of British butterflies, and his very fine collection of
TriphcBncB. Another specially interesting exhibit was the collection of
Canadian Lepidoptera presented to the Society by Messrs. A. and L. Gibb,
* This subfamily is equivalent to Grote's tribe Nonagriini.
t Mr. Grote uses the older name HeliopMla, Hbn., in place of Leticania.
I N. geminipuncta is said by Mr. Butler to be congeneric with Tapinostola fulva.
§ N. (or Galamia) lutosa and N. arundinis are referred by Mr. Butler to OmmatO'
stola, Grote.
ENTOM. — MAY, 1891. I,
103 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
and arranged by Mr. W. West, the curator. There were several instructive
cases of life-histories of Lepidoptera, lent by Messrs. Croker, McArthur,
Quail, &c. ; and of insects injurious to farm crops, by Mr. S. L. Mosley.
The variation of Lepidoptera in Britain was illustrated by several exhibitors,
among whom were Messrs. C. S. Gregson, T. W. Hall, J. W. Tutt, and
S. Webb ; some of the aberrations of Vanessa urtica and Abraxas grossula-
riata, shown by the last-named gentleman, were extraordinary, as also was
a black specimen of Papilio machaon exhibited by Mr. Leech. Examples
of mimicry among Lepidoptera were exhibited by Prof. Stuart. Mr. R.
McLachlan exhibited British Trichoptera (caddis-flies), with larval cases.
Homoptera were shown by Messrs. Billups and West, and there were loans
of Coleoptera from Messrs. C. H. Goodman, W. Manger, G. A. Lewcock,
and others. Three lantern exhibitions were given on each evening ; and
Mr. F. Enock's lecture on " The Wonders of Insect Life," illustrated by
micro-photo-slides, was an intellectual treat thoroughly enjoyed by all. — Ed.
CocciNELLiD^ EATEN BY Blagk-headed Gulls. — On scvcral occasions,
during the last three years, I have frequently seen a number of black-
headed gulls flying about over the tops of some tall trees in a small
plantation near the river Mersey. They attracted my attention more
especially by their curious flight, which was very like that of a company of
swallows chasing their prey ; by this I guessed that they were capturing
insects on the wing, but to be quite sure of this, one of the birds was shot,
and as it fell to the ground it became suspended by its legs to the lower
branches of a tree, when it immediately cast up a number of specimens of
a Coccinella, numbering between thirty and forty individuals. In company
with the gulls there were frequently a number of starlings, also flying as
if chasing insects, but whether they were feeding upon Coccinellidse or not
I am unable to state, as I have not examined their stomachs. The gulls
only frequent this spot on sunshiny days during flood-tide, apparently for
the purpose of obtaining insects and nothing more. It is very curious that
the Coccinellidse should fly so high, and much more so for the gulls to feed
upon them ; they are the last birds that one would suspect of doing this.
I regret that I am unable to give the name of the Coccinella, as at the time
I attached no special value to my observation, but since reading my son's
note (ante p. 100), I thought this might prove of interest. — R. Newstead,
Sen.; Ince, near Chester, April 9, 1891.
Birds feeding on Nauseous Insects. — In 1875 a large whitethorn
hedge between Shoreham and Lancing was being devoured by larvae of
Liparis chrysorrhcea. Four cuckoos that were flying in and out of the
hedge fell to the gun of Mr. F. Trangmar. Thinking the birds had been
feeding on the larvae, we examined the contents of their stomachs ; but
although we could find no trace of larvae amongst the almost com-
pletely digested matter, we observed the remains of several wing-cases of
different Coleoptera, and I distinctly remember finding, in two of the birds,
elytra of the common ladybird. — H. McArthur ; 35, Averill Street,
Fulham Palace Road, W.
An Entomological Myth.— In all our lists of British Lepidoptera
occurs the name of Cucullia scrophularice, Hiib. It has been recorded from
Bloxworth, but the Rev. 0. P. Cambridge now writes, ** I doubt whether my
Bloxworth examples are any more than C, verbasci." I believe myself that
NOTES, CAPTUHES, ETC. 1^3
there is no such species in Britain, and that specimens of both C. verfeasci and
C. lychnitis are doing duty in our cabinets as C. scrophularicB. If we turn
to the ' Lepidoptera Britannica,' we see that Haworth's opinion is this : —
" As the great lepidopterist Hiibner gives the water-betony moth as a dis-
tinct species from that of the mullein, and figures both, it is also here
enumerated, as I possess English specimens of both and have seen others.
But, unless they differ more in the larva state than they do in the winged,
which is almost a constant characteristic in this section, I must still
conceive they are not distinct, but very slight variations only. The chief
difference is the paler colour of scrophularia, whose upper wings, especially
in the broad plaga, are of an ochreous colour, as figured by Hiibner, while
those of verbasci are nearly white in the same part." Now, may I ask, will
not this description do for C. lychnitis, Ramb., which species was apparently
unknown to Haworth? A mistake which has often been made is that
larvae of a Cucullia, feeding on figwort, are those of scrophularicB ; for it
must be borne in mind that the larvae of verbasci will also feed on figwort
as well as on mullein. Stainton, in his * Manual,' gives a description of the
larva of scrophularicB, copied from Rambur. May I ask. Has any such larva
been found in Britain ?— C. W. Dale ; Glanville"s Wootton, March 20, 1891.
Assembling of Bkephos parthenias. — In answer to Mr. Perry
Coste's enquiry with regard to assembling, it may be interesting to record
my experiences of to-day. At 2 p.m., the afternoon being warm and
sunny, I armed myself with the three bottom joints of a good stout fishing-
rod, and wended my way to some woods at Warley where I take B.
parthenias regularly every year. On arriving at the scene of operations, I
afi&xed my net to the fishing-rod, which was some ten feet high, and
wandered about in search of the orange underwing. For a long time I was
unsuccessful, as the wind was rather high, my net unwieldy, and there
were very few parthenias about. At last I succeeded in catching a male
flying low, and shortly afterwards a large, dark, freshly emerged female,
flying about five feet from the ground round a birch bush. No sooner was
she in my net than all at once she was surrounded by five males, which
seemed to rise as if by magic from two neighbouring birch trees. Three
of these were promptly in my net and soon transferred to boxes. The
female I left in my net, hoisted on high, and for a considerable time after-
wards males kept coming up, both with the wind and against it. The would-
be captor of parthenias should select a clearing in a birch-wood, where he
will have plenty of room to make the somewhat wild strokes necessary to
catch this high-flying species. Fresh specimens rarely fly at a lower
altitude than ten or twelve feet. — (Rev.) Gilbert H. Ratnor ; Victoria
House, Brentwood, April 6, 1891.
Attacus atlas (Giant race). — T wish to record my success in rearing
one of these somewhat delicate insects through all its stages — a success
which culminated in the emergence, a few days ago, of a fine female imago,
measuring within a shade of ten inches across. Of the three larvae which
hatched from the half-dozen ova that I obtained last summer, one died on
arrival, having hatched in the post ; another died after attaining about half
its growth ; but the third resulted in the above-mentioned success. The
larvae selected oak for their food during their first and a considerable
portion of their second stage, but subsequently, until the death of one and
and pupation of the other, plum alone was eaten. They were kept under
i*M TiiE ENTOMOLOGIST'.
a glass shade in a hothouse, but there was practically no artificial heat
except a moderate temperature at night. The larva that attained its full
growth fed almost continuously, and this, coupled with the size of one of
the parents, led me to expect even a larger imago. Seven weeks was about
the duration of the larva stage, and it took about a similar period to
" force " the pupa ; Attacus orizaba, under the same conditions, taking two
weeks less. — H. J. White ; Frogmore Lodge, St. Albans.
Hybeenia defoliaria in February. — Daring the first week of last
February, I met with eight specimens of the above insect, at gas lamps.
Contrary to Mr. Raynor's experience (Entom. 99), nearly all these were in
fine condition (though curiously undersized), and I can hardly believe
that they were other than freshly emerged specimens, and not hybernated
ones from the previous October or November. Though working the gas
lamps frequently the previous autumn, I only record three examples of this
species. As an instance of the wide time-range of emergence that obtains
in the genus HyberniUf I may mention that H. progernmaria abounded at
the gas-lamps here at the end of January and during February of last
year, and that on April 17th of the same year, I netted a specimen of
this species near Dawlish, S. Devon. — K. M. Prideaux ; 28, Berkeley
Square, Bristol, April 3, 1891.
I venture to think that the specimens of this moth taken by the
Eev. Gilbert H. Raynor, in February last, were insects the emergence of
which from the pupa was retarded by the long frost which set in at the end
of last year. This was certainly the case with a male of this species which
I found in my breeding cage in the beginning of February, and probably
also with a female, but as the latter was dead when found, it might have
emerged in November and escaped my notice, though I think this unlikely.
Mr. T. B. Jefi'erys' note (Entom. 100) on Pcecilocampa populi supports my
view. Even winter insects require a warm day to induce them to leave the
pupa. — A. J. Chitty; 33, Queen's Gate Gardens, S.W.
Late appearance of Hybernia defoliaria. — I took a few larvae of
this species last year ; two or three imagines came out at the usual time,
and I was much surprised to find that a male came out on 28th December.
I thought this was very late for the species, but another male (dark variety)
came out on 30th January; a female on the 3rd February; and a male
(dark variety) on 13th February. My breeding-cage is situated out of
doors, but sheltered from the north and north-east winds, and it gets the
benefit of whatever sunshine there may be. — A. Bacot ; 35, Oakfield Road,
Clapton, N.E., April 9, 1891.
Hybernated specimen of Geotrupes typhous near Manchester.
— While hunting for Coleoptera on the 27th of last month, in Dunham
Park, Bowdon, near this city, I turned out of a bore a fine hybernating
specimen of Geotrupes typhcBus. According to Mr. Fowler's work,
• Descriptive British Coleoptera,' Dunham Park is, with the exception
of Liverpool, the only place in the northern counties where this species
has been observed, although found locally in southern counties. Perhaps
this note may interest some northern entomologists. — Wm. McKay ;
79, Bishop Street, Moss Side, Manchester, April, 189L
Notes on some early species of Lepidoptera. — Since the first
uf the month of March 1 have l)een several times to Richmond Park, to
koTES, CAPTURES, ETC* l25
obtain Nyssia hispidaria, but have not been fortunate enough to meet with
it, and to the present time I have only heard of about eight having been
taken. Phigalia pedaria, Hyhernia leucophearia, Anisopteryx cBSCularia,
occurred sparingly on the days when I was able to visit the park, but
several friends have taken all three species there commonly since the end
of February. On the 15th March, TcBniocarnpa gothica began to emerge,
in a cage that has been in the garden during the whole of the winter; the
pupae were then brought into a warm room, and since then have emerged
very freely, averaging about half a dozen a day. I am also breeding
Eupithecia minutata, Lohophora viretata, and Hemerophila abruptaria, all
of which have been kept in a room where there is a fire every day. — H. W.
Baeker; 83, Brayard's Road, Peckham, S.E., March 25, 1891.
Notes from the Wye Valley below Builth. — I found the year
] 890, on the whole, a very bad one for Lepidoptera. I, however, succeeded
in adding some moths to the list I am making of the Lepidoptera of this
neighbourhood. On the 22nd of May I took at light two beautiful
specimens of Agrotis cinerea, which is, I believe, considered a good insect
anywhere, and one I hardly expected to get here, as I can hear of no other
instance of its capture anywhere in the district. In August I took also
at light Cleora glahraria. I found sugar almost a complete failure, and
took very few moths at it. Larvae in the spring and early summer were
very plentiful on the oaks, but in the autumn they were singularly scarce.
Butterflies were much fewer than usual, the commonest were, I think,
Polyommatus phloeas and Lyccena icarus. The Vanessidae were, on the
contrary, very scarce. I hardly saw a specimen of V. atalanta or F. io, and
not a single V, cardul, all of which, especially the first two, are generally very
common here. — John Williams Vaughan, Jun. ; The Skreen, Radnor-
shire, Erwood, R.S.O.
Late appearance of Eughloe cardamines. — On various occasions
notes have appeared in the * Entomologist ' of unusually late appearances of
Euchlo'e cardamines. It may, therefore, be of interest to state that I saw
a specimen (male) on July 15th last, at Miirren, near Lauterbrunn in
Switzerland. It may possibly be worth recording, also, that during a tour
of between two and three weeks, in which time I walked over between 200
and 300 miles of that country, I saw but one specimen of Oonopteryx
rhamni, and that between Thun and Interlaken. — F. H. Perry Coste ;
Ravenshoe, Burnt Ash, March 4, 1891.
Pieris RAPiS. — On the 24th March last, a freshly emerged specimen
of Pieris rapes was taken in the kitchen at the Bridge House Hotel,
London. Although this date is late as compared with the recently recorded
specimens (Entom. xxiv. 77, 99), the position in which the insect was
found appears to me to afford a clue to their origin. What is more probable
than that the larva from which this butterfly was reared should have been
introduced into the kitchen in the autumn with the cabbages that would, in
the ordinary course of things, be brought into such a place for culinary
purposes, and being full fed seek some secluded corner in which to pupate ;
and its premature emergence be brought about by the warmth of the apart-
ment? In like manner, larvae that may have wandered into greenhouses to
undergo pupation would, by reason of the artificial warmth applied in the
early months of the year to force the plants into blossom, be also forced
126 tHE Entomologist.
into early emergence, and on the first opportunity escape into the open.
— RoBT. Adkin; Lewisham.
EuPiTHECiA ALBiPUNCTATA VAR. ANGELTCATA.— I have bred a number 9£
this variety of E. albipunctata, along with the type, from larvae taken at
Bishop's Wood last September. Some years ago I bred one or two a
season, but never in such large proportion to the type as this year. —
Geo. Jackson ; York, April 21, 1891.
Cloantha solidaginis in Inverness-shire. — Among the few speci-
mens taken by me last season in Inverness-shire (Entom. 74), I omitted
one specimen of Cloantha solidaginis, which at the time I had noted down
as Acronycta menyanthidis ; not, however, being sure of this, I sent my
capture to Mr. Tutt, who kindly identified it for me. Newman says of this
species, " Exceedingly local ; once taken at Torquay, its favourite counties
being Lancashire, Cheshire, and Yorkshire." — D. H. S. Steuart ; Royal
College of Science, Kensington, W., April 9, 1891.
♦' A Cold Prospect." — Under this head the * Chester Courant ' for
April 1st, 1891, has the following, which may be interesting to entomolo-
gists : — '* Many people have an idea that after the severe winter we have
had we may look for a warm summer, but according to M. Lancaster, of
the Brussels Observatory, who has been engaged in studying the statistics
of the weather in Europe during the present century, a cold winter has
never in that period been followed by a hot summer. On the contrary, in
most cases the ensuing summer has been colder than usual." So far the
entomological outlook — in the Chester district at any rate — is a poor one,
and coincides too closely with the dismal forebodings of the quoted
paragraph. March has been exceptionally cold, and April is, so far, both
cold and sunless. Amongst preponderating east winds, my notes very
naturally record very little Entomology. — J. Arkle ; Chester, April 8, 1891.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — April 1st, 1891. — Professor
R. Meldola, F.R.S., Vice-President, in the chair. Mr. G. A. Booth, of
Grange-over-Sands, North Lancashire; and Mr. W. Manger, of New
Cross, S.E., were elected Fellows of the Society. Capt. H. J. Elwes
showed a small but very interesting collection of butterflies from Laggan
Alberta, N.W. Territory of Canada, taken by Mr. Bean at high elevations
in the Rocky Mountains. Amongst them was Colias elis, Streck., which
seemed to be very close to, if not identical with, C. hecla of Europe ;
Argynnis alberta, W. H. Edw. ; and Chionobas subhyalina, W. H. Edw.
The resemblance between the butterflies of this locality and those found on
the Fells of Lapland was very striking, some of the species being identical,
and others very closely allied. Capt. Elwes said that it was another proof,
if one were wanted, of the uniformity of the butterflies found throughout
the boreal region in the Old and New Worlds. Mr. G. C. Champion
exhibited several insects recently received from Mr. J. J. Walker, from
Hobart, Tasmania. The collection included a curious species of Forficulidae,
with asymmetrical forceps, from the summit of Mount Wellington ; two
I
SOCIETIES. 137
mimetic species of CEdemeridaB belonging to the genus PseudolycuSt Guer.,
and the corresponding LycidaB, which were found with them ; also speci-
mens of both sexes of Lamprima rutilans, Er. Mr. N. M. Richardson
exhibited a specimen of Zygana JilipendulcB with five wings ; a second
specimen of the same species with the middle legs on the right side much
dwarfed ; four specimens of Gelechia ocellatella, including a pink variety,
bred from Beta maritima ; four specimens of Tinea subtilella, a species new
to Britain, taken last August in the Isle of Portland ; also specimens of
Nepticula auromarginella, a species new to Britain, bred from larvse taken
near Weymouth on bramble. Dr. Sharp and Mr. M'Lachlan commented
on the structural peculiarities of the two specimens oiZygcBna. Mr. C. Fenn
exhibited a long series of Taniocampa incerta ; they were all bred from
ova laid by the same female, and many of them were of an abnormally pale
colour. Mr. Fenn said that, according to Mr. Merrifield's theory, these
pale specimens, in consequence of the temperature to which they had been
subjected in the pupal state, ought to have been very dark. Mr. Jenner
Weir, referring to the pale specimens, said he had never before seen any of
so light a colour. Mr. W. Dannatt exhibited a butterfly belonging to the
genus CreniSj recently received from the Lower Congo. He said he
believed the species was Crenis henguelcB. Mr. G. A. J. Rothney sent for
exhibition several specimens of an ant [Sima rufo-nigra), from Bengal,
together with specimens of a small sand-wasp (Rhinopsis rujicomis) and a
spider (Salticus)j both of which closely mimicked the ant. It was stated
that all the specimens exhibited had lately been received from Mr. R. C.
Wroughton, Conservator of Forests, Poena. Mr. Rothney also communi-
cated a short paper on the subject of these ants and the mimicking sand-
wasps and spiders, entitled " Further notes on Indian Ants." Mr. G. C.
Champion read a paper entitled " A list of the Heteromerous Coleoptera
collected by Mr. J. J. Walker, R.N., in the neighbourhood of Gibraltar,
with descriptions of four new species." At the conclusion of the meeting a
discussion ensued, in which Mr. Kirby, Capt. Elwes, Mr. M'Lachlan, Mr.
Jenner Weir, Dr. Sharp, and Mr. Crowley took part. — H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
—March 26t/i, 1891. Mr. W. H. Tugwell, President, in the chair. Mr.
Skinner, of Putney, was elected a member. Mr. C. Fenn exhibited a long
series of Taniocampa incerta, Hufn., bred from ova obtained from a female
captured at Lee, Kent, and remarked that the forms were mostly of very
pale gray or brownish tints, banded with dark grey and purple, and showed
a strong tendency towards the form of the female. Out of nearly 100 that
were bred, two-thirds followed the type. The pupae had been exposed to
the intense frost of the winter, and the moths emerged within a fortnight
of the frost breaking up ; and in his opinion the preponderance of the pale
forms did not corroborate Mr. Merrifield's idea that cold darkened the
colour; the black form of the species occurred at Lee. Mr. Tugwell,
referring to Mr. Fenn's exhibit, expressed an opinion that the brood did not
always follow the form of the parent moth, and instanced Acidalia aversata,
of which he had bred forms entirely distinct from the female, but, in reply to
Mr. South, said he did not see the male parent. Mr. South remarked
that in breeding Lepidoptera he invariably found the brood followed either
the male or female parent, or resembled both. Mr. Mansbridge showed a
melanic specimen of Fhigalia pedaria, Fb. Mr. South then referred
to the supposed variety of Pygcsra curtula^ L., exhibited at a previous.
128 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
meeting, by Mr. A. Robinson, and remarked tbat a similar form had been
recorded by Mr. Whittich, and an analogous variety of P. pigra, Hufn.,
figured by Stephens. An exhibition of microscopical objects was then
given by members.
April 9th.— The President in the chair. Mr. A. Hamm, of Reading,
was elected a member. Mr. H. Moore exhibited Caligo nemnon, from
South America, and Metapodius sericollis, from Trinidad. Mr. South,
three varieties of Miana strigilis, Clerck, which were extraordinary forms
of the var. latruncula, and had been sent to him for inspection by Mr.
JefFerys, of Clevedon. Mr. R. Adkin, Padisca sordldana, from Forres,
and stated that these were very unlike the specimens from N. Devon.
Mr. Cockerell read a note on variation ; some discussion followed. Mr. S.
Edwards contributed a paper on the PapiliouidaB.— H. W. Barkeb,
Hon. Sec.
[Want of space compels us to omit the official report of this Society's
Annual Exhibition. It will appear in the June number. — Ed.]
Lancashire and Cheshire Entomological Society. — April I'Sth,
1891. The President, S. J. Capper, F.L.S., F.E.S., in the chair. Messrs.
J. Collins, of Warrington, and W. R. Scowcroft, of Prestwich, were elected
members. Mr. J. E. Robson, F.E.S., of Hartlepool, read a paper entitled,
" Are Abraxas pantaria and A. ulinata one species or two ?" After
remarking on the difficulty of obtaining exotic specimens of the genus, the
author said that A. pantaria had been admitted into the British list on the
authority of one specimen taken at Okehampton Park, Somerset. He referred
to their geographical distribution, stating that A. pantaria only occurred in
places where A. ulmata was absent ; he then minutely described the two
forms, comparing the markings of each, and pointed out the difference in the
genital armature, which he considered was due to local and climatic causes
altering the form of the genitalia. The paper, which was fully illustrated
by many cases containing examples of the genus, led to considerable dis-
cussion as to what actually constituted a species. Mr. Tutt sent for
exhibition the series of Miana, from Armagh, that recently caused so much
controversy among London entomologists ; but so palpably distinct were
the specimens oi fasciuncula and strigilis, and so obvious the ease with
which the examples could be separated, that no discussion arose. Mr.
Robson exhibited some fine varieties of butterflies, and Mr. Collins a
wonderful variety of Leucania Uthargyria, which had the hind wings deeply
fimbriated with dark scales, the central portion of the wing being light. —
F. N. Pierce, Hon, Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — March Idth, 1891. — Mr.
W. G. Blatch, President, in the chair. Messrs. P. J. and H. Pope were
elected members. Mr. Blatch said he had noticed a large number of spring
Lepidoptera at Hopwas Wood a few days previously, and had noticed that
among the Hybernia leucophearia, light specimens seemed to prefer birch
trees and dark specimens oaks and other trees with darker barks, their
colours thus being assimilated to their surroundings. Mr. Thornewill
said that round Burton he noticed what appeared to be two forms of Phi-
galia pedaria : one large and light, found early in open spaces ; and one
small and dark, and found later in the woods. Mr. Thornewill exhibited a
number of Xanthice and read notes on them, making several suggestions
which provoked considerable discussion. — C. J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
Entomologist. June. 1891
Pla-te,,
Helv'cticarijou
F.EuciiaxLan White axiLiaat del.
Terminal Segments of the Genus Eupithecia.
Plate
' b
Sobrvruxiau
F.Budianan "White aoLonat del.
PamdaMx/
WestNewmaiL lith.
Terminal Segmexits of the Genus Eupithecia.
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] JUNE, 1891. [No. 837.
STRUCTURE of the TERMINAL ABDOMINAL SEGMENTS
IN THE MALES of the GENUS EUPITHECIA.
By F. Buchanan White, M.D., F.L.S.. F.E.S. .
(Plates I. & II.)
If the hairs which cover the terminal segments of the
abdomen of the males of the genus Eupithecia are carefully
removed, both the dorsal and ventral aspects of these segments
will be found to show certain features which seem to afford
specific distinctions. The features in question are due to certain
well-defined thickenings of the chitinous material of the segments,
and appear as plates which differ in colour and texture from the
rest of the segment. I have been able to examine thirty-four
species, and in no two species is the structure exactly the same.
Ultimate Segment : Dorsal aspect.— There is a consider-
able difference in the size of the plate in different species. In
some (e.g., E. pulchellatay E, castigata, and E. pumilata) it
neither reaches the apex nor the sides of the segment ; in
others (e.g., E, venosata^ E. satyrata, and E, sohrinata) it
attains the apex, but not the sides; whilst in a few species
(e. g., E. dbsinthiata, E, pusillata, and E, exiguata) it occupies
the whole, or nearly the whole, of the segment, as seen from
above. The end of the plate is usually more or less rounded,
although it is sometimes slightly pointed, as in E, pulchellatay or
truncate, as in E. nanata and E. trisignaria. In a few species
the apex is more or less distinctly emarginate or notched. The
euiargination is very distinct in E, tenuiata and E. ahbreviataf
but almost rudimentary in E, dodoneata and E. helveticaria.
Penultimate Segment: Dorsal aspect. — The whole, or
nearly the whole, of the dorsal part of the segment is occupied
by a plate, whose shape is very similar in all the species.
ENTOM. JUNE, 1891. H
130 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Ultimate Segment: Ventral aspect. — There is great
diversity in the form of the plate. In its simplest form it is
triangular (e. g., E. helveticaria and E. assimilata), or somewhat
triangular (e. g., E. nanata, E. fraxinata^ and E. minutata). In
some other species (e. g., E, suhnotata^ E, scahiosata, and
E. suhfulvata) the plate is more oblong in shape than triangular.
In a few species the apex of the plate is quite entire (e. g.,
E, vulgata) ; in others it is minutely (e. g., E, ahsinthiata) or
very distinctly (e. g., E.pimpinellata, E.pusillatat E. albipunctata)
bifid, till finally the plate becomes divided into two processes
united only at the base (e.g., E, plumheolata, E, castigata), or
apparently entirely distinct (e. g., E, venosata, E. isogrammaria),
(I say apparently distinct, since they may be united under the
over-lapping penultimate segment.)
Penultimate Segment: Ventral aspect. — A narrow plate,
whose form varies according to the species, occupies the middle
of the segment. In some species (e. g., E. suhnotata and
E, tenuiata) it does not reach the hind margin; in others (e. g.,
E, minutata and E, indigata) it just touches it. In the majority
of cases, however, the hind margin is reached. In E. venosata
the apex of this plate is emarginate.
THE VARIATION of the MARKINGS op PAPILIO MAOHAON.
By E. Augustus Bowles, M.A.
Mr. Jenner Weir's fascinating theory concerning the probable
possession of a costal ocellus by the common ancestor of the
House of Papilio (Entom. 105) immediately set me to work to
examine my series of Papilio machaon, and perhaps the following
notes may possess some interest in connection with his able
article : —
I think he rather underrates the extent of the red suffusion
on the upper side of the lower wing of P. machaon when he says
the second submarginal lunule of the lower wing is " occasionally
found" to have a trace of the reddish colour. In eighteen
specimens I examined, I find four males and one female with red
in the first and second submarginal lunules of the lower wing ;
one female with red in the first, second, and third lunules ; one
female with red in the first, second, third, and fourth ; and in
one female in the first and sixth lunules, the sixth being the
lunule immediately before the ocellus at the anal angle. Five
males w^ith red in the first lunule only ; two males with the red
entirely absent in all the lunules, and three with so small a
number of red scales in the first lunule that they are scarcely
VARIATION OP THE MARKINGS OF PAPILIO MACHAON. 131
noticeable without a magnifying-glass. Thus it is possible to
have the red suffusion in the first four and the sixth lunules.
I regret to say I have not Mr. Jenner Weir's vast acquaintance
with foreign allied species, but having noticed what, I think, a
marked connection with the above conclusion, in a species which
I find unnoticed by him (unless I have it wrongly named), I add
it as my one ewe lamb of further evidence in support of the
theory of vanished ocelli. I possess a butterfly named as Papilio
phorcas, and said to be African, which has an irregular ocellus
on the costal angle of the lower wing, the iris of which is blue,
much suffused with red ; then follow three lunules of red corre-
sponding in position with the second, third, and fourth sub-
marginal lunules of P. machaoiiy and there is another red lunule
next to the very distinct ocellus at the anal angle. Thus, in
both species, red is found in all the lunules excepting the fifth.
May it not be possible that their common ancestor possessed six
perfect ocelli ?
I believe it is a generally accepted theory with evolutionist
botanists that yellow was evolved in flowers before red. Perhaps
this rule might be applicable also to the animal kingdom, and
then may not P. machaon be on the road to acquire the further
adornment of five additional ocelli ?
In the above mentioned five males, in which red is so scanty,
there is an additional peculiarity of marking on the upper wings.
The yellow markings of the upper wing of a typical P. machaon
seem to be arranged in four groups : — 1. An interrupted line on
the hind margin. 2. Eight small spots following the direction
of the hind margin. 3. A broad mass extending from the costa
near the tip of the wing to the inner margin, and divided into
nine spots by black scales surrounding certain of the rays, the
two of these spots nearest the costa being again divided by a
roundish black spot in each, and the portion of the upper one
nearest the hind margin and the tip of the wing is much suffused
with black scales. 4. Two spots between the costa and the
median ray, one of which is divided into three. The peculiarity
in these five males consists of an additional round black spot,
which is in the third yellow spot from the costa of group 3.
These extra spots are only found on specimens that have very
little or no red in the lunules of the under wings.
Myddelton House, Waltham Cross, May 14th, 1891.
Ui
133
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S., F.L.S.
(Continued from p. 119.)
V. — The Chemical Aspect (continued).
I.
Before saying anything as to the nature of blue in the
various species examined, I will first subjoin, as in the case of green,
a list of a few exotic Lepidoptera on which I have been able to
experiment since my tables of results were published last August.
Name.
Acid effect.
AtiKAline effect.
Morpho menelaus
Trepsichrois linncei \
("iris" purple) j '*
Hypolimnas bolina \
(" IRIS " purple) 1 * *
H. salmacis (violet) ....
Papilio polyctor (crescent
marks)
P. polyctor
P. philenor
Less brilliant
Less brilliant or 0
The glow dulled
(0) or much dulled, &c.
Duller or 0
Same as acid
:N0 3 , specimens recovered
ive days.)
Leaf-brown
The velvet " glow " dulled
(0)
Duller
Sort of " yellow "
(All, except the HCl and!
within t
Leaf -brown •....
Bronze
Bronze
P. nireus
(Recovering, in a few days
blue or a bi
Steel-blue or steel-violet
Transparent* or 0
Steel-blue or violet ....
Partly transparent ....
, either the original bright
ight green.)
Same as acid
Paler or transparent
Same as acid
Partly transparent
P. sarpedon
P. phorbanta
P. leonidas
We will next, following our usual plan, arrange these blue
species into groups ; but, as will appear from the sequel, it is
questionable whether all, except perhaps the Lyccenm^ might not
be put into one single group.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Apatura iris
Trepsichrois
linnai
Hypolimnas
bolina
Papilio
philenor
P. polyctor
P. nireus
P. phorbanta
P. sarpedon
P. leonidas
(addendum)
Morpho
menelaus
Papilio
machaon
Limenitis
Sibylla
Smerinthus
ocellatus
Catocala
fraxini
Vanessa urticce
V. atalanta
V.io
V. antiopa
Papilio
polyctor
(the crescent
marks)
Lyccma alexia
L. corydon
L. adonis
L. semiargus
Cupido bochus
6.
H. salmacis
* Nitric acid had the extraordinary effect of changing this into a pink.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 133
Now, the first remark that I have to make about blue is that
this is a thoroughly disappointing and unsatisfactory colour.
There is almost as little satisfaction (in the way of discovering
any pigment) to be got out of blue as out of black and white ; whilst,
in addition, there is considerable worry and perplexity attending
the study of these blue wings. I may say at once that in this,
alone of all the five colours, I have no clear evidence as yet of
there being any pigment present ; nay, further, in all the groups,
except the Lycsenidse, — concerning which I am still in doubt, — it
seems fairly certain that the colour is simply " physical." It is,
of course, well known how comparatively rare a colour among
flowers is blue ; it seems there to mark some special complexity
and specially high differentiation in the parts so coloured. It is,
therefore, possible that there is, chemically, some considerable
difficulty in the evolution of a blue pigment ; and, may be, such
has not been evolved among the Insecta ; but, be that as it may,
we must certainly admit that the want of pigmental blue in the
Lepidoptera has been far more than compensated by the un-
surpassable brilliancy of the physical blues in which they rejoice.
Unfortunately, these physical blues, though very beautiful from
an aesthetic standpoint, possess only the minimum of interest from
the chemical.
After what I have said in the preceding section on ** physical "
greens and bronzes, &c., my readers will be able to follow
the present discussion without further explanation on these
points.
First, of all, as to group 1. In all three of these species there
is the same rich purple velvet glow, unmistakably characterising
this as a physical colour. Wallace had remarked, some years ago,
that the blue of A. iris was probably a physical colour, and my
experiments fully confirm this. Directly that A, iris came into
my hands in the course of this research, I felt convinced that
there was no pigment colour here ; and so it proved. In these
three species, the various reagents either are without effect or
produce temporary dulling, or permanently injure the surface
structure, and consequently the colour.
No. 2 group is still more unsatisfactory. The colours of the
species noted here are clearly closely related to those greens
which become bronzed or browned ; it will be noticed that some
of these become of a dull " leaf-brown," which seems to point to
some temporary injury or alteration of a fine surface structure ;
others become of a steel-blue, which is strikingly *' physical " in
appearance. Concerning this group, also, there can be no doubt
as to the physical nature of the colours throughout. I have
included in this group, also, M. menelaus, the brilliant blue of
which, as I only too truly anticipated, is simply physical. Indeed,
it may well be doubted (is there even room for doubt ?) whether
134 TitE Entomologist.
any pigment could possibly yield the extraordinary sheen that
characterises this and some other blues.*
Group 3 is even less satisfactory and less interesting than the last.
I have already referred to the blue of P. machaon. Anyone who
wishes to observe a good example of the behaviour of a physical
colour should try the experiment of thoroughly wetting this blue
spot on machaon^ and watching the blue reappearing as the wing
dries. The blue of S. ocellatus is most unsatisfactory, and, I
believe, of the same nature as that of machaon. As to C. fraxini,
I have, in a former place, expressed my intense disappointment
at being able to find no kind of clue or connection between this
blue and the scarlet of nupta, and so many other CatocalceA It
is however, I think, hardly possible to doubt that in Catocala
fraxini we have simply a physical blue in evidence, and that by
no means a brilliant one either.
Before proceeding to group 4, 1 must make a passing reference
to Hypolimnas salmacis. My only reason for placing this in a
group by itself was not any peculiarity in its behaviour, but
simply the fact that its natural colour was a violet, something
different, therefore, from any of the other species included in my
lists. It is, of course, merely another physical colour.
Now for group 4 — the Vanessidse. Sadly, indeed, was I dis-
appointed in these species. In the early days of my experiments
I expected great things from experimenting on these beautiful
blues. Knowing that in flowers blue usually appeared on highly
differentiated parts, it appeared to me of special interest that in
the Vanessa the blue should, in most cases, appear as a row of
spots near the edge of the wing; and, also, on V. io in the
conspicuous and clearly highly developed ocellus. To the
examination of the Vanessa blues, therefore, I devoted myself
with special interest and attention in the early stages of my
work, and made very numerous, repeated, and careful experiments
on them. I had not then learned how heavy were the probabilities
against any blue being a pigment colour ; and it seemed scarcely
credible to me that so highly differentiated a pigment, as I
assumed the blue to be, should offer any resistance to strong
reagents. However, after long and careful experimenting, — in
the course of which, as will be noted, I examined four species of
Vanessa, and in two species separately examined the blue on
different parts of the wing, — the hard logic of facts drove me to
conclude that in Vanessa the blue is pretty certainly physical.
The phenomena throughout are in accord with this, especially so
the frequently observed fact that the blue might vanish during treat-
ment, but reappear on drying the wing. It will be noted that in
* There is another brilliant blue species, whose name I do not know, often to be
Been in dealers' cases. In one light this is a brilliant blue, like menelaus ; in
another, a dull colourless brownish. Of course it is positively certain that such a
colour must be physical.
t AntCy p. 15.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 135
antiopa the blue was least resistent to the reagents ; there is of
course, as already explained, nothing contradictory in a physical
colour thus disappearing. I have included in this group the
crescent-shaped blue marks on P. polyctor, since the behaviour
of these strongly recalled that of the Vanessidse, especially V. io.
It is especially to be noted that this blue also returned in a
few days.*
And now, in conclusion, we come to the group of Lyccence, I
do not know what to say about these species. They are the only
blues I know of which are not certainly physical. At one time I
thought it highly probable that these were, anyhow, pigment
colours ; but further reflection and experience have considerably
modified my views. On the one hand, there were obtained in each
species colour changes, chiefly to a slate colour or grey, that I at
one time thought pretty good evidence for a pigment ; but, in the
light of later work, this conclusion seems to me much shaken. Here,
again, we are arguing so much in the dark, being left without any
clear answer, such as would be given by either a " solution " or a
*' reversible ** ejffect. As against the supposition that there is any
pigment here, we must set the facts that in corydon, at any rate, the
blue is suspiciously metallic in appearance ; while the same remark
applies to many specimens of the female of alexis — such species, I
mean, as are in the intermediate stage of colouring, between the
brown of the normal female and the full blue of the male. In ad-
dition, I would draw attention to the facts that, as recorded in my
original tables,t the blue in several instances acquired a greenish
tint. This appears to me, now, very suspicious, and somewhat
indicative of a physical blue ; but since no undoubted pigment
blue has yet been found, it is, of course, impossible to assert that
such would not become green under the influence of reagents.
On the whole, then, pending the appearance of fresh evidence, it
seems to me that all we are justified in asserting of Lycceyia-hlxJiQ
is that it is, anyhow, somewhat different in character from any of
the other blues. This much seems clearly shown by its reactions ;
but whether it be a physical or chemical colour we cannot at
present decide.
J.
Having thus examined in turn the evidence yielded by the
reactions of each of the various colours, it only remains briefly to
sura up the results, before passing on to the few remarks that
have to be made on the biological aspect of these experiments.
At the same time I may also take the opportunity to make one or
two corrections and additions to previous statements.
* It was very difficult to know how to describe the reaction of this species. I
have entered the change as that to a " sort of yellow," on account of the appearance
of the traces whence the blue had temporarily disappeared. But it must not for a
moment be supposed that there was here any question of an actual chemical change
to yellow.
t Entom. xxiii. 252.
136 tliE fcNTOMOLOGiSl'.
The most important of these concerns the remarkable behaviour
of certain yellow species when submitted to the action of wet
potassium cyanide. An account of experiments on this subject —
originally written in November, for a footnote to subsection F,
but subsequently held back from considerations of space — will be
found as an appendix to this section. Again, on looking back, I
find that I had adduced* the reactions of T. ruhi and of the blue
Lycsenidae in support of my contention that all the changes
eifected by my reagents were retrogressive. After the conclusions
set forth in the preceding subsections (H and I), however, it is
clear that neither of these reactions can properly be quoted as
evidence for retrogressive change in pigment colours. For the
defence of the position taken up on this subject of retrogressive
changes, I can very safely rely on the argument from red species,
as stated in subsection E.
Furthermore, I see that in a footnote f to subsection F, as
well as in the text, I had referred to the behaviour of pink
species, and adverted to the possibility that these were changed
not to yellow but to white. This remark now seems to me very
ill advised and misleading, especially in view of the explanation
that I have been at some trouble to set forth in (F) previous
pages concerning the relations of red and yellow. In subsequent
examination of other pink species, I have found the yellow
so pale and feeble (most unlike the bold orange-yellow of, e. g.,
Zygcena and Arctia) that it might be easily overlooked, and
carelessly mistaken for white. It seems, too, only reasonable
that a pale delicate pink should yield a far paler yellow than does
a prominent crimson or scarlet.l Since, moreover, these pinks
agree entirely with the other reds in showing the " reversible "
eifect, it is certain that their constitution is the same. My
hypothetical supposition of a subclass for pinks is, therefore, —
as I now think on mature consideration, — entirely erroneous.
Indeed, I feel such thorough confidence in the argument from
the behaviour of red in general, that if I found a pink species
which to a positive certainty changed to white, but showed also
the " reversible " efi'ect, I should feel bound to hold that there
was yet a yellow pigment there, though so slight and pale as to
be imperceptible.! And, furthermore, if in any case an indubitable
white were produced, and no reversible effect were obtainable, we
should then have simply an exactly analogous case to that of
Delias, in which the red first changes to yellow, and then this is
dissolved, leaving a white wing. I have, perhaps, spoken at
* Entom. xxiii. p. 371. f Ante, p. 15.
\ The amount of pigment present in some of these pink species seems to me
to be exceedingly small, as might be anticipated from the pale and delicate colour.
There is also special difficulty in observing the exact tint produced, since in many
cases the background {e.g., in Sphinges) is very troublesome.
§ It must be remembered that " yellow " is used in a broad sense. The essential
differeoce is between the pigment yellow [however jpale) and the non-pigment white#
CHEMISTRY OF iKSECT COLOURS. l3t
undue length on this point, but it seemed to me necessary to
clear up any misunderstanding that may have arisen from what I
now see to have been a very misleading statement.
As to the yellow colour of G. Cleopatra^ concerning which I
had originally surmised that it would prove very immovable,* I
believe that I have already corrected this error by stating that on
experimenting with this species I found the yellow to dissolve
out, leaving a white wing.
As additional points of interest that have recently turned up,
I may note that among some American Bombyces, sent me by
Mr. F. M. Jones, were several species of a kind of chestnut
colour, which were changed to yellow by acids; thus, again,
exemplifying the close relationship of chestnut and yellow.
With these should be compared the reaction of Melitcea athalia.j:
Moreover, in two species, Samia cecropia (chestnut) and Callo-
somia promethea (a sort of red-brown), after this transformation
to yellow, a slight reversion effect to the original colours could be
obtained, just as in the reds. This appears to me specially
interesting, and to point to the fact that these species are — in a
coloric sense — connecting links. Furthermore, one of these same
American Bombyces, viz., C. promethea, was marked with such
an unusual looking black that I was induced to experiment upon
it. My suspicions were partially justified, for one reagent — nitric
acid — converted this black into a definite brown. This is certainly
a notable exception to the usual behaviour of black ; but whether
in this species there be really any pigment present, or whether —
as I strongly incline to hold — the reaction here was simply that
of a physical colour, it is as yet impossible to say. Anyhow, the
fact is worth recording. In this connection, too, I may add that
various black-marked species, such as Arge galatea, A.paphia,
&c., have recently been soaked in 30 per cent, hydrochloric acid
for many days without the black being affected. J
Before proceeding to the genealogy of the colours it seems to
me only right to point out one or two real or apparent difficulties
connected with my rigid separation of physical from pigmental
colours. These difficulties arise from the several instances in
which the red (pigmental) of one species is replaced by blue
(physical) in a closely-allied species.
First of all there is the case of Catocala fraxini (the *' Clifton
nonpareil" or *' blue underwing"). In the larger genus of
Catocala there are a great number of species with red or crimson
bands on the under wing ; these reds are of course pigmental.
There are also species with orange or yellow bands ; and these,
too, are clearly pigmental. But in the case of C. fraxini we have
* Ante^ p. 38. f Entom. xxiii. p. 250.
\ I have recently found certain evidence of the presence of pigment in several
dull-coloured species, such as H. semele, E. hyperanthes or S. egerides (or both),
where, from the superficial appearance, one might have supposed there was
nothing but a physical blackish.
l38 THfi Ei^TOMOtOmST.
neither red nor yellow, but blue — a physical colour. This
appears, at first sight, a rather grave difficulty, but it is lessened con-
siderably by the fact that the one blue band oi fraxini is not in the
same position as the bands of, e. g., C. nupta, but is in a position in-
termediate between these. More difficult to understand, however, is
the case of a species of Vanessa,* which. I recently saw in Mr. Leech's
collection. In this species the (pigmental) red of F. atalanta was
represented by a blue, that, judging from its appearance, I should
say was certainly physical. Finally, it has lately been stated, by
Dr. Seitz,t that in a restricted woodland area in S. Brazil the
great majority of the insects {not Lepidoptera only) were blue;
whilst, only a few miles off, red was dominant. This appears to
me — taking the statement to be correct — strongly indicative of a
blue pigment, produced by some chemical difference in the
district. If this be so, it is certainly strange that among so many
different families examined I should have found no blue pigment ;
and I can only say that I should greatly like to experiment on
some of those species referred to by Dr. Seitz.
Now for the relations of the colours. Black and white of
course are out of court altogether; so is blue, since even if the
Lycsenidse should turn out to be pigmental, it is impossible, in
the present state of our knowledge, to bring this blue, reverting to
slate colour or grey, into any genetic relation with the other
colours. There remain, then, red (including pink) ; yellow, in
all its modifications ; chestnut, also in various modifications ; and
the (pigmental) greens. Now the facts known to us are these : —
Orange and red and pink are developed from yellow ; a few reds
are developed from chestnut ; chestnut and yellow are very closely
allied indeed in constitution, indeed it is difficult to draw any
definite line of demarcation between some chestnuts and some
yellows ; green is, not improbably, also developed from yellow,
although of this it is not possible to speak certainly at present.
Finally, we may have such a thing as a latent yellow pigment, as
demonstrated by the phenomenon of A, galatea. These facts I
have sought to bring together, in an easily grasped graphic form,
by means of the accompanying genealogical tree. It does not
appear to me to involve much unproven theory, except as regards
the assumption that the different stems start from one original
pigment molecule, which, for the sake of a concrete illustration,
I have called "galatea*' stage. This illustration, it will be
understood, is adopted only for the sake of plainly grouping all
the facts together. It involves, however, very little trespass
beyond our known facts. In partial defence of it, I might
perhaps point out that galatea, which we know does possess a
•' pigment mother substance " convertible to yellow, is very
closely allied, entomologically, to the various genera of Satyridse,
* Vanessa charonia, Dru. (Ed.)
t ' Zoolog. Jahrb.,' v. (1890) ; quoted in • Microscopic Soc. JL,' 1890, p. 712,
J
A i^RELIMINARY LIST OF tlJE INSECT-FAUNA OF MfDDLESEX. 1.3^
most of which are coloured by a chestnut pigment. I do not wish
to insist on this fact, but still it is significant in relation to the
present argument. There will also be found in the following and
concluding section (on the biological aspect) a discussion of
certain reported facts in variation which may throw very con-
siderable light on, and, indeed, if correct, must be considered a
remarkable confirmation of, these arguments.
GENEALOGY OF PIGMENT COLOUBS.
SUB-PIGMENT
such as galatea
( Early
\ Chestnut
\ Soluble .
I Later
"j Chestnut
I Soluble ,
r Chestnut"^
e.g.
•< meg<Bra y
Less
(. soluble J
Brown(?) )
Insoluble j
I Brilliant
•j Copper
I Soluble
I Brilliant )
■1 Orange [
{ Soluble j
Ebd ")
e.g.
V. atalanta y
Helieonius
. Anantea J
Pink
Sphinges
(To be continued).
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF
MIDDLESEX.
Compiled by T. D. A. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 121.)
Subf. ApameincB,
Oortyna ochracea^ Hb., West Hampstead; Kilburn; Willesden;
Hammersmith ; on the site of present Earl's Court Station ; on
the site of Shirland Road ; back of Warrington Crescent, Maida
Vale {Godwin) ; Mill Hill, bred from pupae found in burdock-stem
{South) ; Bedford Park, 1886 {CklL),
Hydroecia nictitam, Bork., Bishop's Wood, Hampstead; Ham-
mersmith {Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ; Hampyteud
140 tHE E?itl:OMOLOGTS'r.
Heath (Watts) ; Chiswick (Sick) ; Harefield (Wall), H, micacea,
Esp.^ Hampstead ; Clutterhouse Lane ; Neasdon (Godwin) ; Mill
Hill (South) ; Bedford Park (L. M. Cockerell) ; Finchley (Shep-
herd) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ; Hampstead Heath, common
(Watts) ; Chiswick, once at marjoram bloom (Sich).
Axylia putriSfh.y'H.&mi^steBA; Clutterhouse Lane; Old Oak
Common (Godwin) ; Tufnell Park (Shepherd) ; Hammersmith
(Mera) ; South Hampstead (Watts) ; Chiswick (Sich).
Xylophasia rurea^ Fb., Hampstead ; Clutterhouse Lane ; Old
Oak Common (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Bishop's Wood
(Shepherd); Harefield, common (Wall). X. lithoxylea, Fb.,
Hampstead ; Clutterhouse Lane ; Old Oak Common (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ; Bishop's Wood (Shepherd) ; South
Hampstead, common (Watts) ; Harefield (Wall) ; Hammersmith
(Tarbat) ; Clapton (Bacot). X. sublustris, Esp., Harefield,
common in 1888 (Wall). X. monoglypha, Hufn., Hampstead;
Clutterhouse Lane ; Old Oak Common (Godwin) ; Mill Hill
(South) ; Isleworth (Fenn) ; Bedford Park (Ckll.) ; Bishop's
Wood (Shepherd) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ; Harefield (Wall) ;
Clapton (Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout). X. hepatica^ L., Hampstead ;
Clutterhouse Lane ; Old Oak Common (Godiuin) ; Mill Hill
{South) ; Chiswick, once (Sich). X. scolopacina, Esp., Bishop's
Wood, Hampstead, especially larvae, common, 1873 (Godwin) ;
Highgate (Mera).
Dipterygia scahriuscula, L., Bishop's Wood; Clutterhouse
Lane ; Kingsbury (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ;
Highgate (Mera) ; Kegent's Park, 1882 (Watts) ; Chiswick
(Sich); Harefield, 1887 (Wall); Hammersmith (Tarbat).
Neuronia popularis, Fb., Hampstead Heath ; banks of
Thames between Putney and Hammersmith (Godwin) ; Mill
Hill, at light, comes about 9.30 p.m. (South) ; Harefield (Wall).
Charceas graminis, L., Hampstead Heath ; one specimen on
Old Oak Common (Godwin).
Cerigo matura^ Hufn., Bishop's Wood, not common (Godwin) ;*
Mill Hill (South) ; Harefield (Wall).
Luperina testacea^ Hb., Hampstead Heath (Godwin) ; Mill
Hill, at sugar, and at light (South) ; Bedford Park (Ckll.) ;
Highgate (Shepherd). L. cespitis, Fb., Hampstead Heath, rare
(Godioin) ; Mill Hill, at station lamp, 1875 (South).
Mamestra sordida, Bork., Mill Hill (South) ; South Hampstead
(Watts), M. brassicce, L.,f generally distributed (Godwin); Mill
Hill, at sugar (South) ; Isleworth (Fenn) ; Bedford Park (Miss
E. Sharpe) ; Tufnell Park (Shepherd) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ;
South Hampstead (Watts) ; Harefield (Wall) ; Clapton (Bacot) ;
* Cited in the MS. list as texta.
t On account of its armed tibia, hairy eyes, and the peculiar male genitalia,
this species has been placed by Smith and Qrote in a distinct genus, Barathra, Hb<
{— Copimamcstra Grote).
A PRELIMINARY LIST OP THE INSECT-FAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. 14 1
Dalston (Prout), M. persicarm, L., Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ;
Bedford Park (Miss E. Sharpe) ; Tufnell Park (Shepherd) ; Ham-
mersmith (Mera) ; larvae very abundant in garden, South
Hampstead (Watts) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout) ; Blooms-
bury (Brit, Mus.). M. ahjecta, Hb.,* Willesden (S, T, Klein,
J. of Micr. and Nat. Sci., 1887).
Apamea basilinea, Fb., Hampstead (Godwin) ; Mill Hill
(South); Isleworth (Fenn) ; Bedford Park (Ckll.) ; Bishop's
Wood (Shepherd) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ; Tottenham (Prout),
A, unanimis, Tr., Mill Hill, at sugar, and also larvae (South) ;
Tufnell Park (Shepherd), A. ophiogramma, Esp., Hammersmith
(Mera) ; common at South Hampstead (Watts) ; Chiswick,
once (Sich). A. didyma, Esp., Hampstead; Old Oak Common;
Hendon ; Clutterhouse Lane (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ;
Bedford Park (Miss E, Sharpe) ; Tufnell Park (Shepherd) ;
Hammersmith (Mera) ; Chiswick, extremely abundant (Sich) ;
Harefield (Wall); Clapton (Bacot); Dalston (Prout), A.leuco-
stigma, Hb., near Uxbridget (Benhow, Entom., 1878, p. 21).
Miana strigilis, Clerck, common (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ;
Finchlej (Shepherd) ; Hammersmith (Mem) ; Hampstead (Watts) ;
Chiswick (Sich); Harefield (Wall); Clapton (Bacot); Dalston
(Prout) , M. strigilis var. tethiops, Haw. , Highgate (Shepherd) ; very
abundant in garden. South Hampstead (Watts) ; see also Entom.,
1888, pp.60, 93, 111, 112. 247, 249. M. fasciuncula, Haw., I
Kensal Green (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Finchley (Shepherd) ;
Hammersmith (Mera); Hendon, abundant, 1881 (Watts); Chis-
wick, one (Sich) ; Harefield (Wall), M, Ucoloria, Vill., Clutter-
house Lane {Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Finchley (Shepherd) ;
Hampstead (Watts) ; Harefield (Wall) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Dalston
(Prout) ; Chiswick (Sich), M. arcuosa, Haw., Hampstead Heath ;
West Hampstead ; Old Oak Common, in abundance (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill, flying at dusk over grass in damp fields (South) ;
Finchley (Shepherd) ; Pinner (Watts) ; Harefield (Wall),
Subf. Hadenince,^
Dianthoecia capsincola, Hb., Old Oak Common, larvae, common
(Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ; Bedford Park, larvae on
Lychnis vespertina, 1886 (Ckll.) ; South Hampstead (Watts) ;
Harefield (Wall), D. cucuhali, Fues., Clutterhouse Lane, larvae,
common (Godwin); Mill Hill (South), D. carpophaga, Bork.,
Mill Hill, at sugar, and also bred (South) ; Harefield, two taken
(Wall).
* M. ahjecta is placed by Mr. Tutt in Hadena.
t As fibrosa. This species is placed by some in a separate genus, Helotropha, Ld.
J This has been considered a variety of strigilis by Mr. Tutt ; but Mr. Pearce
(Brit. Nat., April) seems to have proved the distinctness of the two species beyond
doubt.
§ This subfamily seems to come more naturally here than where it occurs in
our lists. Hadena, Guen., is considered by Mr. Butler a group of Mamestra.
143 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Hecatera serena, Fb., Old Oak Common (Godwin) ; Mill Hill
(South) ; Bishop's Wood (Shepherd) ; near Acton (Mera) ; Hamp-
stead (Watts) ; Chiswick, common (Sich),
Polia Jiavicincta, Fb., Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ; Harefield,
occasional (Wall); Bedford Park, one specimen, 1890 (CklL),
Newman says of this species, "common near London"; but in
Middlesex it appears to be rather rare.
Epunda nigra. Haw., Willesden (Klein),
Cleoceris viminalis, Fb., Harefield, two taken (Wall),
Miselia oxyacanthce, L., generally distributed (Godwin) ; Mill
Hill (South); Bishop's Wood (Shepherd); Harefield (Wall),
M, oxyacanthce, form capucina, Mill., Harefield, occasional
(Wall) ; Mill Hill, not uncommon (South),
Agriopis aprilina, L., Bishop's Wood, rare (Godwin) ; Mill
Hill, at sugar, also bred (South) ; Pinner and Stanmore, pupae
(Watts) ; Harefield (Wall).
Euplexia lucipara, L., Bishop's Wood, common (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill (South) ; Tufnell Park {Shepherd) ; larvae very abundant
in garden (Watts) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout) ; Chiswick,
larvae on mullein and Lastrcea (Sich),
Phlogophora meticulosa, L., generally distributed (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill (South); Bedford Park (Miss E, Sharpe); Tufnell
Park (Shepherd) ; Chiswick (Mera) ; Hampstead ( Watts) ; Hare-
field (Wall) ; Isleworth, larva on lemon-geranium (CklL) ; Bedford
Park, 1890, larva on Polygonum cuspidatum (CklL) ; Clapton
(Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout),
Aplscta nebulosa, Hufn., Bishop's Wood (Godwin); Hamp-
stead, 1880, &c. (Watts) ; a dark var. in Highgate Woods
(Hodges, fide Buckell, Ent. Eec, 1890, p. 160).
Hadena protea, Bork., Bishop's Wood ; Kingsbury ; Old Oak
Common (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Harrow (Watts) ; Hare-
field (Wall). H. dentina, Esp., Kingsbury (Godwin) ; Mill Hill
(South); near Ealing (Mera); South Hampstead (Watts),
H. trifolii, Kott., common generally (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ;
Bedford Park (L. M, Cockerell) ; Bishop's Wood (Shepherd) ;
Hammersmith (Mera) ; South Hampstead (Watts) ; Clapton
(Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout) ; Chiswick, larva on cultivated asparagus
(Sich). H. atriplicis, L., Hampstead {Newman). H. oleracea, L.,
generally common {Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Isleworth
(Fenn) ; Bedford Park (C. Rowland) ; Finchley (Shepherd) ;
Hammersmith (Mera) ; South Hampstead ( Watts) ; Harefield
(Wall) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout) ; Chiswick, larva on
Convolvulus major, &c. (Sich). H, pisi, L., Bishop's Wood,
common ; Hampstead Heath (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ;
Hammersmith (Mera). H. thalassina, Eott., Hampstead Heath,
on fences (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South). H. genistce, Bork., Old
Oak Common ; Hampstead Heath, rare on fences (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill (South) ; Harefield, one bred from pupa (Wall).
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. 143
Subf. Caradrinincs,
Grammesia trigrammica, Hufn., Hampstead; Clutterhouse
Lane ; Kingsbury ; Old Oak Common {Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at
sugar, very abundant (South) ; Finchley (Shepherd) ; Harefield
(Wall),
Caradrina morpheuSy Hufn., Clutterhouse Lane (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill, at privet blossom, sugar, and honey-dew (South) ;
Tufnell Park (Shepherd) ; South Hampstead (Watts) ; Clapton
(Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout) ; Chiswick (Sich). C. alsineSy Brahm.,
Mill Hill, at privet blossom, sugar, and honey-dew (South) ;
Tufnell Park [Shepherd); Harefield (Wall); Chiswick, once
(Sich), C, taraxaci, Hb., Elgin Eoad (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at
privet blossom, sugar, and honey-dew (South) ; Kentish Town
(Shepherd); Harefield (Wall), C. quadripunctatay Fb., Elgin
Road (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at privet blossom, sugar, and honey-
dew (South) ; Tufnell Park (Shepherd) ; South Hampstead
(Watts); Harefield (Wall); South Kensington (Chitty) ; Dalston
(Prout) ; Chiswick (Sich).
Rusina tenehrosa, Hb., Kingsbury; Bishop's Wood, Hamp-
stead (Godwin) ; Highgate (Mera),
(To be continued.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &o.
Notes on Spring Lepidoptera in the Chester District. —
The evening of February 27th was fine, warm, starry, and accom-
panied by slight fog. From the gas-lamps I took Hyhernia rupica-
praria, H. marginaria (progemmaria), and H. defoliaria — the latter
being common, and, like my other February specimens, apparently
fresh from the chrysalis. March 17th. — In the evening I searched
an early flowering sallow for moths; result, not a moth to be seen.
March 2l8t. — I went to Delamere Forest in quest of a female Nyssia his-
pidaria for a friend ; I only took a couple of males. Saw three male and
one female H. marginaria (very light-coloured, as all the Delamere speci-
mens are that I have come across), one Anisopteryx cBscularia. Took half-
a-dozen male H. leucophearia, which included the light and dark forms
figured by Newman, as well as intermediates. March 24th. — A speci-
men of A. flavlcornis — the larva I came across in the forest last summer —
emerged at 12.30 a.m. April 4th. — I paid another visit to Delamere ;
went through the usual 5^ hours' solitary search : one male N. hispidaria,
just out of the chrysalis (they emerge from mid-day up to about 3 p.m.).
Left it on a tree to expand its wings in natural conditions : the interrupted
process (say, in a pocket box) is almost certain — I might say certain — to
end in what is known as '* saccular distension." Marked the tree, of
course, for my return, when I found the moth to be a finely-developed
insect. My total captures numbered three : the Nyssia, a male H. leuco-
phcBaria, and a male A, ascularia drying its wings on an oak. I find my
144 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
luck with N. hispidaria to be on a par with that of other entomologists who
have worked the forest for it this season. I have only heard of the capture
of a solitary female. The fact, probably, is that the insect, like a few more
*' good things," is difficult to time — an important factor in studying the
preservation of species ! April 5th. — Warm, spring-like. The TcBniocampa
larva taken from a garden rocket last June, in the Vale of Llangollen, and
referred to in my notes (Entom. 16), emerged a fine T. stabilis, with all
due honours, including the " black dot at the base of the wing " (Newman,
p. 361). My notes describe this larva as follows : — "Apple-green, delicately
suffused or mottled with white along the back ; head apple-green, and
smaller than the seeond segment ; each segment is well divided by a
yellowish division, as in Pachnobia leucographa. When disturbed it curls
up first half of body like P. leucographa. Thin white dorsal line, not very
distinct, down middle of back ; a broad clearly-defined white stripe along
each side ; between this stripe, on each side, and the dorsal white line is
another thin white stripe ; under surface and sides apple-green ; body has
a few, but very few, short black hairs ; the body tapers towards each
extremity, especially towards the head. I fed it on sallow." April 6th. —
Breeze N.E. again. Bitterly cold. In the Chester cemetery, after dark, I
searched the sallows with the aid of my pocket-lamp. On one bush only
I found moths — a couple of T. gothica. The sallow bloom, with the
exception of a few dwarf bushes, was over, in the Chester district, by the
8th of May. The earliest flowers I came across were upon a solitary tree,
March 17th. Tmniocampa stabilis and T. gothica have scarcely been as
plentiful as they might have been. The first-named varies with us, in
shade, from grey to russet-colour. I have had moths of both species
confined in glass jars, with a gauze covering, elastic band, and square of
glass on the top, — feeding them daily with fresh catkins in blossom, — in
order to obtain eggs, and test the variation in colour and markings of the
caterpillars, which, I have reason to think, in the case of T. stabilis, is
considerable. I have succeeded in each case ; the eggs of the last-
mentioned have just hatched, and the larvae are little black-headed fellows,
at present with almost colourless bodies. T. cruda I found so uncommon
that I only came across four specimens. T. gracilis — never a common
moth with us — was such a rarity this season that I only secured a solitary
male. It is a remarkable fact that I never once saw T. incerta [instabilis),
and, up to date, I have not even heard of T. opima being seen. The
Geometers observed about the sallows — such as Selenia bilunaria (illunaria),
Anticlea badiata, Hybernia marginaria (progemmaria) — have been as plenti-
ful as ever; fine specimens of A. badiata are still nightly on the wing.
Cidaria suffumata I first noticed on the night of May 9th — commonly
enough. Nyssia zonaria sn^i^eared April 26th, but females only! Of hyber-
nating caterpillars I saw Arctia caja on April 25th. Larvae of Agrotis
ashworthii have been exceedingly scarce this season. It may interest young
entomologists to know that sloe and sallow — especially dwarf bushes —
should, up to the end of June, be searched for night-feeding larvae, with,
of course, the aid of a lantern. Dock leaves, not forgetting the under
sides, chickweed, groundsel, violets, &c., should also be examined. After
June, search the leaves of sallow, oak and birch well over in the daylight,
and do not miss the under surfaces, for eggs and larvae. You will often
come across " good things," and, even amongst common ones, surprises and
matters of interest — unheard of in books — will frequently occur. Speaking
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 145
of violets — T mean the scented ones — we have the three varieties (all
within four miles of Chester), the white, the pink, and the violet forms.
Were they moths they would certainly be separated by distinctive names ;
but our botanists refuse to recognise any other synonym than the common,
but amply descriptive, Viola odorata. My first butterfly, Pleris rapes,
appeared on May 2nd. All the fruit trees here, including the almond,
which, by the way, not only blossoms at Chester but bears fruit, are now in
full and magnificent bloom. — J. Arkle ; Chester, May li, 1891.
The Sallows in Yorkshire in 1891. — In this district sallows have
been late, owing to the cold weather ; however, on Tuesday evening, April
14th, 189], I and Mr. S. Walker, of this city, visited Bishop's Wood,
near Selby, and having selected several likely trees situate on the border of
the wood and principal ride, as soon as darkness set in we commenced
shaking into two large sheets which we had brought with us, and succeeded
in taking a few Tceniocampa populeti (for which this wood is noted) ; they
were mostly in fair condition, although a few showed signs of having been
out some time. I was fortunate enough to take one specimen of Pachnobia
leucographa, which was in fine condition, evidently having just emerged.
This species is generally somewhat later in its appearance than the rest of
the Tseniocampae. T. cruda was fairly common, and from amongst those
seen we managed to select a few slight varieties. T. gothica was not
uncommon, and a'l the specimens seen were in good condition. T. in-
stahilis, T. stabilis, and P. munda occurred sparingly, together with an odd
specimen or two of T. rubricosa. Cerastis vaccinii was the only other
species noted, and of this we saw few examples. T. gracilis was very con-
spicuous by its absence, as neither of us saw a single specimen. This
species seems to emerge later than others of the genus. None of the
species taken during the evening occurred in any numbers ; and this was
the more surprising seeing that the night was, or appeared to be, a very
suitable one as it was dark, warm, and still, with the wind in the north-west.
On the borders of the wood, after dark, we noticed Anticlea hadiata flying
commonly, as many as six and eight being seen at one time; it seemed to
be most abundant about 10 p.m. The specimens taken were in good con-
dition. We also noticed three or four Hybernia marginaria (progemmaria) ^
which were of course worn, and a few Diurnea fagella at rest and on the
wing. We returned to York by the 12.30 midnight train from Selby,
after having spent a most enjoyable evening. — W. Hewett; 12, Howard
Street, York.
An Entomological Myth. — Mr. Dale (Entom. 123) appears to have over-
looked Mr. Buckler's description and diff'erentiatioii of the larvae of CuculUa
scrophularicB and verbasci in E. M. M. iv. 116. The larvae of scrophularieB
there described were received from Mr. Doubleday on 8th July, 1867, and
though it is not said they were British, I have always presumed they
were, as nothing was said to the contrary ; but with this exception I have
never met with any trace of true scrophularicB in Britain. In all the col-
lections I have seen it is either unrepresented, or verbasci does duty for it.
The perfect insect much more closely resembles lychnitis than verbasci, and
might readily be passed over for it, the chief differences being in the costal
streak in lychnitis being narrower than in scrophularicB, as well as blacker
in colour, and the pale area in the centre of the wing being consequently
more extensive. Though I have had no personal experience wiih them, I
ENTOM.— JUNE, 1891. N
146 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
think it probable that the larvae of all the three will feed on any of the
mulleins or figworts. If we could assume that the larvae sent by Mr.
Doubleday to Mr. Buckler in 1867 were not British, we might further
assume that Haworth really had lychnitis, and called it scrophularim in
error. This would clear up the mystery ; and I certainly think, until some
positive evidence can be produced of its occurrence in Britain, the very
little purely negative evidence that exists is not enough to entitle it to be
retained on our lists. — John E. Robson ; Hartlepool.
CucuLLiA scROPHULARiiE IN ENGLAND. — With regard to Mr. Dale's
enquiry (Entom. 123) as to whether this species had been taken in England,
I believe there is no doubt but that it has ; but it is extremely rare. The
late Mr. Frederick Bond was quite certain it was a distinct species, not
separable in the imago, but distinct in the larval state. During Mr. Bond's
long experience, he was accustomed every year to see abundance ofverbasci,
both on mullein and figwort, and was consequently well acquainted with
the larva, but he never found scrophularicB excepting at one spot, a railway
cutting at Whittlesford, where the larva formerly occurred abundantly.
During the later years of Mr. Bond's hfe, he many times searched this
place and the neighbourhood for larvae of scrophularicB, but never succeeded
in again finding it. He told me there was not the possibility of mistaking
the larva, if seen, as it was quite distinct in appearance from verbascl.
Stain ton indicates that scrophularicB is the smaller insect of the two, and a con-
tinental type oi scrophularicB y which I have is much smaller than my verbasci;
indeed, I have only one which at all approaches it in smallness, though
there is this reservation to be borne in mind, that I have at times bred
large numbers of verbasci, and would doubtless pick the largest for the
cabinet. I have several plants of both Verbascum nigrum and also thapsus,
in the garden, and there is generally a batch of larvae on the former, and
sometimes also on the latter, but nigrum is generally preferred. Scrophu-
laria aquatica is common in ditches in the neighbourhood, and the larva is
usually plentiful upon it. — Alfred Balding; Wisbech.
CUCULLIA SCROPHULARI^ PROBABLY SPECIFICALLY IDENTLCAL WITH
C. LYCHNITIS.— In his note (Entom. 123) Mr. Dale repeats what I have
long stated privately, and I believe also in notes to the ' Entomologist,' that
C. scrophularicB is probably not found in Great Britain at all; indeed I
share the doubts hinted at by Guenee as to the validity of the species. I
have specimens of the imago from Dr. Staudinger, taken in Saxony ; from
the excellent entomologist, lately a curator at the Hamburg Museum, taken
in that district ; and also specimens bred from larvae sent to Mons. A.
Wailly from Toulouse at my request. All these agree, and Guenee
correctly describes the differences, which are indeed readily apparent. I
have also specimens of the larvae from all these places, and they too are
palpably different from C. verbasci. The doubt comes in when scrophularicB
is compared with lychnitis. I have the imago of lychnitis from Bohemia,
South of France, and different sources in Great Britain ; and if any differ-
ence be perceptible it is in a more ochreous tone of lychnitis, and in the
costal dark margin being distinctly more powdered with gray atoms ; but
local influences, in countries so widely apart, produce such slight variations,
that it is presumptions to dogmatize on trivial ditinctions without long and
close study. As to the larvae of lychnitis, which I have from the same
places, they are absolutely indistinguishable from scrophularicB; and my
NOTlCS, CAPTURES, ETC. 147
opinion is summed up by saying that verbasci is a good species, but that the
identity of scrophularice with lychnitis is likely to be proved, when any
specialist has the opportunities for close and extended comparisons. —
N. T. DoBREE ; Beverley, E. Yorks.
Late APPEARANCE OF Hybernia defoliaria. — On Jan. 26th last, I
bred a specimen of Hyhernia defoliaria, the pupa of which had been kept
in a greenhouse all the winter, where, althoucfh not much heat was used,
it would certainly be protected from the frost, and would be quite as
warmly situated as it ever could be out of doors, however mild the winter.
It would appear then that this species may remain in the pupa state up to
the end of January, quite irrespective of any retardation by excessively
inclement weather. I may also mention that on May 4th, 1891, I took at
light, here, a quite fresh specimen of A. cescularia. — W. M. Christy ;
Watergate, Emsworth, Hants.
Late appearance of Euchloe cardamines. — In reply to Mr. Perry
Coste's note on the late appearance of E. cardamines at Miirren, may I
suggest that Miirren is 5000 ft. above sea-level, and that it is one of the
commonest experiences in Swiss collecting to find insects that are mere
rags in the valleys, only just emerged, a few thousand feet up. As to
Gonopteryx rhamni, I have found it fairly abundant in more than one Swiss
valley during the month of August. — R. S. Standen ; 67, Earl's Court
Square, South Kensington, May 10, 1891.
CocciNELLiD^ EATEN BY BIRDS. — As a Contribution to the discussion
on this subject {vide Entom. 122), I may record that Mr. W. P. Lowe sent
me the contents of the stomach of a road-runner, Geococcyx californianus
(Less.), a female, shot by him at the Big Aroyas, Pueblo Co., Colorado,
Dec. 5th, 1889. The food of this bird, as exemplified by the specimen
sent, consisted of Acrididae (grasshoppers), Coccinella sp., Curculionidse
(Ophyastes tuberosus and perhaps another allied species), and a blue-green
rugose metallic fragment of an unknown insect. — T. D. A. Cockerkll;
3, Fairfax Road, Bedford Park, W., May 10, 1891.
Deiopeia pulchella in the Transvaal. — In the report of the February
meeting of the Entomological Society I notice that Canon Fowler ex-
hibited a cocoon of this moth, which had been received from Lower
Burmah. Deiopeia pulchella is to me a very old acquaintance. I have
caught it in Surrey ; met with it again in the Malay Peninsula ; received
it from Mogador ; and now, at the other end of Africa, find it not at all un-
common. The time of its appearance in the Transvaal is very protracted.
I first captured it at the end of September — the beginning of our summer
— and now, at the end of March, it is still moderately common, principally
frequenting the open and treeless veldt. Flying in the strong sunlight, I
have often mistaken it for a large Lycsenid, as the pale azure blue of the
posterior wings is wonderfully reflected, and the red and black spots of the
anterior wings during flight are scarcely, if at all, visible. Its flight is
short, and it is easily captured. — W. L. Distant ; Pretoria, Transvaal,
March, 1891.
P(ecilocampa populi and insect vitality. — An instance of the
tenacity of life in insects, and their power of withstanding extremely low
temperatures, was exemplified in the case of a December moth (Pa^cilo-
campa populi) which was found here by my brother, Mr. Frederick
148 tHfi ENTOMoLOGJ&ti
Anderson, on Jan. 5th, in a parapet at the top of the house, frozen tightly
to the lead-work in a little lump of ice. So securely was it attached that
it was with great difficulty removed. It was brought to me apparently life-
less, stiff, and as a specimen, useless. I placed it, however, in a chip box,
and held it to the fire for a few minutes. Upon opening the lid, I was
surprised to see it had quite revived ; it proved to be a fine male in capital
condition, and in no way injured by the freezing and imprisonment which it
had undergone. — Joseph Anderson, Jun. ; Chichester.
SiREX GiGAs IN March. — A Specimen of Sirex glgas was captured at
the south end of the town on March 9th, and given to me a few days after.
It had been impaled with a French nail which, when extracted, left an ugly
hole between the thorax and abdomen. — J. E. Knights ; North Denes,
Great Yarmouth.
Notes from Yarmouth. — The usual Easter Monday ramble of the
Yarmouth Naturalists' Society, in which I took part, produced only one or
two Hyhernia progemmaria that had been blown into Lound Run, a small
stream of water. Frequently during the day hail and rain storms were
experienced. I saw a Pierls rapcB in the window of a restaurant, on the
31st of March, which had most probably been carried there with some
vegetables when in its larval state, pupated in a safe corner, and emerged.
This species seems to have started for the year on the 12th April.
P. brassiccB was seen on the wing on 28th April. — J. E. Knights ; North
Denes, Great Yarmouth.
Black-headed Gull feeding on insects. — I can support the obser-
vation of Mr. Newstead published in your last number, by a similar one.
When on the Shannon and a tributary of it near Banaglen, two years ago,
I went out entomologising, and on every evening, at dusk, noticed a large
number of these birds hawking about very close to the water level, and at
the edge of the fringe of bullrushes and reeds, with much activity. On
watching their operations I found, to my surprise, they were feeding on
stone-flies and other Neuroptera, which were very numerous in crepuscular
flight; and long after dusk, far into the night, when even their white
plumage scarcely enabled me to distinguish the birds, they continued on
the wing in active pursuit of their prey. It seemed to me an interesting
illustration of adaptation to environment, as this species breeds on the
islands of inland waters, and in the Bog of Allen, in two places to my
knowledge, have established very extensive breeding-places on the bog,
where they must miss the abundant supply of fry which is afforded by
marine localities during the breeding season. There is evidence also that
this gull is active in the pursuit of Bomhyx callmicB and other moths. —
W. F. DE Kane; Sloperton Lodge, Kingstown.
Query respecting Field Apparatus. — I should be obliged to readers
of the * Entomologist ' for information as to the best means of conveying
impedimenta necessary to the entomologist when out collecting ; I mean so
as to get the apparatus into as little space as possible. I think if some of
our practical entomologists were to inform us of the means they adopt, they
would confer a favour upon many, in addition to myself. — W. Hewett ;
13, Howard Street, York.
l40
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — MayQth, J 891. — Mr. t'rederick
DuCane Godman, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair. Mr. Robert A.
Dallas Beeching, of 24, St. James's Iload, Tunbridge Wells, Kent ; Mr.
H. Shortridge Clarke, of Douglas, Isle of Man ; Monsieur Leon Fairmaire,
of 21, Rue du Dragon, Paris; Mr. Wm. Reid, of Pitcaple, Aberdeenshire ;
and Mr. Nelson M. Richardson, B.A., of Montevideo,' Weymouth, were
elected Fellows of the Society. Dr. D. Sharp exhibited a number of eggs
of Dytiscus marginalis laid on the sheath of a species of reed, and com-
mented on the manner of their oviposition, which he said had been fully
described by Dr. Regimbart. The Rev. A. E. Eaton exhibited a collection
of PsychodidcB from Somersetshire, including six species of Psychodaf
eleven species of Periconia, and one species of Ulomyia. Mr. M'Lachlan
commented on the interesting nature of the exhibition. Mr. P. Crowley
exhibited a specimen of Protlio'e Caledonia^ a very handsome butterfly from
Perak ; and a specimen of another equally handsome species of the same
genus from Tonghou, Burmah, which was said to be undescribed. The
Secretary read a letter from Mr. Merrifield, pointing out that the state-
ment made by Mr. Feun, at the meeting of the Society on the 1st April
last, of his views on the effect of temperature in causing variation in Lepi-
doptera, was incorrect ; he (Mr. Merrifield) had never suggested what might
happen to Tmiiocavipa instahilis, and had expressly stated that he had
found a reduction of the temperature below 57° to produce no effect,
whereas in Mr. Fenn's experiments the temperature must have been below
40°. The Secretary also read a letter which Lord Walsingham had
received from Sir Arthur Blackwood, the Secretary of the Post Office, in
answer to the memorial which, on behalf of the Society, had been submitted
to the Postmaster- General, asking that small parcels containing scientific
specimens might be sent to places abroad at the reduced rates of postage
applicable to packets of bond fide trade patterns and samples. The letter
intimated that, so far as the English Post Office was concerned, scientific
specimens sent by sample post to places abroad would not be stopped in
future. — H. Goss, Hon. Secretary.
The South London Entomological and Natural History Society.
April 23r£i, 1891.— W. H. Tugwell, President, in the chair. Mr. E.
Sabel, of Clapham, was elected a member. Mr. R. South exhibited a
series of Polyommatus phlceas, L., among which were examples of the vars.
schmidtii, Gerh., and eleus, Fab., and some other interesting aberrations,
together with representatives of the species from Europe, Asia and Africa.
Mr. R. Adkin, Emmelesia albulata, Schiff., bred from pupae received from
Shetland, 1888, and stated that in 1889 four only were bred, while in 1890
upwards of twenty emerged, including var. griseata, Stgr., and var. tliules.
Weir. Mr. Adkin also exhibited Cedestis gysseiinella, Dup., pupa in
drawn-together fir needles ; and Lithocolletis vacciniella, Scott, larvsB
mining under side of leaves of Vacciniuin, both species from Rannoch.
Mr. Tugwell, Larentia olivata, Bork., from Portland. Mr. Billups, the
three cabinet drav.ers of life-histories shown by him at the Annual
Exhibition, and made remarks thereon; also pupa and imago of Eulophus
damicornis, Kirby, bred from Demas coryli, L., by Mr. Symes ; Cetonia
aurata, L., showing the position of the species in the cocoon after its
change from the larval stage; and on behalf of Mr. Mansbridge, galls on
Uieracium and birch collected near Leeds. Mr« Billups expressed an
150 THi; ENTOkOLOGISl?,
opinion that the maker of the former was Aulax hieracii, Bouch., and
probably the galls on the birnh were made by a species of Phytoptm.
May lUh. — The President in the chair. Messrs. H. Rowland-Brown,
B.A., F.E.S., of Harrow- Weald ; G. Bird, of Honor Oali; F. E. Filer, of
Southwark ; G. W. Ruffle, of Camberwell ; A. E. Dewey, of Walham
Green ; and A. C. Forrester, of Claphara ; were elected members. Mr.
Tugwell exhibited, on behalf of Mr. J. E. Robson, of Hartlepool, a box
containing varieties of the underside of Lyccena icarus, Rett., L. astrarche,
Bgstr., and Vanessa atalanta, L., varieties of V. urticoe, L., Cmnonympha
pamphilus var. albescens; a long varied series of Abraxas ulmata; also a
dark Colias hyale, L. Mr. Tugwell also showed, on behalf of Mr. Collins,
of Warrington, a dark specimen of Aplecta nehulosa, Hufn. ; an extremely
dark form of Acronycta rumicis var. salicis, Curt.; and a variety of
Leucania Uthargyria, Esp., with almost white under-wings and a strongly
marked black band. Mr. Jager, living larvae of Calllmorpha hera, L.,
reared from ova obtained from a specimen captured in South Devon, 1890.
Mr. R. Adkin, Noctuaf estiva, Hb., from Forres, Isle of Unst, North Wales
and Kent. Mr. Tugwell, bred specimens of Lobophora viretata, Hb. The
Secretary read a letter from Mr. Merrifield, and extracts from his papers
on the effects of temperature on the colouring of certain species of Lepi-
doptera, the consideration of which stood over until a subsequent meeting.
Mr. Tutt contributed a paper, " Reproduction and Parthenogenesis."
The Annual Exhibition was held on April 15 th and 16th, at the " Bridge
House," London Bridge, S.E., and was more successful than any previous ex-
hibition of this Society : it included all branches of the animal and vegetable
kingdoms. Among the exhibitors were Messrs. Geo. Neighbour and Son,
with bees, beehives and appliances. Mr. H. Moore and Mr. A. E. Cook,
fine collection of nests of British and foreign wasps. Mr. Billups showed
Hymenoptera, Heterogyna, and Fossorial, following in their natural order;
British Coleoptera, showing most of the known families; and Diptera,
and Hemiptera Homoptera. Among Mr. Billups 's exhibits were three
drawers showing the life-histories of various species of Lepidoptera, with
the parasites, both hymenopterous and dipterous, many of which were new
to Britain, and in some cases new to science; the majority of these para-
sites were reared by members of the Society during the past four years.
Mr. Lewcock and Mr. Goodman, cases of Coleoptera. Mr. W. Manger,
Exotic Coleoptera, &c. Mr. R. McLachlan, British Trichoptera, or Caddis-
flies, with cases of the larvse. Mr. W. West, Homoptera collected in 1890.
The most interesting exhibits among the Lepidoptera were those of Mr.
Tugwell, who showed the Sphingidse, including fine varieties of Deilephila
gain s.ud Chcerocampa porcellus ; the Bombyces, fine series of varieties of
Spilosoma lubricipeda, S. menthastri, and Arctia caia. Mr. South, the
Pieridse, showing considerable variation among the different species ; fine
varied series of Boarmia repandata and Cidaria truncata ; the genus Dian-
thcecia; also a small collection of Micro-lepidoptera, arranged in a new, and, as
suggested, more convenient method, viz., side by side in series of about half a
dozen specimens. Mr. McArthur, a small case illustrating the life-history
of Pachnobia hyperborea, Zett, alpina, Westw. ; also cases of Lepidoptera.
Mr. J. H. Leech, a large collection of Palsearctic species, including
PapiUonidfie, Sphingidse, and the genus Arctia. Mr. Gregson, a most
interesting case of varieties of Abraxas grossulariata. A collection of
Canadian species made by Messrs. A. and L. Gibb, and which had been
arranged by the curator, Mr. West, were shown by the Society. Life*
1
SOCIETIES. 151
histories of many species were exhibited by Mr. Short, Mr. C. H. Williams,
and Mr. A. J. Croker, Phorodesma smaragdaria and Miana strlgilis being
specially noticeable ; and also by Mr. Quail, whose specimens, mounted on the
natural food-plant, were much admired. Mr. Sydney Webb exhibited long
series of varieties of Vanessa urticce and Abraxas grossulariata, Mr.
Hawes, varieties of Rhopalocera, and a long series of Hesperia lineolaf in-
cluding the three specimens taken in 1888, from which the species was
identified. Mr. T. W. Hall, varieties of Noctuse. Mr. J. R. Wellman,
his magnificent collection of Plusiidse and AcidaUidge. Mr. J. T. Williams,
long series of many species. Professor Stuart, examples of mimicry among
Lepidoptera; and a case showing secondary sexual characters. Mr. C. B.
Smith, fine series of the genus Argynnis. Mr. R. Adkin, the British
butterflies geographically arranged, in order to show local variation ; also
long series of the genus Tripluma. Mr. S. J. Capper, a fine lot of
varieties and typical specimens of Ccenonympha davus. Mr. C. A. Briggs,
long and varied series of the Pieridae and other groups. Mr. C. Fenu,
varieties of TcBniocampa tncerta, and examples of Tortrices. Mr. A. H.
Jones, scarce British Noctuae. Mr. J. W. Tutt, his collection of the genus
Agrotis. Messrs. Nussey, Collins, Joy, Barker, and many others, also
exhibited British Lepidoptera, while fine exhibits of exotic species were
made by Mr. Jenner Weir and Mr. S. Edwards. Mr. Mosley contributed
an interesting collection of insects injurious to agriculturists, &c. Botanical
exhibits were made by Mr. E. Step (British lichens and mosses). Miss
Billups, Miss Adkin, Messrs. A. L. Clarke, and C. S. Cooper; minerals by
Mr. Russell; and Mr. M. Winkley exhibited a collection of Queensland
opals, showing fossil bones, shells, &c., opalised, the whole of which were
collected by Mr. T. C. Wollaston. Entomological objects under the micro-
scope were exhibited by the undermentioned gentlemen : — Messrs. H. J.
Turner, A. J. Croker, f. R. Billups, R. Adkin, E. Hinton, E. Dadswell,
F. Coles, R. Macer, T. D. Ersser, A. L. Corbett, H. G. Coombs, C. S.
Bouttell, J. T. Holder, H. Groves, W. West, W. B. Medland, F. Reeve,
W. Gregory & Co., F. Enock, C. H. Oakden, and C. S. Cooper. In a sepa-
rate room Mr. Henry Burns exhibited pond life, the enlarged image of the
living object being thrown upon a screen by aid of a lantern. On each
evening Mr. F. Enock delivered a lecture on " The Wonders of Insect
Life, as exemplified in the Life-history of the Hessian Fly "; and Mr. G.
Day lectured on "A Walk by the Sea Shore"; both of these were illus-
trated by means of the oxy-hydrogen lantern. Mr. George Smith, of the
Sciopiicon Company, also gave exhibitions of micro-photographs. — H. W.
Barker, Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — April Qth, 1891. — Mr. R. C.
Bradley in the chair. Mr. C. J. Wain wright showed long series of Cheilosia
cestracea and Volucella pellucens, the former from Somersetshire, the latter
from several localities. Mr. R. C. Bradley, Echinomyia grossa and fera.
Mr H. J. Sands, a piece of ebony completely destroyed by some large larvae.
April ^Oth.—Rev. C. F. Thoruewill, F.E.S., Vice-President, in the
chair. Dr. Stacey Wilson was elected a member of the Society. Mr.
R. C. Bradley showed Lauxania cylindricornis from Wyre Forest and
Lcenea from, Trench Woods. Mr. A. Johnson showed larvae of Chunda
lichenea. The Secretary read a paper on " Urtication," which was commu-
nicated by Mr. R. Freer. He described the effects which the hairs of Por-
thesia siinitis, Bomhyx rubi, and other Lepidoptera, in various stages,
produced, and said he concluded from them that the irritation was caused
152 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
mechanically and not by poison. After describing in detail the hairs
of the larva of Porthesia similis, and referring to the hairs of Attacus
cecropia and Pterophoridae, he said that careful examination of all these had
led him to conclude that the hairs which caused the irritation were not true
hairs, but degenerate weapons of offence and defence. A discussion
followed, in which Messrs. Thornewill, Pope, Harrison and C. J. Wain-
wright joined. — Colbran J. Wain-wright, Hon. Sec.
Lancashire and Cheshire Entomological Socikty. • — May l]th.
The President, S. J. Capper, F.L.S., F.E.S., in the chair. Reports were
read by the Secretaries of the District Records Committee, which showed
that the lists of the various orders were progressing, but the Secretaries
hoped, in order to make them as complete as possible, that they would
obtain the assistance and co-operation of all entomologists who had done
work in either of the two counties. A paper " On the habits of some
species of the Hymenoptera-Aculeata," by Robert Newstead, F.E.S., was
read, the author exhibiting several cases of Hymeuoptera and two species of
Borabus, in situ, stuck on thorns, said to be done by tlie butcher-bird.
The President exhibited Cicada anglica from the New Forest. Mr. Stett,
varieties of several species of Noctua. Mr. Day exhibited and explained a
new setting board (Day and Newstead's patent), which, by the use of glass
sHps, it is claimed, enables the wings to be set accurately and without dis-
turbing the scales. The next meeting of the Society will be on Monday,
September 14th. — F. N. Pierce, Hon. Sec.
REVIEW.
Abstract of Proceedings of the South London Entomological and Natural
History Society for the years 1888 and 1889. 210 pp. 1 plfite.
London : The Society's Rooms, Hibernia Chambers, London Bridge.
The present * Abstract ' forms a very respectable volume as regards
bulk, and its contents are instructive, interesting, and comprehensive. In
the Presidential Addresses will be found an exhaustive summary of the
entomological events of the years 1888 and 1889, together with some
observations on the additions to literature during those years. Among
many notes and papers of greater or lesser importance are the following : —
" Remarks on Acidalia marginepunctata" by R. Ad kin ; " Speculations on
the probable origin of the genus Anthocharis,'' by T. D. A. Cockerell ; ** On
the apparent thickening of veinj^ in Argynnis paphia," by J. J. Weir ; " On
the probable origin of Gonopteryx rhamni" by J. J. Weir and T. D. A.
Cockerell; " Pupation of Chcerocampa porcellus, by R. Adkin ; " Colour of
Pieris napi chrysahds affected by surroundings," by J. J. Weir; *' Remarks
on breeding Pietinea resinella," by R. Adkin ; " Practical Hints on breed-
ing Macro-Lepidoptera," by W. H. Tugwell ; *' Ichneumonidse bred during
the years 1887 and 1888, by members of the Society," by T. R. Billups ;
" Nature's Sanitary and Anti-Sanitary Services," by J. W. Slater.
Space will not permit further reference to the contents of this volume,
but the items we have noticed are a fair sample, and afford evidence of the
valuable work the Society is doing.
Although styled the South London Entomological and Natural History
Society, we note that many of its members reside in the provinces.
Probably advantages* might accrue if the Society adopted a shorter title, and
one more in accord with its widely distributed membership.
4
%l I
1
Ann ■ tft' fit-Soc ■ E/i/t/ma/ayt'-fii
T.rnu-^^ Pa^c ^. P/./.
^\»*- j» O •-• ' tu f:^ f-J , • li u 'i.'-
m
2;?^
^sSsSfe^"^ ,€iippis»
i^LnUi^4' •I HUtAJ^JxM^eL ,
/)uj>rec^ scuip
/f" / a CilCullia Scrvphularia? ri sa (lkensl/4^ . :i 6. C Thapsiphaga id 3 c. C. Lvcfcnitis iA.
^ </. C. S<M'ophulanpha^A id. J «'- (' Caninic iif ^\/'' ^ • Vcrbasci id
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] JULY. 1891. [No. 888.
CUCULLIA VERBA8CI AND ITS ALLIES.
By Richard South.
Plate III.
The insect known as Cucullia scrophularia has always been
an enigma to me, and I was therefore exceedingly glad to see the
question of its identity brought forward by Mr. Dale (Entom.
123). In a paper on the Lepidoptera of the Isle of Corsica
(Ann. Soc. Ent. Fr. 1833), Rambur discusses certain species of
the genus Cucullia allied to C. verbasci. In his opening remarks
upon the genus, Rambur says that it is certainly a most natural
one, but that it is exceedingly difficult to distinguish the numerous
species comprised therein. As it is almost impossible to separate
Acronycta psi from A. tridens without reference to the larvae of
those species, so also will confusion ensue in the identification of
certain species of Cucullia^ unless one has an intimate knowledge
of their respective larvae. After referring to the errors in deter-
mination of former authors, Rambur proceeds to give a kind of
monograph of the verbasci group of the genus, illustrated by
figures of the larva and imago of each of the six species de-
scribed. As the volume containing this paper may not be
accessible to many lepidopterists in this country, I have had the
plate reproduced by photo-lithography.
The six species of Cucullia allied to C. verbasci^ treated of and
figured by Rambur in his monograph of the group, may be placed
in two sections as follows : —
(a) C. verbasci, Linn. (b) (7. thapsiphaga, Treit.
C, scrophulari(By Cap. C. canince, Ramb. { = blattari(e,
C. lychnitiSy Ramb. Esp.)
C. scrophulariphaga, Ramb.
We are not, however, immediately concerned with section (b),
ENTOM. — JULY, 1891. Q
154 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
as the species comprised therein appear distinct enough from
section (a), and, moreover, have not so far been detected in Britain
The following remarks upon the insects enumerated in section (a)
are mainly founded on a study of Rambur's paper ; —
CUCULLIA VERBASCI (fig. 6).
The imago is so well known that it is, perhaps, unnecessary to
say anything about its colour or markings.
The larva is found on all kinds of Verhascum^ also on
Scrophularia canina, S, ramosissima, and S, aquatica. It is the
only species of Cucullia which seems to feed on V, thapsus, and
also the only one which would appear to prefer the leaves to the
flowers ; often hides beneath the leaves, and is met with from
May until about the end of August. The imago chiefly emerges
in May.
Guenee gives March and April as the month for the imago ;
Stainton, the end of April and May; Newman, April; Kirby,
April and May ; Hofmann, May.
Cucullia scrophularie (fig. 1).
Compared with C. verhasci, C. scrophularia is always smaller,
and there is more yellow and less brown in the composition of its
colour ; the costal margin of the fore wings is ashy brown, or, in
some specimens, blackish; the black dots above the median
nervure are deeper in colour and more conspicuous ; the inner
margin is brown, but the crescents are less whitish. The cowl
or hood is bordered with reddish brown, never with red.
The larva bears a strong resemblance to that of (7. verhascij
but it is always much smaller ; there is a dorsal series of large
yellow patches, upon each of which four black spots are placed ;
the two posterior black spots are longer, sometimes touching the
black spot placed just above the spiracle ; they are always united,
and often also with the anterior pair, thus forming a kind of X ;
the four spots on the sides are rather large; the other black
markings are pretty much as in (7. verbasci. The head is deep
yellow, with a frontal black mark shaped like an inverted V. It
feeds on the flowers and seeds of Scrophularia nodosa, S. aquatica,
Verbascum blattaria, and V, blattaroides.
The species is widely distributed, though less common than
C. verbasci. It is found in Germany and France, rather more
frequently met with in the south, occuring about the same time
as C. verbasci,
Guenee compares 0. scrophularice with C. verbasci, and says
that it is nearly as common as that species, and occurs at the
same time ; this, according to him, would be March and April.
Stephens, Doubleday, Stainton, Newman, and others mention
May.
Duponchel (Hist. Nat. Lep. vii. pi. 124) gives two very
different figures of this species; his fig. 3 represents a pale
1
CUCULLIA VERBASOI AND ITS ALLIES. 155
ochreous-browa insect, clouded with grey on the basal area,
dotted with black on the costal area, and dashed with dark grey
on the outer marginal area; there are three dark equidistant
spots on the costa towards apex, and a reddish brown streak,
interrupted by a double crescent mark, along inner margin. This
figure bears a very strong resemblance to his fig. 4, which repre-
sents G. thapsiphaga. Referring to fig. 3, Duponchel says, in the
third volume of his Supplement, that it was a mistake to call it
scrophularicBy as it really was a variety of C. canince. Staudinger,
however, appears to consider that it represents C. scrophularicB,
The other figure referred to is given in vol. iii. Suppl. p. 37,
fig. 1, and represents a dark ochreous insect, with a dark red-
dish-brown streak along the inner margin, and two dashes of
the same colour above the middle of the outer margin. This is
also referred by Staudinger to C, scrophularice,
CucuLLiA LYCHNiTis (rect. lycJinitidis, Staud.), (fig. 3).
This species is still farther removed from C, verbasci than is
C. scrophularice, but it is also very close to the last-named species,
with which it agrees in size, but the wings are rather less broad.
In colour it is of a pale reddish yellow ; the costal margins
of the fore wings are grey-brown, slightly tinged with reddish ;
the clear whitish space above the crescents, which are of the
ground colour, is sometimes conspicuous ; the inner marginal
streak is less deep, the clear space near inner angle is larger, and
the line which precedes it is well defined at this point ; the
orbicular is enclosed by four black dots indicating a square ; the
reniform is also enclosed by black dots, which vary in number
from two to three on its inner side, and from four to six on its
outer side. The hind wings are paler. The cowl is posteriorly
bordered with ashy brown.
The larva is similar to that of C. scrophularice. Each segment
has a semicircular yellow band, upon which are placed black
spots; the two posterior spots, often united, are longer and
more slender, frequently joining the spot above the spiracle ; the
two intermediate spots on the sides of the segments are also
often united, forming oblique lines. A variety occurs which
is almost entirely yellow, with the black spots more or less
obsolescent.
Feeds on the flowers and seeds of Verhascum lychnitis, V,
sinuatum, V. nigrum, and V. phlomoides.
This species assumes the perfect state much later than the
other two, as it is not on the wing before July and August,
according to Rambur ; but in England, I think, the moth appears
in June and July.
Var. (?) rivulorum, Guen., is larger and more ochreous in
colour. It occurs in France, and the larva, which is greener in
colour, is said to feed on Scrophularia only.
0^
166 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Mr. Harwood, writing of C. scrophularia in 1876 (Entom. ix.
233), pointed out that the species ought not to be confounded
with C. verbascif but adds that it is extremely difficult to dis-
tinguish between C. scrophularicB and C, lychnitis ; and on p. 359
of the same volume he quotes a letter received from the late
Mr. Henry Doubleday in 1870, which shows that at that time few
English entomologists were acquainted with the insect called
scrophularice. Mr. Eobson also considers that scrophularicB
"more closely resembles lychnitis thsLn verhasci '* (ante, p. 145).
Between thirty and forty years ago, Speyer suggested that
lychnitis was only a form of C, scrophularice , a view of the case
which has been accepted by other continental entomologists, and
Mr. Dobree's remarks upon this subject (Entom. 146) would
seem to indicate that he also holds this opinion. Possibly, how-
ever, scrophularice may be a form of C. verbasci, and this seems
the more probable when we compare Rambur's figures of the
respective larvae, and attach a due amount of importance to the
facts that the larva of C. lychnitis feeds only on Verbascum, whilst
those of C. verbasci and G, scrophularice feed on both Verbascum
and Scrophularia, and the imagines of the last two emerge about
the same time. Is it too much to hope that those lepidopterists
who have the opportunity of conducting such investigations, will
be indefatigable in their endeavour to clear away the cloud of
doubt and uncertainty which seems to envelope this mysterious
"shark?"
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF
MIDDLESEX.
Compiled by T. D. A. Cockerell.
(Continued from p. 143.)
Subf. Noctuince (sens. str.).
Agrotis puta, Hb., Hampstead ; Bishop's Wood ; Clutterhouse
Lane ; Old Oak Common (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ;
Harefield (Wall) ; Chiswick (Sich). A. ypsilon, Rott., = suffusa,
Hb., Hampstead ; Clutterhouse Lane (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at
sugar (South) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ; Harefield (Wall) ; Clapton
(Bacot) ; Chiswick (Sich), A, saucia,^ Hb., Hampstead, some
seasons scarce, others in dozens (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar
(South) ; Chiswick (Mera). A. segetum, Schiff., Mill Hill (South) ;
Tufnell Park (Shepherd) ; Hampstead (Watts) ; Harefield, usually
common (Wall) ; Ghismck (Sich) . A. exclamationis,h.y generally
distributed (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Bedford Park (Miss E.
Sharpe) ; Tufnell Park (Shepherd) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ;
South Hampstead (Watts); Harefield (Wall); Dalston (Prout).
* A, saucia is placed by Prof. J, B. Smith in the genus P^ridroma, Hb,
A PRELlMI^AUt LIST OF TiiE INSECT-FAUNA OF MIDDLESEX. Iblf
A. corticea, Hb., South Hampstead, common (Watts) ; Clapton
(Bacot), A, nigricans f L., very abundant. Elgin Koad (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill (South) ; Holloway (Shepherd) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ;
South Hampstead (Watts) ; Chiswick, once (Sich), A, tritici, L.,
Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ; Chiswick, occasionally (Sich),
A, strigula, Thnb., Harefield, one taken, 1887 (Wall),
Noctua glareosa, Esp., Bishop's Eoad, at sugar, rare (Godwin).
N, augury Fb., Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ; Highgate (Mera) ;
Hampstead (PF«^is) ; Harefield, common (Wall), N, plectayh,,
on lamps, Finchley Eoad ; Willesden (Godwin) ; Mill Hill
(South) ; Bedford Park (Miss E, Sharps) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ;
South Hampstead (Watts); Harefield (Wall); Clapton (Bacot).
N, c-nigrum, L., on lamps, Finchley Road ; Willesden (Godwin) ;
Mill (South) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ; Harefield, taken rarely
(Wall) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Chiswick, larva on dock (Sich).
N, ditrapeziuiUy Bork., Bishop's Wood (Godwin), N. triangulum,
Hufn., Bishop's Wood; Kingsbury, Old Oak Common, fairly
common at sugar, more so on lamps (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at
sugar, and larvae on sallow (South) ; Harefield (Wall), N. hrunnea,
Fb., Bishop's Wood, common (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ;
Highgate (Mera). N, festiva, Fb., Bishop's Wood; Fulham;
Old Oak Common (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Highgate (Mera) ;
Harefield, very common (Wall) ; Chiswick, at sugar (Sich),
N. rubiy View., Bishop's Wood {Godwin) ; Mill Hill — in some
seasons there are two broods, one appearing in June and the
other in August, the individuals in the later brood are more
numerous, but smaller in size— (South) ; Hampstead, common
(Watts); Harefield, taken rarely (Walt); Stamford Hill and
Tottenham dist. (Prout) ; Chiswick, at sugar (Sich). N, umhrosa,
Hb., Finchley Road; Kilburn (Godwin); Mill Hill (South).
N, baia, Fb., Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ; Highgate (Mera) ;
Harefield (Wall). N, castanea var. neglecta, Hb., Bishop's
Wood, fairly common (Godwin and Shepherd). N. xanthographa,
Fb., generally distributed (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Isleworth
(Fenn) ; Bedford Park (Miss E. Sharps) ; Bishop's Wood
(Shepherd) ; Highgate (Mera) ; Harefield (Wall) ; Clapton
(Bacot) ; Chiswick, abundant, larva under stones, &c., in spring,
eats BumeXy Poa annua, &c. (Sich).
Triphcena ianthina, Esp., Bishop's Wood ; Clutterhouse Lane ;
Old Odik Common (Godwin) ; Mill Kill (South) ; Isleworth (Meyers);
Highgate (Mera); Harefield (Wall); Chiswick, larva in spring
(Sicli). T.fimhriay L., Bishop's Wood, larvae plentiful; Clutter-
house Lane ; Old Oak Common, rare (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South).
T. inter jecta, Hb., Mill Hill, at sugar and at honey-dew (South) ;
Chiswick, occasionally (Sich). T. comeSy Hb., generally distri-
buted* (Godwin); Mill Hill* (South); Bedford Park (Miss E,
Sharpe) ; Bishop's Wood* (Shepherd) ; Highgate* (Mera) ; South
Hampstead (Watts) ; Harefield (Wall) ; Clapton* (Bacot) ; Chiswick,
* Cited in the MS. list as oi'hona.
l58 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
larva on primrose, &c. {Sich). T, pronuha, L., generally distri-
buted (Godwin) ; Mill Hill {South) ; Isleworth (Fenn) ; Bedford
Park (Miss E. Sharpe) ; Bishop's Wood (Shepherd) ; Highgate
(Mera) ; South Hampstead (Watts) ; Harefield (Walt) ; Clapton
(Bacot) ; Dalston (Prout),
Subf. Amphipyrince.^
Amphipyra pyramidea, L., Bishop's Wood, common ; Clutter-
house Lane ; Kingsbury (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ;
HareJ&eld (Wall), A. tragopogonisy L., Clutterhouse Lane; Old
Oak Common ; Fulham, rare (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar
(South) ; Isleworth (Fenn) ; Bedford Park (Fenn) ; Tufnell Park
(Shepherd) ; Harefield, frequent (Wall) ; Clapton (Bacot) ;
Chiswick, larva on Galium aparine (Sich). ^
Mania typica, L., generally distributed (Godivin) ; Mill Hill
(South) ; Bedford Park (Ckll.) ; Tufnell Park (Shepherd) ;
Hammersmith (Mera) ; larvae very abundant at South Hamp-
stead (Watts) ; Harefield (Wall) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Dalston
(Prout), M. maura, L., Bishop's Wood; Clutterhouse Lane;
Old Oak Common ; Fulham ; Eegent's Park ; Kilburn (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill {South) ; Isleworth {Miss Cooper fide Fenn) ; Hampstead
(Watts); Harefield (Wall); Clapton (Bacot); Chiswick, larva
once in spring (Sich),
Subf. Orthosiin(B,\
Pachnohia ruhricosa, Fb.,t Mill Hill, at plum blossom
(South) ; Chiswick, at sallow (Sich).
Tceniocampa gothica, L., generally distributed (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill, at plum blossom (South) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ;
Hampstead (Watts) ; Harefield (Wall.) ; Chiswick, at sallow
(Sich), T, incerta, Hufn., generally distributed (Godwin) ; Mill
Hill, at plum blossom (South) ; Bishop's Wood (Shepherd) ;
Hammersmith (Mera) ; Hampstead (Watts) ; Harefield (Wall) ;
Clapton (Bacot) ; Chiswick, at sallow, larvae on nut, willow, and
hornbeam (Sich), T, populeti, Fb., Eickmansworth (South).
T. stahilis, View., generally distributed (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at
plum blossom (South) ; Hampstead (Watts) ; Harefield (Wall) ;
Chiswick, at sallow (Sich). T. gracilis, Fb., Mill Hill, at plum
blossom (South) ; Harefield, frequent (Wall) ; Chiswick, at sallow
{Sich). T. miniosa, Fb., Bishop's Wood (Godwin). T. munda,
Esp., Bishop's Wood, common (Godwin); Mill Hill, at plum
blossom (South) ; Harefield (Wall). T. pulverulenta, Esp.,
generally distributed (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at plum blossom
(South) ; Bishop's Wood (Shepherd) ; Hampstead (Watts) ;
Harefield (Wall),
* Grote classes Amphipyra, which he calls Pyrophila, Hubn., in the tribe
Caradrini.
t Including the Coemiidcc of Guen^e.
^ \ Perhaps a Tcmiocampa rather than a Pachnohia^
A ^Preliminary list of the insect-fauna of middlesejc. 159
Orthosia upsilon, Berk., Fulham; Hammersmith Marshes,
site of Addison Eoad Station; Kensal Green; Clutterhouse
Lane {Godwin); Mill Hill (South); Tufnell Park (Shepherd),
0. lota, Clerck, Bishop's Wood ; Clutterhouse Lane ; Hammer-
smith; Kingsbury (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar on juniper and
yew bushes (South) ; Harrow, 1881 (Watts) ; Harefield (Wall) ;
Chiswick, larva on willow (Sich). 0. macilenta, Hb., Bishop's
Wood; Clutterhouse Lane (Godwin); Mill Hill, at sugar on
juniper and yew bushes (South) ; Highgate (Shepherd) ; Chiswick
(Mera) ; Harefield (Wall).
Anchocelis rufina, L., Bishop's Wood (Godwin) ; Harefield,
once taken by Mr. Kennell (Wall), A. pistacina, Fb., generally
distributed (Godivin) ; Mill Hill (South); Isleworth (Fenn);
Highgate (Shepherd) ; Hammersmith (Mera) ; Harefield (Wall) ;
Chiswick, once (Sich). A. lunosa, Haw., generally distributed,
at lamps (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Highgate (Shepherd) ;
Hammersmith (Mera) ; larvae at South Hampstead (Watts) ;
Harefield (Wall) ; Clapton (Bacot) ; Chiswick, larva obtained by
sweeping grass in March (Sich). A. litura, L., generally distri-
buted (Godwin); Mill Hill (South) ; Harefield, common (Wall);
Chiswick, larva on sorrel (Sich).
Cerastis vaccinii, L., Bishop's Wood, common (Godivin) ;
Mill Hill, at sugar on juniper and yew bushes (South) ; Highgate
(Shepherd) ; Harefield, very abundant (Wall). C. spadicea,
Auctt. Angl. = ligula, Esp., Bishop's Wood, common (Godwin) ;
Mill Hill (South); Highgate (Shepherd) ; Harefield (Wall).
Scopelosoma satellitia, L., Bishop's Wood, common; and
generally distributed (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Harefield
(Wall); Chiswick (>Sic/i).
Oporina croceago, Fb., two specimens at sugar. Old Oak
Common, 1875 (Godivin).
Xanthia citrago, L., Mill Hill (South) ; Highgate (Shepherd).
X.fulvago, L., Bishop's Wood, common (Godwin); Mill Hill
(South); Harefield, common some seasons (Wall). X.flavago,
Fb., Bishop's Wood, common (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ;
Harefield, common some seasons (Wall). X. aurago, Fb., Mill
Hill (South) ; one specimen at South Hampstead (Watts) ;
Harefield, taken sparingly (Wall). X. gilvago, Esp., Mill Hill
(South) ; Harefield, two taken, 1889 (Wall). X. circellarisj Hufn.,
Bishop's Wood, common (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ; Highgate
(Shepherd); Harefield, abundant (Wall).
Cirrhoedia xerampelina, Hb., Clutterhouse Lane, a larva
under moss on ash (Godwin) ; Mill Hill South).
Tethea suhtusa, Fb., Willesden Lane ; Neasdon, rare
(Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at honey-dew on plum trees (South) ;
Hammersmith (Mera) ; South Hampstead, common in garden,
1875, &c., not seen since 1880 (Watts). T. retusa, L., Mill Hill,
at honey-dew on plum trees (South).
160 tfife KNTOMOLOGisT?.
Cosmia paleacea, Esp., Highgate Woods, 1870 (F. Bartlett,
Entom., 1878, p. 104).
Dicycla oo, L., one larva near Ealing (Mera).
Calymnia trapezlnay L., generally distributed {Godwin) ; Mill
Hill (South) ; Isleworth (Fenn) ; Bishop's Wood {Shepherd) ;
near Acton {Mera); Hampstead {Watts); Harefield {Wall);
Dalston {Prout) ; Chiswick, larva on oak, holly, &c. {Sich) .
C. pijralina, View., Mill Hill, at sugar, also bred {South),
C. diffinisy L., Clutterhouse Lane; Bishop's Wood {Godwin);
Mill Hill {South) ; near Acton {Mera) ; Harefield {Wall),
C, affinisy L.,* West Hampstead {Godwin) ; Mill Hill {South) ;
Isleworth {E, M, Fenn fide F. G. Fenn); Highgate, 1865
{Shepherd) ; near Acton {Mera) ; Hampstead Heath, Aug. 20th,
1881 {Watts) ; Harefield, not common {Wall) ; Chiswick {Sich).
(To be continued.
ENTOMOLOGY OF GRANADA AND NEIGHBOURHOOD.
By the Rev. F. A. Walker, D.D., F.E.S.
My chief places of resort at Granada, in the pursuit of Ento-
mology, were the beds of dry water-courses situate between the
Alhambra Hill and the Campo Santo. The steep craggy banks
by which these water-courses were hemmed in, to a height of
twelve or fifteen feet, rendered the locality warm, sheltered, and
therefore suitable for the purpose. I likewise visited the olive
groves left and right of the said channels for the winter floods
from the Sierra Nevada, those to the left consisting of steep
slopes, while those to the right were situate on much more level
ground. The undergrowth of these olive groves consisted of a
varied and luxuriant flora of borage, echium, field poppy, corn
marigold, wild camomile, a deep pink convolvulus, &c. These
species were by far the most abundant, and in addition may be
enumerated the less frequent but also plentiful occurrence of
variously coloured vetches, two species of mignonette, star of
Bethlehem, wild coreopsis and antirrhinum, with many more.
Following the road from the Alhambra Hill to the cemetery,
Xylocopa violacea, the commonest species of all the Hymenoptera
there, with the exception, as a matter of course, of Apis mellijicay
might be noticed humming noisily round the blossoms of the
white acacia trees, which were just in perfection during the first
fortnight of May, a period of glorious weather. The rose and
purple acacias on the Alhambra terrace were likewise affected by
this bee, but these varieties are far less common than their white
congener. As regards Vespidse, our own Vespa germanica was
* Mr, South has taken all the four species of Calymnia on one night.
feNTOMOtOGt OF GRANABA AND NEIGHBOURHOOD. 161
observed, as a rule, every day, but would not appear to be
plentiful. Probably the two commonest kinds were (1) the slight
and elegant Polistes g alliens j the length of the legs of this
species is remarkable, and very observable when flying) ; and (2),
Dielis aureaj about the size and shape of our commonest wasp,
but with the yellow replaced by a rust-coloured tint. The
flower on which I captured most of the last-named species was a
chrysanthemum or marguerite in the large and picturesque
garden of the Villa Calderon, whose owner, the Marquis Palla-
vicini, is an absentee residing in Genoa. Ants (of three or four
species) were most abundant, and it was a very common sight to
see dead leaves and fallen blossoms of the white acacia toppling
about as if bewitched, or moving erect, like the sail of a boat,
owing to an ant pertinaciously grasping one end, and so dragging
them along. In respect of Neuroptera, the commonest species
was Libellula depressa, of which more specimens of the female
were observed than of the male. The chief locality for this
insect was a ditch of swiftly-flowing water, overhung in places
by dog-roses, brambles, and honeysuckles, by the side of a road
that diverged to the left of the road mentioned above, at a point
about half-way between the Alhambra and the cemetery ; in fact,
L, depressa was practically the only dragon-fly, as the genus
Lestes was only represented among my insects by two specimens,
one that I captured, and the other given to me, and I do not
remember seeing any more. Three or four specimens only of a
species of Mschna were observed, one flying backwards and
forwards along the bed of the dry water-course, a second above
the reeds and mud of an old Moorish reservoir in the side of the
hill. These two, as far as I could judge, were of a uniform dun-
colour, with a tinge of blue about the thorax. Two more had a
body of a uniform lavender-blue, of very much the same colour
as the male of depressa^ and, I believe, with a little green and
yellow about the thorax. These two last were flying around the
trenches and remaining relics of the Moorish waterworks or forts
at the top of the hill, not far from the Sella del Moro, or Seat of
the Moor, the brick- walled platform where Boabdil is traditionally
reported to have mourned as he took a last bird's-eye view of the
glories of his departing kingdom, one of the fairest prospects on
earth ; Granada and its Vega outspread beneath. Whether the
above-named specimens of Mschna were two different kinds, or
the two sexes of the same kind, is more than I can say ; they
were far too restless, as well as swift on the wing, to admit of
being caught, and were, I should judge, rather smaller in size
than our common ^schna cyanea^ probably mauricianus. Other
tribes of Neuroptera were likewise to all appearance scantily
represented. I took one specimen of Sialis lutaria, and one of
Chrysopa.
Among the Coleoptera may be mentioned Clythra vicina (which
16'd THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
was very common), CEnas crassicornis, and Trichodes octopunc-
tatus. These beetles used to cluster on the leaves and shoots of
the bramble on a bright and hot day. Oxythyrea stictica and
Cetonia squalida and hirtella were also common. I secured a few
specimens of Cetonia aurata on flowers in the garden of the Villa
Calderon, two or three specimens of the genus Telephorus from
flowers under the olive groves ; one or two specimens of Scara-
hceus sacer that were crawling around refuse in the road ; one
or two examples of Silpha on a singularly beautifully-marked,
but dead and well-nigh putrid, lizard near the Seat of the Moor ;
an immature representative of a species of Lacerta that reaches
a very large size. The most abundant kind of all was a dark
beetle with a red thorax, on the flower of the wild camomile, and
which I have since ascertained to be Heliotaurus ruficollis.
In taking a review of the Diurnal Lepidoptera, several of our
common British species were observed, but could not be pro-
nounced abundant. For example, on a fine and hot morning
one or two specimens of Pieris hrassicce, Epinephele ianira, Saty-
rus megcera, Vanessa urticce^ V. cardui, and Chrysophanus pJilceas
might be seen ; P. rapce even more rarely. V. atalanta was
occasionally seen, but high up, as a rule, amid the elms of the
wood that covers the Alhambra Hill. During the first few days
of May, V. cardui was only represented by worn, hybernated
specimens, but before the close of the month I noticed two or
three examples, fresh and in good condition. Papilio machaon
and P, podalirius were seen and captured, but neither of these
two butterflies were common. Of Colias hyale I saw and took
one solitary specimen. Colias edusa and Euchloe eupheno were
fairly common, I mean so far as seeing two or three specimens
of each nearly every day. The former species was, I think,
rather commoner at Langaron (a place famed for its mineral
waters, four hours distant from Granada by diligence, and on the
south side of the Sierra) than at Granada, which is on the north ;
a bridle-road leads from its rocky fastnesses and ravines, its
terraces crowned with wild broom, Spanish chestnuts, and
walnuts, to the ancient and classic Carthagena. Shortly before
I left Granada Arge thetis was coming out in full force, but did
not prove very easy to capture, as it flits restlessly up and down
the rocky banks, and is consequently difficult to approach over
the loose stones of the steep slopes without startling the insect.
The commonest species of butterflies in May were Pieris
daplidice, two species of fritillary (genus Melitcea)^ and Polyom-
matus alexis. Satyrus moera and S. meone were also noticed, but,
as far as capturing was concerned, were only represented each
by a single specimen. Two other species of Satyrid, one repre-
sented by a single specimen and the other by three, were taken,
and three out of the said four on the highest ground in the
neighbourhood, namely, around the above-mentioned Moorish
Chemistry of insect colours; H^
remains at the top of the hill. Of Gonepteryx rhamni I saw only
one male on the banks of the Darro in the outskirts of Granada,
and one female near the Sella del Moro, but failed to capture
either. I was credibly informed that two or three G, cleopatra
could be taken a day, at a place nine miles from Granada by
following up the course of the Genii, famed for its numerous
gentians, fields of forget-me-nots, and wild peonies. One notice-
able particular, in respect of the flora of Andalusia, is the number
of our well-known garden flowers that flourish perfectly wild in
Southern Spain.
As regards Heterocera, one of the commonest and certainly
the largest species was Saturnia pyri, of which I had several
specimens offered me, some of them by the guards of the
Alhambra, and could doubtless have had many more.
Diptera did not seem to be common, one or two kinds of
Eristalis alone excepted. Genera Syrphus and Tabanus were
noticed, but by no means in abundance.
Among Hemiptera the frequent occurrence of Lygaus inili-
taris, familiar to the traveller in Syria and Palestine, may be
mentioned.
In the class Orthoptera, Gryllotalpa vulgaris ; and such grass-
hoppers as were seen (principally Decticus, sp. incert.. Mantis
religiosa), had, of course, as yet their wings mostly undeveloped.
At Tangiers, on Wednesday, June 3rd, I succeeded in catching
nine Satyrus meone between 8 and 10 a.m. ; also specimens of
Silpha and Scarahceus sacer. Locusts, mostly dead, but a few still
living remnants of the recent plague, whereby the crops were
destroyed, were to be met with in the hedgerows (Acridium pere-
grinus) .
At Gibraltar, June 4th, one specimen of S. meone,
(To be continued.)
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S., F.L.S.
(Continued from p. 139.)
V. — The Chemical Aspect (concluded),
K.
Addendum, on experiments with the Cyanide Ee action.*
Before commencing my remarks on the Biological Aspect,
I must redeem the promise to detail my further experiments
with (7. edusa and the cyanide bottle. To refresh the memory of
* It will be understood, as already stated, that this subsection was originally
written for a footnote to the December issue of the ' Entomologist.'
164 'tuk ENTOMOLOGlSii?*
my readers, I may remind them that, having expressed myself
very sceptically as to this extraordinary transformation (Entom.
xxiii. 129), I was advised by Mr. Cockerell to try again with a
warrrif damp cyanide bottle (Entom. xxiii. 20). To this I replied
next month (Entom. xxiii. 234), stating that this hint had been
acted upon, but still without effect, and promising details in due
course. These details I will now briefly give.
In a very damp cyanide bottle I placed two wings of C. edusa,
and also, for comparison, two of G. rhamni ; one wing of each
was placed on the cyanide, and one pinned to the cork. The
bottle was placed for 2j hours on the ledge of a gas-stove
(burning 15 ft. per hour), and Ij in. in front of the flame. But
directly I read Mr. Cockerell's remark about the warming being
necessary, it occurred to me as highly probable that the cyanide
had nothing to do with the matter, but that heat alone would be
equally efficacious. I therefore made a blank experiment by
placing in a similar bottle a wing each of edusa and rhamni
(pinned to the cork), this second bottle being placed side by side
with the cyanide bottle, and exposed for the same length of time,
and under precisely similar conditions. Now as to the results :
in the cyanide bottle, after twenty minutes, the edusa wing on the
cyanide was chiefly white ! and, after forty minutes, entirely so,
this being no other than the usual solvent effect of cyanide
solutions and most other reagents on this species. As to the
wing pinned on the cork, it became somewhat brownish ; and,
on washing it after the expiration of the 2^ hours, all the pigment
was washed away, together with the adhering cyanide which had
splashed up, — an exceedingly natural result. G. rhamni was
affected in pretty much the same way. At present, then, I was as
far as ever from getting Mr. Edwards' red. As to the wings in
the empty bottle, they were absolutely unaffected ; so that clearly
mere heat has nothing to do with the matter. But still I did not
rest here ; there seemed a possible objection that might be made,
viz,, that the heat of the gas-stove was too great, and a gentle
but prolonged warmth was necessary. So I placed fresh wings of
edusa and rhamni in the cyanide bottle, both on the cyanide and
pinned to the cork, and kept this bottle in a water-oven, where
for eight or nine hours daily it was exposed to a temperature of
100° (=212° F.). After eight days of this treatment the wings
on the cork were absolutely unaffected, while the edusa wing on
the cyanide was turned brownish as before. I therefore put the
matter aside as hopeless. (I might add that an empty bottle
containing similar wings, both pinned to the cork and resting on
the bottom, was similarly treated, and, of course, with wholly
negative results.)
Addendum, December 5th. — The above was written on Nov.
4th, since when, however, I have — at last — succeeded in entirely
clearing up the discrepancy between Mr. Edwards' results and my
CHEMISTBY OP INSECT COLOURS. 165
own. I will be as brief as possible in stating the nature of my
new discovery, and the more so since, beyond recounting the one
or two startling facts, little can be said until a thorough investi-
gation shall have been made by means of an extended series of
experiments in this new direction.
Briefly, then, the cyanide bottle, referred to above, after its
eight days* sojourn in the water-oven, had been placed on one
side for several months. At the beginning of November — in fact,
just after finishing the MS. of the foregoing pages — I thought it
as well, by way of special precaution, to give a final look to the
wings before throwing them away. The edusa was brittle and
browner (dull gingerbread colour), as in the experiments made
on the gas-stove (supra) ; but, to my intense astonishment, I
found on the rhamni wing what looked by gaslight like red spots.
A subsequent examination by daylight failed to confirm this, but,
of course, the matter was far too important to rest here. Accord-
ingly, I started a fresh set of experiments by placing wings of
edusa and rhamni in (1) an ordinary (collector's) cyanide bottle,
and (2) in a bottle containing only a mass of potassic cyanide, on
to which I poured some water, so that the cyanide was, in places,
in a sloppy condition. (I should state that similar simple^ not
shop-made, cyanide bottles were used in the previous experi-
ments.) On examining the cyanide bottles after sixty hours I
found that in the wet one the rhamni wings were largely reddened^
the red being, perhaps, most like a fresh blood stain, — a most
indubitable red certainly. Microscopic examination showed that
there was no possible delusion about the matter ; each individual
scale could be seen bright red, whilst the additionally interesting
fact was disclosed that the red shaded off into orange at its
border. Here, then, we have actually in progress, before our
very eyes, the (progressive) evolution of red from yellow via
orange. I may add that these metamorphosed wings were
removed to a dry glass slide, and have already retained their
colour for four weeks.*
The edusa wing was less satisfactory ; it was chiefly a sort of
brownish, but I could not thoroughly decide whether or not there
was a purplish tint also. It was accordingly replaced in the
cyanide bottle, and after another forty-eight hours there could be
no longer doubt as to the red blotches on the wing, which, how-
ever, was to a great extent transparent. The effect was not by
any means so marked and striking as in rhamni, but I wish it to
be definitely understood that a red was produced. Seeing, how-
ever, that the rhamni effect was so much better (and remembering
also that Mr. Edwards' result was not obtained on edusa, but on
eurydice), it seemed to me likely that better effects might be got
with such a tint as that of hyale, with which accordingly I experi-
* They are stiU red, June 24th, 1891.
166 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
mented next. I succeeded in obtaining red spots, but not to any _
great extent. ■
After this, as will be readily understood, I hasten to retract
in toto my previous scepticism on this subject, and to recant any
or every disparaging remark that I may have uttered on the
possibility of converting yellow to red artificially ; and at the same
time I have the very pleasant duty of expressing my sense of the
heavy indebtedness under which I lie to Mr. Cockerell for having
drawn my attention to Mr. Edwards' statement, and made the
further suggestions concerning wet cyanide. My own experiments
having been originally planned entirely with solutions, it is highly
improbable that I should ever have tried a solid, or rather sloppy
solid, reagent but for Mr. Cockerell's tenacity in backing up his
authority ; and therefore I feel that, but for this, I should in all
probability have missed the interesting prospect opened up by
these new results. At the same time, I may point out that
there is reason for surprise at the solution of cyanide failing to
produce a red ; for even the wet cyanide exerts a considerable
solvent effect on the pigment, and in the case of the solution — as
my readers already know — such solvent action is rapid and
complete : under such circumstances there was obviously no time
or room for the reddening.
With regard to the new field thus opened out for work, I can
promise my readers that it shall be neither neglected nor under-
valued ; the whole question must be thoroughly and carefully
worked out, and already sets of experiments are in progress, and
others planned, to this end. Doubtless, before very long, the
* Entomologist' will hear from me on this subject.
In conclusion, I seem bound to say a word as to the bearings
of this discovery on my previous interpretations. It will, of
course, be understood that it is impossible to make any definite
statement, scarcely even to hazard a provisional explanation, on
the strength of two or three experiments. However, at present I
can see nothing here inconsistent with my theories on these
pigments, but, on the contrary, it looks not unlike a confirmation
from another side of my conclusions, while especially one may
hope that some more definite light may be thrown on the
phenomenon, of which an explanation was offered at the con-
clusion of Subsection F. The statement, however, that no
progressive metamorphosis can be effected must, of course, go ;
but, barring this, I think it will be found that there is nothing in
these fresh results incompatible with the views expressed on
pp. 370, 371, but rather we have here an ascending confirmation
of explanations founded originally on descending experiments.
The very uniqueness of (solid) cyanide as a reagent confirms the
view, that in all other cases we have retrogressive results, — results
wrought by those same reagents which we know to retrogressively
affect natural reds.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 167
I may add that heat has nothing whatever to do with this
cyanide reaction, since the above results were obtained in the cold.
With regard to the chemistry of the reaction, my own notion is
that probably the red is produced by a combination of the
cyanogen radicle with the yellow pigment ; but all speculation of
this sort is better left for the future. It will, of course, be
understood that the views suggested by this reaction are scarcely
more than hinted at here ; a fuller discussion of the whole subject
is reserved for a later date.*
VI. — The Biological Aspect.
This concluding section will be, as I have already stated, very
brief, since it is intended chiefly to draw attention, by quoting a
few examples, to the connection between my artificially prepared
varieties and those found naturally occurring ; and my acquaint-
ance with the literature of "varieties," as well as with large
collections, is far too slight to allow me to go much beyond
general suggestions.
First of all, however, it is necessary to refer to one question —
of some considerable interest — that is naturally suggested by any
account of chemical experiments on insect colours ; the question,
I mean, as to what influence the chemical nature of the soil or food,
and even temperature, may have on the colours of insects in the
natural state. There is, of course, a general impression among
entomologists that such influences may account for a large per-
centage of variation, especially when in any one district such
variation is in one general direction ; for instance, I quoted, in
the last section,! Dr. Seitz's statement that in one restricted
forest area of Brazil all the species of insects showed a great
tendency to blue coloration : Wallace, too, remarks I that " in
Tropical Africa we find two unrelated groups (in the Nympha-
lidse and Papilionidse respectively) characterised by a prevailing
blue-green colour not found in any other continent," these groups
being Romalesoma and Euryphene, and Papilio zalmaxis and
several of the P. nireus group. And again, Wallace§ states that
*' species of totally distinct groups are coloured alike in one
district, while in another district the allied species all undergo
the same change of colour. The most probable cause for these
simultaneous varieties would seem to be the presence of peculiar
* May, 1891. Since writing the above I have made various further experiments,
details of which I, however, reserve for the present. Still, I may say that the
reddening effect has been obtained with several other yellow species, all of which
belong to the Rhopalocera. I have succeeded in reddening no yellow moth yet,
neither have I found a similar reaction to occur with any other nitrogenous com-
pound besides potassium cyanide.
t Entom. p. 138, supra.
I ' Tropical Nature,' p. 256.
§ I do not remember whether Wallace expressly ascribes this phenomena to
any supposed local chemical influences or not.
168 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
I
elements or chemical compounds in the soil, the water, or the
atmosphere, or of special organic substances in the vegetation ;
and a wide field is therefore offered for chemical investigation in
connection with this subject."
Now, a priorif this is undoubtedly a very taking explanation,
and it is one that I adopted with great enthusiasm at the com-
mencement of my experiments, expecting them, indeed, to throw
considerable light thereupon ;* but I must admit that I have by
no means so much faith in the principle now ; indeed, I should
incline — so far as I can see any data for forming an opinion at
all — to ascribe to it exceedingly limited efficacy. Of course, I
am very conscious of the fact that there is a vast difference
between experimenting by external reagents on the colours of
dead insects, and experimenting by means of food, that is, by
reagents internally administered to living insects, and leading to
we know not what modifications of their metabolic processes;
but nevertheless, I think that the results of my experiments do
give us sufficient insight into the relations of the various colours
to make a cautious argument to the living processes legitimate.
Here I may recall the speculations that were referred to in the
second section of these articles ;t for — as was then pointed out —
if it had been found that certain reagents produced one coloric
change, and certain others quite another, and so on, then we
should have had considerable reason to suppose that some change
in the constituents of the food, the presence of some unusually
large proportion of one organic acid, e. g., or of some unusual body,
as, for instance, hydrocyanic acid in the peaches and almonds,
might lead to some colour variation ; but as it is, the experi-
mental results give no support at all to such views ; and the fact
that chemically the most opposite compounds produce a similar
effect on the colours has made me very sceptical as to the
potency of variation in food to cause any marked coloric change.
I would not be understood to deny such influence in toto ; for
instance, it is stated — and, I suppose, on sufficiently good
authority — that dark varieties of A. caia may be obtained by
feeding the larvae on walnut leaves, and again, that good varieties
may be got by feeding on plants standing in salt water ; but
I doubt if any great coloric change will be obtained by any such
direct means. Let us look a little deeper into the question ; we
have three classes of colours, viz., the physical, the soluble
pigmental colours, and the "reversible" pigmental. Now, as to
the physical colours, any direct chemical action of the food| on
these is out of the question, and my scepticism concerning the
efficacy of the first to cause coloric variation is strengthened in
* Cf. Entom. 1890, p. 156. t Cf. Entom. 1890, pp. 156, 157.
\ I am confining myself to the question of the chemical influences of the food,
since it seems clear that any chemical idiosyncracies of the soil or the water would
only act via the food— vi^., by affecting that. I will refer to the atmosphere and
temperature effects directly.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 169
no small manner by the fact that so many of the instances that
are quoted by writers to support that view are really instances of
physical colour ; for instance, the blue-green referred to by
Wallace above is probably one of the physical colours, — in the
case of P, niveus certainly so ; and, with regard to the general
variation towards blue observed by Dr. Seitz — well, my readers
may judge for themselves how heavy are the odds against any
blue being a pigment colour. Again, Wallace remarks that the
Lepidoptera of the Philippine Islands are characterised by the
prevalency of metallic markings : here is a clear local idiosyncracy,
but these metallic markings are physical, not pigmental. In the
next place, taking the soluble pigment colours, chestnut and yellow,
it does not seem eminently probable that any difference of food
could lead to a disappearance of these colours, that is, to a white
variety. It therefore seems to me that the region for this hypo-
thetical action of the food is greatly narrowed, being, indeed,
reduced to the following peculiarities : that yellow or chestnut
may develop the progressive variation red, that red may (retro -
gressively) stop short at yellow or chestnut, that green may stop
short at yellow, or finally — a very bold speculation — that a pig-
ment, which ought to develop as green, may — so to speak — take
another road after reaching yellow, and thence develop as red (or
vice versa). If, therefore, anybody chooses to believe that within
this restricted province coloric variation is caused by abnor-
malities in the food, there is nothing in my results or the de-
ductions therefrom to directly contradict such view ; but at the
same time, I am not aware of any evidence at all in its favour.
Nevertheless, in thus saying, I would not wish to express at all so
complete a scepticism as to the influence of the food in producing
slight differences, e.^., in depth or shade of colour, and so on ; but
I certainly demur for the present to ascribing much to this factor.
Now to state my own view — I should rather incline to look
upon the whole affair as a matter of indirect influence ; instead
of ascribing any given coloric variety to the presence or absence
of a definite chemical constituent in the food, I should suggest
whether the varying totality of conditions of the environment
generally, may not act by more or less damaging the normal
equilibrium of the insect's constitution : the various metabolic
processes we know are in the highest degree plastic, and it would
be easily intelligible that any unusual factor in the surrounding
conditions should react on the constitution, and so indirectly lead
to modifications in the pigments, &c., produced. An advantage
of this explanation would be that we could include in it all
varieties in pigmental colouring,* whether produced by food or
* It is as though— if I may use the simile— we should, after looking though a
kaleidoscope, give it a good shaking ; it is quite certain that this treatment would
"affect the constitution" of the kaleidoscope, and lead to a new pattern bein^
produced ; but we are quite unable to prophecy any definite pr particular path.
1891. ?
170 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
even by climatic conditions. To begin with, I should incline to
explain all cases of retrogressive variations by want of food or
generally unhealthy conditions ; pigments, it must be remem-
bered, are physiologically waste products, and I could count upon
the support at least of such authors as Geddes and Thomson for
the view that when nutrition is low the profusion of katobolism
is much diminished, and little or no pigment produced. If, then,
it should appear that an atmospherically unfavourable season, or
the proximity of factories, tended to produce any (retrogressive)
varieties, such facts would be easily explicable, just as much as a
similar production of varieties by bad or insufficient food. It
will, I think, appear upon examination that several arguments
converge to support this view, and, first of all, I will point out
that most of the varieties chronicled seem to be retrogressive
ones, the commonest of all, viz.^ yellow varieties of red species,
being clearly such : of the progressive varieties I will speak anon.
Now, one fact that has appeared to me to possibly support
this position, is the variation of Colias edusa to helice. This
white variety is, I believe, confined to the female ; and if we
consider that pigments imply " waste energy," that they are nearly
always more abundant and richer in the male than in the female,
it does appear to me as not impossible that such varieties as helice
may betoken a deficiency of katobolic energy, that, in short, they
may be a starvation phenomenon ; that such phenomena should
occur exclusively in the female would be due to the fact that in
the female there is always less surplusage of katobolic products,
and that, therefore, the pigment is more likely to fail them than
the male.*
(To be concluded.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
^
NoTODONTA TREPiDA AT Electric Light. — I beg to report the capture
of a specimen of Notodonta trepida, which I took at electric light on June
6th. — 0. Farrant ; Taunton, Somerset.
Note on Larv^ of Nudaria mundana. — When in Gloucestershire,
on the Cotswolds, last summer, I found on one occasion a number of small
larvae, pale brown in colour and somewhat hairy, congregated together on
an old wooden rustic gate. On looking closely, I found they were feeding
on a green lichen on the wood. Taking a few of them, I fed them on the
green lichen on pieces of the bark of larch firs ; they ultimately turned to
small pale pupae, in a slight web, and emerged as Nudaria mundana. I
have always found this moth common on the Cotswolds, but have not
seen it in this district, neither in parts of South Wales ; so apparently it
* I am aware that this may sound very like definitely adopting the views for
which Geddes and Thomson were somewhat severely criticised ; but, as a matter of
fact, I am rather throwing out a suggestion than proposing a definite hypothesis.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. l71
is rather local. The above may be of interest to those entomologists who
are not acquainted with the larvae. — T. B. Jefferys; Clevedon.
[Larvae of N. mundana are common on the loose stone walls around
Lynton, Lynmouth, and Ilfracombe, in N. Devon. Occasionally they are
found on the rocks by the sea, but always above high-water mark, in the
same localities. — Ed.J
New Species of Lepidopi'era from Queensland. — In the * Queens-
lander,' May 2nd and 9th, 1891, Dr. T. P. Lucas, of Brisbane, describes
the following species of Lepidoptera as new to Science : — Holochila (Poly-
ommatus) translucens, n. s. ; H. (P.) cceruleolactea, n. s. ; Macroglossa
approximans, n. s. (allied to M. errans, Boisd.); M. tenehrosa, n. s. (allied to
M. micacea, Walk.); M. lineata, n. s. (near M. trochilus, Hiibn.; M.
sitieul, Boisd., and M. corythus, Boisd.) ; Chcerocampa curvilinea, n. s.
(allied to C. clotho, Drury) ; C. luteotincta, n. s. ; C. queenslandiy n. s. ;
Panacra tumeric n. s. ; Sphinx distincta, n. s. (allied to S. convolviUi and
S. rosea) ; S. eramophilce, n. s. — Ed.
Australian Rhopalocera: a correction in. — Lycmna exilis, Queens-
land Royal. Col. Trans. 1889, should be Lyccena exiloides, Luc. — T. P.
Lucas ; Brisbane, Queensland.
Emergence of Imago after injury to Larva. — Last season I had
a number of the larvae of Bomhyx quercus feeding in a glass receptacle,
and through an accident one was badly cut by broken glass. Although
little thinking that the larva would survive, I placed some fine earth upon
the wound, and the bleeding was stopped. The larva had contracted con-
siderably, but soon after formed a weak light-coloured cocoon, which subse-
quently developed (to my surprise) a perfect male specimen, much smaller
and paler than the type. I may state that the larva was a large one, and
from its size I should have expected a female imago. Until the present
instance all larvae badly injured that have come under my notice have
succumbed. — Alfred T. M. Mitchell ; 5, Clayton Terrace, Gunners-
bury, June 15, 1891.
Drymonia chaonia and Cucullia chamomill^ at Christchurch. —
It may be of interest to note that I captured, on May 9th, a female speci-
men of Drymonia chaonia, whilst flying at dusk in my garden, from which
I obtained some ova; also Cucullia chamomillcB, on the evening of the llth,
at laurel blossom close to the same spot. Both are in fine condition, and
I believe these species have never been taken in this neighbourhood before.
^J. M. Adye ; Somerford Grange, June 3, 1891.
Note on Cidaria suffumata. — In May, 1890, Mr. Purdy, of Folke-
stone, sent me two or three female specimens of C. suffumata, which he
had captured in the Dover locality celebrated for producing a very beautiful
black-banded silvery form of the species. At the same time he forwarded
me a few ova deposited by a female of the form referred to. The female
specimens were in a moribund condition when they came to hand ; how-
ever, each had laid a few eggs during their journey to town, but these,
together with those from the aberrant female, did not exceed forty in
number. It was not thought worth while to keep the small batches sepa-
rate, so all were placed together in a box, and when the larvae hatched out
they were fed up as one brood. The larvae were started in life upon a diet
173 THE ENTOMOLOGISTi
of the common cleavers {Galium aparine), but were subsequently supplied
at intervals with G, mollugo and G. saxatile), both of which they ate with
gusto. G. aparine, however, formed the principal article of their daily bill
of fare. Pupation occurred in earthen cocoons formed in June. The bulk
of the pupsB were kept indoors, but a portion of them were allowed to
remain in the garden throughout the memorable winter of 1890-91. The
first specimen, a male, emerged from the indoor pupae on the 10th of April,
and was followed by others each day during the month. The moths from
the outdoor pupae emerged from the 8th to the 12th of May. Examples of
the black-banded silvery variety were obtained from each lot, nine specimens
in all. I may add that at the present time (June 24th) I have pupae from
the following pairings ; —
A. Typical ?, bred April 12 x typical ^, bred April 12.
B. Banded silvery ?, „ „ 13 x „ ^» » „ 14.
C. Typical $, „ „ 17 x crippled typical <y, „ „ 10.
— Richard South ; 12 Abbey Gardens, London, N.W.
Habits of Leucophasia sin apis. — On the 31st of May I bad the
pleasure of seeing L. sinapis, the first I have seen this season. 1 saw only
one specimen, and this during the short time I watched it settled on three
flowers. I am not familiar with this insect, but had always understood
that it is rarely seen to settle. I should be obliged if someone would give
me information on this point. — H. S. Feemlin; 4, Angel Terrace,
Tiverton, June 2, 1891.
Captures at the Electric Light. — In a recent number of the
American * Entomological News,' Mr. Rodrigues Ottolengui contributes an
interesting account of work done at two electric lights in a secluded part
of Brooklyn. Last season he and his sister visited the lights, and with
nets and bottles captured a very large number of Lepidoptera during the
seventy-five nights they devoted to the pastime. Among the captures were
— Sphingidae, 13 species ; Zygaenidae, 3 species ; Bombyces, 37 species ;
Noctuae, 59 species ; and Geometrae, 17 species. Some of the species
obtained were considered rare in the district, and others appear to be
additions to the insect fauna-list of Brooklyn. Mr. Ottolengui does not
state at what height the lights were from the ground ; but our lepidopterists
living in towns where the electric light is situated in favourable spots, will
perhaps do well to give such lights their careful attention. — Richard
South.
Note on Coeemia unidentaria. — On the Ist of August, 1890, I
captured a female C. unidentaria, which deposited a small batch of ova.
The larvae were kept indoors, fed throughout on knotgrass {Polygonum
aviculare), and, with the exception of four individuals, all had assumed the
pupa state in October. The first imago, a male, made its appearance on
the evening of December 31st ; two others came up on the 4th of
February, and were succeeded by one male and two females on March 1st,
and two females on March 7th. Between the last date and the 25 th of the
month several specimens of each sex emerged. Two females were placed in
boxes, and deposited ova — on pieces of thread with which they were supplied
for the purpose — between the 18th and 20th of March; larvae from these
hatched out from April 8th to 11th, and were supplied with dock at first,
but dandelion was afterwards added, and later on primrose and hawthorn.
All these plants were favourably received, and, although when it was first
NOtES, CAPTURES, Et(j. 173
added to the menu a decided preference was shown for the primrose, this
did not last long, and on the whole the larvae seemed to be equally content
with Rumex or Taraxacum^ Primula or Cratcegus, The larvae commenced
to go down on May 29th. As has been stated, four caterpillars hyber-
nated ; these were supplied with dock and dandelion in March, attained the
pupa state at the end of that month, and produced three female imagines
between 27th and 29th of April. There is no difference whatever between
these specimens and those obtained from the larvae which pupated in
October. On the 23rd of May a female was captured at Oxshott, and
deposited about thirty-six eggs between that date and the 28th, when she
died ; the larvae hatched out June 4th, and are being fed on hawthorn and
bramble. — Richard South; June 20, 1891.
Staueopus fagi in Oxfordshire. — I doubt not 1891 will be remem-
bered by Reading collectors as a great fagi year ; they have appeared in
unusual numbers. My own share has been eleven — six males and five
females. I started with two males on the 20th May, and finished up with
a female on the 4th June ; my best take was three females on June 2nd.
The males were out fully a week before the females. A tree to tree search
must be made to find fagiy the smaller trees being the most favoured. Ten
moths of the eleven I found on the N. or N.E. side of the trunk ; the
eleventh was a cripple, which had chosen the S. side. There is every
probability of fagi occurring in all the big beech woods that abound on the
borders of the Thames Valley, finding it being merely a matter of
thorough and systematic searching. — J. Clarke ; Reading, June, 1891.
TORTRIX PICEANA, &C., IN THE ESHER DISTRICT. — LarVSB of Tortvix
piceana appear to be scarce this year in the pine woods around Esher. On
Saturday, June 13th last, the united efforts of four keen hunters resulted
in a grand total of four larvae and one pupa. This was rather a poor after-
noon's work. However, the time was not altogether spent in vain, as larvae
of sundry other fir-feeding Tortrices were obtained pretty freely ; among the
insects to be bred from these is probably Sericoris bifasciana. In the
evening, high-flying Tortrices were fairly common, and several fine speci-
mens of Pcedisca rubiginosana, Retinia piiiivorana, and R. turionella were
captured ; whilst a splendid female Bombyx rubi fell to the net of a member
of the quartette, who also captured one female specimen of Scodonia
belgiaria. — R. Adkin; Lewisham, June, 1891.
Xanthia CITRA.GO Larv^e AT RoTHERHAM. — The larvsB of X. citrago
have been rather plentiful in our district this year. Spring larvae have
been fairly numerous ; and altogether I have, so far, had a good entomolo-
gical season. — J. N. Young ; Rotherham, June 13, 1891.
Decoy for Butterflies. — I understand that some collectors of
tropical butterflies find it a good plan to use a decoy to facilitate the
capture of the shy species of Nymphalidae. When a specimen of a desired
species is secured, this is killed and placed with its wings expanded,
either on the ground or on a twig, within easy striking distance of the
operator, who takes up a convenient position, where he must be, as far as
possible, concealed, and there await the arrival of other specimens.
Perhaps the would-be captor of Apatura iris may think it worth while to
try a decoy in some haunt of H. I. M. Probably a dry set-out specimen
would answer the purpose, — Richard South,
174 i^E JJNTOMOLOGIST*
«
Bananas, a Bait for Lepidoptera. — Over-ripe or decaying bananas
have been successfully used as a bait for night-flying moths, as well as butter-
flies. The fruit should be cut in slices and pinned on trees, or otherwise
exposed, as may be most convenient— Richard South.
Andrena bhcephala at Box Hill. — This being an entirely new
locality for this species of spring bee, I have very great pleasure in re-
cording so interesting a capture. On the 5th of last month, in the
company of Mr. A. Beaumont, T visited the neighbourhod of Box Hill,
hoping to capture a few additional insects for my collection. The weather
was overcast, with a cold N.E. wind blowing, and anything but propitious
for our recreation. We were, however, favoured with an occasional spell
of sunshine, which, although very brief, while it lasted induced a host of
insects to appear. During one of these intervals of sunshine we came
across a magnificent clump of sloe bushes {Prunus spinosa), which were
completely covered with a dense mass of bloom ; hovering over and around
these bushes were numerous species of Diptera, Ichneumonidae, Andrenadse,
&c., and, amongst others, Andrena bucephala, Steph., several of which
were captured, Mr. Beaumont taking one with an abnormally large
head. As I was not familiar with this species, I submitted it to my friend
Mr. Edward Saunders, who, with his usual kindness, at once identified it
for me, and at the same time informed me that it was an extremely inte-
resting capture. Mr. Smith, in his Cat. Brit. Hym., 2 ed., p. 41, says
" the species is now rare," and gives as localities for it Bristol and Chobham
Common. Mr. E. Saunders says local, and adds Hampstead as another
locality, Andrena albicans^ A. trimmerana, and A. nigrocenea were very
abundant, while Nomada ruficornis and JV. alternata, although not so
numerous, were also in the company. — T. R. Billups; 20, Swiss Villas
Coplestone Road, Peckham, S.E.
NoMADA lateralis, Panz., at Box Hill. — Two specimens of this
handsome parasitic bee were also taken by meat the same cluster of bushes,
and, as Mr. Edward Saunders only gives Norwich, Yorkshire and Newcastle
as its known localities, while Mr. Smith adds Highgate Archway, I think
it is nearly safe to assume that this is also a new locality for the species. As
it was captured in company of Aiidrena bucephala, which is said to be its
host, I have much pleasure in being able to record the capture of parasite
and host at the same time. — T. R. Billups.
SOCIETIES.
I
' Entomological Society of London. — MayQth, 1891. — Mr. Frederick
DuCane Godman, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair. Mr. J. M.Ayde,
of Somerford Grange, Christchurch, Hants, and the Rev. John Seymour
St John, B.A., of 42, Castlewood Road, Stamford Hill, N., were elected
Fellows ; and Mr. R. A. Dallas Beeching was admitted into the Society.
Mr. E. B. Poulton exhibited living larvae of Endromis versicolora, and
commented on their habits. Mr. W. F. H. Blaudford called attention to
the fact that the larvee of Liparis monacha remained in small groups on
the bark of the tree for about a week after emerging from the eggs, and that
this fact was taken advantage of by the German foresters to destroy them.
Also that he had himself verified the statement that uric acid can bd
SOCIETIES. 175
detected in the malpighian tubes of insects. Mr. M'Lachlaa agreed that
the demonstration that the malpighian tubes were of the nature of renal
organs was now satisfactory. Mr. C. J. Gahan exhibited two species of
Coleoptera that he considered to possess a mimetic resemblance, viz.,
Estlgmena chinensis, one of the HispidaB, and a nondescript Lamiid allied
to Pemptolasius. He called attention to a peculiar structure of the antennae
in the latter by which the resemblance was increased. Mr. J, W. Tutt
exhibited a hybrid between Amphidasis prodromaria and A. betularia, ob-
tained by Dr. Chapman. Mr. Stainton commented on the fact that the two
insects appeared at different times ; and Mr. Tatt stated that the A. betularia
had been subjected to forcing, so as to cause it to emerge at the same time
SLS A. prodromaria. Mr. Tutt also exhibited forms of Caradrina, some of
which he said were considered distinct on the Continent, thongh they were
not recognised as such in this country, viz., C. taraxaci [{blanda) C. su-
perstes, Tr., from Sligo, and C. superstes, H.-S., considered as synonymous
with superstes, Tr., but apparently more closely allied to C. ambigua. Mr.
B, A. Bristowe exhibited varieties of Arctia menthastri, some of which had
been fed on mulberry and others on walnut ; no difference was observed in
the variation. Mr. G. Elisha exhibited larvae in their cases of Coleophora
vibicigerella and C. maritimella. Mr. A. G. Butler communicated a paper
entitled "Additional notes on the synonymy of the genera of Noctuid
Moths." — David Sharp, V.P., Acting Secretary.
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
May ^%th, 1891.— Mr. C. G. Barrett, F.E.S., Vice-President, in the chair.
Mr. J. F. Farmer, of Surbiton, was elected a member. Mr. C. Fenn
exhibited a series of Biston hirtaria, Clerck, and stated that he had taken
70 in three-quarters of an hour in Finsbury Circus. Mr. R. Adkin,
Endromis versicolor, L., bred from larvae fed in 1888 ; and remarked that,
in 1889, two females emerged ; in 1890, five females and one male. Mr.
Dobson, referring to a brood of Acronycta leporina, L., said that the
first year about 15 per cent, came out, in the second year 60 per cent.
Mr. Fenn stated that the late Mr. Tester had told him that E. versicolor
sometimes remained in pupa over five years. References were also made
to other species laying over, among which were Eriogaster lanestris,
L., Asteroscopus nubeculosa, Esp., Eupithecia venosata, Fb., Emmelesia
albulata, Schiff., and E. unifasciata. Mr. South exhibited specimens
of Vanessa antiopa, L., from India, China, Japan, Germany, and France,
and remarked that the American form was usually considered to present
a more powdery appearance of the border, but some of the specimens
shown from France were quite as much powdered. Mr. Cockerell exhibited
a variety of V. antiopa, having the margins irrorated with black, from
Colorado. A discussion ensued with regard to the colour of the margins
of this species in different countries, and whether the colour of living
insects could fade. Mr. South also exhibited Cidaria suffumata, Hb.,
bred from parents received from Dover, and he made some observations
thereon. Mr, Tutt, a hybrid between Amphidasys betularia, L., and
A. strataria, Hufn., belonging to Dr. Chapman, and types for comparison ;
also Caradrina ambigua, Fb., from Deal ; also typical specimens of
C. taraxaci, Hb., and C. superstes, Tr., from Sligo ; and C. superstes, H.-S.,
from Yarmouth, Isle of Wight. Mr. Adye, a dark form of Cucullia
chamomilltB, Schiff. Mr. Hawes, a sketch of Euchlo'e cardamines, L., at
rest on a piece of grass, and pointed out that its position was well adapted
176 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
d
for keeping off the rain. Mr. Cockerell, Clausilia rolphii, from Plumstead,
collected by the Rev. J. W. Horsley.
June llth, 1891.— Mr. W. H. Tugwell, President, in the chair.
Mr. R. Adkin exhibited and made remarks on Larentia didymata, Tr., from
the Isle of Man. Mr. Tugwell, Spilosoma mendicay Esp., bred from ova
received from Mr. Porritt; and specimens, sent from Mr. Harrison, as
being the normal form in the Barnsley district. Mr. Tugwell pointed out
that the males of the species from Barnsley were paler and smaller than
the usual southern form, and gradually toned down toward the var. rustica,
Mr. Tutt, specimens of Vanessa atalantay L. (of which five were bred), with
the right superior wing very small, but perfectly developed. Mr. Hall
stated that he had a quantity of Sesia myopiformis, Bork., feeding in some
pear trees in his garden, and wished to know the best means of taking them,
and it was suggested sleeving the infected branches ; and it was remarked
that the species emerged early in the morning. Several observations were
made on the backwardness of the season and the absence of Lepidoptera,
although Mr. Auld stated that he had found many species abundant in
Kent ; and Mr. Adye said he had seen Heliaca tenehrata. Scop., and several
other species, extremely abundant in a meadow near Willesden.
On the 23rd May last, the members of the South London Entomological
and Natural History Society had an excursion to Oxshot, Surrey, which
was conducted by Mr. R. South. There were nearly twenty members who
availed themselves of this opportunity of visiting the locality. The weather
was fine, but the wind extremely cold, and this, coupled with the lateness
of the season, resulted in the individual captures being somewhat small.
On leaving the station several specimens of Euchelia jacohmcB, L., were
taken ; and shortly afterwards ova ot Gonopteryx rhamtii, L., were found,
in situ, on a solitary bush of buckthorn. Larvae of Cymatophora flavicornis,
L., were taken by Mr. T. J. Washford, who obtained seven or eight ; while
several other members obtained them, but in less numbers. On the heath,
beside the line, a very pretty form oi Ematurga atomaria, L., occurred, and
a black specimen was taken; Mr. Fruing Warne also obtained a black
specimen of this species, and also a pretty variety of Tephrosia crepuscularia,
Hb., the ground colour being yellow. Among other species occurring
sparingly were Cabera pusaria, L., Melanippe sociata, Bork., Anticlea
badiata, Hb., Coremia ferrugata, Clerck, C. unidentaria, larvae of Ellopla
prosapiaria, L., Thera variata, Schiff., and were obtained, but were not
plentiful. Mr. Step obtained a good many species of mosses ; and took a
nest of the willow- warbler, containing seven eggs ; and many of the party
obtained some good and local plants. Particulars of the future excursions
can be obtained of H. W. Barker, 83, Brayards Road, Peckham. — H. W.
Barker, Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — June 1st, 1891. — Mr. R. C.
Bradley in the chair. Mr. G. W. Wynn showed eggs of Endromis versicolor,
found on birch twigs at Wyre Forest ; two small batches had been found
placed round the stem, near to the ends of the twigs. He also showed
Tceniocampa populi from Marston Green, &c. Mr. A. Johnsan showed
larvae of Hibernia aurantiaria, bred from specimens taken at Sutton. Mr.
R. C. Bradley showed a box of Pyralidae from his collection. — Colbran J,
Watnwrtght, Hon. Sec.
I
E n tomolo gist. Aug .IB 91
I^.^^^^h^^^-
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] AUGUST, 1891. [No. 839.
ORNITHOPTERA TROJANA, Staudinger.
Plate IV.
In the * Iris/ vol. ii. p. 4, will be found a very fully detailed
description of this lovely butterfly. The specimen from which
the accompanying plate has been drawn was recently received by
me. It came from Palawan (an island to the north of, and about
a hundred miles from, Borneo), and it will be seen that it does
not differ in any material degree from those received and so
excellently described by Dr. Staudinger. This eminent lepi-
dopterist has, however, so far as I can learn, not yet figured the
species, and the accompanying Plate will illustrate it for the
first time.
"Of this grand new species, or local form of hrookiana.
Dr. Platen unfortunately sent only five males, which were found
to differ very little. They are of the same size as the largest
hrookiana^ of which the anterior wing of the largest male out of
hundreds of specimens measured 3 in. 3 lin., whereas that of the
largest trojana measured fully 3 in. 7 lin. The green markings
of the trojana are not of so striking and brilliant gold-green as
those found always on the hrookiana^ but more of a blue-green ;
by one light they are quite a green-blue, whereas by another
more emerald than gold-green. The trojana has also on the
hind margin seven green patches, although they are shorter,
wider apart, and not so pointed on their outer end. These
patches (of which the last one is always quite separate from the
others) gives, on account of this, quite another impression to the
brookiana, where they appear to run more parallel with the costa,
being nothing like so far apart, whereas these diverge on the
trojana, and only run parallel with the hind margin. Although
the different patches (with the exception of the under one, which
is quite as pointed as those on the hrookiana) are much blunter
ENTOM. — AUGUST, 1891. Q
178 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
towards the outer end ; they come nearer the fringes of the hind
margin than on the brookiana, almost touching it. In particular
the more pointed lower green patches of brookiana generally end
noticeably farther from the hind margin. On the smaller
patches of the trojana there is missing, not only the point, hut
also a piece from the basal end, and they are placed nearer the
hind margin. The first three to four upper patches in particular
are as far apart as they are wide, the lower ones not quite so
much, but all of them are always more separated than on the
brookiana. The conspicuous blue basal spot on the costa of
brookiana is not found on trojana. On the under side, besides
the decided blue stripes underneath the middle and on the basal
part of the costa, are three pairs of small blue-green (green-blue)
stripes between the medial nervures.
" There is more difference between the posterior than between
the anterior wings of the trojana and brookiana. The former
has only one blue-green transverse band behind the middle
(middle cell). This band, which is not very wide, is divided by
the nervures into five or six more or less irregular crescent-
shaped (or zigzag) patches on the inside, but which are still con-
nected on the before-mentioned specimens. The whole inner
half on the trojana is black, and only the nervures more or less
faintly marked deep blue, whereas on the brookiana it is, with
the exception of the costa and a small part of the base, gold-
green. The fold in particular, which is turned over, is quite
black on the inside although on one specimen it is touched with
deep blue on the edges ; the blue-green transverse band is
nearer the hind margin on the trojana than the edge of the gold-
green base division on the brookiana. The under side at the
base has exactly similar deep blue basal spots as the brookiana,
but towards the outer part only five to seven small white-grey
spots near the nervures. The collar band (prothorax with back
of head), as well as the breast, are of a lighter red than on
brookiana.
" Ornithoptera trojana is no doubt rarer, and differs more
from brookiana than a great many other Ornithopteras that have
similarity, and can therefore well be termed a distinct species.
The fact also, that amongst at least 1000 Ornithoptera brookiana
from Borneo, Perak, and Sumatra, there was not one specimen
found approaching in appearance, nor in a transitory state, to
trojana, speaks well for the presumption that it is a totally
different species.
" But, in view of the wonderful arrangement of design, only
met with in these two species (which in itself alone gives rise to
generic separation from the Ornithoptera), it is just possible that
the trojana, owing to circumstances (climatic, geological, &c.)
unknown to us, is a form of brookiana peculiar to the Island of
Palawan" (Staudinger).
NOTES ON RHOPALOCERA IN CORFU. 179
The specimen figured is almost in bred condition, and is in
the rich collection of Mr. Herbert J. Adams, of Enfield. It has
the edge of the fold marked with deep rich blue, as in the speci-
mens referred to by Dr. Staudinger.
William Watkins.
The Hollies, Croydon, July, 1891.
NOTES ON RHOPALOCERA IN CORFU.
By Frank B. Norris.
Whilst lately visiting Corfu with a friend intent on Botany,
I carried my net with me, and, thinking that a list of butterflies
taken there during the latter half of May and first half of June
might interest some of your readers, I venture to send it to
you :—
Papilio podalirius, L. {sinon, Poda.) Common on tops of moun-
tains. P. machaon, L. Common on tops of mountains. P. alexanor,
E. Much less common and apparently earlier.
Pieris brassiccB, L. Fairly common. P. rapm, L. Fairly common,
P. ergane, Hb. Rare. P. daplidice, L. Common in lowlands.
Euchlo'e belia, F., and var. ansonia, Hb. Common. E. tagis^ Hb.
Common on hills. Var. bellezina. Common on hills.
LeuGophasia sinapis, L, Large, 1*75 in. and above. Ab. diniensis,
Bdv. Common.
Colias edusa, F. Approaching (7. myrmidone, E., in colour and
markings ; abundant. Some specimens of male insect had hind wings
shot with rosy violet.
Gonoytergx rhamni, L. Q. cleopatm, L. Commoner than the above.
Thecla ilicis, E. Abundant on low bushes on hill slopes. T, rubi,
L. On hills in May.
Polyommatus alciphroUf Rott. Rare ; May. P. phlceas var eleus,
F. Common.
LyccBna argiolus, L. In the Park. L. minimus, Fuessly. Mte.
San Salvatore ; May. L. melanops, Bdv. On bushy slopes ; May.
Charaxesjasius, It. This splendid butterfly first appeared towards
end of May, and became more abundant as June progressed. Always
found on higher mountain tops, where the arbutus grows freely, such
as on Mte. Mattia, San Georgio, &c. Its exceedingly rapid flight
makes its capture difficult without breaking off the tails.
Limenitis Camilla, F. On bushy sheltered slopes.
Vanessa egea, Cr. Common. V. polychloros, L. Over trees in
town of Corfu and Park. V. urticce, L. Rare ; of the variety turcica,
Stgr. V. io, L. Not common. V. antiopa, L. Not common. 7. aia-
lanta, L. Common. F. cardui, L. Common.
MelitcBa didyma, 0. Very common. M. cinxia, L. Not common;
May. M.phcebe,li.n. Hill tops ; May.
Melanargla lanssa, Hb. Abundant ; June,
Q2
180 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
' Satyrm hermione, L. Common on mountains, settling on i^ocks
and trees. 8, semele, L. Females very large, measuring nearly 3 in.
Pararge roxelana^ Cr, Common on hill-sides, settling on olive
trunks and rocks with S. hermione. P. mara, L. Scarce ; May.
P. megcera, L. Scarce ; May. P. egeria, L. In Park.
Epinephele janira, and var. hispulla, Hb. Common. E, ida^ E
On coast and towards Lef kimo ; June.
Spilothyrus alcecB, E. Not common ; May.
Syrichthus orbifer, Hb. Fairly common ; May.
Nisoniades marloyi, Bdv. Rare ; Mte. Pylides. May.
Hespericf, thaumas, E. . Fairly common, but local. H. actcBon, E.
Fairly common, but local, i?. sylvanus, E. Fairly common, but local.
Also one or two other skippers I have not quite determined.
The above list is, I know, a short one, and whole genera are
absent ; but no doubt I missed many of the spring insects, and
left. previous to the emergence of the autumn species. It was
noticeable that the summits of the mountains and hills afforded
the best sport. I need hardly speak of the extreme beauty of
the island, so rich in plants, or of the olive trees, which are
said to be the finest in the world, or of the picturesque Greek
costumes of the inhabitants. The climate was superb ; no rain
fell during the month I was there, and, although the sun's heat
in June was very fierce, there was always a pleasant sea-breeze.
Bagni di Lucca.
SYNONYMIC NOTES: PYRALID^.
By W. Wahben, M.A., F.E.S., &c.
Through the comparison of types and descriptions rendered
necessary in the course of rearranging the Pyralidae in the
British Museum Collection, many synonymic rectifications have
occurred ; and as the publication of the synonymy in full will
not be practicable at present, a selection is now given of a few of
the most important, and generally interesting, corrections.
Herbula, Guenee,
Herhula torvalis.
Botys torvalis, Moeschl., W. E. M., 1864, p. 198, pi. 5,
fig. 16, ^ ; Pack. Labr., xi., 52 ; S. & W., Cat., No. 191.
Scoparia gelida, M'Lachl., Journ. Linn. Soc, xiv., p. 115.
A comparison of the specimens from Grinnell's Land, in the
Brit. Mus. Coll., named by Mr. M'Lachlan Scoparia gelida,
with examples of Botys torvalis, Moeschl., lately received from
Dr. Staudinger, establishes the identity of the two species.
Moeschler's name has the priority.
1
SYNONYMIC NOTES : PYRALID^. 18 1
EuMELiA, Hilhner.
Eumelia venustalis.
Phalcena venustalis, Cram., Pap. Exot., iv., pi. 371, fig. 1.
Eumelia testula, Hiib., Zutr., v., 8, 409, figs. 817, 818.
Botys divulsalisy ZelL, Caffr., p. 47.
Eurycreon divulsalis, Led., W. E. M., vii., p. 376.
S copula jucundalis, Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1469.
South Africa.
Zeller considered his divulsalis to be different from testula
and venustalis ; but the points of difference appear to be due to
sex and variation only.
Blepharucha, Warr,
Blepharucha zaide,
Phalcena Pyralis zaide, StolL, pi. 36, fig. 6.
Botys zaide, Led., W. E. M., vii., pp. 368, 461, pi. 8, fig. 8.
Cyn(Bda{?) zaide, Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1224.
Dichroma zaida^ Wlk., xxiv., p. 1146.
Argyrophora zaidaria, Guen., Phal., ii., p. 232.
Botys cruoralis, Zell., Caffr., p. 51.
Scopula dilaceratalis, Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1469.
South Africa.
Blepharucha plumbatalis.
Botys plumhatalis, Zell., Caffr., p. 47. B, plumhofascialis,
Led., W. E. M., vii., pp. 363, 461, pi. 8, fig. 7.
Boreophila plumbofasciaUs, Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1280.
Scopula ferriscriptaliSf Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1467.
South Africa.
Boreophila, Guen,
Boreophila commixtalis,
Scopula commixtalis i Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1459.
Crambus indotatellus, Wlk., xxxv., p. 1752.
, Botys septentrionalis, Tgstr., Cat., p. 358. B, manualis, var. b,
S. & W., Cat., No. 136.
The types of commixtalis and indotatellus, both from Canada ;
of septentrionalis, from Finland. In his Catalogue, loc. cit,
Staudinger, after quoting septentrionalis, Tgstr., as a var. of
manualis, adds the query, " species propria ? " The comparison
of Walker's type of commixtalis with specimens in the Zeller
Collection, marked septentrionalis, Tengstr., shows their identity.
This occurrence of the same species in Finland and N. Canada
is interesting. Walker's type of indotatellus — recognizable, but
in deplorable condition — is from the same locality and source as
his type of commixtalis.
182 THE EJ^TOMOLOGIST.
Boreophila frustalis,
Botys fmstalis, ZelL, Caffr., p. 48.
Eurycreon frustalis, Led., W. E. M., vii., p. 376. E. leuco-
stictalis, ZelL, Verb., Z. B., Ver., 1872, p. 518.
After describing B. cereralis (Eurycreon) from North America,
Zeller, loc, cit,, adds the description of another species of the
same genus from South Africa, under the name of leucostictalis,
evidently, as it would seem, forgetting that he had already
introduced the species under the name oifrustalis,
Guenee, when he formed the genus Boreophila (Delt. & Pyr.,
p. 155), drew attention to the fact that it differed from the
species of Hercyna by the absence of the dense and furry
scaling that characterizes that genus. His first species, manualis,
agrees well with this exception ; but the other two, Scandinavians
and frigidalis, do not. He himself, even, admits that these last
are more densely scaled than is manualis, and form a kind of
transition to Hercyna, As a matter of fact, his typical
Boreophila — manualis — is congeneric with that group of Spilodes,
Guen., of which sticticalis is the representative, in which the
projection of the forehead is far less conspicuous than in Spilodes
proper ; and with the other species, which Lederer lumps together
under the head of Eurycreon, including, besides sticticalis, Linn.,
the following species : — cerealis, ZelL, commixtalis, Walk., offici-
nalis, Hulst., all from North America ; and frustalis, ZelL, from
South Africa.
Spilodes, Guen,
Spilodes helvialis, Walk., xviii., p. 772.
Botys thycesalis, Wlk., xix., p. 981. B, apertalis, Wlk., xxxiv.,
p. 1393 (nee p. 1451).
Botis citrina, Gr. & E., Tr. Am. Ent. Soc, L p. 23, pi. 2,
fig. 2 ; ZelL, Verb. Z. B. Ver., 1872, p. 507.
Spilodes obliterans,
Botys obliterans, Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1392.
Botis marculenta, Gr. & R., Tr. Am. Ent. Soc, i., p. 23,
pi. 2, fig. 21 (nee Zeller).
Spilodes mancalis.
Botys mancalis, Led., W. E. M., vii., pp. 371, 464, pi. 9, fig. 4.
Botis marculenta, ZelL, Verb. Z. B. Ver., 1872, p. 507 (nee
Gr. & E.).
In the Verb. Z. B. Ver., loc, cit., Zeller states that "he
thought he had Gr. & E.'s marculenta before him, though his
specimens did not tally, m all particulars, with their description."
Zeller's own description, however, evidently refers to B. mancalis,
Led. Subsequently to Zeller's article, Grote seems to have sent
Zeller a pair of the real marculenta, Gr. & E. These have
■4
SVNONtMIC NOTES t PYRALlD^. 18S
label, in Zeller's own writing, "B. marculenta, Grote, N. Y., 73."
The inverted commas to the name imply that this was Grote's
naming, but that he, Zeller, did not quite endorse it ; and this
was natural ; for these he had, the year before, called marculenta
were different. Grote himself, however, it would appear, must
have got into a muddle about the two species ; perhaps owing to
Zeller's mistake. Anyhow, in his own collection, the two species
were mixed up. Three of the real marculenta, of Gr. & E., like
the pair Grote had previously sent to Zeller, appear without
any name ; while of nine specimens of Zeller's wrongly-named
marculenta, two are actually ticketed, by Grote himself, as
** marculenta, Gr. & E." In any case, the name marculenta will
lapse; Gr. & E.'s being superseded by ohliteralis, Wlk., and
Zeller's by mancalis. Led.
Opsibotys, Warr.
Opsibotys incoloralis.
Botys incoloralis, Guen., Delt. & Pyr., p. 333 ; Led., W. E. M.,
vii., p. 371 ; SnelL, Tijd. v. Ent., 1883, p. 126 ; Meyr.,
Tr. E. S., 1884, p. 322. B. melonalis, Wlk., xviii., p. 702.
Spilodes nitetisalis, Wlk., xviii., p. 773.
Botys albidalis, Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1411. B. ruficostalis. Led.,
Verb. Z. B. Ver., 1855, p. 217, pi. 3, fig. 4. B, oedlpo-
dalisi?), Swinh., Pr. Z. S., 1884, p. 325 (nee Guen.).
• The types of incoloralis, Guen., albidalis, Wlk., and oedipo-
dalis, Swinh., from Hindostan; of Lederer's ruficostalis, from
Syria ; of the other two, nitetisalis came from the Congo, and
melonalis from Java ; Snellen records it from Celebes, and
Meyrick from Australia; — so that the range of the species is
extensive ; but Walker's dasconalis, from North America, is not,
as Mr. Meyrick thinks, identical.
Opsibotys coclesalis,
Botys coclesalis, Wlk., xviii., p. 701. B. itemalisalis, Wlk.,
xix., p. 996. B. strenualis, Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1409. B. in-
terfusalis, Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1443.
The types came from Borneo, China, India, and Java,
respectively.
Opsibotys terrealis,
Botys terrealis, Tr., Schm. Eur., vii., p. 110; S. & W., Cat.,
No. 174. B, mysippusalis, Wlk., xviii., p. 564. B, humi-
Ulis, Led., W. E. M., pp. 371, 464, pi. 9, fig. 2.
The last two, both from North America.
Opsibotys extricalis.
Botys extricalis, Guen., Delt. & Pyr., p. 338; Wlk. xviii.,
p. 562.
18^ . -TfiE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Pionea dionaliSf Yllk.f xYui., ip. 758.
Spilodes{?) nisceecalis, Wlk., xviii., p. 771.
Botys intricataliSy Led., W. E. M., vii., pp. 373, 469, pi. 10,
fig. 9.
Botis oppilalis, Gr., Can. Ent., xii., p. 36.
The identification of Lederer's species with Guenee's is due
to Prof. Fernald.
IsocENTRis, Meyrick.
Isocentris filalis.
AsopiaJllaliSf Guen., Delt. & Pyr., p. 204.
Lijgropia filalis y Led., W. E. M., vii., p. 381.
Botys Jilalis, SnelL, Tijd. v. Ent., 1883, p. 131, pi. 7, fig. H.
Endotricha rhodophilaliSf Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1311.
Samea rhodophilaliSf Moore, CeyL, iii., p. 275, pi. 178,
fig. 13, 2 .
Isocentris rhodophilalis, Meyr., Tr. E. S., 1887, p. 232.
Botys amoenalisy Wlk., xxxiv., p. 1445.
Samea dives, Butler, Pr. Z. S., 1880, p. 682.
, Botys auralisy Snell., Tijd. v. Ent., 1872, p. 90, pi. 7,
figs. 9, 10.
Another wide-ranging species. Guenee's type of Jllalis was
from Mauritius ; Snellen records it from Celebes, and also from
Java, whence, too. Walker's amoenalis ; Butler's dives is from
Formosa ; it occurs in India and Ceylon ; and Meyrick gives it
from Australia.
Isocentris xanthialis.
Botys xanthialisy Guen., D. & P., p. 343. B, superhalisy Wlk.,
xxxiv., p. 1397. B, nicalis, Snell., Tijd. v. Ent., xviii.,
p. 202, pi. 11, fig. 13.
All from Tropical America.
CoNDYLORRHiZA, Ledevcr.
Condylorrhiza vestigialis,
Botyodes vestigialis, Guen., Delt. & Pyr., p. 321, ^ .
Botys illutalisy Guen., Delt. & Pyr., p. 333, ? . ?
Condylorrhiza illutalis, Led., W. E. M., vii., p. 393, pi. 13,
fig. 7,^.
Botys tritealisy Wlk., xviii., p. 597, ? . B. mestoraliSy Wlk.,
xviii., p. 729, ? .
The type of Guenee's illutalis, a female, was from Brazil; of
his vestigialis, a male, from Columbia. Walker's type of tritealis,
from the west coast of South America ; the locality of his
mestoralis was unknown. That Guenee's Botyodes vestigialis is
the same insect as his, subsequently described, Botys illutalis y
will be evident on a careful comparison of his two descriptions
with that of Lederer. Guenee gives the labial palpi of vestigialis
SYNONYMIC NOTES : PYRALID-E.
ish
as porrect ; the wings, as semitransparent ; the hind wing, with
a fine subterminal line, quite close to the margin and parallel to
it ; the second stigma (the reniform) traversed by a pale nervure
(in illutalis he says it is traversed by a " trait clair ") ; the
abdomen of male, which sex, alone, he then described, is said to
have the anal tuft black, mixed with yellow hairs, and so,
Lederer, describing illutalis, a male, draws attention to this
black anal tuft.
Epicoesia, Huhner,
Epicorsia mellinalis,
Epicorsia mellinalis, Hiib., Zut., i., 24, 69, figs. 137, 138;
Hiib., Verz., p. 356.
Lonchodes mellinalis, Guen., Delt. & Pyr., p. 355.
Botys mellinaliSf Led., W. E. M., vii., p. 371. B. oedipodalis,
Guen., Delt. & Pyr., p. 336 ; Led., W. E. M., vii., p. 371.
B. butyrosa, Butler, Pr. Z. S., 1878, p. 493.
Hiibner's type of E. mellinalis was from Brazil ; a com-
parison of his figure with the description of oedipodalis will at
once suggest their identity. Guenee, judging from Hiibner's
figure only, referred the species to his genus Lonchodes, of which
the labial palpi are upright and applied to the forehead ; and,
therefore, when he described oedipodalis, would naturally not
think of identifying it, with its porrect labial palpi, with
mellinalis, which he had supposed to be a Lonchodes. Lederer
evidently thought the two species closely related, as he places
oedipodalis — with which, under that name, he was unacquainted
— immediately after mellinalis, which he had identified.
Ebulea, Guen,
Ebulea famalis,
Ebulea fumalis, Guen., Delt. & Pyr., p. 358.
Scopula orasusalis, Wlk., xix., p. 784.
Botis badipennis, Grote, Bull. Buff. Soc. N. H., i., p. 88, pi. 2,
fig. 12.
All the types from North America.
Crocidolomia, ZelL
Crocidolomia binotalis.
Crocidolomia binotalis, ZelL, Caffr., p. 66.
Pionea comalis, Guen., Delt. & Pyr., p. 368, 3^ . P. incom^
alis, Guen., Delt. & Pyr., p. 369, ? .
As Zeller's binotalis was described from Caffraria, its identity
with the Indian insect, the two sexes of which were referred by
Guenee to distinct species, was not suspected. Now that the
species is known to range from Africa to Australia, this identity
admits of no dispute.
l86 TtiE fiNTOMOtiOGlSt.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S., F.L.S.
(Continued from p. 170.)
VI. — The Biological Aspect {continued).
In the next place, it has appeared to me very strong!
suggestive that so many varieties are obtained by breeding : with
certain red species, I believe, that by breeding on the large scale
a percentage of yellow varieties may be certainly expected ;* now,
it is certain that in breeding insects the natural conditions of life
are never attained, and it is therefore not at all strange that a
certain derangement of the constitution should occur, leading to
imperfect colour development, i, e., to retrogressive varieties.!
Very strongly confirmatory, I think, of this view is a fact that I
found recorded in the 'Entomologist' (xxiii. p. 134), by Mr.
Johnson, who states that a large brood of A. caia, reared by him,
produced a large percentage of yellowish, &c., varieties, and also
very many cripples.l
It must be noted further that, by this principle of indirect
action, through affecting the constitution, &c., we may equally
explain such varieties as the albino specimens of L. phlceas and
the various heath butterflies : it would be exceedingly interesting
and instructive if someone who has the opportunity would breed
such species on a large scale, keeping them short of food, or
otherwise exposing them to somewhat unhealthy conditions ; in
such case one ought to find — if the above view be correct — a
large number of albino varieties. And lastly, I may note a circum-
stance cited by Wallace — that there is an abnormally large per-
centage of pale or white varieties on islands, especially on small
ones. It must seem certainly well-nigh impossible to correlate
this with any chemical peculiarities of the soil,§ but it is easy to
undertand that the general conditions may so affect the con-
stitution as to arrest the development of pigment. || Taking all
these facts into consideration, therefore, it does appear to me
that there are at least very strong grounds for hesitating to
invoke any so direct a factor as the chemical peculiarities of soil
or food in order to account for coloric variations ; and that there
is at least some reason to ascribe the variations to general
* Gf., however, a statement in Entom. xxii. p. 269.
t Of course, it is necessary to the vaHdity of this argument that a larger
percentage of such varieties should occur among bred specimens than among those
in the natural state. It would be interesting to know whether or not such is
the case.
I Of, also Mr. Mitchell's note in Entom. p. 171. Mr. Johnson does not state
whether any of the yellowish varieties were also cripples or not.
§ If it be assumed that the presence of salt in the food has anything to do with
this, we ought to find similar varieties on all shore lines.
II If, indeed, the whole question be not one of selection for some end, of which
we are at present ignorant.
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COtiOUHS. tSf
indirect influences of the surrounding conditions, which may
unfavourably affect the constitution and metabolic processes of
the insects. It must be remembered that — as I pointed out
some time since — all such products as pigments are almost
certainly produced by the decomposition of the protoplasm ; the
various food constituents are first built up into protoplasm, and
then this decomposes, with the result of producing inter alia
pigments.* We cannot safely assume any direct synthesis of
such pigments direct from the food, and it does therefore appear
to me a somewhat crude, and, so to say, almost too simply
mechanical a suggestion, that the presence of some unusual
chemical constituentf in the food may directly cause a different
pigment to be produced. However, there is certainly a wide field
for experiment in this direction open to any one who can obtain
abundant material for breeding.
With regard to the local prevalence of any one colour, in-
cluding physical colours such as the blue -green referred to by
Wallace, I should rather ascribe them to a general process of
selection (for protective purposes probably), which rendered such
colours most advantageous : by the well-understood process of the
survival of any in the least favourable variations, the whole insect
fauna might in time become modified in any coloric direction.
There is no need at all to assume in such cases any chemical
action of soil or climate.
We will now pass to consider the relation of the various
varieties naturally occurring to my experimental varieties, my
object being briefly to emphasise the point that the varieties
which we know to occur may equally well be produced by means of
chemical reagents, whether they be varieties in soluble pigments
or in " reversible " pigments ; and that, therefore, the existence
of such varieties is a strong confirmation of the theories (as to the
natural relations of the various colours) that I have deduced from
my experiments. There is one qualification necessary, however,
viz,f that I can produce only retrogressive varieties and not
progressive, except in the case of the cyanide reactions of certain
yellow species. It will, however, probably be found, I believe,
that most of the varieties found naturally occurring are retro-
gressive varieties, and that progressive varieties are far scarcer ;
at least, that is my impression after collecting records of varieties
from several years' * Entomologists,' and other sources. In other
words, then, most varieties will be found to be phenomena of
atavism, or degeneracy to a former less developed state. |
First of all, though, it may be as well to say a word as to
variation among physical colours. There are three conceivable
* See the whole question fully discussed in Vines' ' Physiology of Plants.'
t The presence of which, by the way, is wholly hypothetical after all.
+ It would be deeply interesting to know whether or not specimens showing
coloric variation also display any variation in structure. Will any possessor of,
c. (J., yellow varieties carefully examine the limbs, &c., of his specimens.
188 ±HE Ei^TOMOLOGISl'.
directions in which such variations might occur ; either one
physical colour might replace another, or it might replace a pig-
ment colour, or it might be replaced by a pigment colour. As I
have already pointed out,* whenever a replacement of pigmental
colours by physical colours occurs, we can only say that the
pigment- containing scales have been replaced by unpigmental
scales, whose structure is such as to produce the given physical
colour. Whether the pigmental scales are merely overlaid by the
others, or whether there is an actual absence of pigment, is a
highly interesting question, but one into which I am — for want of
data — unable to enter here. As examples of such replacement of
pigment colour by physical colour, I may refer to the cases of
true melanism (as distinguished from raelanochroism) : in the
Doubleday collection are specimens of V. urticce with the hind
wings dull black, of C. dominula and A. villica with all the wings
entirely black, of T, orbona with hind wings almost entirely dull
black. In recent volumes of the 'Entomologist' have been
chronicled a black variety of L. Sibylla (Entom. xxii. 256), of
A. aglaia (Entom. xxiii. 350), and so on. To these also I may,
perhaps, add the variety of an Argynnis noted as having a
brilliant gold spot on the upper surface (Entom. xxii. 233). In
all such cases as this it seems perfectly clear that the unpigmental
scales — normally present on part of the wings — have invaded and
covered the whole surface ; but whether such a variation would
occur in a species normally destitute of any, e. g., black scales, is
another question that I am unable to answer. Has anyone, for
instance, ever found a truly melanic variety of such a species as
G, rhamni? We can only wait for information to settle this
crucial point.
It may be noted here that in another sense also a pigment
colour may be replaced by a physical, viz,, when the pigment is
not developed in the normally pigmented scales, and the wing is
consequently- — usually, at least — white ; this, however, is a
phenomenon of quite another character from the foregoing, and
will be appropriately considered later.
In the second place, we might have physical colours replaced
by pigmental ; this might happen either by the pigmental scales
normally present on a wing invading the territory of the e. g.
black scales ; almost the only example that I have seen noted of
this was a specimen of V. maculata, with only three black spots
altogether on the wings (Doubleday collection) : or the pigment
might be developed in normally unpigmented scales. Such
varieties as this latter are of very great interest, since — unless
I am mistaken — it is in this manner that all pigmental colours
have originated. Examples of this variation that I have noted
are the following: a specimen of A, grossulariata (in the Double-
Entom. xxiii. 31b.
4
CHEMISTRY OP INSECT COLOURS. 189
d&y collection) having the ground colour entirely yellowish instead
of white ; in this species the pigment is usually present only as a
narrow yellow band : varieties of E. cardamines with more than
the normal extent of orange (Entom. xxiii. 228) : a variety of
A. caia having white replaced by pink. It must be especially
observed that these latter variations are all of them progressive in
character — advance guards, so to say, of the march towards higher
coloric development, and of what we may expect the normal
specific type to become in the course of time, if the struggle for
existence be sufficiently keen to make such variation advan-
tageous.
The third type of variation in physical colour is when one
physical colour is replaced by another — that is to say, when the
microscopic structure varies from the normal. If the blue of
Lycsenidse be physical, then we have examples of this type of
variation in the slate-coloured or French grey varieties of P,
alexis, that have from time to time been chronicled in the * Ento-
mologist' by Mr. Sabine and others. I would draw especial
notice to the fact that exactly similar* artificial varieties have
been obtained in my experiments, from which we may conclude
that in both cases the effect is due to injury of the fine structure
of the scales, t If we consider that the females of the Lyccence
preserve the original coloric type, from which the males have
advanced to their blue adornment, then we must consider such
slate-grey varieties as retrogressive. If, after all, the blue of
Lycsenidse should prove to be pigmental, then these varieties
would acquire far greater interest, and would be ranked as retro-
gressive varieties of pigment colours, just as those varieties which
must now be considered.
As to other varieties of physical colours, I am unfortunately
entirely in the dark ; one would expect to find varieties of
Thecla rubi without the green, in fact, of all the physically green
species with this green replaced by bronze-brown, &c. Whether
or not such varieties have been found I do not know, but I shall
be very glad indeed of any information on the subject.
The naturally occurring varieties of pigmental colours are of
peculiar interest to me, since — as I think — they form an in-
dependent and corroborative chain of evidence in support of the
inferences drawn from my experiments ; in fact, we have observa-
tion and experiment mutually confirmatory. I need scarcely
remind my readers of the broad conclusions as to coloric develop-
ment summarised last month, viz., that red is evolved from yellow,
or occasionally from chestnut; that green is probably evolved
from yellow ; and that yellow and chestnut are closely related and
both developed not from any white pigment, but in a formerly
unpigmented and usually white wing. Now, if these inferences
* I have not seen these varieties, but judge merely from the descriptions.
t Cf. statements in Entom. xxiv. p. 116.
190 THE ENTOMOLOGIST,
be correct, we may anticipate the following occasional variations
to a former state, — retrogressive varieties, that is, or cases of
arrested development : we should find yellow varieties of red and
pink species ; chestnut varieties of a few red species, such as
atalanta, acontiaf &c. ; and yellow varieties of green species ;
also colourless or very light varieties of yellow and chestnut
species, when the pigment, that is, fails to be developed at all; or
in a few cases of such non-development of pigment the variety
should be black, e.g., in V, io and antiopa, where the chestnut
pigment has been developed on a formerly black wing. It is
more questionable whether we should be likely to obtain varieties
showing such extreme reversion as white for red : after what
has been said in a previous section* on the evolution of red, it is
clear that such variation would imply reversion to a very ancient
state ; still, I should not be surprised at a colourless variety,
e.g., Delias, where either the evolution of red has been very rapid,
or where anyhow the pigment is by no means so stable as in
most red species.f A white variety of green species would less
surprise me.
And secondly, we might get progressive varieties, that is, a
normally colourless species might be found pale yellow or chest-
nut, a yellow or chestnut species might be found red, or a yellow
might be green ; so, too, an unusually deep variety of the normal
colour might appear. All such variation would be in entire con-
cord with the theories laid down in these articles as to the evolution
of colour; and moreover the abnormal colouring would usually (in
all probability) be found as the normal type of an allied species or
genus. It is, however, clearly unlikely in a very high degree that
we should find a red or green variety of a white species ; the leap
would be too great. There is yet another possibility ; if red and
green are both descended from yellow, it is, perhaps, conceivable
that a pigment normally green should, under abnormal circum-
stances, be developed as red — or vice versa — by a diversion from
the normal metabolic process after reaching the yellow stage. If,
however, any blue variety of a pigment colour should occur — or
vice versa — that would be a phenomenon of an entirely different
nature, and one which cannot be considered under this category.
I will now briefly refer to a few instances that illustrate the
foregoing remarks : —
A. Colourless varieties of chestnut species. There have been
noticed in the 'Entomologist' white varieties of C. janira
(Entom. xxii. 279), I milk-white or *' silver " varieties of L. phloeas
(Entom. xxii. 257 and 279), albino varieties of C. tithonus
(Entom. xxii. 287), and a white variety of C. pamphila (Double-
day collection). It is superfluous to point out the exact similarity
* Entom. xxiv. pp. 11 — 13.
t See Entom. xxiv. 13.
I These, I presume, are the same as the so-called "sun-bleached" varieties.
I
CHEMISTRY OF INSECT COLOURS. 191
of these phenomena to those that I have produced by means of
chemical reagents ; and since, in the latter case, I have shown
that the pigment is dissolved out, leaving a pure white wing, it
seems a fully justifiable conclusion that these natural albino or
"sun-bleached" varieties are likewise due to the absence — i.e.,
to the non-development — of pigment. In a word, I should
regard them, as I have already stated, as unhealthy or patho-
logical cases. (As showing the relationship of yellow and chest-
nut, I may refer to the yellowish varieties of A . prunaria in the
Doubleday collection.)
B. White (colourless) varieties of yellow species. Theoreti-
cally these should be as common as the corresponding varieties of
chestnut, but I have not been able to find any record of such
varieties. In the Doubleday collection is a specimen of A, plan-
taginis with the hind wings white instead of yellow, a specimen of
R.cratcsgata "half washed out," of S, atomaria partly whitish,
and in the 'Entomologist' (xxiii. 382) is chronicled a variety of
V, io having yellow replaced by white.
C. Yellow or white varieties of green species. I am
acquainted with no instances of such, although they doubtless
exist, unless we reckon the fading of some green Geometrss to
white as a case in point.
D. Chestnut varieties of red species. These must neces-
sarily be scarce, since so few red species are descended from
chestnut. I have no examples to hand, but the want is partly
compensated by the colours of subspecies or allied species. In
Vanessa indica, a subspecies of atalanta, the scarlet is replaced by
orange or chestnut ; and in Anartia amalthea the same bands are
scarlet in one specimen, and chestnut in another;* while my
reagents convert the former into a chestnut identical with that
normally occurring.
E. Yellow varieties of red species. This seems to be by far
the most common form of all coloric variation, a fact at which we
need feel no surprise, seeing how closely related are red and
yellow, and how very little constitutional disturbance is probably
requisite in order to upset the normal processes, and arrest the
pigmental development at the yellow stage ; in such cases also it
is clear that I must regard the variation as a pathological
symptom. It is almost superfluous to quote examples of this
type of variation, but the following are of interest : — Yellow
varieties of Z.Jilipendulce (Doubleday collection). A, caia with
red replaced by oranget (Doubleday) ; also bred varieties of caia
varying from buff to brick-red t (Entom. xxiii. 134), orange
* I do not know whether or not this is a sexual difference. Entom. xxiv. p. 91.
t In this specimen also the hind wings were more than normally, and the fore
wings nearly wholly, black. This may be considered an instance of general physio-
logical disturbance.
X Vide suprut p. 186.
192 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
varieties of caia (Entom. xxiii. 239, 259), Sesia with yellow bands
instead of red (Entom. xxii. 192). It is again evident that such
varieties are identical with those that may be obtained by the
action of acids on the normal red species.
F. Interchange of red and green. * This is an exceedingly
interesting, but very difficult variation. We may obtain some
collateral evidence by comparing the normal colouring of the two
sexes ; for instance, Wallace states that in many S. American
Papilios the green spots on the male are represented by red on
the female.t There is a variety of M, margaritaria chronicled in
which the cilia are red ; this may be a case in point, and
some further information may perhaps be gained from the con-
sideration of an extraordinary variety of A. galathea, to which I
must presently refer. This is emphatically a subject in which far
more information is wanted.
Then as to progressive pigmental variation, I have already
given a few instances of yellow and orange varieties of normally
white species. I greatly regret, however, to have found no
records of any red varieties of yellow species ; such varieties
would be highlj-- interesting — of great theoretical importance —
especially if tbey occurred in species belonging to a genus that
already comprised red forms.
Now for the extraordinary variation of Arge galathea, already
referred to. It is stated (I presume on good authority) that a
specimen is known marked with green and red. For a long time
this seemed utterly unintelligible and inexplicable to me, but I
now think it an interesting confirmation of my views. Clearly —
after what has been stated in preceding sections — it would be
nothing remarkable to find a yellow variety of A. galathea; now,
in the red and green variety, it would seem that, owing to some
altogether exceptional metabolic conditions, not only has a yellow
pigment been developed, but that this has advanced at one bound
to its consummation in red, and also simultaneously to its other
and divergent goal — green. It is therefore a highly interesting
phenomenon, and one in which more information is certainly
desirable.
[We must defer the conclusion until September. — Ed.]
* Wallace remarks, in ' Tropical Nature ' (p. 134), that the change from green
to red — from the more refrangible to the less refrangible is in accordance with the
law of change which has been shown to accompany expansion (i.e., by heat) is
Inorganic — growth and development in organic — forms. The reference here is to
a series of experiments by Mr. Ackroyd, detailed in the ' Chemical News ' for
August, 1876, where it is shown that the effect of heat on a large number of
chemical compounds is to change the colours from a more to a less refrangible
colour. With all respect to Dr. Wallace, I must say that the comparison which he
attempts to institute between these phenomena of metachromatism and the de-
velopment of organic colours is, to say the least of it, forced. Moreover, as a
matter of fact, I have now shown that there is at least some reason to believe that
green was developed from yellow, in which case we have yellow developing, on the
one hand, into the more refrangible green, on the other, into the less refrangible red,
t ♦ Tropical Nature,' 178.
103
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Development of Red Pigment in Lepidoptera. — Mr. Bowles {a7ite,
p. 131), after describing a variety of Papilio phorcas, remarks : — " I believe
it is a generally accepted theory with evolutionists that yellow was evolved
in flowers before red. Perhaps this rule might be applicable also to the
animal kingdom, and then may not P. machaon be on the road to assume,"
&c. May I be allowed to point out to Mr. Bowles that the supposition
which he so cautiously hazards here is simply what I have been insisting on
for the last seventeen months in my articles in the ' Entomologist.'— F. H.
Peery Coste; Ravenshoe, Burnt Ash, Lee, S.E.
Emergence of Imago after injurv to Larva. — I am able to corrob-
orate the incident related by Mr. Alfred T. M. Mitchell (Entom. 171). In
the autumn of 1889, whilst beating bog- myrtle for larvae, in Delamere
Forest, a caterpillar of Amphidasys hetularia fell into the umbrella, evidently
badly hurt, as it had a wound, which bled freely, near the anal segment.
The wound, however, healed up, the larva was full-fed in a day or two, and
disappeared below the soil. That, I took for granted, would be the last I
should see of it ; but, in the following summer, it re-appeared in the form
of a fine well-developed black female, var. douhledayaria. There could be
no mistake, as it was the only hetularia larva I had that year. — J. Arkle ;
Chester, July 18, 1891.
Red-tailed Bumble Bees eaten by Shrikes. — While in the Minera
district last year, I was particularly interested to find red-backed shrikes
(Lanius collurio, L.) feeding their young with Bombus lapponicus, Fabr.,
and B. lapidarius, L., principally the former, and this to a very great
extent, as their castings consisted almost entirely of the remains of these
insects. I also found B. muscorum, L., and B. lapidarius impaled on the
wild rose by shrikes ; these were exhibited at the last meeting of the
Lancashire and Cheshire Entomological Society, when a member declared
that the bees impale themselves by accident, flying against the spines !
Curiously enough, my specimens are impaled through the thorax from
beneath ! How did the bees manage it ? I have never witnessed the
impaling process, but it is an acknowledged fact that the " butchers " are
guilty of such proceedings, and, moreover, it forms part of their generic
character. These birds are well known to feed upon bees, wasps, &c., but
it seems strange that they should select the red-tailed species in preference
to the more sombre-coloured ones. — R. Newstead ; Grosvenor Museum,
Chester, July 14, 1891.
Sphodrus leucophthalmus, L., emitting strong Acid-like Fumes.
— A few days since I received three specimens of this singular beetle from
Mr. Kendrick, of Warrington, who has kindly presented them to this
museum. While examining one of them with a lens, I noticed that it gave
off a most peculiar odour, which, by placing the insect close to the nostrils,
caused quite a stifling sensation. This it continued to do for about five
minutes, the fumes gradually becoming less strong, until eventually they
were not perceptible. I noticed that while this was taking place the dorsal
and ventral plates of the abdominal segment were constantly brought
together, and between them there was a very small quantity of a clear fluid,
but 1 did not see this produced into a spray, although I held the insect
against a good light, and examined it with a lens. The fumes produced by
ENTOM.— AUGUST, 1891. R
194 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
the insect were almost exactly like those given off by hydrochloric acid. To
what practical use this insect can apply this protective agent is somewhat a
mystery, as it can have but few, if any, enemies in our cellars, or such
places as it is known to frequent. The same may be said of Blaps miwro-
nata, which in like manner is said to produce an odour singularly un-
pleasant. This latter insect occurs pretty freely with us, but, although I
have handled many specimens, I have never yet perceived any odour. I
may here add that Carabus granulatus has the power of emitting a very
strong fluid. I was holding one in my hand the other day when it ejected
some in my face, producing a most intense burning pain ; this was quickly
removed by the application of cold water. These facts, although new to
me, may be old to many, but some may not have heard of them, and be
interested. — R. Newstead ; Grosvenor Museum, Chester.
Plusia moneta in Britain, 1891. — I had the good fortune to capture,
at light, on the evening of July 11th, the sixth British specimen of Plusia
moneta. Fab. It is a fine specimen in perfect condition, rather larger than
that figured in the 'Entomologist' for last September (xxiii. pi. iii. fig. 6).
Its occurrence so far inland as the Guildford district in 1891 points to its
having established itself, as a British species. It is an interesting addition
to our fauna, not only on account of its beauty, but because these records
imply the extension of the range of the species into the north-western
portion of the palaearctic region. I quote Staudinger's * Catalogue ' on the
subject of the distribution of another eastern species — Plusia consona, F.
— for comparison with that of P. moneta : — " P. consona, Fabr. Sax. ;
Austr. Hung.; Bulg. ; Ross. m. or.; ? Parisii (1)." In the Parisian
example quoted we see the same tendency to migration in a westerly
direction. " Plusia illustris, Fabr. Germ. m. (c. occ.) ; Helv. ; Gal.
m. or. ; Ped. ; Hung. : Corcyra ; Ural." Here we have another eastern
species extending into Western Germany. Staudinger does not give
" Angl.," but Stainton's * Manual ' states that it has occurred on Salisbury
Plain. The distribution of Plusia modesta, Hb., is much the same as
that of P. bractea, Fabr., but P. modesta has never been recorded in Britain,
though it occurs as far west as Paris. May we not hope, considering the
migratory character of the genus, that P. consona and modesta may some
day be added to, and P. illustris re-instated in, the list of British Lepi-
doptera ? I shall have the specimen by me to show to anyone who may
wish to see it for the next six weeks ; after that it will be in the collection
of Mr. Bernard Crocker, of Plymouth. — Henry C. Lang ; Rose Hill,
Albury, Guildford.
Larv^ of Eubolia limitata (mensuraria) and Plusia pulchrina. —
Book after book one takes up, and the larvae of these common moths are
dismissed as rather undiscovered things. Here is an opportunity for some
young entomologist ! Beat nettles into a newspaper at the end of May and
the beginning of June. It is worth while. You will come across larvae of
good moths, particularly of the Plusia family ; and a bred moth, even if it
be common, is often worth any number of netted ones. There will also fall
to your share a pea-green, very un-Geometer-like, caterpillar, with a humped
sort of back, and a whitish yellowish line along each side. It looks far
more like a Noctua, but it is the larva of E. limitata. It spins a whitish
silken cocoon among the nettle leaves, and is easily reared. I beat lots of
nettles this season, in the hope of being able to record an accurate descrip-
tion (the above is from memory), but I started too late (June I3th), and did
NOTES, CA^TtttES, £tC. 195
not secure a single caterpillar, except a solitary delicately green, leech-like
one, with a small green head and segments, gradually increasing in size.
It was all green, legs and claspers as well, without a single stripe or
ornament, except a black lateral mark on each cheek, which, together with
its quick spasmodic jerkings from side to side, gave it a vicious look. It
was a larva of P. pulchrina. After spinning its white silken cocoon among
nettle leaves, it emerged, a fine specimen, on the 5th of July. — J. Arkle ;
Chester, July 18,1891.
Variation in Pupa of Satyrus meg^ra. — Out of a brood of about five
dozen larvae of S. megara reared from the egg, I have obtained a very
marked variety of the pupa, in which the usual emerald-green colour is
replaced by sooty black, whence the double dorsal chain of bright yellow
spots stands out in marked relief, giving the species an altogether different
and, if possible, more handsome appearance. There are about one-fourth
of the black variety, and four or five others are intermediate between bright
green andl)lack, being of a dull bice ; the remainder call for no special
notice. The larvae were all reared under precisely similar conditions, on
Poa annua and Dactylis glomerata, and the black pupae were among the
earliest to assume that state. — F. W. Hawes ; Grasmere, Torrington
Park, N.
Note on the Hatching of Nemkophila plantagints. — On June 13th
I had several specimens of N. plantaginis emerge, a pair of which I placed
in a cage, and saw them in cop. on the 14th. Eggs were laid on the 16th,
all of which hatched on the 18th. This seems to me a very rapid
proceeding, as the weather was not remarkably hot at the time, and they
were not forced in any way, being virtually in the open air, but not in the
sunshine. The female lived quite a fortnight longer, and laid more eggs,
all of which were infertile. The larvae have fed up very well, and are, I
should think, nearly their full size now. — Mark H. Winkley ; Streatham,
July 21, 1891.
Ch(erocampa nerii. — In a collection of insects formed by the late
Mr. Orozier, the well-known Manchester artist, mostly some forty to fifty
years ago, and which has lately come into the possession of Mr. T. Ray
Hardy and Mr. R. Standen, of Owen's College, was found a very fine
specimen of C. nerii, brilliant in colour and perfect in condition, with the
label, "Prestwich, 1847." This specimen the owners have generously
allowed me to add to my collection. I may say that another individual of
this species is in the museum collection of Owen's College, having been
captured at light on a street-lamp in Prestwich five or six years ago. There
are, therefore, now two 7ierii known from this locaUty — a locality rich in
good things in time past, e.g., Catocala fraxini (at Agecroftj, Saperda
acalaris (Mere and Prestwich Cloughs), &c. — J. Cosmo Melvill ; Prest-
wich, July 3, 1891.
[Previous records of C. nerii are as follows : — Stainton's * Manual,' 1857,
three specimens, Dover, Teignmouth, Brighton. 'Entomologist's Weekly
Intelligencer,' ii. 172, one imago, Brighton, ItUh August, 1857 ; vii. 140,
two larvae, Eastbourne, 1860. ' Weekly Entomologist,' i. 12, one imago,
Hastings, 2nd August, 1862. * Entomologist,' lii. 364, one imago,
Sheffield, 14th September, 1867: iv. 162. ' Entomologist's Monthly
Magazine,' v. J 7;^, two imagines ?, St. Leonard's October, 1868. ' Euto-
196 TilE ENTOMOLOGIST.
mologist/ xiii. 162, one imago, CriejEF, Perthshire, July?, ]873 ; vii. 290,
one imago, near Lewes, 3rd September, 1874. * Ent. Mo. Mng.' xiii. 188,
one imago, Hemel Hempstead, 15th October, 1876. 'Entomologist,' xvii.
233, one imago, Tottenham, 12th September, 1884; one imago, Eastbourne,
24th September, 1884. ' Ent. Mo. Mag.' xxii. 89. * Entomologist,' xviii.
218, one imago, Hartlepool, 23rd July, 1885 ; xix. 250, one imago, Brighton,
7th September, 1886. * Entomologist,' xxi. 258, one imago. Poplar, 20th
September, 1888. * Ent. Mo. Mag. xxvi. 328, one imago, Dartmouth, 26th
September, 1890.— Ed.]
LiTHOsiA QUADRA AT New Cboss. — It may be of interest to note that I
captured, on July 18th, a female specimen of Lithosia quadra. It was on
a garden wall near New Cross Station, and is in fine condition. Is it not
rather an unusual insect to be found in South London ? — Albert E.
Cook ; 31, Lower Road, Rotherhithe, July 18, 1891.
Habits of Leucophasia sinapis. — In reply to Mr. H. S. Freralin's
enquiry respecting the habits of Leucophasia sinapis (Entom. 172), I beg
to say that when catching butterflies in the neighbourhood of Wiesbaden,
on July 29th, 1879, I noticed some examples of L. sinapis flying over a
corn-field, and settling on the stems of the corn. On approaching one of
these the insect would fly ofl" a short distance and again settle. I took three
specimens. The time would be about 5 o'clock in the afternoon. Perhaps
the butterflies were settling for the night. — Alfred Sigh; Villa Amaliuda,
Burlington Lane, Chiswick, Middlesex, July 18, 1891.
Notes from Brockenhurst. — On the 30th May last I went to
Brockenhurst, and spent the following week in collecting Lepidoptera. The
weather was all that could be wished for, being warm, with bright sunshine
every day. The following are the species I took or saw : — Hybernated
specimens of Gonopteryx rhamni were fairly numerous during the first two
or three days, but in a very battered condition. The females were more
plentiful than the males. Fieris rapce and P. napi were common. Argynnis
euphrosyne was plentiful and in good condition, evidently not having been
out long. Nemeohius lucina was fairly common in certain localities, seven
specimens in one morning being the most I took. Pararge egeria was
abundant, but in rather worn condition. P. megmra was represented by
two specimens only. I took one hybernated specimen of Vanessa poly-
chloros on the 1st June, and also saw another on the 5th. Thecla ruhi was
not very common, four specimens being all I took. Syrichthiis malvce and
Nisoniades tages were represented by three or four specimens each.
Ccenonympha pamphilus and LyccBna icarus were common. I was much
surprised at not seeing a single specimen of Euchlo'e cardamines ; as the
season appeared to be very late, I fully expected to meet with it. Among
the Nocturni there was not much to be done, very few moths being out,
Venilia macularia and Panagra petraria were fairly abundant, and I
obtained a few Eurymene dolabraria. During the first two days Bupalus
piniaria was to be seen flying about the tops of fir-trees. On the heaths,
Ematurga atomaria was common, with two or three specimens of Bomhyx
ruhi. EucheliajacobcecB, Spilosoma mendica, and Eudidia glyphica were
each represented by one specimen. Night-work was not very encouraging.
After what I had heard I did not attempt sugaring at all, while three or
four nights mothiiig in the woods at dusk, and later, with the aid of a
lantern, produced nil. The season seemed to be a very late one, several
NotES, CAPTURES, ETC. 197
of the trees and shrubs being barely in leaf. It was my first visit to the
New Forest, and, considering the wet and cold weather we had during May,
the result was better than I anticipated. — Philip W. Ridley; 2, Camden
Terrace, Bath.
NoTKs FROM Reading. — Yesterday, the 16th July, a friend and myself
set out to catch Asthena blomeri, Minoa eup/iorbiata, and Thecla w-album.
We took from 50 to 60 blomeri, 6 euphorbiata, 1 T. w-album (saw several
others); and, in addition, got some 40 or 50 Abraxas ulmata. I also had
the fortune to find one more female Stauropus fagi. S.fagi occupied its
usual position, i. e., the N.E. side of a moderately-sized beech tree. A.
blomeri we found chiefly on the trunks, and was somewhat difiicult to
capture ; it has a habit of flying off" and making for the underwood on the
approach of its would-be captor, who must be nimble to secure it before it
reaches a place of safety.— J. Clarke ; Reading, July 17, 1891.
Variety of Heptalus lupulinus. — A very light specimen of Hepialus
lupulinus was taken by me, at rest on an oak fence in Putney Park Lane,
on June 14th. All four wings are of a dirty white, with no markings
whatever. — Charles Maxsted ; 7, Church Terrace, Castelnau, Barnes,
July 5, 1891.
[Mr. Adam son (Eutom. xvi. 162) records a white specimen of H. lupu-
linus from Croydon, but this example had a broad tawny border on the
costal margin, and a band of the same colour on the outer and inner
margins. On page 187 of the same volume, Mr. Swinton says that white
varieties of the species were common on the Old Guildford racecourse the
first week in June. He adds, "I have been endeavouring to catch one
quite white, but have not hitherto succeeded." Probably specimens similar
to that described by Mr. Adamson are not scarce if looked for, but H. lupu-
linns is such a common moth that collectors do not perhaps give the species
much attention. Some years ago I obtained a number of interesting
varieties of this species in one evening at Kingsbury ; amongst them were
several of the white form, and since then 1 have frequently met with this
variety in other places. — R, S.]
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — July 1st, 1891. — Mr. Frederick
DuCane Godman, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair. The Rev. John
Isabell, of St. Sennen Rectory, Penzance, was elected a Fellow, and the
Rev. John Seymour St. John, B.A., was admitted into the Society. Mr.
Jacoby exhibited a specimen of a species of Coleoptera belonging to the
family Galerucidse, with the maxillary palpi extraordinarily developed. The
Rev. Canon Fowler, on behalf of Mr. Wroughton, Conservator of Forests,
Poena, exhibited specimens of a bug imitating an ant, Polyrachis spiniger,
and of a spider imitating a species of Mittilla, and read the following notes :
— " I have taken a good many specimens of a bug which has achieved a very
fair imitation of Folyrachis spiniger (under the same stone with which it
mny be found), even to the extent of evolving a pedicle and spines in what,
were it an ant, would be its metanotum. Curiously enough, however, these
spines are apparently not alike in any two specimens. Is it that this
198 tilE ENTOMOLOGIST.
bug is still waiting for one of its race to accidentally sport spines more like
those of P. spiniger, and thus to set the ball of evolution rolling afresh? or
is it that the present rough copy of spiniger's spines is found sufi&cient to
deceive ? The bug has also been found in the Nilgherries. Mr. Rothney
remarks on the above species : — * I have not found the species mimicking
Mutilla; but in Calcutta and Barrackpore, where P. spiniger is a tree ant,
forming its net by spinning together the twigs of a shrub, the mimicking
bug also assumes arboreal habits, and may be found on the trunks of trees
with the ants.'" Mr. Porritt exhibited living specimens of Eupithecia
extensaria and Geometra smaragdaria : the position assumed by the former
proved conclusively that it had rightly been placed in the genus Eupithecia.
Mr. Crowley exhibited two specimens of a Papilio from the Khasia hills,
belonging to an undescribed species allied to P.papone, sub-generic section
Chilades. Col. Swinhoe remarked that he possessed a specimen from
Northern Burmah. Mr. Moore and others took part in the discussion
which followed. Mr. Dallas Beeching exhibited a specimen of Plusia
moneta, recently taken by himself at High Woods, Tonbridge, and speci-
mens of Goiiepteryx cleopatra, lent him for exhibition, which were alleged
to have come from the same locality. Mr. Algernon Chapman exhibited the
larva of Micropteryx calthella, and read the following notes: — " The larvae
were obtained by placing moths in a cage with damp moss, dead leaves, and
other debris off the surface of the ground. Into this the moths crept to a
depth of half an inch, forcing their way into narrow cavities, and laid their
eggs in groups of six or twelve. The eggs are clothed with fine hairs, tipped
with refractive particles. The larva, about a millimetre in length, possesses
on each segment eight processes of a globular form raised on a very slight
pedicle. Besides the thoracic legs, each of the abdominal segments (eight)
possesses a pair of minute jointed legs of the same type as the thoracic.
There are also a pair of long jointed antennae." Col. Swinhoe read a paper
** On a new species of Heterocera from the Khasia Hills." Mr. Crowley
read a paper "On a new species of Prothoe." Mr. C. J. Gahan read a
paper " On the South American species of Diabrotica,'' Part II., being a
continuation of Dr. Baly's paper on the same genus, published in the
Society's Transactions for 1890, Part I. Mr. W. F. Kirby communicated
a paper entitled " Notes on the Orthopterous family Mecopodidse." Prof.
Westwood communicated a paper entitled ** Notes on Siphonophora arto-
carpi" referring to an appendage of the eyes which had been overlooked in
his previous description. — H. Goss & W. W. Fowler, Hon. Secretaries.
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
June ^6th, 1891.— Mr. W. H. Tugwell, President, in the chair. Mr. West
exhibited bred examples of Sesia formiciformis, and remarked that he had
bred a large number of ichneumons from the pupae, and many others, he
thought, were standing over. Mr. C. A. Briggs, a specimen of Pieris
brassicce, L., bred from pupae received from Yorkshire, having one of the
antennae much smaller than the other, although fully developed. Mr. Croker,
an hermaphrodite specimen of Coremia ferrugata, Clerck, a variety of
Spilosoma lubricipeda, Esp., very strongly marked for the southern form of
the species. Mr. Barker, a specimen of Epinephele hyper anthes, L., one of
the inferior wings being about a quarter the size of the other ; the ocelli
were, however, to be seen. Mr. H. Moore, several species of locust. The
Secretary read a list, compiled by Mr. Adkin, of Lepidoptera taken on the
Society's excursion to Eyueslbrd, Kent, on Saturday, the 20th June, which
OBITUARY. 199
was conducted by Mr. John T. Carrington. A list of the Coleoptera, com-
piled by Mr. Lewcock, was also read. Mr. Tugwell communicated notes on
a botanical ramble from Leatherhead, over Mickleham Downs, to Dorking,
illustrating his remarks by examples of the plants collected, and referring
to the larvae of the Lepidoptera which were to be found feeding on them.
July 9th, 1891. — The President in the chair. Mr. R. Adkiu exhibited,
on behalf of Mr. E. Sabine, of Erith, a series of Lyccsna icarus, Rott.,
collected at Snodland during the spring, and showing great variation ;
some of the males closely approached the colour of L. bellargus, Rott. ; in
one, the marginal black dots extended into the fringes ; in one of the speci-
mens the under side was of a smoky grey colour, the white rings of the ocelli
being absent. Among the females were many blue forms, and in the
under sides of many there was considerable variation. Mr, Adkin also
exhibited living larvae of Euclidia glyphicay L., reared upon white clover.
Mr. Oldham, a light form of Argyrinis euphrosyne, L., a yellow variety of
Fieris rapm, L., and a dark variety of P. napi, L. Mr. C. A. Briggs, a few
melanic specimens of Sphinx ligustri, L., from the London district. Mr.
Tugwell, Sesia sphegiformis, Fabr., and stems, showing position of pupae in
situ, from Tilgate Forest, and made some observations thereon. Some
remarks were made by members as to varieties being mobbed by typical
forms of the species. The Rev. J. W. Horsley, of Woolwich, exhibited and
remarked on a series of shells, those of Helix nemoralis and H. hortensis in
almost every variety of banding and colouring. He had made a list of 89
band varieties. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
OBITUARY.
George Perry Shearwood died 7th July, 1891, aged 62. The
earlier portion of his lite was spent in India, where he for some years
carried on a successful business, from which he obtained a considerable com-
petency, and retired to this country at a comparatively early age. It was
while in India that he contracted a taste for Natural History, and com-
menced collecting such objects as they came in his way. On returning
home his attention was devoted chiefly to ferns, of which he at one time
had a very large number of living examples, and Lepidoptera, to which he
gave a large share of his leisure, the British species being his especial
favourites, and of these he amassed a very considerable and fairly complete
collection. He also took great interest in rearing and preserving the larvae
of Lepidoptera : a rare or little-known species in its larval state being one
of his great delights. By those who knew him in the field will his loss be
most felt, his genial nature and utter disregard of fatigue rendering him a
most agreeable companion. He thoroughly enjoyed an expedition in quest
of some pet species, and it was on one of these occasions that he met with
an accident that incapacitated him for some time from active work. Having
lingered too long in quest of Erastria venustula, which he had been seeking
in the Horsham district, and thus missed the last passenger train by which
he might reach home, he sought other means of accomplishing the journey
before resorting to the extremity of a forty miles' walk. This presented
itself in the form of a friendly driver of a goods train, who eventually
deposited him, in the small hours of the morning, on the line some distance
QOO THE ENTOMOLOGIST,
^
from a station, and to gain the road it was necessary for him to scale a high
spiked fence ; this he accomplished without difficulty, hut in his descent
his hand was caught by one of the spikes, and torn almost through.
Nothing daunted by the pain and loss of blood, he bound it up as best he
could, and made for home, rousing his doctor on the way, under whose care
he remained for some weeks, and, on recovery, appeared to regard with
pride the scar which he carried to the grave. He contributed little to
eutomologicil literature, beyond a few notes in the ' Entomologist ' upon
interesting captures that he had made from time to time, and, so far as we
are aware, he has left no systematic record of his doings. He was one of the
earUest members of the South London Entomological Society, to which he
belonged until his death. Although possessed of a considerable fortune on
his retirement from active business, a too implicit faith in sundry com-
merciiil undertakings considerably reduced his income. This perhaps
preyed upon his mind, and, an attack of paralysis supervening, he was
placed in a helpless condition, and his brain seriously affected; but even
during his last years, although so terribly afflicted, he derived relief and
pleasure from the re-arrangement of the collections that he had formed
during his earlier life. We understand that these are likely shortly to be
offered at auction. — (R. A.)
On the l-2th inst., after months of suffering brought on by an attack of
influenza, Mr. Edward Ralph Pearson, of Wallington, Northumberland,
passed to his rest. Turning his trade, which was that of a joiner, to meet
his entomological aspirations, he, in bis spare hours, made himself a cabinet,
which, with its very representative collection of insects found in the North
of England, soon became an object of general interest and admiration. In
addition to his local fame as an entomologist, Mr. Pearson was also a
successful horticulturist. Amongst the many good insects in his cabinet,
his collection included long and fine Wallington series of Sphinx convolvuli,
Thyatira batis, and Plusia hractea. It is also worth recording that he had,
some twenty years ago, captured, at a short distance from his home, a fine
specimen of Vanessa antiopa. To many entomologists Mr. Pearson was
well known as a correspondent and ready helper, and his early death, at the
age of 56, will be regretted by all who knew his sterling worth. — (J. A.)
It is with deep regret I have to announce the sudden death of my old
friend P. F. J. Lowrey, which took place at his residence at Clapham Park
on the Q4th July, 1891, at the early age of thirty years. He was an ardent
and careful collector of Lepidoptera, caring little for the exchange system
of collecting ; his fine collection of butterflies is formed principally of his
own captures, and comprise many of our most local species ; it includes
specimens of Vanessa antiopa, one taken by himself at Camberwell eleven
years ago. Only a month since I had the pleasure of his company on a
visit to the Isle of Wight, in search of one of his favourite butterflies,
Melitcea cinxia. During the last fourteen years he has contributed notes to
the 'Entomologist.' He was much devoted to the study of Orniihology,
and was well acquainted with all rural recreations. His loss will be deeply
felt by all those who had the fortune of his friendship, as he was a true
friend to all.— (F. W. F.)
With very great regret we have also to record the death of Mr. Ferdi-
nand Grut, of Southwark. A further notice will be given in the
September number. — ^Ed.
I
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] SE.PTEMBER, 1.891. [No. 840.
TWO AND A HALF HOURS' INVESTIGATION OF THE
ENTOMOLOGY OF OXSHOTT.
By T. R. Billups, F.E.S.
On the 8th of July last I went down to that pleasant and
easily accessible locality in Surrey known as Oxshott. I was
accompanied by my friend Mr. A. Beaumont, and it is perhaps
unnecessary to say that our object was to add, if possible, some
rare insects to our collections. As the district visited by us is
now well known to most of our London entomologists, I need
hardly enlarge upon its physical or botanical features. The
particular day referred to was not, from a meteorological point
of view, a favourable one for collecting, and our captures were
consequently few and far between. A heavy thunderstorm
brought our proceedings to an early termination, and caused us
to beat a hasty retreat to the railway station. On our way to
the place of shelter we happened to pass by a private road
bordered on each side by a sand-bank, but as the rain was falling
in a veritable torrent, we could only glance at the position then,
making mental notes that the ground was of a promising
character, and that we ought to visit it again under more favour-
able circumstances. On the morning of the 11th July the sun
shone brilliantly in a cloudless sky, the wind was blowing gently
from the south-west ; altogether the day promised to be all that
could be desired, and, as I was free, I determined to investigate
the entomological capabilities of the spot which had so favourably
impressed me on my former visit to Oxshott. Unfortunately I
had to make the second expedition by myself, as Mr. Beaumont
was not able to join me. The following is a list of some of the
species captured by me in the short space of 150 minutes : —
Hymenoptera. — Amongst the Heterogyna and Fossorial were
Formica rufa and Myrmica scahrinoideSy very plentiful. Myrmosa
vielanocephalay both sexes of this not common insect were taken,
ENTOM. SEPT. 1891. S
202 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
the males being on flowers. Pompilus viaticm and P. gihhus
were very common; a solitary male of the rarer P. pectinipes
was also taken. Priocnemis fuscus and Ammophila campestris
were plentiful. Tachytes pectinipes and Miscophus bicolor, tlie
latter and rarer species being very difficult to catch. Diodontus
minutus and D. luperus were both taken, as also several speci-
mens of Pemphredon lethifer. Mimesa bicolor and M. equestris
were swept from Umbelliferse ; several specimens off Harpactus
tumidus. Two specimens of Gorytes mystaceus, as also Mellinus
arvensiSf were taken, the two latter being from the leaves of a
stunted oak, where they were apparently in search of lepi-
dopterous larvae. Cerceris arenaria was common. Trypoxvlon
Jigulus and T. clavicerum were taken, but not commonly.
Amongst the Crabros, a solitary specimen of the rare C. capi-
tosus fell to my net, the other species taken being podagricuSy
variuSf wesmaeliy elongatulus, vagahunduSy 4-maculatuSy cribrariuSy
and peltarius. Entomognathus brevis was very abundant. The
Diploptera were represented by Vespa germanicay Odynems
parieturriy and a single female of Eumenes coarctata. In the
family Anthophila Colletes succincta and C. fodiens were common
on the ragwort (Senecio jacobcea), while the bramble-flowers
swarmed with Prosopis communis and P. hyalinata. Sphecodes
gibbuSy pilifronSy similisy and variegatus were captured at the
bloom of thistles ; and two specimens of the rare S, longidm
were taken by sweeping. Halictus cylindricuSy albipes, and
tumulorum were in plenty, while specimens of H. punctatissimus
were scarce. Andrena bicolor was common at the bloom of the
mallow {Malva sylvestris) ; A, fulvicrus and A. afzeliella were
also plentiful, but A. chrysoscelis was represented by two speci-
mens from the bloom of Umbelliferse. Nomada fabriciana and
N.furva were both taken, but much worn. Two specimens of
Ccelioxys elongata and one specimen undetermined complete the
list of captures of the Hymenoptera-Aculeata.
CHRYSiDiDiE. — In this family I succeeded in taking three speci-
mens of the rare Elampus panzeri, by sweeping a small clump of
viper's bugloss {Echium vulgar e). Several examples of Homalus
auratus and Chrysis ignita occurred, as also one specimen of the
rare C, succincta,
IcHNEUMONiD^. — As my captures in this family were very
numerous, and not all at the present determined, I propose
giving the names of those identified, simply stating that they
were all taken by sweeping. Ichneumon xanthoriuSy I, latrator,
Exophanes exulans (both sexes), Amblyteles pidliatoriusy A. casti-
gatory Platylabus pedatoriuSy P. dimidiatuSy Stilpnus gagateSy Phy-
gadeuon brevis, P. jejunatoVy P. variabilis, P.fumatory Hemiteles
tenebricosuSy Aptesis hemipteray Pezomachus rufuluSy Campoplex
erythrogastery C. pugiltatory Sagaritis latratory Limneria crassi-
cornis, L, unicinata, L, interrupta, L. ovata, Canidia pusilla,
4
THE ENTOMOLOGY OF OXSHOTT. 303
Banchus pictus, Perilissus pictilis, P, variator, P, vernaliSf Ti^y-
phon cojisohrinus, Adelognathus ruthei, Polyblastus varitarsuSf
Cteniscus sexcinctus, Exochus carhonatory E, mansuetoVy Bassus
hizonarius, B, cinctuSy B, exultans, B. IcetatoriuSy Pimpla scanicdy
P. examinatOTy P, graminellay Lissonota sulphuriferay L, cylin-
dratoVy L. variabilis. The subfamily BraconidsB had repre-
sentatives in Bracon robertiy B, terebellay B. discoideuSy Rhogas
circumscriptuSy Chelonus inanituSy C. submuticuSy and three speci-
mens of the rare C, carbonator. Microgaster globatus and M,
annulipes were common. Microdus tU7niduluSy Microplitis spectabliSy
Meteorus chrysopthalmuSy M, pulchricorniSy Aphcereta cephaloteSy
Ccelinius niger (several of both sexes), and Rhizarcha areolaris. In
the family Oxyura there were taken Proctotrypes gravidator and
P, viator, Megaspilus alutaceuSy Galesus fuscipenniSy Paramesius
claviscapuSy and Spilomicrus nigripes. In the family of ChalcididsB
the following were met with : five specimens of the very curious
Eupelmus degeeriy Lamprotatus splendenSy Pteromalus tibialis, and
P, fasciventris. The Cynipidae, or Gall-flies, were represented by
Cynips kollari and Rhodites rosce. Amongst the TenthredinidaB,
or Sawflies, the following were taken : Tenthredo viridis,
Tenthredopsis nigricollis (both gexes), common on the Umbelli-
ferse. Dolerus intermedins, D, fulviventris (the latter being very
plentiful amongst the horse-tails). Strongylog aster cingulatus
(by sweeping Pteris aquilina) , Selandria stramineipes and S, morio
(both by beating birch). Taxonus glabratus and Athalia rosce
were very common. Dineura virididorsata and Cladius pectini-
cornis were also plentiful. Nematus caprece in all its varieties
was very plentiful ; N, myosotidis and N. ribesii were numerous.
Several specimens of the not common Gsphus phthiscus were also
taken.
DiPTEEA. — In this Order I was especially fortunate, capturing
several species that I have no doubt will prove interesting to
dipterists, more particularly as I find that four of the species are
placed at the end of Mr. Verr all's List of British Diptera as
reputed British ; another is placed in his list in italics, as though
he had doubt as to its being a British species ; while two other
species do not appear in his list at all, unless, indeed, he has them
under another synonym. Oxycera pulchella, five of this pretty
little species of Stratiomydae were taken, as also two of 0. termi-
nata ; this latter species, which I had previously bred from a pupa
found in my own garden on the 16th of July last year, is one of
Mr. Verrall's reputed British. Chloromyia formosa, Beris
clavipes and B. chalybeata were common. A single specimen of
Tabanus bromius was taken, while Chrysops ccecutiens and C,
relictus were perfect pests. Chrysophihis auratus literally
swarmed, while Leptogaster cylindricator, Dioctria baumhauerriy
and Therevafulva were plentiful. Two specimens of the curious
Oncodes gibbosus fell to my net, while Hybos femoratus, Rham-
&2
204 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
phomyia sulcata, and Empis livida abounded. Several specimens
of the pretty Argyra leucocephala and Pipunculus ater were taken,
as also two specimens of P. geniculatus ; of the latter species
Mr. Verrall is probably doubtful, as I find it in italics. Pipizella
annulata, one specimen of which was captured. Dr. Meade says
rare ; Mr. Verrall places it with the reputed British. Several
specimens of Chilosia cestracea were taken, while Spharophoria
scripta, S. menthastri, Xantho gramma ornatum, Volucella homhy-
lansy and F. pellucens were plentiful. I only found a single
specimen of each of Sericomyia horealis, Eristalis floreus, Helo-
philus pendulus, and Xylota segnis. Chrysotoxum arcuatum, C.
bicinctum, Sicus ferrugineus, Myopa huccata, and Oliviera lateralis
were all taken. Phorocera concinnata, Thelaira leucozona, and
MydcBa urhana were plentiful. Cordylura albipes seemed scarce.
Two specimens of another of Mr. Verrall's reputed British
Diptera were taken in Clidogastra punctipes, Mg., a single speci-
men of the very beautiful Pteropcecila lamed, and several of
Pteropoectria afflicta and P. frondescentia were captured, as were
also Trypeta onotroplies and Acidia cognata, which seemed com-
mon. The very pretty Trypeta Jiorescentice was plentiful, while
three specimens of another rarity, Oxyphora {Tephritis, L.)
arnicce, Fin., were taken ; this is also reputed British by
Mr. Verrall. Sapromyza platycepliala, Lw., and Chlorops hypo-
stigma, both of which species were taken, terminate the list of
Diptera, the two latter species being those I previously alluded to
as not appearing in Mr. Verrall's list.
In Hemiptera some 17 species were taken, while Coleoptera
numbered 27 species, as also three of Orthoptera ; but as I may
have to give a future note on several so far undetermined species,
both of Ichneumonidse and Diptera, I purposely omit the names
now, as this paper is already longer than I had anticipated it
would be. I must, however, tender my best thanks to my friend
Mr. Edward Saunders for his kindly identification of the obscure
Hymenoptera, and also to Dr. Meade for his invaluable aid in
identifying some of the Diptera.
NOTE ON 8E8IA 8PHEGIF0BMIS, Fabr.
By W. H. Tugwell.
For many years past I have had the pleasure of studying tins
interesting species in one of its most favoured habitats, viz.y
Tilgate Forest, Sussex, and possibly a few notes may be useful
to others.
The species is widely distributed over a fairly large area,
where its food-plant, alder, occurs; it does not affect densely
I
NOTE ON SESIA SPHEGIFORMiS, FABB. 205
wooded plantations, but rather the outskirts, and isolated bushes
or shrubs. The larvae may be found in stems no thicker
-than your little linger, to that as large as a man's leg, and they
feed at least three years ; in fact they are in larval state during
part of four years, viz., ova deposited, say June, 18D1, will not
pupate until May, 1894. The larva does not, I think, feed the
last spring of its larval life, but it finishes its burrow and provides
for the future exit of imago; so that if, in the spring, one
finds fresh frass being ejected from the end of the burrow, it is
useless to take it that year, as it is almost impossible to rear
half-fed larvae, save, perhaps, in cases where one has growing
plants to introduce them in ; generally it will be found much
better to note the tree, and leave them until the following May.
They only remain in pupa about a month, and may be found as
imagines from end of May until first week in July. My first date
of capture of perfect insect, at large, is May 29thy on which date,
in 1883, an early season, I and a friend captured four examples, —
two females, at large, one of them flying, apparently depositing
ova ; and a pair in cop. One cold and backward season I took a
female, just as it emerged from pupa, on July Qth. The general
time, however, is about the first to second week in June. They
are not often found at large, unless you have a virgin female, and
then, given a favourable day, you possibly may get good sport,
but not always.
Thus, this June 19th, I took two virgin females, that I had
bred, to Tilgate Forest, selected a likely spot, and had splendid
sport ; in fact, took twenty-four fine males. This was the best
take I ever had ; the day was all that could be desired, and the
result most satisfactory.
A week later I again took two virgin moths to Tilgate, with
weather, so far as one could judge, equally favourable ; but, for
result, I only saw one male. This was surprising, as it was
hardly possible that the males were exhausted ; it was rather, I
am disposed to think, some special meteorological reason
unappreciable to our blunter senses. (N.B. — The wind was
S.W. and soft.)
It is curious to watch for the approach of the males. They
come up to the caged female, in a booming flight that is
unmistakable, and are most readily captured ; but if once really
frightened, then they are off like a rocket ; the eye cannot follow
their rapid flight ; so different to the would-be lover. It is very
rare, indeed, that you can find a male on flight, except you are
aided by a virgin moth; occasionally you may detect one sitting on
a leaf, but very rarely. Your best chance of success is in breed-
ing, and possibly by attraction, although this fails sometimes. I
have never had but this year perfect success, against which I could
name a lot of failures, so much depends on the weather ; you may
get your females out and not have a favourable day until the
266 ink ENTOMOLOGIST.
freshness of your moths has gone by, and thus lose your chance
for the season.
This 1891 is the best year for the species I ever experienced.
By breeding and captures I obtained forty-seven fine examples.
July, 1891.
ENTOMOLOGY OF GRANADA AND NEIGHBOURHOOD.
By the Rev. F. A. Walker, D.D., F.E.S.
(Concluded from p. 163.)
Geanada.
CoLEOPTERA. — Acis acuminata, Oxytherea stictica, Cetonia hirtella,
C. squalida, C. floricola, C. aurata, C. opaca, Hoplia aulica, Anisoplia
horticola, Clythra vidua, Trichodes octopunctatus, Coccinella septem-
punctata, Silpha rugosa, Heliotaurus rujicollis, Atenchus laticollis, Doli-
chosoma nohilis, Phytcecia vire^cens, Helops (sp. incert.), Tentyria (sp.
incert.), Gymnopleurus jiagellatus, Gonioctena cegrota, Chrysomela palustris.
Lepidoptera-Rhopalocera. — Papilio machaon, P. podalirius, Pieris
brassiccB, P. rapes, P. daplidice, Gonepteryx rhamni, Colias edusa, C. hyale,
Zegris menestho, Euchlo'e helemia var. glauce, E. eupheno, Vanessa atalanta,
V. cardui, V. urticcB, Satyrus meone, S. megcera, S. mara, Epinephele ianira,
E, pasiphcB, E. ida, Arge psyche, A. thetis, Melitma phcehe, M. cinxia,
Chrysophanvs phlceas, Polyommatus alexis, P. adonis, P. agestis, P, hylas,
Erynnis althecB, Pyrgus sao, P.proto.
Lepidoptera-Heterocera. — Macroglossa stellatarum, Ino statices,
Saturnia pyri, Cerura vinula, Arctia villica, Plusia gamma, Agrotis
segetum, Aspilates citraria, Synaphe rnoldavica, Rhodostrophia vihicaria.
Diptera. — Tahanus ater, T. autumnalis, Sarcophaga (sp. nov. ?), not
in B. M., nor described in Sohiner's work ; proposed to call this sp. grana-
densis), Tachinus ?fera?, Gonia (sp. incert.), Sarcophaga, Tahanus (sp. incert.),
Asilus, Eristalis tenax, E. arbustorum, Dasypogon (sp. incert.), Laphria
(sp. incert.), Dexia (sp. incert.), Bombylius (Acroceridse).
Hemiptera. — LygcBus militaris, Pyrrhocoris cegyptius, Hydrometes
(sp. ignot.), Rhaphigaster griseus, Cydnus aterrimus, Pentatoma baccarum.
Hymenoptera. — Xylocopa violacea, Dielis aurea, Vespa germ.anica,
Polistes gallicus. Apis mellijica, Andrena ?iigro-cBnea, A. albicans, Andrena
funebris (only one in B. M.), Andrena (sp. incert.), Panurgus (sp. incert.),
Osmia cornuta, Anthophora nidulans, Eucera hispana, E. nigrilabris, E.
trivittata, Camponotus herculeanu^, Pompilus fuscus, Animophila lutaria,
Neuroptera. — Libellula depressa, ^^sc/iwa (possibly mauriciana), Lestes
sponsa, Sialis lutarius, Chrysopa (sp. incert.), Ascalaphus ictericus.
Langaron.
Coleoptera. — Cetonia hirtella, Oxytherea stictica, Trichodes octo
punctatus, Blaps gigas, Carabus bceticus, Asida soUeri, Helops (sp. incert.),
Geotrupes hypocrita.
Lepidoptera-Rhopalocera. — Papilio machaon, Pieris brassicee, P.
rapcB, P. daplidice, Colias edusa, Euchlo'e eupheno, Vanessa atalanta, V,
CHEMISTRt OF INSECT COLOURS. 207
Urticce, Satyrus megcera, S. moera, Epinephile ianira^ Chrysophanus phlceaSy
Polyommatus alexis, Melitcea phcebus, M. cinxia, Pyryus sao.
Lepidoptera-Heterocera. — Abrostola triplasia.
DiPTEBk.— Anthrax (sp. incert.), Tipula (sp. iucert.).
Hemiptera. — LygtEUs militqris, Pyrrhocoris cegyptius.
HoMOPTERA. — Triecphora sanguinolenta.
Hymenoptera. — Polistes gallicus, Xylocopa violacea, Melecta punctata,
Osmia cenea, Polynerus (sp. incert.), Allantus (sp. incert.), A. dispar.
Neuroptera. — Libellula depressa, Limnephilus griseus?.
Gibraltar.
CoLEOPTERA. — Nacerdes melanura, Heliotaurus rujicollis, Cetonia
squalida, C. hirtella.
Lepidoptera-Heterocera. — Zygmna sp. — ?
Hymenoptera. — Anthidium (sp. incert.), Polistes gallicus, Odynerus
quadratus, Apis mellijica.
Diptera. — Idia sp. — ?, Syrphus halteatus.
Hemiptera. — Lygceus militaris.
Malaga.
Lepidoptera-Rhopalocera. — Satyrus meone, Colias edusa.
Diptera. — Eristalis tenax.
CONTRIBUTIONS to the CHEMISTRY of INSECT COLOURS.
By F. H. Perry Coste, F.C.S., F.L.S.
(Concluded from p. 192.)
After this exceedingly brief reference to a few cases of
variation that illustrate my argument, I will venture to indulge in
a little prediction. We are often told that the power of pre-
diction is the test of a theory's correctness, and I am bold enough
to predict with considerable confidence that the following varieties
will somewhere or at some time be found naturally occurring.
Indeed, it is highly probable that many of them have long since
been found and chronicled, but if so I am ignorant of the fact.
It will be understood that these unknown varieties are predicted
on the strength of the evidence now amassed as to the nature and
constitution of the pigmental colours, and are in no sense, of
course, intended to be exhaustive of the subject. I merely take
typical species, and predict variations which one may expect to
occur similarly in other species with similar colouring. I shall
take as a guide the tabulation given last year,* and will notice
first retrogressive varieties, taking the colours seriatim : —
Yellow and Orange.
E. cardamines (male). — Pale or colourless varieties.
G. rhamni. — Pale varieties ; colourless less likely.
• Entom. xxiii. 248—252.
208 DHE fil^TOMoLOGlST*
G. cleopatra. — Varieties with no orange flush ; possibly also white
a. e., colourless) varieties.
Abraxas grossulariata. — Varieties with no yellow marks.
Chestnut.
V. io and antiopa. — Varieties with black upper surface.
V. urticcB. — "Sun-bleached" varieties; /. e., the chocolate replaced by a
colourless colour, as seen on the lower surface normally.
Argynnis, E. tithonus, C. pamphila, Hesperidae, &c. — More or less
whitish (" sun-bleached "j varieties should be found of all these, but especially
of (7. pamphila.
Red and Pink.*
V. atalanta. — Red replaced by cardui-hvown.
P. apollo. — ^Yellow-spotted varieties.
Sphinges. — Pink replaced by yellow or almost white.
Catocala nupta, &c. — Yellow varieties.
And similarly yellow varieties of all species marked with " the
normal red."
Green,
H. prasinana, Moma orion, D. aprilina, L, viridaria, G. vernaria^ H.
strigata, M. margaritaria, Tortrix viridana. — Yellowish or white varieties
of these and all such green species (as well as of the green Papilios, such as
codrus, &c.). Probably, however, in many of these green species such
white varieties are frequent, owing to the fading.
Furthermore, among physical colours, I should expect the bronze-
brown variety of such green species as Argynnis, InOy and Thecla
rubi.
In the next place, as to progressive varieties, we might get
pale yellow or chestnut varieties of any white species ; but there
can be no sufficient reason for predicting such variation of any
given species, unless either a nearly allied species is already so
coloured, or unless the species in question is itself already
slightly marked in this way: for instance, A, grossulariata,
which normally possesses a row of yellow spots, has occurred as
an entirely yellow variety. In exactly the same way we should
never be surprised at a red variety of any yellow species, but we
have no grounds for definitely predicting it in any given species
unless allied species already possess red markings. Thus I
should consider red varieties of Arctia villica, and of the normally
orange Catocalce, as pretty certain to turn up some day ; and
furthermore, on the strength of the cyanide experiments, I should
anticipate red or red-marked varieties of the species of Colias,
Gonepteryx, Terias, &c.
* My contention that the retrogressive coloric varieties are due to general
unhealthiness of the conditions received another confirmation by Mr. Mitchell's
note in the July number of the ' Entomologist ' (p. 171), where he chronicles the
emergence of an abnormally small and pale specimen of B. quercus from a badly
wounded pupa.
i
i
Chemistry of insect colours. 209
In accordance with what has been previously stated,* it
appears not improbable also that green varieties of pale yellow
species, and very occasionally red varieties of some chestnut
species, may be found. It is scarcely necessary to point out that
while there are definite data for predicting retrogressive varieties
for any given coloured species (the genealogy of whose colour is
known), there are no such reasons for predicting progressive
variation, i. e», an advance to a higher colour, which the history
of other species shows to be possible, but cannot show to be
inevitable. Enough has, however, now been said to show along
what lines we should look for coloric varieties.
There now remains one further point only for discussion, viz.y
the genetic relations of white, yellow, and red. I had originally
supposed that it would be necessary to argue this at some length,
in order to convert those who may have adopted Mr. Cockerell's
views ; but I think that by this time the amount of evidence
that has been detailed, bearing more or less directly on this
discussion, renders any lengthened argument at this stage super-
fluous.
Mr. Cockerell proposed — if I understand him — as a hypo-
thetical explanation, that the primeval! colour was yellow, that
from this was evolved white, and from (?) this again red. I think,
however, that the evidence brought forward in these articles may
be considered absolutely to demonstrate the incorrectness of this
view, and to show that the order has been white, yellow, red.
Both the experimental evidence and the entomological evidence
{i.e,, of variation, &c.), are dead against Mr. Cockerell's view.
Red and yellow are proved to be pigment colours, white is not :
are we to suppose that originally there was a yellow (i. e., pig-
mental) wing ; that then, by an evolutionary advance, a white
(i, e., unpigmented) wing was produced ; and then, finally, a red
{i. e., pigmented) ? Again, on such a view it is incomprehensible
that yellow varieties of red both occur naturally, and appear as
the result of chemical reagents acting on red species ; while
white varieties are almost, if not quite, unknown in nature, and
very rare in experiment, and then only as subsequent to yellow.
Moreover, the one or two instances in which I have obtained
white wings from red form the last link in the chain of evidence,
and are absolutely convincing against such a view ; for, as has
been already stated,! if we take Delias hierte or eucharisy we have
side by side red, yellow, and white : acids instantly turn the red
to yellow, and then this yellow and the original yellow alike
dissolve, leaving a pure white wing.§ Nothing could more plainly
demonstrate that the genetic order of the colours is white,
* Cf. Entora. xxiv. pp. 118, 119, and 138, 139.
t I do not mean of all species, of course.
X Entom. xxiv. 13.
§ Cf., too, Q. Cleopatra.
2l0 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
yellow, red. In fact, to suppose that white occurs between yellow
and red is to lend ourselves to utter absurdities.
Furthermore, I have shown how closely allied are yellow and
chestnut: if, therefore, we suppose yellow anterior to white,
equally so must we place chestnut: and then we should be flying
in the face of all entomological evidence. We should have to
consider all the " sun-bleached " or milk-white varieties of the
chestnut species as progressive varieties to the higher stage of
white ! I do not think that any one who has ever compared a
natural or artificial "bleached" variety with the richly coloured
normal insect will give this contention a second thought.
Furthermore, we should be logically bound to consider the pale
(i. e., white) female of G, rhamni as a progressive advance on the
deep yellow of the male, and the white variety helice of Colias
edusa as an advance on the conspicuous orange of the type ; but
this is simply to meet the certain fate of being crushed by the
whole weight of biological evidence that shows the general
advance from pale to bright and conspicuous colours;* indeed,
it scarcely seems worth while to follow this question further. I
may refer, however, to a passage in Wallace's ' Tropical Nature '
(pp. 204, 205), in which he describes how in Pieris pyrrha,
molenka and lorena, the males are plain white and black, whilst
the females are orange, yellow, and black, and so banded and
spotted as to exactly mimic certain Heliconidse ; the gist of the
whole passage being that (in this case) the females have acquired
these yellow colours, whilst the males preserve their old markings :
what is this but advance from white to yellow ? Moreover, Mr.
Cockerell's own remarks on Euchloe cardamines are a condemna-
tion of himself; for, in a paper read before the South London
Entomological Society, he proposes! the view that this genus has
arisen in comparatively recent times as an " offshoot from an old
Pieris stock," i, c, therefore that the orange and yellow colours
of this genus are derivative, and the white primeval ; not vice
versa. But it is possible that Mr. Cockerell may repudiate some
of the arguments]: that I have been combating here : it is possible
that he might conceive yellow to be the original colour from
which, on the one hand, red has been evolved by an alteration of
the pigment, and, on the other hand, white by a destruction
* Except, of course, in cases where concealment is necessary.
+ Entom. xxii. 143.
X Since writing the foregoing I have turned up a note made some time since,
with a reference to the ' Entomologist ' (xxi. 113). There I see that Mr. Cockerell
apparently does propose to so derive red from yellow, as well as white from yellow ;
but I do not gather so much that he proposes the scheme referred to in the text
(i. e.y the same yellow giving rise to both white and red), but rather looks upon red
as derived from one yellow, white from another. Of course, when his remarks were
written there was practically no experimental evidence at hand on this subject.
The only single support I have met with for Mr. Cockerell's views on the derivation
of white from yellow, is a remark by Kirby (' European Butterflies and Moths,' p. 8),
that Bryonia appears to have been the early form of Pieris, and was yellow.
ABUNt>ANCE OF LEPIDOPtERA IN NEW ZEALAND. 21 1
thereof. This would avoid the absurdity of interpolating white
between yellow and red, but it is open to the following objections:
that there is no evidence in its favour, that it is in opposition to
the arguments just advanced in favour of the evolution of yellow
and chestnut from white, and that it is not easily reconciled with
the existence of such species as Delias, But, indeed, I am vain
enough to think that Mr. Cockerell, who, after all, only advanced
his hypothesis doubtfully — provisionally (as he himself remarked
in a note to me) — has long since been convinced by my arguments
and experiments.
And here, then, I must take leave of my readers, whose
patience, I trust, has not been overtaxed by a series of articles
running through seventeen months. I doubt not that many
corrections and modifications will need to be made at all points
in the theories to which I have been led by my experiments ; but
it will be a sufficient satisfaction to me if I shall have succeeded
in laying fairly secure foundations where previously building —
otherwise than by airy hypothesis — was chiefl}'^ conspicuous by its
absence. I hope to continue my work as opportunity permits,
and especially to investigate the colour of larvae, for which
work, however, I have at present no material. But if others
who have the opportunity will investigate the colours of other
orders, such as Coleoptera and the like, I shall be interested to
know what bearing, confirmatory or otherwise, their work may
have on my theories.
Errata. — Page 166, line 17, for "there is reason," read •' there is no
reason "; p. 167, line 15 from bottom, for ** nireus " read " niveus''; p. 168,
bottom line, for "efficacy of the first to cause," read "efficacy of this factor
in causing"; p. 189, line 8 from top, for "and of what," read "and
examples of what," &c. ; p. 190, line 16 from top, for " e. g. Delias,'' read
"e.g. in Delias.''
ABUNDANCE OF LEPIDOPTERA IN NEW ZEALAND.
By W. W. Smith.
Mb. E. Adkin's additional observations " On the occasional
abundance of certain species of Lepidoptera " (Entom. xxiv. 60),
together with the same gentleman's appreciative and suggestive
comments on a kindred paper of my own (Entom. xxiii. 305),
has induced me to contribute some further notes on the subject.
When I referred to Mr. Adkin's original and interesting paper
(Entom. xxiii. 177) dealing with the "sporadic abundance" of
certain species in the British Islands, I was fully aware that
he sought to explain, or suggest, the probable causes oiily of the
sporadic occurrence of such species, and not to deal with the
subject on general principles as applicable to all species in
^IJi THE ENtoMOLOGtst.
seasons when most Lepidoptera were unusually numerous. The
gist of my own paper more especially dealt with the subject on
broad principles, and I explained one cause which unquestionably
produced the great abundance of many species of Lepidoptera
last season in New Zealand. In his original paper Mr. Adkin
enumerates over a dozen species which appear sporadically in
the British Islands, and after discussing the evidence of such,
concludes, " however incomplete it may be, tends to the conclusion
that immigration is a chief factor in the causes of gre^t abundance
occasionally observed, and in some instances the direct and only
cause." Eeferring to my remark that immigration could have
no bearing on the question in New Zealand, Mr. Adkin says, " I
cannot admit that this greater distance would form an insur-
mountable obstacle to immigration ; if it were so, it seems highly
improbable that that essentially New World species, Anosia
plexippus, would have reached Great Britain ; and except for this
greater sea space, the relative position of the British Islands and
New Zealand to their respective Continental bases are singularly
aUke," and adds, "That migrations of Lepidoptera from the
Continental portion of the European area to the British Islands
do occur has already been shown, and is it not reasonable to
suppose that a similar condition of things exists in regard to
New Zealand ? " Let us briefly consider these remarks. The
dispersion of Anosia plexippus in late years over the greater part
of the known world presents an interesting problem, which, when
perfectly solved, should explain many of the apparent anomalies
in the geographical distribution of Lepidoptera. I am not well
versed in the literature of the subject, at least so far as it deals
with the modes of dispersion of this species. But its occurrence
at the Antipodes is even more remarkable than in the British
Islands. It was first captured in New Zealand by Mr. F. W.
Sturm, up the Wairoa Eiver, Hawkes Bay, North Island, in
December, 1840, and subsequently on the Eangitikei Eiver, on the
western side of the Island. It was also obtained in Westland,
South Island, by Sir James Hector, nearly thirty years ago; and
I observed it on the Eangitata Eiver, on the eastern side of the
Island, thirteen years ago. But I have not heard of a single
capture for many years past. I will here refer to other species
formerly inhabiting New Zealand, but now extinct, as I desire to
adduce evidence to show that these species were probably ancient
inhabitants of the Islands, and not in all cases mere modern
accidental introductions by man. A male of Catopsilia catilla
was taken many years ago in the grounds of St. John's College,
Auckland, and is now preserved in the local museum. Several
specimens of the beautiful Diadema nerina were captured forty
years ago, and sent at that time to the British Museum by the
late Dr. Sinclair, of Auckland, and others taken and observed by
the late Eev. Eichard Taylor, of Wanganni, and Dr. Barker, of
ABUNDANCE OF LEPIDOPTERA IN NEW ZEALAND. 213
Christchurch, New Zealand. Other species occurring in Australia
and New Zealand are Pyrameis stea, P. cardui var. kershaivi,
Lijcana phoehe (one specimen only taken), and Junonia vellida.
Among the Heterocera having a wide distribution occur Heliothis
armigera, Agrotis ypsilon. Sphinx convolvuli, Deiopia pulchella, &c.
The above list is given to show the geopraphical range and
relations of the species, and it appears to me that the question
of their distribution must be explained by some more reliable
theory than, their occasional immigration from Australia, or
accidental introduction by other means. For this purpose let us
consider the geological aspect of the case.
The Lepidopterous fauna of New Zealand is, with few excep-
tions, composed of very ancient species, and Mr. Meyrick, who
has traced the affinities of the Micro-lepidoptera with a skilful
hand, has shown that a few of the same genera, or other closely
allied genera and • species, are also found in different parts of
Australia, Tasmania, Fiji, Europe, Ceylon, Borneo, Hawaiian
Islands, and South America. In his Presidential Address to the
Philosophical Society of Canterbury, New Zealand, in 1884,
Prof. F. W. Hutton pointed out that " New Zealand had not
been connected with Australia since the cretaceous period." The
same able geologist, in dealing with the origin of our fauna and
flora, also pointed out that in early mesozoic times New Zealand,
Eastern Australia, and India formed one biological region, land
probably extending continuously from New Zealand to New South
Wales and Tasmania. Keferring to the scarcity of animals
occurring in both Australia and New Zealand, Prof. Hutton
remarks, " On the whole we may well be astonished that, not-
withstanding the strong westerly cyclones and the special facilities
afforded by petrels, no animals except a few birds and insects,
and but few flowering plants, have been able to cross this very
ancient barrier." Mr. A. K. Wallace, in discussing the origin of
the New Zealand fauna, admits that there is " a wonderful
amount of speciality," and adds that " the affinities, where they
can be traced, are with Australia and Polynesia." But the labours
of Mr. Meyrick with the Micro-lepidoptera, and Mr. A. G. Butler
in other groups, have clearly shown that with few exceptions the
Lepidopterous fauna of New Zealand has originated within its
present limits or region, and are unquestionably relects of a very
ancient fauna. In the case of the species mentioned as occurring
in both countries, they appear to me to afford examples of
species retaining their typical colours for an almost indefinite
period of time. The same applies to several species of Coleop-
tera, and birds of feeble flight indigenous to both countries ; but
we need not here impress the bearing of this question further on
the subject.
In regard to the occurrence of the Eastern golden plover in
New Zealand, and the latter forming its eastern limit, it seems
314 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
to me to afford no support to Mr. Adkin's theory of occasional
migratory swarms of insects probably following the annual
migration of birds. Although the great geographical range of
this bird was recently referred to by Colonel Legge, its annual
migration was known to the late Mr. Gould nearly half a century
ago, and a very complete history of the species is given in
Sharpe and Dresser's * Birds of Europe.' Sir Walter Buller, the
greatest authority on the birds of New Zealand, remarks, " It
occurs occasionally on the New Zealand coast, but apparently
only as a straggler, and almost always in winter plumage." If
such a theory were tenable, it would be more supported by the
annual migration to New Zealand of two species of cuckoos, the
one from Australia, the other from Polynesia. And other species
occur as stragglers, generally at long intervals, but all are
endowed with great powers of flight, and no doubt the migratory
impulse in birds has been inherited for innumerable ages. The
annual migration of birds to the British Islands, and the
occasional migration of swarms (or the greater abundance) of
certain species of Lepidoptera from the Continent, seem to me
to be due in many cases to totally different causes ; with birds
it is an heriditary impulse acting in obedience to the law of
reproduction ; with Lepidoptera it may, as Mr. Adkin observes,
sometimes affect the status of a species, at least such with wing-
less females; yet in New Zealand I observe that the occasional
abundance of Lepidoptera is due to the law of interdependance of
plants and insects operating with greater force in some seasons
than others. The imagos of some species of Lepidoptera are
dependant on the blossoms of certain plants for their support,
the failure of which in some districts (or a scarcity in some
seasons of the food-plants of the larvae) would instinctively
impel them to migrate to other districts where such existed, thus
causing their numbers to be concentrated within a limited area.
The same cause affects frugivorous birds, and in the agricultural
districts we have experienced four great irruptions of the native
parrakeets within the last twenty years from this cause alone.*
In the forest region of Westland some seasons are noted for
producing great swarms of insects. In such seasons the insecti-
vorous birds invariably appear in greater numbers in the districts
most affected, and roam through the forest in large flights, con-
* The irruptions of Pallas's sand grouse into the British Islands in 1863, and
two years ago, is another case in point. If " the occasional migrations of Lepidop-
tera follow the routes taken by the birds in their annual movements," it would be
of considerable interest to know what caused the dearth of insect food, in the pre-
ceding year, which compelled the birds to migrate westward. There is a note in
last year's volume of the ' Entomologist ' (now lent to a friend, and I cannot cite
it), calling attention to the occurrence in the British Islands of Deilipliila galii in
unusual numbers in both years in which the birds appeared. Although even in
these exceptional cases such occurred, it was in all probability due in both instances
to the absence of food in their natural haunts, caused by some seasonal
derangement.
4
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 215
suming them. The species of birds that congregate in these
districts in certain seasons are generally met with singly, or in
pairs ; and we have here analogous cases of birds and insects
illustrating the law of interdependance of plants and insects, and
of birds and insects, together with an elucidation of the causes of the
partial or perfect migration of certain species of both forms. In
the case of the several species named by Mr. Adkin, with wing-
less females and their swarms occurring at intervals of several
years, it is probable that such are regulated by the same cause :
but of British Lepidoptera I do not profess to know anything ;
there are probably other causes regulating the migratory instinct
of which we know little or nothing ; yet, this line of research, when
carefully pursued, affords a method of working out the causes
which regulate the numbers and distribution of certain species.
If we consider the great distance between Australia and New
Zealand (given in the * Challenger ' expedition at 1200 miles), I
doubt if any species occurring in New Zealand could sustain such
a flight across the intervening ocean. If Anosia plexippus is not
an old indigenous inhabitant of New Zealand, it could only have
reached the Islands from the east, and in such case the difficulties
would be much greater, and certainly I know of no artificial
means favouring its dispersion before the year 1840, as very few
European settlers had settled in the Islands before that date.
If migration from Australia could have any bearing on the
occasional abundance of Lepidoptera in New Zealand, we would
naturally expect the occurrence also of other strictly Australian
species, many of which are powerful fliers, but such has never
been observed here ; and although I do not fully agree with Mr.
Adkin's concluding remarks, I believe I have made it clear that
the general abundance of Lepidoptera and other Orders of insects
observed last season in New Zealand was not in any way affected
by migration, but the etfect only of strictly local causes operating
under very favourable conditions.
Ashburton, New Zealand, June 20, 1891.
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Entomological Pins. — The black-enamelled pin introduced a few
years ago, and now so generally adopted, is undoubtedly an advance on the
silvered pin previously in use, but our entomological pins are still open to
considerable improvement ; they should be firmer, and furnished with sharper
points. We do not now find so much verdigris in collections of Lepidoptera
where black pins are wholly used, and in the few cases where verdigris exhibits
itself, the cause is probably due to the fact that the pins with which the
affected insects are impaled had a portion of the enamel abraded when they
were inserted in the specimens. Users of black pins, the smaller sizes
especially, often find that two, or sometimes more, are stuck together.
ai6 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
^
These should be thrown away at once, as to use them for cabinet specimens
of Lepidoptera would almost certainly result in the subsequent distortion
of the insects. In pulling apart these " geminated " pins, the enamel would
be stripped from one or the other, perhaps both, at the point or points of
cohesion, and, as the pins are made of brass, corrosion would be sure to
ensue when the abraded portions came in contact with moisture of any kind.
Whilst makers continue to fishion our pins of brass they will never
succeed in giving entomologists a thoroughly satisfactory pin, i.e., one
which is practically incorrodible, will not collapse under moderate pressure,
and bearing withal a point capable not only of piercing the thorax of an
insect, but of penetrating any substance not harder than deal. Mr. Leech
has had a pin made for him in continental sizes (supplied by Watkins and
Doncaster) which possesses all these desirable qualities, and there appears
to be no valid reason why the same makers should not turn out as good a
pin in English sizes. — Kichard South.
Gyn ANDROMORPHOUS Argynnis paphta. — While collecting in the New
Forest I captured a very curious variety of Argynnis paphia, the wings on
the right hand being decided female, while those on the left are decided
male, giving the insect a very peculiar appearance. — C. H. Williams ;
7, Carburton Street, Great Portland Street, W., August 19, 1891.
Gynandromorphous Colias eleotra. — Recently I received a small
collection of Rhopalocera from the Transvaal, and amongst them there
is a singular aberration of C. electra. The right side is male, and
the left is female ; and while the male wings are normal in colour, the
female side differs altogether from the type, in being the pale, almost
white, variety that corresponds to our var. helice of C. edusa. — Robe
Service ; Maxwelltown, Dumfries, August 18, 1891.
11
Variety of Vanessa c-album. — On the 25th of July last I captured,
on the banks of the Wye, near here, a curious variety of V. c-album. The
specimen is smaller than is usual. Colouring very dark. The right fore
wing has the two large spots on the costal margin coalesced, also the two on
the inner margin ; all much suffused. The left fore wing has the spots
distinct, but large and suffused. The hind wings are suffused with deep
black at the base, and without distinct spots. I may add that the species is
fairly plentiful here this year. — (Rev.) Gerard W. Palmer; The Vicarage,
Monmouth. [Our correspondent has very kindly sent us a coloured sketch
of this interesting aberration. It appears to be a modification of the form
figured, Entom. xxii. pi. viii. fig. 5. — Ed.]
Xanthic Variety of Epinephele ianira. — I captured in the New
Forest, '21st July last, a beautiful partially bleached (xanthic) form of
E. ianira, having the right primary of a glistening creamy white blending
into pale smoky brown at the base ; the ocellus is normal, excepting the
black pupil, which is not so deep in colour. It is a male, in the very finest
condition ; apparently it had not flown before I secured it, as its flight was
slow and weak. " Bleached " is hardly a correct term for this particular
form of variation, as it is caused by the want of colouring pigment in the
scales, which, I should say, is not bleaching. The term xanthic or xanthine,
therefore, would be more appropriate for this constant phase of variation in
the SatyridaB.— F. W. Frohawk; Balham, S.W., August, 1891.
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 217
Note on the Emergence of Notodonta trepida. — Last autumn
Mr. Christy, of Watergate, was good enough to send rae twenty pupae of
N. trepida, and imagines from these have emerged this year in, as it
appears to me, a most erratic manner. The first specimen, a female,
appeared on May 13th, and was followed by a male on the 20th of the
same month. After an interval of twenty-four days, another male came up
on the 13th of June. Two males emerged on the 21st of June, and two
males and one female on the 23rd closed the list for that month. On July
11th two males appeared, and a female on the 19th. The first female was
kept alive for twelve days, but was removed from the breeding-cage on the
ninth day, as it was noticed she had commenced laying eggs. When
placed in a chip-box, covered with muslin, she deposited a number of ova,
but these, together with those previously laid in the breeding-cage, were
infertile. The female and two males, which emerged on June 23rd, were
allowed to remain in the cage for sixty hours, when the female was placed
in a chip-box, wherein she deposited ninety-three eggs ; but these, also,
proved to be infertile. — Richard South.
Notes on Asthena luteata. — This is a species I have met with
sparingly among maple in many places during the last twenty years.
Beating hedges and netting at dusk have been the chief methods of
procuring it. This season I discovered that it flies high in the air, some
eight feet from the ground, at about half-past eight p.m. Availing myself
of this discovery, I succeeded in catching with a long-handled net, on June
24th, no less than twenty-one specimens of luteata between half-past eight
and nine p.m. One of the females I sleeved out on a maple-bush in my
garden, and, on bringing it indoors for examination early in August, I
found it contained several larviB of luteata. They are apple-green, showing
white between the segments, and are covered with numerous fine hairs.
This larva was quite unknown to rae before, and I think the majority of
entomologists are unacquainted with it. The great advantage of breeding
from the egg is that it enables one pretty accurately to hit the time for
finding the larva in a state of nature. August is rather a dull time for
collecting; so, having nothing better to do, 1 sallied forth with my
umbrella on the afternoon of the 15th, and, as a result of about an hour's
beating, I obtained some twenty luteata larvae. They were of all sizes, a
few full-fed, but mostly quite small, and very difficult to see in the
umbrella. They hang by a silk thread, and are very lively little fellows.
I found it paid better to beat separate bushes, rather than the maple
forming part of thick compact hedges. The larva pupates in a cocoon
formed of silk, and covered on the outside with particles of sand. It
remains in the chrysalis state during the winter. — (Rev.) Gilbert H.
Raynor ; Victoria House, Brentwood, August 15,1 891.
Asthena blomeri in Buckinghamshire. — On the 8th of August last
I took two specimens of this pretty species in a beech wood about six miles
from Rickmansworth. They were resting on the trunks of beech trees, and
are in good condition. — Richard South.
Early Pupation of Smerinthus populi. — When pupa-digging on
the 4th of August I took a larva of S. populi, which became a pupa on the
9th, this being two months earlier than I have ever taken it before. —
D. H. S. Stewart; Red Court, Bedford, August 11, 1891.
ENTOM. — SEPT. 1891. T
^18 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Cgllecting in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk. — When I went down
to Wicken, on June 3rd, the Feu was still looking brown, and the dead
reeds and sedge still overtopped the young growth, and gave the place quite
a winterly aspect. Some early moths were still already about, and I took
a good many the first night. The weather, for the greater part of the next
fortnight, was cold, cold enough for fires and winter clothes. At light, in
the Fen, I had but two decent nights, the first and the last, June 3rd and
17th. On June 3rd the night was darkish and fairly warm, but the wind
was in the east. The following moths were taken : — Satumia carpiniy 1,
a female, quite fresh ; Spilosoma fuliginosa, commonly ; S. menthastri, 2
or 3 ; Meliana flammea, several (this species must be taken when it first
comes out, as it gets shabby very quickly) ; TcBniocampa gracilis, a female,
which I saved for eggs (it layed on dwarf willow in a muslin sleeve ; the
larvae are now feeding, and seem to me very small, some of them being
scarcely f of an inch in length, August 4th); also Coremia ferrugata,
C. unidentata, Cidaria associata, Eupithecia vulgata, and Nascia cilialis, 2,
June 17th ; S. fuliginosa, 2 or 3 ; 8. menthastri and Earias chlorana, 1 ;
M. Jiammea, several (mostly worn specimens) ; Arsilonche venosa, 2 ;
Gramrnesia trilineaf Eupithecia centaureata, Cahera pusaria, N. cilialis,
several. Sugar was moderately successful on more than one occasion, and
produced : — Noctua ruhi, common and worn ; Gonoptera lihatrix, a few ;
Apamea basilinea, several ; Hadena adusta, several ; H. genista, 2 or 3 ;
H. oleracea, 2 or 3 ; H. suasa, 1 ; Dianthcecia cucubali, 1 ; TcBniocampa
gracilis, 2 ; T. gothica, 2 ; Acronycta psi, 2 or 3 ; A. megacephala, 1 ;
Apamea unanimis, common. Of larvae and pupae I got the following: —
Lasiocampa quercifolia, a few found on buckthorn bushes (this larva was
to be found up till June 16th, and perhaps later for all I know) ; Scotosia
vetulata, on buckthorn ; Plusia festuca, 2 or 3 ; Leucania pudorina,
L. impura, and Triphcena interjecta, 2 or 3 by sweeping. Heavy dew or
rain made sweeping very unpleasant and unproductive, and many of the
larvae were killed in the bag by the weight of the wet calico and the mass
of snails that were collected at every sweep. Of Plusia orichalcea larvae I
took a few on hemp agrimony, en June 5th. Callimorpha dominula
larva, 1 : this now scarce moth is said to have been very common here
many years ago. Lithosia complana larvae, feeding on the lichens on the
bark of willow trees ; the imagines, which have been lately coming out,
nearly all have the under wings pale lead-coloured, not yellow, but the
same colour as the fore wings, only much paler. Geometra papilionaria
larva, 1, on alder. Pupae of Trochilium apiformis, 3, and S. populi, 1, by
digging at the roots of poplars. Papilio machaon was flying when there
was enough sun, which was seldom. Hepialus lupulinus was common,
and I took some very pale-coloured males, almost cream-coloured [see
Entom. 197]. Hydrelia unca and Bankia argentula were also on the wing.
From June 18th to 22nd I was at Tuddenhara, and the weather was very
hot and sunny all the time. Lithostege griseata was on the wing, but most
of the specimens were worn. Acidalia rubricata was very scarce, and I did
a great deal of walking and beating of rough grass for it and Agrophila
sulphuralis. The last-named species was just beginning to come out, and
all that I took, some dozen specimens, were in good condition. A. rubricata
is an extraordinarily sharp flyer for so small a Geometer ; it seems to dart
off, when disturbed, as quickly as a skipper, and a blazing sun and high
wind I found were all against catching them. Sugar was very good.
Moths came well on four nights out of five. I took the following : —
frOTES, CAPTURES, ETC* 219
G. trilinea, common ; Miana strigilis, common ; M. fctsciuncula, several ;
Rusina tenebrosa, several ; Agrotis segetum, several ; A. exclamationis, 2 ;
Noctua plecta, 2 or 3 ; L. comma, 2 ; Dipterygia pinastri, several ;
Mamestra anceps, several ; M. brassiccB, 1 ; M. albicolon, 3 or 4 ; Apamea
basilinea, 3 or 4 ; Caradrina morpheus, common ; TriphcBna pronuba, 3
or 4 ; T. subsegua, several ; Axylia putris, 2 ; Xylophasia rurea, 3 ;
X. polyodoHj 1 or 2 ; Apamea gemina, several ; Nocttia c-nigrum^ 3 or 4 ;
ISeuria saponaria, 1 ; Hadena genista, 1 ; one Chcerocampa porcellus, at
rest on a nettle, about 10.45 p.m.; and one S. tilia. — W. M. Christy;
Watergate, Hants.
Collecting in South Wales.— I came down into South Wales on
the third week in June, and for some days found the weather most
favourable for Lepidoptera. Of the Diurni, in June, Argynnis selene,
Lyccena icarus, and Hesperia sylvanus were plentiful ; so late as June 23rd
Euchlo'e cardamines was on the wing ; and at the same date Argynnis
aglaia was just emerging. On favourable evenings, damp and windy ones
I generally find the best, the commoner species of Lepidoptera came
plentifully to sugar, such as Agrotis exclamationis, Noctua f estiva, Miana
strigilis var. latruncula, Apamea gemina. A, unanimis, Xylophasia monoglypha
[polyodon), X. lithoxylea, X. rurea, and others. On the 27th, Phlogophora
meticulosa appeared with Leucania impura, L.pallens, and Axylia putris ; and
Noctua rubi was still out. Thyatira batis was still on the wing on July 0th,
T. derasa on the 11th (would not this be too early for the second brood ?).
The whole month of July was a complete change to that of June as
regards sugaring, on several evenings scarcely a single specimen appearing.
In Pembrokeshire, on July 17th, near the sea-coast I saw Thecla rubi,
Vanessa urtica, one specimen of V. atalanta, Argynnis paphia, and Bombyx
quercus dashing about in its usual headlong flight. At the present time
both Pieris rapes and P. napi are very abundant, in some places quite
in swarms. I think the scarcity of Lepidoptera at sugar during July
may have been due to the quantity of natural food at that time, as
the blossom of grasses, rush, &c. ; but certainly many evenings were not
favourable. I might add that the Geometrse, generally, have been comoaoa.
— T. B. Jefferys ; Carmarthenshire.
Collecting in North Wales. — I spent the month of July at
Penmaenmawr (on the north coast of Wales), and though, as a whole, the dis-
trict does not seem to be very productive in Lepidoptera, the quaUty amply
makes up for this deficiency. My wanderings led me one day up among
the crags on the mountain tops, and here 1 found Agrotis lucernea, flying
over a patch of shale in great numbers. They were bad to get, owing to
their rapid flight and the loose foothold ; but I managed to get upwards of
twenty beautiful specimens in a few days. When I had had enough of
lucernea, I took to searching the cliffs for any unwary moth that might be
there, and to my great delight discovered, first Agrotis ashworthii, and then
Acidalia contiguaria. Of the former I took eight in fine condition, and two
more not so good; and of the latter I took eight also, all iu very fair order.
I was the more pleased at getting these two things as I did not know at the
time that they were to be got in the neighbourhood. There were sundry
other things sitting about on the rocks, viz., Bryophila perla, Gnophos
obscurata, Larentia ccesiata, Anaitis plagiata, &c. ; but after ashworthii and
contiguaria these did not come in for much attention. I also took several
230 TitE fiNTOMOtiOGIST.
batches of Noctuae ova, the larvae from which are now feeding well on
willow. From what descriptions I can obtain of the young larvse, I should
say they are ashworthii, but cannot make sure yet. — L. S. Brady ;
Mowbray Villas, Sunderland, August, 1891.
Notes from the New Forest. — On July 90th I went down to
Lyndhurst, accompanied by a college friend, Mr. E. B. Charles. The
night of our arrival was too wet for outdoor work, but we made a beginning
by taking a fine specimen of Geometra vernaria, which flew into the
billiard-room of the ♦' Crown Hotel." The next day was fine, but dull, and
a stiff breeze was blowing. We got to work early in the neighbourhood of
Hurst Hill. Epinephele hyperanthes and E. ianira were the first insects to
put in an appearance, the latter showing occasional bleached forms.
Pararge (sgeria and Epinephele tithonus, though less common, were also
seen, as well as a few worn Argynnis selene. As usual, A. paphia was
present in myriads. On the heaths we met with very fine Euholia palum-
baria, Pseudoterpna cytisaria, and Lyccena cegon. Argynnis adippe was
also in evidence, but was by no means common ; and a few Hesperia
sylvanus turned up. We got a pretty form of Boarmia repandata ; and,
towards noon, a noble specimen of B. roboraria fell to my companion. One
Limenitis sibylla was seen, but managed to make good its escape. After
luncheon we turned back to Lyndhurst, and, armed with a fresh supply of
pins and boxes, made our way across the heath to the railway station. In
an enclosure, close to the line, we found Melanargia galatea literally
swarming ; and also took Pyrausta purpuralis, Phytometra (snea, Argynnis
adippe, Ellopia fasciaria, and a solitary Zygcena trifolii. In the evening
we tried sugaring in Hollands Wood. This expedition had no result,
entomologically speaking ; but the dull futility of our visits to the trees
was presently relieved by an incident which, while it furnished a little
extraneous excitement, very nearly ended our career as collectors, and
brought our operations for that night to an untimely end. Our lamp blew
up, and, after a gorgeous pyrotechnic display, left us helpless in the dark.
There was nothing for it but to abandon the sugar and return to our hotel,
which we accordingly did. The weather on July 22nd was again dull and
windy, with the addition of a few heavy showers at mid- day. We took,
however, lAmenitis sibylla, and one each of Gonopteryx rhamni, Gnophos
obscurata, Calligenia miniata, and Selidosema plumaria. Some very fine
Satyrus semele and Hesperia thaumas were also captured. Our evening's
sugaring, undertaken for the benefit of Catocala promissa, was a dead
failure ; and the same may be said of a gigantic lighthouse which we
erected in Hurst Hill Enclosure. However, at dusk we netted Pseudoterpna
cytisaria and Hemithea thymiaria. On the 23rd we took a new direction,
and started early for Brocken hurst through the woods. As we worked our
way along we took Limenitis sibylla by the score, but only the females were
in good condition. The sun was hidden nearly all day behind a thick bank
of clouds, but, notwithstanding, Argynnis paphia was to be seen in hundreds
resting motionless on the bracken and brambles. An occasional valezina
appeared, and we took three, of which two were very fine. Eubolia mensu-
raria, Pyrausta purpuralis, Hesperia thaumas, and H. sylvanus were very
abundant. On reaching Brockenhurst we took train for Lyndhurst Road,
and half an hour later were again enjoying good sport among Melanargia
galatea, Phytometra cenea, and Limenitis sibylla. We also saw Thecla
quercus and Lomaspilis marginata. The sugar and lighthouse in the
KOtES, CAPTtBES, EtC. 32 1
evening fully maintained their reputation for futility, but we netted
Calligenia miniata and Lithosia mesomella. On the next day (our last in
the Forest) we had excellent sport on the same ground, taking many
valezina, of which, however, several were torn and worthless ; five grand
specimens (four taken by Mr. Charles) represented our morning's work
with this insect. In the afternoon we worked Lyndhurst Common for
Selidosema plumaria and Gnophos ohscurata. The latter failed to turn up ;
hxkt plumariat though not common, was in splendid condition. The same
remark applies to Satyrus semele and Pseudoterpna cytisaria. We also took
Bupalus piniaria (which, somewhat to my astonishment, was also in fine
condition) and one more Calligenia miniata. We left next morning. Had
the weather been a little more favourable, we should, no doubt, have added
largely to our bag, as insects, though late, were plentiful and in good
variety. — E. G. Alderson ; Worksop, Notts.
Late Appearance of Agrotis ashworthii. — My own general experi-
ence, in common with that of correspondents, shows the lateness of the
season. Taking Agrotis ashworthii, for example, I find my first bred
specimen in 1889 emerged on June 27th, in 1890 on June 23rd, and this
year (1891) on July 12th — all bred on the same spot. An attempt this
season to obtain eggs met with a fair amount of success. I fed the moths
on fresh blossoms of the lime tree. — J. Arkle ; July 18, 1891.
Lithosia quadra at King's Cross. — On July 20th I had the pleasure
of taking a fine female of L. quadra, at rest, in the York Road, King's Cross,
N.W.— S. Robinson ; Winchmore Hill, N., August 24, 1891. [Probably
this and the specimen recorded ante, p. 196, were escapes. — Ed.]
NOLA CENTONALIS, &C., IN THE HASTINGS DISTRICT. On July 15th I tOOk
a fine specimen of N. centonalis^, flying at dusk on the cliffs near the
town; and at the same locality I have taken Sesia ichneumonifoi-mis'i' (1),
Acidalia osseata (common), Steniapunctalis, Platytes cerussellus, Homososoma
sinuella, Conchylis francillana/^' Platyptilia gonodactyla (all somewhat
common), Ceratophora rufescens, &c. Those I have marked with an asterisk
are new to our district. — A. Ford ; Claremont House, Upper Tower Road,
St. Leonards-on-Sea.
Plusia bractea in Worcestershire. — Collecting near Bewdley, with
ray friends Messrs. E. and H. Tye, of Birmingham, on the 26th July last,
I took a fine freshly-emerged specimen of Plusia bractea. It was flying
among the herbage on a railway-bank, and, on settling, was easily
captured. — George W. Wynn ; i9ji, Lozell's Road, Handsworth, Bir-
mingham, July 28, 1891.
A Day at Tuddenham in Suffolk. — I went over to Tuddenham from
Bury St. Edmunds, on the 13th of August last, to look for larvae of
Dianthcecia irregularis, but was disappointed to find that all the Silene
capsules had been cleared off". There were several Epinephele tithonus
flying about ; and beating the hedgerows disturbed sundry specimens of
Acidalia hisetata, Coremia ferrugata, C. unidentaria, and C. quadrifasdaria,
A few of each were good enough to box. Altogether the excursion was not
an entomological success. — Richard South.
Ch(erocampa nerii in Britain. — The following record should be
added to the list given, ante p. 195. ' Entomologist,' xvii. 273, one imago,
Blandford, Dorset, 1884.— R. S.
22^ THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Capturks at Electric Light. — Acting on the advice given by the
Editor in Entom. 172, re the working of electric light, I paid a visit to the
lighthouse now open at Chelsea, on the 15th of July, where I managed to
capture specimens of the following; they were mostly rather battered: —
Leucania conigera, L. Uthargyriay L. impura, L, pollens, Hadena
oleracea, H, dentina, H. chenopodiit Agrotis corticea A. nigricans, Xylo-
phasia polyodon, X. rurea, Cucullia umbratica, Phlogophora meticulosa,
Tryphcena subsequa, T. orbona, T. pronuba, Cossus ligniperda, Zeuzera
cBsculi, and Chelonia caia. Had the night been warmer and less windy the
list might have been much larger, as on many nights moths have been very
abundant, so the director of the light told me. — D. H. S. Stewart ; Roya
College of Science, Kensington, W., July 27, 1891.
A New Setting-board. — Messrs. Day and Newstead have recently
introduced a new style of setting-board, which should prove most useful to
those who experience difi&culty in setting insects to their satisfaction on the
ordinary board. By an ingenious arrangement of hinged flaps or slips of
glass, the operator can, by means of this improved " set," manipulate his
insects expeditiously and with precision. — Richard South.
P
h
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — August 5th, 1891. — Mr.
Frederick Du Cane Godman, M.A., F.R.S., President, in the chair.
Mr. Arthur J. Chitty, of 33, Queen's Gate Gardens, S.W., and Captain E.
G. Watson, of 6, Lypiatt Terrace, Cheltenham, were elected Fellows of the
Society. The President announced the death of Mr. Ferdinand Grut, the
Hon. Librarian of the Society, and commented on the valuable services
which the deceased gentleman had rendered the Society for many years
past. Dr. D. Sharp exhibited Japyx solifugus, from the Eastern Pyrenees,
and stated that in his opinion it was a connecting link between the Thysanura
and Dermaptera. He also exhibited pupae of Dytiscus marginalis ; one of
these was perfectly developed, with the exception that it retained the larval
head: this was owing to the larva having received a sight injury to the
head. Dr. Sharp also exhibited specimens of Ophonus puncticollis and
allied species, and said that Thomson's characters of the three Swedish
species, 0. puncticollis, 0. brevicollis, and 0. rectangulus, applied well to
our British examples, and separated them in a satisfactory manner.
Thomson's nomenclature, however, would, he thought, prove untenable, as
the distinguished Swede described our common puncticollis as a new
species, under the name of rectangulus. Mr. F. W. Frohawk exhibited a
bleached specimen of Epinephele ianira, having the right fore wing of a
creamy white, blending into pale smoky brown at the base; also a long and
varied series of Epinephele hyperanthus, from the New Forest and Dorking.
The specimens from the former locality were considerably darker and more
strongly marked than those from the chalk. Amongst the specimens was
a variety of the female, with large lanceolate markings on the under side,
taken in the New Forest in July, 1890, and a female from Dorking, with
large, clearly defined white-pupilled spots on the upper side. Mr. Frohawk
further exhibited drawings of varieties of the pupae of E. hyperanthus, and
4
SOCIETIES. 223
also a large specimen of a variety of the female of Euchlo'e cardamines, bred
from ova obtained in South Cork, with the hind wings of an ochreous
yellow. Coloured drawings, illustrating the life-history of the specimen in
all its stages, were exhibited. Mons. Serge Alpheraky communicated a
paper entitled " On some cases of Dimorphism and Polymorphism among
Palaearctic Lepidoptera." — H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
July 23r(i, 1891. — The President in the chair. Mr. Turner exhibited
specimens of Bupalus piniaria, L., from Westerham, among which were
pale examples of the female. Mr. Hawes, living pupae of Pararge megaray
L., on Voa annua, and stated that out of a brood of five dozen larvae at
least one-fourth of the pupae were black instead of green, and there was
also an intermediate form which was of a dull bice ; he could find no record
of black pupae of this species. Mr. C. G. Barrett said it would be interesting
to note if the variation was sexual. Mr. Dennis, a very strongly banded
form of Spilosoma lubricipeda, Esp., and other specimens approaching it, all
from his garden at Hackney. Mr. Nussey, bred examples of Cucullia
absinthii, L. Mr. Waller, bred series of Aplecta tincta, Brahm., Triphcena
fimhria, L., Eupithecia venosata, Fb., and Dianthcecia carpophaga, Bork.,
from the Home Counties. With regard to the last-named species, Mr.
Barrett made some remarks, and pointed out that one specimen had five
wings. Mr. Tugwell, a very fine series of Zygcena exulans var. subochracea,
White, captured at Braemar in 1891 ; also Swiss examples, to show the
great difference between the two forms. Mr. Billups, several species of
British Diptera, including Sapromyza platycephala, Lew., from Dulwich
and Oxshott, Surrey, Chlorops hypostigma, Meig. (Dulwich), Oxycera
terminata, Meig. (Dulwich), Pipezella annulata, Mg., one specimen,
Clidogastra punctipes, Mg., Oxyphora arnica, L. (all from Oxshott) ; the
first two species, Mr. Billups stated, were not included in Mr. Verralls list,
and the last four were only included in that list as reputed British.
August }Sth. — The President in the chair. Mr. J. Jenuer Weir
exhibited the cases containing living larvae of Psyche villosella, Och.
(the produce of the eggs of July in the present year), the cases from
which the imagines had emerged, bred from eggs of 1889, and the perfect
insects, male and female, and contributed notes thereon. Mr. Weir also
exhibited a pair of Pyrameis degeerii, Godt., and remarked that it would be
seen the male was scarcely, if at all, distinguishable from Pyrameis cardui;
the female, on the other hand, resembling a faded P. atalanta. Mr. Weir
made some interesting observations relative to his exhibit. Mr. C. Fenn
exhibited a female specimen of Odonestis potatoria, L., with male coloration,
from Deal. Mr. J. H. Carpenter, a finely marked variety of Epinephele
hyperanthes, L., the spots on the under side being unusually large and
elongated ; a bred series of Melit<Ea athalia, Rett., from Essex ; and
Cucullia asteris, SchifF., from Folkestone. Mr. West, Apamea ophiogramma,
Esp., from his garden at Streatham. Mr. Watson also showed A. ophio-
gramma, and a small bred series of Ocneria dispar, L. Mr. C. A. Briggs,
Heliothis peltigera, SchifF., dark forms from Devon, pale forms from
Tuddenham, Suffolk, and Folkestone, Kent, and asked whether both forms
had been taken together. Mr. Herbert William, an hermaphrodite specimen
of Pieris rupee, L., taken at Box Hill. Mr. Frohawk, a fine series of
unusually large females of Euchlo'e cardamines, L., from Kent. Mr. Tugwell,
Nephopteryx abietella, Zinck., bred from Scotch fir-shoots; also dark varieties
3^4 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
of Pyralis farinalis, L., and a streaked variety of Botys urticalis, Schiff.
Mr. Hawes, living larvae of Syrichthus malva, L., and Nisoniades tages, L.
— H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — July ^Oth, 1891. — Mr. R. C.
Bradley in the chair. Mr. G. H. Verrall, F.E.S., was present, and
delivered a lecture on " Diptera." He said he had come down with the
hope of inducing members to take up the study of the group, which
possessed many recommendations not possessed by the other orders of
insects. It is almost unworked, so much so that all workers are bound to
be able to do some original work. UnUke Lepidoptera and other well-
worked orders, which hardly ever receive an addition to the British list, the
Diptera can be added to extensively, and he had added some hundreds of
species already. Another recommendation to the group is that it is not
necessary to go far for fresh material to work at; in his own garden, at
Newmarket, he had taken 500 species. He briefly described the classifica-
tion and characters of the orders, and then took the various families in
review, describing all their salient points, and giving many interesting
particulars about them. Mr. C. J. Wainwright proposed a vote of thanks,
which was seconded by Mr. C. H. Kenrick, supported by Dr. Mason, and
replied to by Mr. Verrall. — Colbran J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
OBITUARY.
With deep regret we recorded, in our last number, the death of
Mr. Ferdinand Grut, F.L.S., the Honorary Librarian of the Entomolo-
gical Society of London. Mr. Grut was elected a Fellow of the Linnean
Society on 1st February, 1872, but his connection with the Entomological
Society was much earlier, he having been elected in 1846 ; and, after having
served on the Council, was chosen as one of the Secretaries on 23rd January,
1871, and worthily filled that office until 16th January, 1878, when he
undertook the duties of Honorary Librarian. To say that he efficiently
performed the duties of that office up to the time of his lamented decease,
would but feebly convey the value of his services to the Society. Mr. Grut
was almost every Wednesday in the library, and was engaged for years in
preparing a complete catalogue of the books. This he had finished ; and it
was with hope that he looked forward to the period when it would be printed
for the use of the Fellows. The Society could not indeed pay a more graceful
tribute to his memory than at once to take steps to have the Grut catalogue
published. Mr. Grut was one of those excellent men who did good, one
might say, by stealth, and would have gladly avoided the warm recognition
of his valuable services, which at each annual meeting was so enthusiastically
given by the Fellows of the Society. Mr. Grut was for many years engaged
in the study of the Geodephaga, of which he possessed a very valuable
collection. By the death of Mr. Grut, on 19th July, at the age of 71, the
Entomological Society of London sustains an almost irreparable loss. It is
improbable that a successor, in the office of Honorary Librarian, could be
found who would devote so large a portion of time as one day each week to
the duties of that position. All who knew Mr. Grut will regret to lose a
kind-hearted and courteous man, of singularly equable and amiable
disposition. — J. J. W.
I
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] OCTOBER, 1891. [No. 841.
ON PYRAMEIS DEJEANIl.^
By J. Jenner Weir, F.L.S., F.Z.S., &c.
The male of this insect is scarcely, if at all, distinguishable
from Pyrameis cardui ; the female, on the other hand, resembles
a faded P. atalanta, the red band on the fore wings of the latter
species being replaced in P. dejeanii by a creamy white one, and
the submarginal red of the lower wings in P. atalanta becomes
subdued in P. dejeanii to a dull brown, and the spots of black
are far more developed in size, but not quite so dark.
That there should be so marked a difference between the
sexes in this insect is the more remarkable, because in the rest of
the species of the genus Pyrameis the difference between the
coloration of the sexes is very slight. In P, itea, P, hippomeney
P. callirhoe, P. cardui , P. kershawii, P. virginiensis^ it is in-
appreciable, and in P. atalanta it consists in the female having a
white spot in the red band of the upper wings, which is absent
in the male, at least this is generally the case.
P. dejeanii is found, I believe, in the island of Java only ; and
when, some years ago, I obtained a large number of butter-
flies from thence, I was struck by the dull appearance of them ; a
certain duskiness or, as I should term it, phseism seemed to be
characteristic of many species which had far more brilliantly
coloured allies both in Sumatra and the Asiatic continent ; for
instance, the dusky-coloured Salatura intensa of Java, as compared
with the brightly-coloured S. sumatrana of Sumatra, S. inter-
media of the Malay Peninsula, the typical S. genutia of con-
tinental India, and the white ground colour of S. edmondii of the
Philippines.
So also the Salatura melanippus of Java, its very name
suggesting its phseism, as compared with the brightly-coloured
♦Abstract of a paper read before the South London Entomological and
Natural History Society, Aug. 13th, 1891.
ENTOM. OCT. 1891. U
THE ENTOMOLOGIST,
^
S. hegisippus of Sumatra and Burma, and the Bornean S, lotis
with the ground colour of the wings white.
Java lies under the equator, and one would have expected to
find its butterflies brilliantly coloured ; but there must be some
cause which produces the phaeism adverted to. The only sugges-
tion which has occurred to my mind, and it is purely hypo-
thetical, is whether there is any connexion between this
duskiness of the insects and the murkiness of the atmosphere,
the result of the irruption of its numerous active volcanoes.
1
NOTES ON THE LIFE-HISTORY OP PSYCHE
VILLOSELLA,*
By J. Jenner Weir, F.L.S., &c.
The males of P, villosella emerge from the cases about the
latter end of June or during July, leaving the empty pupa skin
projecting from the case about one-third of an inch ; the female
in most instances does not leave the case, but clears the emergent
end by pressing herself out about a quarter of an inch ; the male
appears to be able to fertilize the female by forcing his body into
the case, and thus reaching the female. The abdomen is
singularly extensile, increasing to more than double its length
at emergence.
The female, after fertilization, withdraws herself within the
case, and deposits her eggs at the bottom of the old pupa skin,
where they remain until the young are hatched. I could not
ascertain how many days the eggs remained before the young
appeared, but should think about ten or twelve, probably varying
somewhat according to the heat of the weather. The old pupa
skin remains in the case after the appearance of the young, but I
could not find any trace of the skin of the female imago, and I
am inclined to think that it is eaten by the young larvse. From
some of mine the young swarmed out of the case at the emergent
end, which, I may here remark, is the reverse of the feeding end.
Others I cut open, and released the young ; they were at once
very active, and moved quickly about, their bodies held at an
angle of 45". I could not see that they used any prolegs;
locomotion was effected entirely by their true legs. They at
once began to make themselves cases, and in three or four hours
were all furnished with clothing; for this purpose I supplied
them with fine strips of heath and small pieces of moss. Although
generally found on heath, they seem in their earlier stages to
prefer more succulent food, such as bramble, strawberry, white-
thorn, and sloe.
* Abstract of a paper read before the S. L. E. and N. H. S., Aug. 13th, 1891
I
NOTES ON BUTTERFLIES PROM THE APENNINES. 227
During the whole of last winter I had some fifty larvae,
collected in 1890, the produce of the eggs of 1889, feeding on my
lawn, under a large framework covered with net in the usual
manner. They were quite unaffected by the severity of the
winter, and almost all survived till the spring ; but it is a
singular fact, that although they had been protected from
enemies for more than a year, yet many of them produced
ichneumons, which must have lived in their hosts since July,
1890, at least.
The females, if removed from the cases, are the most helpless
imagines I ever saw, far more so than Psyche nitidella ; they have
neither eyes, mouth, antennae, legs, or wings, and merely wriggle
very slightly, and continually make an annular constriction
of their bodies, which slowly passes down from the head to the
extremity of the abdomen.
Although in this country there are several species of Hetero-
cera in which the female is apterous, yet in all these instances
the legs are developed, and some traces of the wings, except in
Psyche, are found. In no case is an apterous male known ; but I
saw, nearly fifty years ago, a moth taken by Mr. Darwin in
Kerguelen's Island, which was apterous in both sexes.
NOTES ON BUTTERFLIES FROM THE APENNINES.
By Fbank B. Nobris.
The situation of Boscolungo, or Abetone, as it is sometimes
called, among pine and beech forests, at the summit of the pass,
between Lucca and Modena, is most beautiful. Mountains rise
innumerable in all directions. Cimone, the highest of all,
7200 ft., affords a magnificent view, the Adriatic and Mediterra-
nean being both visible in clear weather, and occasionally the
Alps, 250 miles away. For botanists, such varieties as Epipogon
aphyllus, Sw. (the scarcest of European Orchidacese), Globularia
incanescens, Viv., Geranium argenteum, Leontodon anomalus, Ball,
Bromus serotina, &c., are easily found. The hotels are excellent
and well managed, and there is an entire absence of the rush and
noise, so irksome to many, that is unfortunately too common in
Switzerland. The climate, I may add, is magnificent, cool and
bracing during the hot months, and one can sleep with open
windows at the present time. The following species of Rhopalo-
cera were captured between July 4th and September 4th of this
year : —
Parnassius apollo, L. ; common on higher slopes until time of writing.
P. mnemosyne, L. ; taken by an acquaintance, July 24th.
Aporia cratcegi, L. ; common. Pieris brassiccej L., P. rapcB, L., P.
daplidicef L. ; all common.
u2
238 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Euchloe belia, F. ; occurs sparingly on summits. Leucophasia sinapis,
L., and varieties; common. Colias edusa, F., common up to date. C,
hyale, L. ; less common.
Gonepteryx rJiamni, L.; fairly common, July.
Thecla ilicis, E. ; locally common.
Polyommatus virgaurea, L. ; swarmed during July and August (females
varied much in depth of black markings). P. alciphro7i, Rott., var.
gordius, E. ; abundant. P. dorilis, Rott. ; very uncommon, July. P.
phlmas, L. ; rather common.
hyccBna telicanus, Hb. ; one specimen at an altitude of 6000 ft., end
of August. L. (Bgon, Schiff. ; exceedingly abundant. L. astrarche,
Berg. ; common. L. icarus, Rott., L. escheri, Hb. ; both abundant. L.
amandus, Hb. ; fairly common, July. L.hellargus,'Roti.; rather rare. L.
corydon, Poda. ; very common. L. meleager, E. ; very local, and the
females especially difficult to find ; altitude 3500 ft. ; began appearing
latter half of July and through August. L. argiolus, L. ; rather scarce,
July. L. sebrus, Bdv. ; very scarce and local. L. semiargus, Rott. ; more
common. L. minimus, Fuessly ; local, but numerous. L. arion, L. ;
scarce in July. L. alcon, F. ; abundant, but very local.
Vanessa c-album, L., V. polychloros, L., F. urticm, L., F. antiopa^ L.,
F. atalanta, L., F. cardui, L.; all common. F. to, L. ; very seldom seen.
Melitcea athalia, Rott. ; abundant.
Argynnis paphia, L., A. adippe, L., and var. cleodoxa, 0., ^. aglaia^
L. ; all common. One specimen of aglaia taken in July has a great deal
of black marking of a most unusual character; on upper surface, and
below on hind wings, there is a great suppression of silver markings,
those in the centre being confined to three small round spots, those near
body larger than usual, and the row of marginal silver lunules almost in-
visible. The lower wings show a beautiful green effusion of two or three
shades on under surface. A. niohe, L. ; on highest mountains. A.
latonia, L. ; common. A. euphrosyne, L. ; nearly over in July. A.
daphne, Schiff. ; common in valleys running down from Boscolungo, July
and August.
Melanargia galathea, L. ; common, but smaller than at Bagni di
Lucca.
Erebia epiphron, Kn. ; common locally; var. cassiope, F., less
common. E. medusa, Hb. ; common ; var. psodea, Hb., local. E.
lappona, E. ; rather scarce. E. tyndarus, E. ; common on heights. E.
goante, E. ; common, July and end of August. E. (Bthiops, E. ; on
summits, August ; E. ligea, L. ; common in woods. E. euryale, E. ; abun-
dant on mountains ; the markings on under side varied much.
Satyrus alcyone, Schiff. ; July, August, September, abundant in
valleys-. S. circe, F. ; rather scarce, August.
Pararge mcBra, L. ; common locally, July and end of August. P.
megcBra, L. ; scarce, July. P. egeria, L. ; uncommon.
Epinephele ianira, L., and var. hispulla ; common.
Ccenonympha pamphilus, L. ; abundant. C. arcania, L. ; very common.
Spilothyrus alcecB, E. ; scarce, August.
Syrichthus malvcB, L. ; here and there.
Nisoniades tages, L. ; common.
Hesperia thaumas, E., H. lineola, 0., H. actaon, E., H. sylvanus, E.,
iJ. comma, L,. and var. catena, Stgr. ; abundant,
tHE COLOURS OF INSECTS* ^29
At Bagni di Lucca, three or four hours' drive below this, I
found in June, besides many of the above, also : —
Spilothyrus lavaterce, E. ; common on stony slopes.
Syrichthus orbifer, Hb.
MelitcBa didyma, 0. ; in Serchio valley. S. phcehe, Kn. ; scarce.
Limenitis Camilla, F. ; common.
Apatura ilia, aberr. clytie, Hb. ; over poplars in Serchio valley.
Vanessa egea, Cr. ; abundant in sheltered places.
Hotel de Florence, Viareggio, Sept. 6th, 1891.
THE COLOUES OF INSECTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell, F.Z.S.
Mr. Coste's notes on the colour-variation of Lepidoptera
(Entom. 186 — 192) are very interesting, and would be still more
so if they were supplemented by anything like a complete account
of the recorded varieties or aberrations belonging to the classes
he mentions. I am too busy with other matters now to attempt
to prepare any such account, but cannot refrain from making a
few scattered observations.
(1). There can be little doubt that changed conditions lead to
variability ; thus, there is great variability among animals bred
in confinement ; and again, species imported into new countries
{e.g., European species into New Zealand and North America)
show much variation. I have lately been collecting notes under
this head, and may some day publish details. It is hardly
necessary to remark that Darwin has given an admirable and
detailed discussion of this subject in his * Variation of Animals
and Plants under Domestication.'
(2). As to blue varieties (p. 190), see Entom. xxii. 127. The
Acrididse show, I think, a blue pigment, which varies to red and
perhaps also to green. With Catocala the case is hardly so clear.
Sesia {Mgeria) has the bands on the body sometimes yellow,
sometimes red, and I have found a new species,* in Colorado, in
which they are white and blue. Mr. Jenner Weir showed me
Danaine butterflies of the genus Tirumala in which the white
marking is becoming blue, but this is a physical colour, remaining,
as he told me, after the insect had been treated by the " Water-
house process."
* jEgeria, new species. — Smallish ; wings orange ; belts on abdomen white and
blue, the first white, the second blue, the third white, the fourth blue, and the fifth
and sixth white and blue: near the Beckwith Eanch, Custer Co., Colorado, Sept.,
at flowers of Bi(jelovia. The type is in the collection of the late Mr. Henry Edwards,
who informed me that it was new, and ho was intending to describe it. 1 do not
publish the MS. specific name I had given it in my notes, as I have no full des-
cription, and the insect is no longer at hand.
230 ^ THE ENTOMOLOGIST*
^1
(3). Colourless varieties of chestnut species are not always^
I think, " unhealthy or pathological." Mr. Jenner Weir showed
me two remarkable species of butterflies which seem to be
noticeable in this connection. Salatura conspicua, Butler, from
Celebes, has the under-wings brown, with the cell white, in
striking contrast ; but an allied Philippine Island species has all
white on the secondaries in place of brown.
(4) . There are, of course, some white varieties of yellow species
on record, but, as a rule, this kind of variation is rare. However,
the white females of Colias are familiar to every entomologist.
In Triphcena comes there is an aberration (sometimes only on
one side) in which the hind wings are pale instead of the usual
yellow. This, no doubt, is a case of atavism. Among flowers,
white varieties of yellow species are very rare, though they
occasionally occur, e.^., in Eschscholtzia calif ornica and Aquilegia
chrysantha.
(5). As to yellow varieties of green species, there are excellent
examples among birds. The wild canary, which I have myself
seen at Funchal, Madeira, is green, — the domesticated bird being,
as everyone knows, bright yellow. Palceornis torquatus, an Indian
parrot, is typically green, but there is a var. lutescens, which is
yellow. Both the type and the variety may be seen at the
British Museum.
(6). For a red variety of a yellow species (p. 192), see Arctia
villica Ya,Y,fulminans, mentioned in Entom. xxii. p. 2.
(7). In the case of the variety of Arge galathea, mentioned by
Mr. Coste on p. 192, was it not the black that gave way to red ?
That black varies to reddish in some butterflies seems almost
certain. In Mr. Jenner Weir's collection I saw Caduga titya,
Gray, in which the marks on the primaries are black, while those
on the secondaries are rusty-brown. Now this species has two
mimics, coloured in exactly the same way, namely, Hestina nama^
Dbl., and Papilio agestor, Gray. Thus there must have been
variability towards black or red, and I suppose it likely that
originally black markings varied to the rusty-brown we now see.
From what we know of the power of certain reagents to change
the colours of insects, it is evident that *' varieties " without a
satisfactory history must often be looked upon with suspicion.
Danais plexippus Q,b.fumosus (Hulst) * has the wings sooty-brown
instead of bright fulvous. I have seen the type of this form in
Mr. Hulst's collection at Brooklyn, and from what he told me
there can be no doubt that it is a genuine variety. Yet the very
same thing can be produced by artificial means ! In the museum
of the Institute of Jamaica, I found a specimen just like Mr.
* Danais archippus wox.fimosus, Hulst, Entom. Amer., ii. 182. See also Entom.
Amer., i. 140 and 159, where evidence is given as to the existence of this form alive,
and also as to the production of a similar colour artificially by cyanide.
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF BERGEN. 231
Hulst's type, and had already labelled it " vox, fumosus, Hulst,"
when, suspecting something wrong, I questioned Mr. Bowrey,
who obtained it, and he told me at once that it had been changed
in the ammonia bottle, and was, when caught, quite an ordinary
specimen ! It had been put into the cabinet by mistake.
At the British Museum I saw a coloured drawing of a butterfly
caught by Capt. C. H. Whitaker at Newcastle, Jamaica, early
in 1889. It agrees with Callidryas sennce in all respects, except
that it is brilliant scarlet. Here, I must confess, I am inclined
to blame the cyanide bottle. We have in the museum here, a
specimen of (7. sennce marked asymmetrically with scarlet on the
secondaries, in such a manner as not to leave the remotest doubt
that the marking was produced artificially— though no doubt
accidentally.
Institute of Jamaica, Kingston, Jamaica, August 22, 1891.
NOTES ON THE NATUKAL HISTORY MUSEUM of BERGEN.
By the Rev. F. A. Walker, D.D., F,E.S.
The collection of insects belonging to the Natural History
Museum at Bergen is arranged in two cabinets of fifteen drawers
each. In the first of the said two cabinets may be seen, in
addition to other specimens, the general collection of Cole-
optera, which was very well arranged and named, by a German
entomologist, some years since. The two top drawers of the
second cabinet are devoted to the Diurnal Lepidoptera of
Norway, and have been well and carefully named, as I was
assured, and as far as my own knowledge enables me to testify.
But the specimens are in several instances old, faded, and
indifferent as regards both condition and setting, and not set
uniformly moreover. This state of things was fully admitted by
the curator present, who stated that their attention had been
chiefly directed to higher forms of Nature, such as mammals and
birds, and to other lower forms, to the exclusion of insects.
Dr. Brunchorst (such was his name) owned to very little know-
ledge of insects himself, and said that the entomological curator
was absent just then, taking his holiday in the country. At my
request he kindly took out a drawer of Neuroptera, which I
wished to consult in reference to an Mschna I had recently cap-
tured, and which on my return home I discovered to be juncea.
But such few dragonflies as were represented, and which all
belonged to the genus ^schna or Lihellula, were only named gene-
rically, and not specifically at all. Whether British species or
exclusively Norwegian, jEschna was the only name given. The
232 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
two drawers of butterflies above mentioned contained, in addition
to the Norwegian kinds, a few North American and tropical speci-
mens, chiefly of the genera Melitcea and Terias. Lower down in
the same cabinet was a representative collection of other tropical
kinds, chiefly Papilionidse and Morphinse, but in no way remarkable
in respect of extent, condition, or variety. The contents of the
first drawer of Norway butterflies were as follows: —
Papilio machaon, Doritis (Parnassius) apollo, Aporia cratcegi, Pieris
hrassicfe, P. napi and var. hryonim, P. rapcB, Anthocharis cardamines,
Leucophasia sinapis, Colias palano, C. hyale, C. edusa, G. hecla, C. nastes,
Gonepteryx rhamnif Zephyrus {Thecla) quercus, T hecla rubi, Aphantopus
{Epinephele) hyperanthus, Polyommatus virgaurem, P. hippotho'e, P.phlceas,
LyccBna argus, L. astrarche, L. optiletes, L. pheretes, L. argyra, L. icarius
L. aleocis, L. argiolus, L. aquila, L. minima.
Many of the above species are only represented by a single
specimen, as Pieris rapes, Colias hyale, C. hecla, and G. nastes ;
many, again, by only two, as Papilio machaon and Aphantopus
hyperanthus. One specimen of C. palceno, ticketed Papilio
palceno, would seem to be of ancient date, and another label,
Colias palceno, has been added underneath. The specimens are
not all in regular order in respect of species. After a few inter-
vening insects of other kind or kinds, occurs a white specimen of
C palcenOf presumably a female ; and a little further on two more
males. Of no one species, so far as I recollect, were there as
many as ten specimens. Of the common Pieridse Pieris hrassiccs,
and of the large Fritillaries Argynnis aglaia, were the most
numerously represented ; and I should judge them to be the two
commonest species of their respective tribes, as A. aglaia,
occurring sparingly at first, became more numerous as July
advanced, whereas _pa2)/iM and adippe were not seen at all; and I
ordinarily saw two or three specimens of P. brassicce every
morning, but only three or four of P. rapce during the whole of
my tour. Var. hryonice of P. napi, in the museum, was scarcely
as dark as I had previously been led to consider that insect.
The contents of the second drawer of Norway butterflies were
as follows : —
Vanessa urticm, V. c-album, V. antiopa, V. atalanta, V. cardui, MelitcBa
delta, M. artemis, M. cinxia, M. dictynna, M. athalia, M. parthenie.
Argynnis pales, var. arsilache and var. lapponica, A. polaris, A, frigga,
A. thore var. borealis, A. euphrosyne, A. selene, A. i)io, A. lathonia, A.
aglaia, A. niohe, A. adippe, A. paphia, Erebia lappona, E. ligea, E. disa,
E. em,bla, Pararge egeria, P. megma, E. mczra, Epinephele ianira, Gceno-
nympha hero, C. pamphilus, Satyrus seniele, S. briseis, (Eneis jutta, (E.
bore, Gil. noma (one specimen each of last three species), Syrlchthus vwlvm,
S. andromedce, S, centaurece, Nisoniades (Thanaos) tages, Hesperia lineola,
H. sylvanus, H. comma, Gcenonyinpha typhon (one specimen).
233
REMARKS ON the VARIATION of ZYQMNA FILIPENDULJE,
By Richakd South.
There are several forms of Zygcena filipendidce known to
entomologists, and it will be convenient to refer to these in
the present paper in order corresponding with the amount of
divergence from the type.
Var. a. (ocJisenheimeri, Zell.) — Characterised by the more decidedly blue
tint of the wings ; the sixth spot is intersected by a nervule, and the upper
one of central pair is usually smaller than its fellow ; the hind wing has a
fairly broad border.
This variety was first noticed in Britain by Mr. C. J. Boden,
who records it as occurring in the metropolitan district during
the month of May. I have taken examples at Folkestone, at the
end of July, which have the sixth spot intersected, but the colour
does not quite agree with typical ochsenheimeri,
Var. 6. — The two outer spots confluent.
Not an uncommon form at Folkestone and Ventnor, and
probably elsewhere.
Var. c. — The middle pair of spots confluent.
Less common at Folkestone and Ventnor than var. b.
Var. d. {cytisi, Hiibn.) — Each pair of spots confluent, forming transverse
bars.
Probably not an uncommon form in some localities ; but I
have only met with two examples, which were detected among
some hundreds of specimens of Z. filipendulce on Folkestone Hill,
during the last week of July and the first week of August, 1885.
Var. e. (ramhurii, Ld.) — Spots confluent, as in var. cytisi, but they are
dull scarlet in colour, as also are the hind wings.
I took a specimen at Folkestone, which agrees in colour with
this form, but the central pair of spots are not confluent.
Var. /. {cerinus, Eobson). — The hind wings and spots on fore wings are
yellow instead of red.
This striking variety has occurred at Winchester in some
numbers. It has also been found in a chalk-pit, during the first
week of July, near Cambridge; and there are records of its
capture at Birkenhead, Plymouth, Maidstone, and Finchley.
Mr. W. Jagger, of St. Ives, Hunts, bred a specimen of "a
splendid orange colour instead of red," and two others "had
one under wing red and the other orange " (E. M. M. vi. 117).
Var. g. {mannii, H.-S.) — Wings thinly scaled ; the colour of spots and
hind wings darker than usual.
This is an alpine form, and, so far as I know, not represented
in Britain. I have specimens from Folkestone, which are very
barely scaled, but the spots and hind wings are pale in colour,
reminding one of Z, exulans var. mhochracea, White.
234 *HE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Var. h. — The basal and middle spots connected by a longitudinal streak
of red.
I have seen this form in collections, but do not possess a good
example of it. In a Folkestone specimen I have there is a pro-
jection from the lower basal spot towards the lower spot of middles-
pair. ... ™
Var. i. — All the spots united, forming a jflame-like reddish streak.
Stephens mentions this form, but I have not seen an example
of it.
Var. j. (chrysanthemi, Esp.) — The usual crimson of spots and hind wings
is replaced by a dark colour, ranging from dark brown to bluish black.
Mr. J. E. Nowers (Entom. xv. 39) records the capture of a
specimen of this curious aberration in Wyre Forest, on July 3rd,
1881, and describes it as follows: — "The fore wings are of the
usual dark green, the spots being black; the hind wings are
black, with a dark green margin. The insect measures 1 inch
2 lines, and the spots are rather small." This specimen is now
in the collection of Dr. P. B. Mason ; and Mr. H. Goss has a
similar one, which he captured at Khinefield in the New Forest,
on the 15th of July, 1890. I am indebted to Mr. Baxter, of
St. Anne's, for a modified example of this form. In this speci-
men, which was bred from pupae obtained in Lancashire, the
spots and hind wings are suffused with dark brown.
In addition to the foregoing varieties, there is a form,
generally referred by British entomologists to Z. filipendulcef
which has the sixth spot either very small or altogether absent
from the upper surface. Some of the examples of this form have
the border of hind wings rather broad, and these have been con-
sidered as probably hybrids between Jilipendulce and trifolii. It
has been observed at or near Pembroke, at Folkestone (E. M. M.
xix. 21, 43), and at Marlborough (E. M. M. xxv. 184).
The borders of hind wings are usually narrow, but in some
specimens, which are quite typical in other respects, they are
quite as broad as in trifolii. Sometimes the hind wings have
irregular and asymmetrical patches of pale orange. I have several
specimens marked in this way, all taken at Folkestone in 1885 ;
one of these has the sixth spot on left fore wing also pale orange,
while the corresponding spot on the right wing has only a small
patch of pale orange on its upper portion.
With regard to the shape of the wings, I have not, so far,
observed much aberration ; but I have one specimen in which the
fore wings are rounded, as in Z. exulans.
Lederer has observed that, in Transcausaria, Z. Jilipendulce
gradually becomes changed into tmnsalpina, Hub., and charoiiy
Boisd. (two insects generally known under the name of Z. tri-
folii var. duhia, Staud.), but Christoph would appear to hold the
opinion that dubiay Stand., and also stoechadis, Bork., are southern
OlJ NEW BRITISH Dli^TilRA. 235
alpine forms of lonicercB, It would seem, then, that the true
position of duhia, Stand., is not definitely determined at present;
it may be either a form of trifolii or of lonicerce, but, at the same
time, it is connected by intermediate links with filipendulce. It
is larger than typical trifoliiy has either five or six spots, and
the hind wings are broadly bordered with black. Our five-
spotted filipendulcB appears to fit in here ; and is, I think, really
referable to duhia, Stand.
ON NEW BRITISH DIPTERA.
By G. H. Verrall, F.E.S.
Writing in the * Entomologist ' last year (Entom. xxiii. 154)
concerning British Diptera, I said, "A vast amount of work
remains yet to be done, but it had better be done with caution."
I was very much interested in Mr. Billups' account of the
Entomology of Oxshott in your last number (Entom. 201 — 204) ;
but before incorporating any fresh species into the list of British
Diptera, I preferred to act upon my own observations, and
consequently wrote at once to Mr. Billups to ask if he would
kindly let me see the more interesting specimens. I am very
much obliged to him for placing them in my hands the next
day, but I am sorry to say that the result has confirmed me in
my decision to act upon my own observations.
Oxycera terminata, Mg. — I believe Mr. Dale's specimens of
this species will confirm it as British ; but all three of Mr.
Billups' are Pachygaster leachii, Curt.
Pipunculus geniculatus, Mg. — I believe I possess this, and
about fifteen more species of unrecorded Pipunculi ; but until they
are more carefully studied and described, mere names are useless.
Pipizella annulata, Mcq. — Mr. Billups' specimen is a female
of the not uncommon P. flavitarsis, Mg. {^biguttata, Curt.).
P. annulata may be a synonym, but is a very doubtful species.
Clidogastra punctipes, Mg. — I do not know enough about the
Cordyluridse to name a species with certainty, but I confidently
say that Mr. Billups' specimens do not even belong to the genus
Clidogastra.
Oxyphora arnicce, Fin. — Is rightly named; but Fallen's
arniccB is only a synonym of the very common 0. miliaria, Schrk.
{=Jlavaf Geofi".). T, arnicce, L., is a widely difterent species.
Loew, in his latest writings, merged Oxyphora and Oxyna in
Tephritis,
Sapromyza platycephala, Lw. — I have already written of this
as an almost impossible British species ; but beyond that, my
small knowledge of this group suffices to state with certainty that
Mr. Billups' specimens do not belong to the family Sapromyzidee !
S3 6 THE ENTokotiOGiS*.
Chlorops hypostigma. — I might have had considerable trouble
in saying that this was not a specimen of the much debated
C. hypostigma, Mg., but for the fact that the specimen does not
belong to the Chloropidai !
I would also repeat that Pteropoecila lamed is not yet properly
recorded from Britain ; our species is the little known Toxoneura
muliebriSj Har. (=fasciata, Mcq.).
As to misprints, near the bottom of page 203, for Chrysophilus
read Chrysopilus, for cylindricator read cylindrica, and for haum-
hauerri read haumhaueri.
Many of Mr. Billups' captures at Oxshott are quite good
enough to prove that the locality is a good one ; and, from a
specimen in front of me, I see that he caught an unrecorded
British species there on August 16th, 1890, in Sciomyza dubia.
Fin., a well-marked species of which I find I took a single
specimen at Lynton on June ]7th, 1883.
Let me repeat, " A vast amount of work remains yet to be
done, but it had better be done with caution."
(I am extremely obliged to Mr. Verrall for his goodness in
putting me straight in this matter of supposed new British
Diptera; but, as I have previously stated, I am indebted to
Dr. Meade for determining five of the species referred to by
Mr. Verrall ; the remaining three were identified by Mr. Brunetti.
— T. B. B.)
NOTES ON THE PHYTOPHAGOUS GENUS DIACANTHA, Chev.
(COLEOPTERA, GALERUCIN^.)
By Martin Jacoby, F.E.S.
To my remarks (Entom. Suppl. p. 39) on the genus Diacantha
{Idacanthaf Fairm.), saying that M. Aliard has created some
confusion in regard to this genus and Aulacophora in not having
recognised the distinguishing characters of both genera, and
redescribing some old species by giving wrong descriptions of
them, M. Aliard has replied that 1 am totally mistaken, and
giving his reasons for it. Further researches on the subject, in
which Mr. Gahan, of the Entomological Department of the
Natural History Museum, has kindly assisted me, seem to prove
that my former remarks are only partially justified, which I
am very pleased to own. The reason why I uttered them is as
follows : —
Chevrolat first characterised the genus Diacantha, but in an
unsatisfactory way, including several species in the genus which
are not members of it as now understood. Chapuis, later on,
described at length the genus in his * Genera des Coleopteres,'
giving the claws as bifid. Still later, von Harold, in the
NOTES ON THE SYNONYMY OP NOCTUID MOTHS. 237
* Coleopterologische Hefte,' in describing some new species of
Diacantha, said that Chapuis was mistaken in describing the
claws as " bifid ; " D, hidentata, Fabr., which should be looked
upon as the type, having appendiculate claws. I consequently
followed von Harold, and excluded all species with bifid claws
from Diacantha. In this. I am, however, as well as von Harold,
wrong, for the reason that, although D. hidentata is the oldest
described species, it cannot be looked upon as the type, not
being one of those mentioned by Chevrolat ; and that Chapuis's
diagnosis, giving the claws as bifid, must be accepted; while
Hypercantha, Chap., will serve for the reception of species
having the four posterior tibiaB mucronate, and possessing
ai)pendiculate claws.
My other remarks in regard to M. Allard's arrangements are,
however, I think, justified. In his * Synopsis of the Galerucinse
with a transverse thoracic groove,' the descriptions of D. picea,
Fabr., and D. chevrolatii, Guer., are wrong and misleading. Of
D. picea a type specimen, from the Hope Museum, is contained
in the National Collection. This species has, however, nothing
to do with Diacantha, but is identical with Stenoplatys pascoi,
Baly.
In justice to M. Allard I thought this explanation necessary.
7, Hemstall Road, W. Hampstead.
NOTES ON THE SYNONYMY OF NOCTUID MOTHS.
By Arthur G. Butler, F.L.S., F.Z.S., &c.
The present paper was sent to the Entomological Society of
London in continuation of articles already published in their
* Transactions ' upon the same subject. It was read at a meeting
held the 3rd June ; but in the middle of August was, for financial
reasons, returned to me by order of the Council. Much as I
deplore the fact that the continuity of a series of articles on the
same subject should be interrupted, it can hardly be expected
that I should hold over important facts respecting the specific
identity of types in the National Collection until the Entomo-
logical Society is in a position to print them.
The present paper completes the earlier group of Noctuae
represented by the Trifidae of Guenee, and commences the
Quadrifidse. This natural grouping of genera was, unfor-
tunately, not strictly followed out by its discoverer or by later
authors, and its importance had to be insisted on by my friend,
Mr. Hampson, before it was appreciated.
CYMATOPHORID^.
Xylina mirahilisy from Japan, belongs to this family, and
may be placed in the genus Saronaga, with which it agrees in
238 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
structure ; its remarkable pattern is indicated in S, pudens of the
United States. j9
Casandria, Walk, ^^|H
Casandria ? filifera. ^^^1
^ Laphygma filifera, Walker, Lep. Het. xi. p. 719 (1857).
2 Tj. ferrocana. Walker, I.e., p. 720 (1857).
$ L. nigriscripta, Walker, I. c, Suppl. 2, p. 649 (1865),
St. Domingo and Jamaica. In Coll. B. M,
BEYOPHILIDiE.
Aquis, Walk,
Aquis viridisquama,
Aquis viridisquama, Walker, Lep. Het. xv. p. 1652 (1858).
A, albosparsa, Walker, I.e., Suppl. 2, p. 611 (1865).
Dimirica nuhifera, Walker, Journ. Linn. Soc. vii. p. 56 (1864).
Borneo and Java. In Coll. B. M.
Bryophila diseitincta, Walk., is Pachnohia imperita, Hubn.
In my opinion, Nolaphana should be placed in the Bryophilidse,
as also Pseudina. The genera Cosmodes, Canna, and Jaspidea
are probably Cymatophoridae.
NOCTUID^.
Agrotis (auet.).
In his revision of this genus. Prof. John B. Smith has rather
severely criticised my action with regard to some of the North
American species, but especially Amathes phyllophora (to which,
by the way, I must add Mythimna suhporphyrea, Walk., as a
synonym*). He points out that this species of Grote's differs in
having spine-like bristles in rows along the anterior tibiae, and
he holds that these constitute not merely a good specific, but a
good generic, distinction. It is possible that I may eventually
have to use such apparently trivial characters for the breaking
up of unwieldy genera; therefore, for the present, I will only
say that, if constant, a character of this kind appears to be a
sound one for distinguishing species.
Curiously enough, Grote mentioned the spinous character of
the fore tibiae in his description, yet, in his collection, specimens
with and without these spine-like bristles stood together under
both phyllophora and alternata; and although so good a lepi-
dopterist as Grote would doubtless have discovered his error in
labelling had he sat down to study his specimens, it was not to
be expected that 1 should find out that an apparently variable
character, in a series of specimens having the same pattern and
allied to a variable European species, was of at least specific
importance.
* Walker's type is slightly faded and without abdomen, but is certainly typical_
A. 'phyllophora, which it will probably supersede.
4
NOTES ON THE SYNONYMY OF NOCTUID MOTHS. 239
Prof. Smith writes to me that I ought to compare the
descriptions of types before associating the latter as synonyms.
He seems to forget that I have to deal with the species of the
whole world, and that to compare all the descriptions of what I
consider synonyms would occupy more time than can be spared,
if our collection is ever to be got into working order. Moreover,
the catalogues hitherto published have one great fault ; they do
not, as a rule, give references, so that I should have to make a cata-
logue of the United States species, with references, before I could
discover where the descriptions were published. I do not profess
to do anything of the kind ; I compare Grote's, Harvey's, and
other types in the Grote collection, with Walker's, Guenee's, and
other types in our collection, and if I believe them to be identical
I say as much ; and Americans ought to be glad to get even this
help in clearing up their doubts, though I lay no claim to
omniscience, and do not pretend to be incapable of occasional
blunders, such as omitting to observe spine-like bristles inserted
between the scales on the fore tibiae of an ordinary-looking
Noctuid. I think if Prof. Smith reflects upon these few observa-
tions, he will be less inclined to use the lash to those who are
honestly attempting to work, however imperfectly, in his interest,
no less than that of other American lepidopterists.
''Orthosia'' guttilinea, Walker, Lep. Het. xv. p. 1709 (1858),
is a faded specimen of the European Amathes xanthographa,
''CaradrinaV posticata, Walker, Lep. Het. xv. p. 1695
(1858), is Amathes ruhi of Europe.
ToxocAMPA, Guen.
EocRiTA, Led.
Lederer separates Eccrita from Toxocampa on the ground
that the primaries are narrower by about one-half, and that the
middle and hind tibiae are set with long thinly distributed spine-
like bristles. The relative narrowness of the wings exists more
in fancy than reality, and the few scattered spines are even
better shown in the middle tibiae of Toxocampa enormis, but on
its hind tibiae it has only half the number ; similar spinous
tibiae, I should imagine, would also occur in T. maxima, A
character such as this is far more trivial than the difference
between simple and pectinated antennae ; and where the species
with or without spines have, as Lederer admits, the same
pattern and general structure, and their larvae the same appear-
ance and manner of life, it seems quite clear that the presence of
spines is a specific, and not a generic, character. The variability
in the number of spines militates strongly against its value as a
generic character.
The right of the Toxocampids to family rank may be questioned.
In my opinion they are simply Noctuidae, and nearly related to
240 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Graphiphora (G. augur). They certainly do not belong to the
later group of Noctuites, to which they are generally referred, as
the radial vein of the secondaries passes through the centre of
the discocellular veinlet.* The larvae also have sixteen legs.
Strenoloma of Grote is not a Toxocampid, but belongs to the
later group of Noctuites, the radial being emitted close to the
third median branch. The black collar deceived Grote, as it did
me, in the case of four or five other genera allied to it.
Semiophora, Steph,
Semiophora ochracea,
Graphiphora viaria^ Swinhoe, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1889, p. 412.
Umballa. Type in Coll. B. M.
This is only one of the many slight variations of this very
inconstant species. The same form occurred in Mr. Hocking's
series of S. ochracea.
Mamestra, Ochs.
Mamestra chalcedonia.
Noctua chalcedonia, Hiibner, Samml. Eur. Schmett., Noct.,
fig. 404.
Miana vincta, Walker, Lep. Het. xi. p. 730 (1857).
Celana? irresoluta. Walker, I.e., p. 731 (1857).
Oligia tracta, Grote (see Check List, p. 28, n. 469).
United States. In Coll. B. M.
Mamestra radix.
Agrotis radix. Walker, Lep. Het. x. p. 332, n. 58 (1856).
Mamestra dimmockii, Grote (see Check List, p. 26, n. 350).
United States. In Coll. B. M.
4
Hadena, Treit.
Hadena arcta.
Hadena arcta, Lederer, Zool. botan. Vereins, 1853, p. 20,
pi. 2, fig. 5.
Baphia fasciata, Butler, Ann. & Mag. Nat. Hist. ser. 5, vol. i.
p. 193 (1878) ; 111. Typ. Lep. Het. ii. p. 33 ; pi. xxxi.
fig. 5 (1878).
Wladivostock and Japan. In Coll. B. M.
This species varies considerably in a long series, especially
in size.
Oligia, Hilhn.
Oligia festivoides.
Celcena festivoides, Guenee, Noct. i. p. 220, n. 348 (1852).
Florida, &c. Coll. B. M.
* I have to thank Mr. Hampson for calling my attention to this valuable
character for distinguishing the two great groups of this tribe of moths.
NOTES ON THE SYNONYMY OP NOCTUID MOTHS. 241
M. Guenee labelled his male variety with a name, which he
appears not to have published. The species stood in the Grote
collection as ** Hadena cephalica^ Grote"; but I do not find the
species noted under Hadena in his Check List. We have his type.
The '^Nonagria " indubitans of Walker belongs to this group,
and is allied to his *' Laphygma'' unisignata, an example of which,
in the Grote collection, is labelled, " ? Hadena paginatay Morr."
Walker's locality is based upon the fact that the specimen bears
one of Doubleday's little yellow collecting-tickets. No locality is
attached to the specimen.
Oligia exesa*
Celcena exesa, Guenee, Noct. i. p. 222, n. 352 (1852).
Hadena Jloridanay Walker, Lep. Het. Suppl. 3, p. 730 (1865)*
Florida. Coll. B. M.
Walker's types consisted of a badly-rubbed male and a well-
marked female, partly rubbed, but corresponding closely with
Doubleday's other specimens, which formed the types of Guenee' s
species.
Xylophasia, Steph,
Xylophasia apamiformis,
Xylophasia apamiformis, Guenee, Noct. i. p. 137, n. 216 (1852).
Hadena contenta, Walker, Lep. Het. vii. p. 754 (1857).
United States. In Coll. B. M.
Hecateba, Guen,
Hecatera erecta,
^ Celcena erecta, Walker, Lep. Het. x. p. 264, n. 12 (1856).
? Perigea? constipata, Walker, L c, xi. p. 734 (1857).
Perigrapha innexa,(jy:oie (on type label).
Mamestra innexa, (jrote (Check List, p. 27i n. 377).
United States. Coll. B. M.
This species does not nearly resemble any other species
known to me. I place it here provisionally, as the superficial
characters appear to correspond with those of Hecatera, A closer
examination may subsequently prove it to be the representative
of a new genus.
Anomogyna, Stgr.
Anomogyna ? senescens,
Hadena senescens, Grote (see Check List, p. 27, n. 438).
Orthosia? semisigna, Walker, Lep. Het. xi. p. 748 (1857).
United States. Coll. B. M.
This is probably not distinct from Herrich-Schafifer's Noctua
crasis (Schmett. Eur. ii. p. 361, n. 554 ; Noct. pi. 28, fig. 139).
The latter is smaller and less boldly marked than Grote's type,
but corresponds pretty closely with Walker's tyjDC ; the latter is,
nevertheless, a badly-rubbed specimen, the identity of which with
ENTOM. — OCT. 1891. 2^
242 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Grote's insect is only rendered certain when the two are compared
under a lens.
XYLINID^.
LiTHOPHANE, Hiihn.
Lithophane antennata.
Xylina antennata. Walker, Lep. Het. xv. p. 1738 (1858).
X. cinerea, Kiley, and laticinerea, Grote (see Check List,
p. 33, nn. 773, 774).
United States. Coll. B. M.
I have spent a great deal of time without avail in the attempt
to distinguish X. laticinerea from the larger specimens of Walker's
species (the type is of the larger form). Grote's second speci-
men might, perhaps, be distinguished by the width of the
central belt enclosed between the two ordinary transverse
lines of primaries, and by the differently formed unbroken
continuation of the orbicular spot ; but this is clearly no
more than an extraordinary variation of a very variable species,
no two specimens of which are quite alike in markings, and
which varies much in size. We have seven specimens labelled
as L. laticinerea^ nine as L. antennata, one as Lithophane, n. sp.,
and tjNTo as L. cinerea ; the two last are the most distinct, because
they are abnormally dwarfed specimens. If the whole of this
series were to be mixed together, I do not believe any two
lepidopterists would be able to agree as to how they should be
sorted into two species again. Although I am personally satisfied
of their identity, I have kept L. antennata separate from L. lati-
cinerea in the cabinet, to see whether any lepidopterist will be
able to imagine a character by which to distinguish them.
Walker identified specimens, without locality, of L. pexata as
his Lithomia huddhce, but he was totally in error ; the description
differs in almost every particular.
Lithophane signosa.
Xylina signosa, Walker, Lep. Het. xi. p. 627, n. 12 (1857).
Lithophane petulca, Grote (see Check List, p. 32, n. 763).
United States. Coll. B. M.
This is a rather variable species. Walker's type agrees
better with Grote's second specimen than with his type, and
stili more closely with two other examples in his series. L. signosa
approaches L. ustistriga of New Zealand in character, though in
some respects it is nearer to L. socia of Europe.
The L. signosa of Grote's collection appears to me to be a
perfectly distinct species, though identical with specimens
collected by Mr. G. Norman in Canada, and presented to the
Trustees in 1875, under the name of L. petulca. It diflers in its
comparatively broader and shorter wings, and generally greater
resemblance to L. socia.
(To be contmued.)
243
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Gynandromorphous Lepidoptera. — I am preparing a list of gynau-
dromorphous (hermaphrodite) Lepidoptera, and am desirous of making the
list as complete as possible. I therefore venture to ask entomologists who
may have any such specimens in their possession, particulars of which have
not been previously recorded, to kindly communicate with me. — Richard
South; 12, Abbey Gardens, St. John's Wood, London, N.W.
AcHERONTiA ATROPOS NEAR Chichester. — A Specimen of Acherontia
atropos was taken in a village near this city, on June 15th. It had the
appearance of having hybernated, though this may have been due to its
having been roughly handled by its captor, a labourer, before it was brought
to me. — Joseph Anderson, Jun. ; Chichester.
The Emergence of Notodonta trepida. — Like Mr. South (Entom.
217), I, too, was indebted to the kindness of Mr. Christy for a few pupse of
Notodonta trepida, and was similarly struck with the erratic manner in
which the moths emerged. It may be interesting to compare dates. The
first moth came out on May 23rd, the second on May 28th, another on
31st; one on June 2nd, another on June 30th; the last, a small female,
appearing on July 12th. — Joseph Anderson, Jun.; Chichester.
Apatura iris and Argynnis paphia var. valesina near Basing-
stoke.—I had the pleasure of taking a fine male Apatura iris on July 1 8th,
in a wood near Basingstoke ; and, in company with my friend Mr. Holdaway,
I was fortunate in taking Argynnis paphia var. valesina in Hawk wood Park,
on July 26th, my friend taking two more the following week. Although we
have collected in the same place for the last twelve years, we have never
seen it there before or anywhere in the district. — A. H. Hamm ; Reading.
Psyche pulla. — Can any of your readers give me any information as
to the habits of this species from personal observation or from any author,
excepting Bruand ? I always understood that the larva hatched at the end
of summer, hybernated while small, and fed-up towards the end of spring,
the imago appearing in the last week of May or early in June, sometimes
even as late as July [? radiella). But on July 28th last my friend
Mr. Vaughan found on grass a case, apparently of full size, which he
kindly gave to me, knowing the great interest I took in the group. The
case, when I received it, was firmly attached to the box, and remained so
for about ten days, when the larva suddenly woke up, and has been lively
and feeding ever since ; but I can detect no increase in the size of the
case. Other species of Psychidse this year were unusually late, so this can
scarcely be one of a second brood. Can it be that the larval state continues
for two years, and that the larva hybernates when full-fed, and scarcely
feeds in the spring at all?— C. A. Briggs; 55, Lincoln's Inn Fields,
Sept. 14, 1891.
Captures at the Electric Light. — With reference to the note on
this subject (ante, 172), I can confirm the fact of electric lights being often
a great attraction for moths. The large incandescent lights on the Bund
here, opposite the Grand Hotel, frequently have about twenty moths
circling rapidly round them. The smaller lights on the Bluff, which give
a poor and gas-coloured light, do not seem to have any special attraction
for insects, although they are situated amidst trees, flowers, &c. ; whereas
344 1'Me entomologist.
the Bund lights are on a wide bare road, running along the sea-shore.
Towards dusk every evening a lot of fishing-boats collect near this part of
the Bund, awaiting the lighting of the lamps in order to commence fishing.
Lots of Japanese are also always to be seen fishing from the sea-wall there ;
so evidently the light attracts fishes as well as moths. — T. E. Sansom ;
Yokohama, Japan.
Decoy for Butterflies. — I have noticed with interest Mr. South's
remarks under the above heading {ante, 173). In various parts of the East
I have found a dead Ornithoptera or Papilio an almost certain decoy,
provided, of course, others of the species are about. In Java and Selangor
(Malay Peninsula), when T caught a specimen too bad to keep, I always
placed it in a convenient position for catching any others it might attract.
Of course a good specimen could not be so treated, as in two minutes it
would be carried off by ants. Here, in Japan, where ants, &c., are not so
dangerous, I leave good specimens, also, for a few minutes, in conspicuous
positions as decoys. With Papilio maackii it is certain to attract others.
After half an hour or so the attraction seems to cease ; so I doubt if a
cabinet specimen of Apatura iris would be much use as a decoy. —
T. E. Sansom ; Yokohama, Japan.
Bait for Lepidoptera. — I have tried, in Java and Selangor, both
decaying bananas and decaying pine-apple as bait for butterflies, but
without success. I have also added turpentine thereto, and likewise used
turpentine poured on to sand, stones, paper, grass, favourite trees, &c., but
in every case without success. It is but fair to add that turpentine alone
was only tried by me on about five occasions ; but, should I return again
to the tropics, I shall make further experiments with it. An almost
unfailing attraction in the tropics, and also here in the summer, — as the
heat just now almost equals that of the Straits, — is clean wet sand in the
bed of a stream, or even in a tiny brook, at the side of a road. In Selangor
I have seen lovely moving patches of colour, consisting of yellow Terias,
Catopsilia, scarlet Appias new, orange Hehomoia glaucippe, and two or
three large Papilios, swaggering about amongst the smaller fry. Un-
fortunately, the number of good "specimens" resulting from such a find
is usually small. The other day — here, in Japan — I caught nine out of a
dozen Papilio maackii, but only two were in decent condition. Wet sand
has a great attraction for " blues." — T. E. Sansom.
Hot Springs as an Attraction for Ornithoptera brookeana. —
In connection with the preceding note, it may be of interest to mention that
— from my own observations, and also from what others, both Europeans
and Malays, have told me — this insect is strictly confined to the immediate
neighbourhood of the numerous hot springs in Selangor. I believe the
water contains sulphur, but not to any great extent. The only specimens
of Papilio delessertii which I have caught or seen were settled on wet
pebbles in the bed of a stream of hot water. To come across Ornithoptera
brookeana, lazily flying about in such a spot, is a sight to be remembered.
— T. E. Sansom.
Dwarf Ltcena igarus. — Diminutive specimens of Lyccsna icarus
(alexis) are by no means uncommon on the Downs near Eastbourne.
I took three specimens last month (one male and two females), varying
from 9 to 10 lines in expanse of wing. The Lycsenidse would appear to be
particularly liable to vary in size, for Mr. Cockerell, in his article on the
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC.
hih
"Variation of Insects" (Entom. xxii. 177), mentions this peculiarity in
Lycmia corydon and L. comyntas, in addition to L. icariis. According to
Mr. Tutt's opinion, referred to in the same article, these dwarfed specimens
of L. icarus have been " reared on isolated food-plants insufficient for their
needs."— Henry D. Sykes ; The Cedars, Enfield, Sept. 21, 1891.
CucuLLTA ABsiNTHii IN S. Devon. — A.S it is a local insect, it may-
interest your readers to know that on August 19th, 22nd, and Slst last, I
obtained about twenty young larvae of C. absinthii by beating Artemisia
absinthium, at Slapton in Devonshire. I should be glad to know whether
the insect has been taken there before.— Chas. Bartlktt ; Branscombe,
Kedland Green, Bristol, Sept. 12, 1891.
AcRONYCTA ALNi IN SoMERSisTSHiRE. — A fortnight since a larva of
A. alni was found on a dwarf rose tree in ray garden. It has since become
a pupa, in a slight web. I would wish to note the first appearance of this
species in this neighbourhood. — H. W. Livett ; Wells, Somerset, Sept. 8.
Sphinx convolvuli near York. — A fine example of S. convolvuli was
taken about 8.20 p.m. on September 2nd, at rest on one of the stakes
supporting a chrysanthemum, at Lincroft, near York. The night was very
dark and warm. — W. Hewett ; 12, Howard Street, York.
Larva of Hadena pisi. — Yesterday I took several larvae of H. pisi off
heather, and naturally supposed they fed on it ; but to-day, while watching
them, I found them restless and apparently unsatisfied, though occasionally,
very occasionally, one or another would just nibble a leaf or a flower of it.
I then remembered that I had before now found the larvae of Saturnia
carpini, which are said to feed on heather, on willow ; so I offered a leaf of
that plant to one of these H. pisi. It took it at once ; and now they are all
feeding on willow as if it were their natural food. I may mention that,
besides those I found on heather, I found one on furze and one on a small
shrub, the name of which I do not know ; and I noticed this morning that
the leaves of this shrub, which I had put with the caterpillars, were
entirely eaten, while the furze was untouched. — C. A. Bird; Eosedale,
102, Bailing Eoad, Hammersmith, W., Sept. 18, 1891.
AsTHENA BLOMERi, &c., IN BUCKINGHAMSHIRE. — The Editor notos
(Entom. 217) taking two specimens of Asthena hlomeri on beech trees in a
wood in Buckinghamshire. It may be interesting to some readers to hear
that a few days ago I saw a long series taken in the same district and in
the same way. My friend who took them was also lucky enough this
spring to take a fine series of Tceniocampa leucographa. — A. Marshall ;
Sunnyside, Potter's Bar, Sept. 1, 1891.
Larv^ of Larentia didymata on Wood-sorrel. — In the last week
of April, in a lane near here, I found a number of larvje of this species
feeding on the flowers of the wood-sorrel {Oxalis acetosella). The cater-
pillars were very numerous, there being several on almost every plant of
wood-sorrel on each side of the lane for a distance of about half a mile. I
took some, and fed them on the sorrel, which they eat readily ; they some-
times attacked the leaves, but the flowers seemed to be their favourite
food. They fed-up rapidly, and went down early in June. The first moth
appeared on the 4th of July, and the last on the Gth of that month.
I could find none of these caterpillars on sorrel, except in this one lane,
^46 *HE ENTOMOLOGIST.
7 Tnl^t^l
although I searched a good deal for thera ; and since the 19th of JuljV
when I saw the first imago in a state of nature, the moth has swarmed
here. Is not the wood-sorrel an unusual food-plant for this insect ? —
John William Vaughan, Jun. ; The Skreen, Radnorshire, Ervvood,
R. So., August 22, 1891. [In North Devon the larvae of L. didymata
occur in profusion on the flowers of a coarse kind of grass growing in the
woods. Around London I have frequently found the larva of this moth on
Lychnis diurna. The Rev. J. Seymour St. John, in his * Larva Collecting
and Breeding,' gives Anemone nemorosa, ChcBrophyllum temulum, Anthriscus
sylvestris, send Vaccinium myrtillus as food-plants. — R. S.]
BOMBYX LANESTRIS FIVE AND SEVEN YEARS IN PuPA. From tWO
larvae of Bomhyx lanestris, collected in June, 1882, Dr. A. Speyer bred
one imago on April 4th, 1887, and the other in April, 1889. Both
imagines were quite as fine as those which had passed but one year
in pupa (Stett. Entom. Zeit., 1888, p. 205, I.e., 1889, p. 140).
Captures at Sugar in x\rgyllshire in September. — I had come
across three or four specimens of Epunda lichenea at rest on trees and
posts, and so, on September 11th, I sugared along the road which runs
through a wood, composed of oak and birch, on the shores of Loch Riddon,
one of the arms of the sea which run up far inland into Argyllshire. The
weather was very hot and the night still. The result was about —
15 E. lichenea^ 2 Hydrcecia micacea, 1 TriphcBna orbona, 2 Calocampa
vetusta, 6 Anchocelis rufina, 1 A. litura, and 1 Cerastis vaccinii. On the
13th I sugared again in the same place. There was more wind this time,
and torrents of rain were descending, so much so that it was difficult to
keep the water out of the killing-bottles. There were several moths on each
sugared tree, far more than on the previous occasion. E. lichenea,
A. rii/lna, and C. vetusta were very common. There were also a few
Orthosia macilenta, 0. lota, A. litura, and Calymnia trapezina ; and one
worn specimen of Calocampa solidaginis. The E. lichenea are mostly worn.
I have kept several females alive, and they are now depositing ova in card-
board pill-boxes. While sugaring I took a larva — Amphidasys prodromaria,
I think. It is beautifully mottled with green and plum colour, and is only
1^ inch long. It was crawling on a wire-fence. — T. M. Christy; Water-
gate, Emsworth, Sept. 16, 1891.
Lepidoptera in Dorset, Berks, akd Oxon. — In West Dorset, during
the last ten days of June and the first ten of July, crowds of moths were
attracted by sugar. I took long series of Aplecta herhida, A. rubricosa,
Gonophora derasa, Thyatira batis, Xylophasia hepatica, Euplexia lucipara,
one Neuria saponaricB ; while commoner things were troublesome by their
abundance. The weather was chilly and unsettled, rain being frequent. On
returning to Reading, Noctua rhomboidea put in its first appearance at
sugar on July 18th, and on the following day commenced emerging in the
pupse-box. In August I obtained a large number of this moth at sugar;
the worn females were boxed, and, as a result I have many larvae feeding
on plantain and chickweed. My last winter's experience makes me hopei'ul
of getting a considerable percentage into pupae. I found, when low plants
were difiBcult to obtain, N. rhomboidea made no objection to sliced potato as
a substitute. On August 10th, I took three Cosmia pyralina, and on the
14th I had the pleasure of taking all the Cosmise, including two more C.
pyralina. Sugar was the mode of capture, In all, eight C. pyralina were
taken during the week, a number unprecedented, I believe, in this district
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 247
in so short a time. This also establishes a new Reading locality for
C. pyralina. Last week, in company with Mr. Holland, I had two fairly
good nights ; we took between fifty and sixty Xanthia citrago by sugaring
limes, and also had the good fortune to add Charceas graminis to the already
long Reading list. Saturday I tried for X aurago at Henley, but failed ;
sugar did not draw. It was also full early for X. aurago. I, however, got
one Stauropus fagi larva by searching the beech after dark with my light. —
J. Clarke; Reading, Sept. 15, 1891.
Agkotis eavida at Chinnok. — During the past season I have taken
six specimens of this species at sugar, five of them on the hill-slopes and
the other in my garden. In an entomological contemporary, the editor
has recently referred to this species as being " exceedingly rare " of late
years. Entomologists will therefore be probably interested in knowing that
in 1888 I caught about sixty specimens at sugar in Essex. Specimens
taken by me at that time have been distributed into many collections in the
country. — A. J. Spiller ; Chinnor.
LARViB AT Chinnor.— On Aug. 10th, I took a full-fed larva of A. alni
in the High Street of Chinnor ; it spun up in a piece of raspberry-cane.
Subsequently I took a second specimen, which died. Of Stauropus fagi, I
found four examples by hard beating. I visited a locality for N. cucuUina
at some distance, and took twenty-seven larvae during a short afternoon's
work. A. aceris larvae have been plentiful on horse-chestnut trees ; they
are brought to me by boys, who dislodge the larvae whilst throwing at the
chestnuts. Smerinthus ocellatus, S. populi, S. tilicB, and Sphinx ligustri all
occurred as larvae in my garden. On the beech, D. coryli, H. prasinana,
E. trilinearia, A. betularia, S. illustraria, and N. camelina were fairly
common ; I reared three broods of this latter insect on apple, B. con-
sonaria on birch, and a large number of S. carpini on raspberry in the
garden. E. lanestris larvae have been plentiful in confinement ; they fed
well on plum. — A. J. Spiller ; Chinnor, Oxon.
Argvnnis paphia var. valesina near Lynmouth. — While collecting
near Lynmouth, at the beginning of this month, I took a specimen of the
above variety. It was sadly battered, and was taken sunning itself on some
brambles. Is it usual to find it in this part of the country ? — Ernest B.
Charles; Glen Lyn, Lynmouth, North Devon, Sept. 22, 1891.
A Day at Tuddenham.— On the 14th of August last I went, with
Mr. MacLachlan and Mr. Albert Houghton, to Tuddenham, where I
obtained between forty and fifty larvae of Dianthcecia irregularis in a very
short time. Full-grown larvae of Lithostege griseata were abundant. We
also secured five or six larvae of Heliothis dipsacea on Silene otites, when
looking for Dianthwcia, and a number of those of Hecatera serena. One
very small larva of Auticlea sinuata, found on bedstraw, since grown into a
beautiful creature, I was especially pleased to get, as I had not seen the
caterpillar of this species before. — Geo, T. Porritt ; Greenfield House,
Huddersfield. [The very different experience Mr. Porritt and myself had
at Tuddenham {vide Eutom. 221) is, perhaps, only what might be expected,
seeing how diverse the conditions were under which we respectively
worked. Where such a course is practicable, it would be well to secure the
services of a local collector, when we have but a day to devote to any noted
locality, which, to us, may be ten^a incognita, — Ed.]
248 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
OxYCERA TERMiNATA, &c. — I see (Entom. 203) Mr. Billups records
the capture of two species of Oxycera terminata at Oxshott. May I refer
him to Entom. xxii. 84. Both my father and myself have taken it at
Glanvilles Wootton and Lyme Regis as long ago as June 1st, 1830, and
June 10th, 1865. It is quite true Mr. Verrall has placed it at the end of
his list as reputed British, but I possess other species in the same
predicament. I am rather surprised to find that Oxyphora arniccB is
considered to be a rarity, as I have always considered it to be otherwise,
and found it so. Another little known species, Tephritis plantaginis, is
common in July on the flowers of Statice limonium. I have both sexes
of Oxycera morrisii, Curt, although Mr. Brunetti states, " The male is s
unknown" (see Entom. xxii. 85).— C. W. Dale ; Glanvilles Wootton.
Hypoderma bovis, Deg. — A fine male of this very curious Dipteron
was captured by myself while sweeping herbage near the powder magazine
at Plumstead Marshes, on the 29th of July last. T was much struck by the
very sluggish movements of the creature while in the net, the more so as
Mr. Verrall informs me its flight is very rapid, and it is very difficult to
catch. As the imago of this species is rarely seen on the wing, I thought
the record of its capture might be interesting. — T. R. Billups ; 20, Swiss
Villas, Copelstone Road, Peckham.
SiREX GiGAS IN IRELAND. — This iusect is plentiful here this season.
The larvae are found at the end of borings which penetrate the trunks',
roots, and branches of the silver-fir. The trees attacked were blown down
some four or five years ago. The perfect insects may be seen at the
end of the burrows with their heads protruding therefrom, and I secured
several by the simple process of extracting them from the holes by means
of a pin. To give some idea of the abundance of the insect in this place, I
may mention that one stump of silver-fir, which I blew up with blasting-
powder, contained hundreds of larvae and pupae of 8. gigas. — J. H. Leech;
Kippure Park, Manor Kilbride, near Dublin, Sept. 10, 1891.
SiREX GIGAS IN NoTTs. — On August Ist, a fine specimen of 8. gigas
was taken here, in a chemist's shop, and presented to me. I have taken
8. juvencus twice in the neighbourhood, and 8. gigas occurs with fair
regularity, though never commonly. The present specimen is the largest
I have ever seen. It is a female, and in fine condition. — E. G. Alderson ;
Worksop.
SiREX GIGAS AT YoRK. — I have had several specimens of this insect
brought to me during the past few weeks, and all were in good condition. —
W. Hewett; 12, Howard Street, Fulford Road, York, Sept. 19, 1891.
SiREx JUVENCUS NEAR YoRK. — A fine Specimen of this somewhat rare
insect was taken at HesUngtoii, near York, on the 2nd September, whilst
at rest on a chrysanthemum flower. It is now in my possession. Some
seventy years ago this species occurred commonly on the towers of York
Minster, and was locally known as " The Minster Fly " ; but they entirely
disappeared after the Minster was set on fire by Jonathan Martin, February,
1829.— W. Hewett.
The Locust (Acridium peregrinum). — On my landing at Tangier
early on the morning of June 8rd (for a brief stay of from three to four
hours in Morocco, prior to the French Transatlantic Steamer, in which I
had embarked from Cadiz, leaving at or about midday for Gibraltar), I togl^
IM
SOCIETIES. 249
a walk through the town and its fertile outskirts on the high ground in the
rear, ever and anon picking up a lifeless specimen of Acridium peregrinum
bj the side of the road, or in the hedgerow, relics of the recent plague of
those insects, which had wrought such enormous damage to the early crops,
and had been gradually disappearing since Tuesday, May 26th, about eight
days previous. I likewise managed to secure two living specimens, a male
and female, in a vineyard; the body of a freshly caught male is of a
beautiful tint, a bright daffodil yellow. Many of the dead ones that lay
strewn about were in a very dry and dilapidated state, the head being
missing, or the wings and legs loose. According to a Gibraltar newspaper,
a cloud of these insects had settled on a steamer during its voyage from
Marseilles to Tangier, filling the cabins and saloon, and covering the deck
to a depth of four inches, and it took the sailors some hours to clear them
away. On inquiring of Mohammed, the Moorish guide, attached to the
Hotel Continental, who accompanied another English- gentleman and
myself in our early walk, as to whether a change of weather had contributed
to their destruction, " God killed them," he emphatically replied. According
to the statement of some, the millions of locusts in Morocco this season
have exceeded in number even those that have devastated Algiers. Such
was my first experience of the locust of the plague of Egypt. — F. A.
Walker; Dun Mallard, Cricklewood, N.W.
ERRATA.—Page 213, line 2, for "P,stea" read "P. ilea''; line 10
frem bottom, for *' relects " read '• relics."
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — September ^nd, 1891. — Mr.
Frederick DuCane Godman, M.A., F.K.S., President, in the chair. Mr.
W. H. Blaber, of Groombridge, Sussex ; Mr. T. D. A. Cockerell, F.Z.S.,
of Kingston, Jamaica; Mr. K. E. F. Hanson, B.A., of Tunbridge Wells,
Kent; and Mr. E. C. Wroughton, of Poona, India, were elected Fellows of
the Society. Mr. G. F. Scott-Elliot exhibited a series of various species
of Diptera collected on Kanunculacese, PapaveracesB, and Cruciferse. He
said that during the past summer he had studied about forty species of
plants belonging to the orders named, and that they had all been visited by
insects which were probably necessary for nectariferous flowers. The
majority of the Diptera caught were not confined to one species or even
genus, but in view of the unmodified character of the flower in the orders
named this was only to be expected. Mr. Verrall observed that certain
insects aff'ected certain plants, but that the Geraniaceae were seldom visited.
The discussion was continued by Mr. M'JLiachlan, Mr. Kirby, and others.
Mr. W. L. Distant exhibited a specimen of the orthopterous insect
Hemisaga hastata, de Sauss., which, in the Transvaal, he observed to
attack and feed on Danais chrysippus, a butterfly well known from its pro-
tective character and distasteful qualities to have a complete immunity
from the usual lepidopteral enemies. The Hemisaga lurked amongst the
tops of tall flowering grasses, being consequently disguised by its protective
resemblance to the same, and seized the Danais as it settled on the bloom.
From close watching and observation Mr. Distant could discover no other
danger to the life of this well-known and highly protected butterfly. Mr.
ENTOM. — OCT. 1891. Y
250 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
T. R. Billups exhibited four species of Diptera, which he believed to be
respectively Oxycera terminata, Meg., Pipizella annulata, Meg., Clidogastra
punctipes, Meg., and Oxypkora arnicce, L., taken at Uxshott, Surrey, on
the 11th July last. He mentioned that all of them were recorded iii Mr.
Verrall's list only as *' reputed British." He also exhibited a specimen of
Hypoderma bovis, Deg., taken at Plumstead on the 29th July last. Dr. D.
Sharp exhibited several species of Forficulidse, and called attention to the
diverse conditions of the parts representing the wings in the apterous
forms. Mr. H. Goss exhibited living larvae of Scoria dealbata, reared
from ova. They were feeding on Polygonum aviculare, but not very freely ;
Brachypodium sylvaticum had been named as a food-plant for this species,
but he did not hnd that the larvae would eat this or any other grass. The
Rev. Dr. Walker exhibited, and read notes on, a collection of Lepidoptera,
Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Neuroptera, and Diptera, which he had recently
made in Norway. Mr. Champion, Mr. Billups, and Mr. M*Lachlan took
part in the discussion which ensued. — H. Goss, Hon. Sec,
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
August %ltht 1891. — The President in the chair. Mr. Tugwell exhibited
a series oi Bryophila perla, Fb., from Kent, showing great variation, those
from Deal being the orange form ; and particular attention was called to
some specimens collected by Mr. Austin at Folkestone, in which the usual
white colour of the wings was replaced by a dark greenish shade. Mr.
Tugwell also exhibited, on behalf of Mr. J. E. Ilobson, of Hartlepool,
Lyccena astrarchey Bgstr., collected at Durham, and showing the species in
ail its forms — vars. salmaciSf St., and artaxerxes, Fab., with intermediate
forms. Mr. S. Edwards, the genus Charaxes; and read notes on the
distribution of the species, and descriptions of the larvae and pupae.
Mr. J. H. Carpenter, under sides of Thecla ruhi, L., bred from pupae, and
being strongly marked with white spots ; he also showed Eugonia quercinaria,
Huln., bred from ova, which were unusually dark. Mr. Frohawk, Pieris
napi, L., from different localities, and three females showing gradations in
the tormation of an additional spot between the third and fourth nervules ;
one male entirely white ; pale and dusky forms of the female ; and a banded
form of Pararge megcBva, L., taken at Chattenden, 1861. Mr. Mera, living
larvae of Acronycta tridens, Schifl'. Mr. West (Streatham), the Lewes form
of Gnophos obscuraria, Hb. ; also an example of Nania typica, with two
tibiae and tarsi on the left front femur. Mr. Turner, bred series of Pelurgia
comitata, L., and of Hypsipetes sordidata, Fb., the latter showing red, pale,
dark, and banded forms ; he stated that the larvae had been fed on a mixed
diet. Mr. Turner also exhibited a living larva of Stauropus fagi, L. Mr.
C. Fenn, Odontia dentalis, Schiff. (bred from Echium), Hyria murlcata,
Hufn., Anerastia lotella, Hb., Crambus uliginosellus, Zell., C. contamiiiellus,
Hb., and Sericoris conchana, Hb., from Deal and neighbourhood. Mr. H.
A. Sauze, a case of Coleoptera, containing twenty-six species. Mr. Billups,
British Diptera, including Nemorcea strenua, Meig., from Oxshott, Eristalis
sepulchralts, L., a male, taken at Plumstead ; also a female of the rare
Hypoderma boviSf Deg., Phytomyza aquilegice. Hardy, reared with its
parasite lihizarcha areolaris, Nees, from leaves of the columbine growing
m his garden at Peckham. Mr. Billups also exhibited Polysphincta varipes,
Gr., and a cocoon of Attacus cecropia from New York State, received from
Mr. Turner, and from which he had bred forty-eight specimens of a species
of Cryptus, closely allied to the British Cryptus digitatus, (xmel.
SOCIETIES. 251
September ]Oth. — The President in the chair. Mr. W. F. Ilobinson, of
Netting Hill, was elected a member. Mr. S. G. G. Russell exhibited a
large number of Argynnis selene, Schiff., from North Hants localities.
Mr. Garpenter, a fine series of Pericallia syringaria, L., bred from ova
received from Essex ; ynd of Dianthcecia albimacula, Bork., bred from larvse
obtained in Kent. Mr. Frohawk, a series of Folyommatus phlmas, L., and
pointed out the advantage of rearing this species from ova, as those bred
were much larger than captured specimens. Mr. Joy, a melanic specimen
of Boarmia repandata, L., taken at Hampsfelt, near Grange. Mr. Tug well
remarked that it was the same form as that which Mr. Porritt got in his
district, and, in reply to Mr. Tutt(who stated that Mr. Porritt obtained his
black examples of this species from a very dark fir-wood, and inquired
whether the locality from which the specimen now exhibited came answered
this description), Mr. Joy said he took it on the trunk of a larch tree
on the edge of a larch plantation, which was not at all dark, the speci-
men being very conspicuous on the tree-trunk. Mr. R. Adkin showed a
series of Psodos coracina, Esp., bred this spring, from Rannoch, and he
pointed out that in some of the examples the band was cut right through.
Mr. G. Fenn, about fifty caught specimens of Agrotis corticea, Hb., showing
the variation of the species at Deal. Mr. Tugvvell and Mr. Jenner Weir
remarked that many of the specimens ran extremely close to A. cinerea^ Hb.
Mr. Barker exhibited a dark variety of Arctla caia, L., and Mr. Weir
remarked that he had once seen a series arranged according to whether the
antennae were white or blackish, and he thought it would be of interest if
members would look at the antennae of their specimens of this insect. Mr.
Short exhibited varieties of Arctia caia, L. ; in one example the white
markings of half of the superior wings were absent. Mr. Short called
attention to the fact that the ordinary cream marking of many of the
specimens he exhibited was strongly tinged with a rosy colour. Mr.
Tugwell showed examples of Melitcea aurinia, Rott., from English, Irish,
and Scotch localities, and made some observations on the local variation of
this species ; a discussion ensued. — H. W. Bakker, Hon, Sec.
Lancashire and Gheshire Entomological Society. — Sept. lUh,
1891. — The opening meeting for the winter session. S. J. Gapper, F.L.S.,
F.E.S., in the chair. Mr. G. H. H. Walker read a paper on *' Nerves and
Nervous Systems," describing the general structure of the nervous system
of a typical insect and comparing it with that of a spider, and pointing out
the close affinity, which differs only when the economy of the subject
rendered it necessary. The paper was illustrated with carefully executed
black-board drawings. Among the numerous exhibits, the president showed
specimens of the new Tortrix donelana from Galway. Mr. Walker, curious
varieties of Vanessa aiitiopuy which he had bred from Ganada, the black
subterminal band and the blue spots being quite absent, and the yellow
border very wide. Mr. Melville, a fine specimen of Chcerocampa nerii,
captured at Prestwich in 1846. Mr. Newstead, several cases of life-
histories, including the full history of Sirex gigas, which he stated had been
very common this year. Mr. Prince, a fine variety of Arctia caia, bred by
him this year, the fore wings of which were almost quite brown, and the
black spots on the hind wings formed a thick dark marginal band. Mr.
Gregsou, a series of Lithosia sericea, taken this season. Mr. Harker,
Dianthcecia harrettii from Howth. — F. N. Pierce, Hon, Sec.
252 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — August 11th, 1891. — Mr. R.
0. Bradley in the chair. Mr. G. W. Wynn showed bred series of Bomhyx
ruhi and B. quercus from Sutton ; a single specimen of Choerocampa porcellus,
taken at Sutton last June ; a series of Notodonta dictcea, bred from larvae
found on Cannock Chase; and a single specimen of Flusia bractea from
Bewdley. Mr. P. W. Abbott, large series of Zygmna JilipendalcB and
Z. trifolii from the Isle of Wight, including yellow varieties of the former
species ; of the latter species, quite 75 per cent, of the specimens taken
were varieties, with the spots more or less coalesced. Mr. E. C. Bradley,
Scatophaga scyhalaria from Sutton Park. Mr. C. J. Wainwright, Phyto
metra cenea from Wyre Forest. — C. J. Wainwright, Hon. Sec.
OBITUAKY.
E. W. Janson. — A well-known member of the entomological fraternity
will be missed in Edward Wesley Janson, who died at his residence in
Stroud Green on the 14th of last month (August). He was born at Hackney
on the 14th March, 1822, and was therefore in his seventieth year. He
received his education at the college of La Fleche, in France, and subse-
quently studied for the medical profession at Edinburgh, but relinquished
the career at his father's wish, in order to assist him in his business as
Dutch merchant in the city, and afterwards as secretary of the Dutch-
Rhenish Railway. On the death of his father, in 1867, he commenced
business as a natural-history agent, publisher, and bookseller, in which he
continued until compelled by failing health to retire in February last. Like
all true naturalists, his taste for this pursuit was innate and declared itself
at an early date. He began as a collector, and his happy hunting-grounds
were the then little-frequented Highgate Woods and Hampstead Heath, in
the neighbourhood of his father's residence. His speciality was Coleoptera,
and he soon became not only a skilful and successful collector, but a
scientific authority on the British species, much respected by his colleagues.
In the course of time he extended his studies to the products of the whole
world, beginning with the Staphylinidae, and afterwards taking up the
Elateridae, his collection of which ultimately became the largest ever known.
As an author he was almost painfully accurate and laborious, and, on this
account probably, published but httie. He wrote the Coleopterous portion
of the * Entomologist's Annual' from its commencement in 1855 to 1861,
and contributed also several papers on ants'-nest beetles. He compiled
the descriptive part of the Coleoptera of the edition of Curtis's * British
Entomology ' pubhshed in 1863 ; wrote various papers in the 'Zoologist '
and * Transactions of the Entomological Society ' ; edited one of the English
editions of Figuier's * Insect World ' ; and lastly, in 1882, contributed a
paper to the * Cistula Entomologica ' on the Elateridae collected by Buckley,
jb or many years he filled the post of Secretary and Librarian to the Ento-
mological Society, of which he had been a member since 1843. Among the
scientific property he leaves behind him are his matchless collection of ihe
Elateridae and allied families, and a library of great extent and value. His
collection of British Coleoptera was ceded many years ago to Mr. G. R.
Crotch, and now forms part of the University Museum at Cambridge,
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] NOVEMBER, 1891. [No. 342.
TOETRIX DONELANA, Carpenter.
For several months past the occurrence of a supposed new
species of the genus Tortrix has been an open secret among
entomologists in this country, but very little information con-
cerning it has so far found its way into our entomological journals.
The following abstract of a paper entitled '*A new Species of
Tortrix from Tuam," by George H. Carpenter, B.Sc, Assistant
Naturalist in the Science and Art Museum, Dublin * may there-
fore be interesting to readers of the * Entomologist': —
Early in June of last year (1890) Mr. D. O'C. Donelan, of Sylan,
Tuam, forwarded to me some pine-shoots, with small caterpillars, which, he
stated, had caused much damage, in the summers of 1889 and 1890, to a
plantation of firs situated partly on bog and partly on upland tracts. Some
of the caterpillars pupated very soon after arrival. About the middle of
July three moths (all males) appeared, and my surprise was great to find
that they very closely resembled Tortrix vihurnana.
It appears to be identical with the moth figured in Herrich-Schaffer's
*Schmetterlinge von Europa,' vol. iv. fig. 419, as a variety of Tortrix
steineriaiia, Schiff. This figure, however, is very unlike the true T.
steineriana {op. cit. vol. iv. figs. 57-8), and the author, in his Appendix
(op. cit. vol. vi. p. 155), expresses his opinion that it is a distinct form.
Heinemann (' Die Schmetterlinge Deutschlands und der Schweiz,' vol. ii.
p. 46) identifies this figure of Herrich-Schaffer's with the Tortrix lusana of
that author ; but neither the figure nor my specimens agree with this
opinion. Besides, the larva of T. lusana is stated by Heinemann to feed
on Vaccinium.
We may therefore conclude that, except for Herrich-Schaffer's unnamed
figure, the moth from Tuam is new to science. I have much pleasure in
describing it under the name of Tortrix donelana, as a tribute to the gentle-
man who discovered it.
* ' Scientific Proceedings of the Eoyal Dublin Society,' vol. vii. pt. ii. p. 91,
pi. vii. (1891).
ENTOM. — NOV, 1891. Z
254 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
TORTRIX DONELANA, Sp. nOV.
Imago. — The expanse of the wings varies from 17 to 20 mm. The costa
of the fore wing is well arched at the base, and then runs straight to the
tip, which is rather pointed. The hind margin is very slightly convex,
except at the anal angle. The ground colour of the fore wings is yellowish
brown, with a bronzy appearance, which in certain lights gives them an
olive-green sheen. Near the tip of the fore wing is a brown costal spot, and
an oblique irregular brown band crosses the wing from the middle of the costa
to the anal angle. A few thin, brown, curved lines run from the costa
towards the inner margin, between the oblique band and the hind margin,
towards which their convexity is directed. The distinctness of all these
brown markings varies greatly, as the fore wings of one of my specimens
appear almost unicolorous yellowish brown, with a bronzy lustre, much
resembling T. viburnana. The hind wings have the hind margins decidedly
concave below the tip ; their upper surface is dark grey. The fringe is
silvery white. Beneath, the fore wings are blackish, aud the hind wings
whitish grey. The labial palps are of moderate length, and, together with
the head and thorax, are covered with brown scalf^s, those on the thorax
being darkest. The abdomen is short, hardly reaching the anal angle of the
hind wing. It is clothed with dark grey scales, and the anal tuft is light
yellow.
Larva. — The larva is of the ordinary Tortrix type. It is olive-green
dorsally, yellow laterally, and yellowish green ventrally, with dorsal and
lateral rows of yellowish white spots, from which spring blackish hairs. Its
length is 11 or 12 ram. The head and the posterior part of the last
abdominal segment are yellowish brown, marked with black.
Pupa. — The pupa is brownish black. Each of the abdominal segments
(except the first and the last) is provided with two half rings of spines, by
means of which the pupa can move in its cocoon.
Habitat. — Tuam, Co. Galway, Ireland.
Time of appearance. — Larva : April to July. Pupa : June and July.
Imago : July and August.
Food-plants. — Scotch fir and larch.
Habits. — The larva feeds on the pine-shoots, which it seems to almost
divest of their leaves. Mr. Donelan writes : — " The caterpillar appears in
two or three different ways. It fastens together two shoots, and forms a
nest of web ; when disturbed it creeps out at the top, and, falling to the
ground, tries to hide in the heath, &c. ; or some of the pine leaves are
fastened together on a single shoot, and the nest of web is formed within.
Sometimes a few of the caterpillars are found on the shoots without any
covering; this generally happens later in the season than the former." The
cocoon in which the pupa is contained appears to be formed by the closing
up of the web in which the larva had sheltered. The cocoon is surrounded
by a mass of scale-leaves.
It seems very strange that this apparently unnoticed insect should have
made its appearance in such numbers as to force attention by its damage to
plantations. Mr. Donelan, who has had considerable experience of piue-
woods, says it is the worst pest he has seen in Ireland. Equally strange is
its occurrence in such a remote district of the British Isles as Co. Galway.
Mr. Donelan tells me that the young trees on which the larvae were
found came from Scotland, and may have been originally imported from the
Continent. Hence, if the identification of T. donelana with Herrich-
TOBTRIX DONELANA. 255
Schaffer's figure be correct, we may have here an insect so rare on the
Continent as to have escaped observation as a pine-feeder (no mention what-
ever is made of it in Kaltenbach's ' Pflanzenfeinde ' or Ratzeburg's * Forst-
Insekten '), but which, imported to the West of Ireland, found there so
favourable an environment as to become a dominant member of the insect
fauna. The fact that all the modern fir-trees of Ireland have been im-
ported (Moore and More, * Cybele Hibernica,' p. 151) makes the importation
of the insect highly probable.
On the other hand, may it be possible that we have had lately developed
in our islands a really new species, an offshoot of T. viburnana, which for
some unknown reason has changed its food-plant ? If this view be accepted,
we must give up the identification of T. donelana with Herrich-Schaffer's
figure.
Mr. Adkin has been good enough to lend me a pair of this
insect, which he bred from a larva and pupa received from Ireland
in the early part of July this year. Examination of these speci-
mens, and careful comparison with a long series of Tortrix
viburnana^ enables me to support Mr. Barrett's opinion that
donelana is not separable from T. viburnana.
It is stated that donelana varies in the marking of the fore
wings, and one of Mr. Carpenter's specimens resembles ordinary
viburnana so closely that it would probably be difficult to point
out any material difference. The abdomen of the type of done-
lana is described as '* short, hardly reaching the anal angle of the
hind wing." As this is the only portion of the description which
is italicised, some importance would appear to be attached to it ;
but in the male specimen bred by Mr. Adkin the abdomen is quite
of the length usual in T. viburnana, i. e., it extends a little beyond
the anal angle. The anal tuft of donelana is said to be light
yellow; some specimens of viburnana have the tuft yellowish,
others greyish, and in others again it is brownish. With regard
to the marking on fore wing, Mr. Adkin's male example of
donelana differs from the type, as described and figured by
Mr. Carpenter, in having a basal patch and broad internally
angulated marginal band of the same colour as the central fascia ;
I have a specimen of viburnana, taken on the Yorkshire moors,
which is marked very much in the same way.
Mr. Carpenter refers to the male only. The female example
bred by Mr. Adkin from the larva, adverted to, is small, but I
should have pronounced it to be a female T. viburnana, if it had
been sent to me for identification ; with the exception of its lesser
size, it is almost identical with a specimen I have from the
Warren at Folkestone.
Some entomologists would seem to consider this fir-feeding
Tortrix identical with T. steineriana, Hiib., vav.dohrniana, H.-S.,
but whether it is so or not I cannot say, as 1 have not the neces-
sary material at hand to enable me to form an opinion. I certainly
have a single continental specimen ticketed dohrniana, but this
z2
256 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
is exactly identical with certain British vihurnana, which are
probably not very unlike the specimen of donelana resembling
viburnana referred to by Mr. Carpenter.
EicHARD South.
n
THE DIAMOND-BACK MOTH {PLUTELLA CRUCIFERARUM).
By J. Arkle.
Although the year 1891 has not been marked by the appear-
ance of attractive and welcome insects, such as Colias edusa or
Deilephila gali% it may be handed down to entomological posterity
as celebrated for the occurrence of a moth which, if diminutive
in size, brought itself into prominent notice by its pestiferous
abundance. Happily, it may be added, many entomologists, at
any rate in western Britain, are unacquainted with this little
turnip moth, which has shown a power, during the past summer
months, to work destruction from the shores of the Forth to
those of The Wash. It is the Cerostoma xylostella of Curtis —
not, it may be observed, the beautiful hook-tipped C. xylostella
of Stainton — the Harpipteryx xylostella of South ! In the genus
Cerostoma, Stainton describes the pupa as being enclosed in a
close, firm cocoon; while, as we consider this matter of synonyms,
it is worth noting that his adopted Plutella is distinguished by a
cocoon of open network. Mr. South also adopts Plutella in his
* Synonymic List,' and, in common with Stainton, he uses the
appropriate specific name of cruciferarum.
Although this insect-pest occurs more or less, year after year,
in the infected districts, the question naturally arises — What is
the reason of its extraordinary abundance this season ? Possibly
it may be as mysterious an apparition as (7. edusa or D. galii —
or the advantages in aid of hybernation may have been exceptional
during the winter — or it may have come to us from across the
sea ! The migratory, or blown- over, theory may receive some
support from the following story, which I take from ' The Liver-
pool Daily Post ' for Aug. 15th : — '* Mr. H. A. Paynter, solicitor,
Alnwick, told Mr. Kaynard, Inspector of the Board of Agriculture,
that, being requested by Lord Walsingham to try and get him
some moths, he (Mr. Paynter) proceeded, on July 10th, to the
Longstone Lighthouse, on the Fame Islands, where he found the
rocks close to the lighthouse covered with them. On questioning
the three lighthouse-keepers upon this remarkable occurrence,
they informed him that such a great cloud of moths was driven
over by the north-east wind that they were obliged to keep
sweeping them off the lantern throughout the whole night in
order to allow the light to be seen at sea." The paragraph then
goes on to say that "this statement made by the lighthouse-
THE DIAMOND -BACK MOTH. 257
keepers would conclusively prove (?) — the query is mine — that
there had been a large importation of these moths from abroad,
as in most cases the outbreak of the caterpillar occurred soon
after that date."
Not only, however, has this insect-pest been conspicuous for
its abundance on this side of the globe, but, according to * The
Cheshire Observer' for Oct. 10th, it "has also done an immense
amount of harm this year to the turnip crops in New Zealand and
Tasmania." The migratory, or blown-over, theory must there-
fore credit this insect-speck with an organisation which enables
it to continue on the wing for 400 or even 1000 miles, or to sail
such distances on the wings of the wind.
Leaving this problematic part of the subject, let me say I
obtained almost full-fed larvae of P. cruciferarum from North-
umberland, Durham, and Yorkshire in the first week of August.
With Lincolnshire I was unsuccessful, as my correspondent there
happened to be from home, and the larvae had disappeared before
his return.
Some of the readers of the ' Entomologist ' may be interested
to know that the caterpillar — dorsally and underneath, legs and
claspers — is pea-green. In some specimens there were indi-
cations of a dorsal, and on each side a subdorsal, stripe of a
deeper green. The head is pale green, faintly tinted with purple,
and ornamented with minute black spots. This description also
applies to the second segment. Each segment has a couple of
rings of minute tubercles, and each tubercle emits a short black
hair or bristle. The anal claspers are considerably porrected,
or stretched out behind, and they give a very bifurcated appear-
ance to the termination of the caterpillar. Such is the aspect
under a strong magnifying-glass. To the unassisted eye it is
simply a short green caterpillar, five-twelfths (nearly half an inch)
long, and tapering at both ends. It feeds on turnips, cabbages,
cauliflowers, and, as Stainton observes, " other Cruciferse." It
is very partial to the under sides of the leaves, and falls off the
food-plant on being disturbed, or wriggles about and away, either
head or tail first, after the manner of Tortrix larvae. When
shaken off its food-plant it generally suspends itself by a silken
thread, by means of which it can speedily return.
My caterpillars began to pupate on the 11th of August. At
first the chrysalis is pale green, but changes in a few hours to
light grey, with smoke-coloured streaks, visible to the naked eye.
The pupa is a quarter of an inch long, and can be easily seen
through the spindle-shaped cocoon of open network, which is
fastened either to the upper or under side of a leaf. The cater-
pillars showed a marked preference, in spinning up, for the gauze
covering of the flower-pot. Under a good magnifying-glass the
cocoon appears to be made of whitish silken ropes, arranged in
irregular meshes across the chrysalis, which, with its smoky
markings, is very distinctly seen.
258 THE ENTOMOtiOGlSl'.
I
The moths began to appear on August 23rd, and had all
emerged by Sept. 13th. In size and general coloration they
strongly resemble the ordinary clothes' moths. The following
description is obtained through the medium of a strong magnifier :
— Antennae long, slate-coloured, and spotted with white. The
palpi are very conspicuous, brown, andporrected. The head and
thorax are the same general brown colour of the upper wings.
The body is a silvery dark grey or slate-colour, the segmental
divisions light grey spotted with white, and there is a conspicuous
anal tuft of silvery grey. The fore wings are narrow, brown, and
spotted with black, especially at the outer margins, where the
spots chiefly form two parallel lines. Extending along the inner
margin, and nearly its entire length, is a long dash or stripe of
very light brown, or, as in many examples, of light ochreous-
colour. This stripe is broad (about one-third of the wing-
breadth), and has three angular "projections" stretching into the
dark brown colour of the wing ; these projections are bounded
by a thin line of pale shining ochreous-colour, or, as in frequent
specimens, of white. The whole of the wing-surface is dotted
irregularly with minute black spots, the middle area is very dark
brown ; in some specimens it is almost black ; the inner marginal
stripe is then much paler, and the wing, especially the costal
margin, dusted with white scales. When the wings are closed
the projections of light colour assume a diamond pattern : with
good eyesight this pattern is visible, especially in the dark speci-
mens. The lower wings are a silvery slaty grey, with long
marginal fringes of the same shade.
Before considering what the agriculturist can effect in neces-
sary war against this insect-pest, it is interesting to observe what
Nature provides for its suppression. Probably no living creature
has a harder time of it than our insect of the diamond-back.
Should it appear even in thousands, so apparently does the deadly
ichneumon: at least one-half of my larvae, especially those from
Durham and Yorkshire, were so infected. If the two species of
ichneumons I bred are peculiar to P. crucijerarum, how then
did their extraordinary abundance arise ? Were their progenitors
already in anticipation on British shores, or did they follow the
cloud of moths to the lonely rocks and lighthouse of the Fame
Islands ? No record appears on this latter point from the three
keepers. These ichneumons are so pretty and so interesting
that I venture to describe them as below : —
(1). The most abundant. Size, that of the moth, or nearly
so. Head, thorax, and body black. Antennae the length of the
body, stout, smooth, and curved upwards. Wings rounded and
transparent, nervures black. The wings reflect the most beautiful
rainbow colours, chiefly pink, purple, and pale green. Legs
russet-brown. The ovipositor is black and simple ; it is attached
to a plate underneath the abdomen, and near its termination ; it
THE DIAMOND-BACK MOTH. 259
is blunt, and shaped like a cavalry sword with a curve upwards.
All this, however, is only the sheath ; this sheath is composed of
two halves, which open at the base, like the arms of the letter V.
Between these arms is the real ovipositor, brown, polished, and
pointed. I was able to examine the real ovipositor only by
drying the insects ; the muscles controlling the sheath were then
contracted, the sheath opened and the ovipositor was exposed.*
(2). Much less abundant than No. 1. Same size. Head,
thorax, and body black ; under side of body yellowish green.
Legs russet-brown. Long black antennae the length of the body
and curving upwards, not smooth, but knotted. Wings trans-
parent, nervures black, not so rounded as in No. 1. The wings
reflect the same beautiful tints, chiefly pale green. The ovi-
positor is shaped like a small y, the right arm of the letter being
at least twice the length of the other ; it is attached under the
abdomen, as in No. 1, but by each of the arms.
The moth emerges at one end of the cocoon, leaving hardly a
trace of exit ; the ichneumon saws an ugly round hole through it
near the end.
Such is a description of some of Nature's agents, and in their
operations lies apparently an exhibition of Nature's plan. The
ichneumons, the birds, the climatic helps, only clear off a portion
of these pests. Man is evidently expected to investigate, to help
himself, and to look upon these natural aids as allies. Looking
through the letters of my correspondents, I find that, where the
birds were properly looked after, P. cruciferarum has been least
hurtful. On the other hand, where the birds have been deci-
mated, there the scourge has apparently been most conspicuous.
As an illustration, a correspondent from " an anti-rook iind bird
district" speaks of " whole fields having been stripped" by the
caterpillar, and of such spectacles as *' nearly a dozen crows and
a sparrowhawk nailed to a tree through the head."
Sometimes the diamond-back is eccentric in its ravages. A
twenty-four acre field in Lincolnshire, where, by the way, the Act
for the Preservation of Birds is strictly enforced, had eleven acres
white turnips and the remainder swedes. " The whites," says
my correspondent, " were entirely ruined, but the swedes were
untouched. As soon as the pest was discovered the crop was
ploughed in," rape or late globes, I suppose, being afterwards
sown.
Passing by compensation from the State for reasonable loss
as a matter more for the agriculturist and the politician, the
following remedies from my own correspondents may be offered
as matters of greater interest to the entomologist: —
(1). Fields should be kept clear of cruciferous weeds, such as
the well-known yellow-flowering "kale"; fences, refuse-heaps,
headings, and vacant spaces should not be forgotten. (If I
* Doubtless Limmria gracilis, Gray. — E. A. F.
260 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
remember rightly, Miss Ormerod prescribed this, long ago, in her
admirable book on Injurious Insects).
(2). The crop should be destroyed (ploughed in) upon the„
first appearance of the caterpillar. alj
(3), Insecticides, whether in liquid or powdered form, appear^'!
to be, in this case, of very doubtful value ; they are expensive,
and liable to be washed off by the first shower of rain. Besides,
the caterpillars are often on the under sides of the leaves. In
short, while Nature's battalions may be depended upon to make
the attack in force, man's part would seem to lie more in the
cutting off of supplies.
Chester, October 12, 1891.
CAPTURES AT THE ELECTRIC LIGHT.
By Robert Adkin, F.E.S.
On the 8th of September last I visited the Royal Naval"
Exhibition at Chelsea. The day was hot, and the evening one
of the few that we have been favoured with during the past
summer, when one could sit out-of-doors with impunity. By
eight o'clock darkness had set in, and the powerful electric arc-
lamps, by which the grounds are illuminated, having been turned
on, I fully expected to see moths circling round them in some
numbers; but to my surprise they were conspicuous by their
absence, and during an hour that I was walking about the grounds
only some two or three were seen. About nine o'clock I ascended
the lighthouse, and on reaching the outer gallery surrounding the
light my eye at once fell upon a moth sitting upon the glass, then
another, and another, until upon further examination the place
seemed alive with them; numbers were circling round in the air,
others lay trampled under the feet of the crowd of people that
were walking about the gallery, while others rested, apparently
asleep, upon the glass ; and this, too, undermost adverse circum-
stances, for, although it appeared to be quite calm while walking
on the ground, a gentle breeze was blowing at this elevation, and
setting in a direct line from the chimneys of the tier of boilers
used for driving the electric machinery, brought with it hot
sulphurous fumes that made the air almost unbearable. The
species that appeared to be most common were, as one might
expect in such a locality, Triphcena pronuba and Plusia gamma,
but, not being prepared with the necessary paraphernalia for an
entomological expedition, I was unable to make any large number
of captures. As, however, I happened to have three small boxes
in my pocket, I filled them at random from the motlis that were
sitting on the glass ; these, upon subsequent examination, proved
tu be Drepana binaria, Plusia gamma, and Ploneaforficalis. Oue
NOtES ON THE ENTOMOLOGY OF OXSHOTT. 261
of the attendants, who happened to see me boxing them,
volunteered the information, *' Oh ! do you want them things ?
There's plenty of them up here every night ; great big 'uns, too,
sometimes "; but unfortunately I could elicit no further informa-
tion that would give me any clue as to what manner of moths the
*' big 'uns" might be. This lighthouse is, I believe, modelled on
the same lines, as regards external appearance and size, as the
original, which now stands upon the Eddystone Rocks, and the
light is of similar brilliancy; if that be so, the light is some
hundred and thirty feet from the ground, and its capacity many
times greater than the numerous lamps around it, which after my
descent were as little frequented as they were earlier in the
evening.
In a note on ** Captures at the Electric Light " (ante, 243),
Mr. T. E. Sansom points out that at Yokohama the powerful
exposed lamps are very attractive to Lepidoptera, whereas the
smaller lamps, although situated more directly in the position
where the moths would be likely to fly about, seem to have no
particular attraction for them. At a meeting of the Entomo-
logical Society of London, Canon Fowler mentioned that moths
were attracted by an electric light fixed upon Lincoln Cathedral
during the Jubilee illuminations, Acronycta alni and Leiocampa
dictcea, which he exhibited, being among their number.
It will be noted that in two of the cases mentioned a com-
parison may be drawn between lights of greater and lesser
brilliancy, and in each the more powerful lights drew many moths
to them, whereas those of less power had little, if any, attraction
for them ; and in two also the lights were at a considerable
elevation, but their height proved no obstacle to their attractive-
ness. The inference therefore appears to be that a light of high
power placed in an exposed position is likely to draw the largest
number of moths to it, even attracting them from less powerful
lamps in its vicinity, and it would be interesting to note whether
this rule holds good in all cases where a comparison between
two or more lights, or sets of lights, of unequal power and
position is practicable.
Lewisham, October, 1891.
ADDITIONAL NOTES on the ENTOMOLOGY of OXSHOTT.
By T. R. Bn^LUPs, F.E.S.
Among the unidentified species of Hymenoptera*Aculeata,
&c., referred to by me, ante, p. 202, were Priocnemis hyalinatus.
Fab.; Pompilus spissus, Schiodte (this species was very plentiful) ;
Trypoxylon clavicerum, St. Farg,, Crahro palmarius, Schreb.,
several males of which were taken ; and Andrena fuscipes, Kirby,
The latter was common on Erica, &.c.
26^ tiiE ENTOMOtOGtSt.
IcHNEUMONiD^. — Two Specimens of Agrothereutes hopei, dr.,
and one of Pezomachus bellicosus, Foerst., were taken by sweeping
clover. Anomalon cerinops, Gr., Campoplex oxyacanthce, Boie,
Nemeritis macrocentra, Gr., and Banchus moniliatus, Gr. ; a
single specimen of each was captured. Two specimens each of
Tryphon trochanteratus, Hohngr., and Thersilochus jocator, Fab.,
with a solitary female of Polyblastus pinguis, Gr., complete the
list of Ichneumonidse proper. The Braconidse having repre-
sentatives in Meteorus ictericus, Nees, Chasmodon apterus, Nees,
Alysia manducator, Panz., Dapsilarthra apii. Cur., and Ccelinius
niger, Nees, a single type of each being taken. Megaspilus
fuscipes, Nees, Helorus anomalipes, Panz., and Spilomicrus nigri-
clavis. Marsh., representing the Oxyura. The additions to the
Tenthredinidse were two females of the not common Athalia
lugens, Ste., beaten from Clematis vitalba; a solitary female of
Nematus glutinosce, Cam. ; and one of the uncommon Pamphilius
sylvaticus, Klug. The subfamily, Anacharides, being repre-
sented by Anacharis typica and eucharoides, Walker.
DiPTERA. — Amongst those undetermined in my last paper are
the following : — Odontomyia viridula, F., fairly common ; Leptis
tringaria, L. ; Poecilohothrus nohilitatuSf L., very plentiful, hover-
ing round a little running stream of water ; two females of the
very handsome Cynomyia mortuorum, L , were captured, but
with some difficulty, their flight being very rapid ; Pollenia
vespillo, F., Limnia obliterata, F., and Loxocera albiseta, Schrk.,
was fairly numerous ; the delicate little Micropeza corrigiolata, L.,
was abundant, but only to be taken with extreme caution, if one
wished to have perfect specimens ; Trypeta serratula, L., Tephritis
leontodontis, Deg., and Euaresta coiijuncta, were also captured,
but seemed exceedingly scarce ; Lauxania cenea, Fin., and
Parhydra coarcta, Fin., complete my list of captures in Diptera.
Hemiptera. — The seventeen species taken were as follows: —
Two specimens of the not common Sehirus morio, Lin. ; Derophysia
foliacea, Fall. ; Monanthia cardid, Lin.; Salda saltatoria, L., this
species was in numbers, jumping about in the short damp
herbage ; Leptoptei'na dolobratus, L., was very plentiful ; Lygus
pratensis, Fab., common ; Oncoguathus biyiotatus, Fieb., kIso
common; Mtorhinus angulatus, Fieb., fairly plentiful; three
specimens of Globiceps flavomaculatus^ Fab., and two of Cyrtor-
rhinus caricis, Fall., were captured ; while Orthotylus nassatus,
Fab., and Heterotoma merioptera, Latr., were common on the
nettles, &c. ; Psallus sanguineus, Fab., was plentiful on some
dwaif sallows ; a small birch producing Psallus roseus, Fall. ;
while several specimens of P. alnicola, Dougl. & Scott, were
beaten from alders; Plagiognathus viridulus, Fall., was very
plentiful on nettles ; and several specimens of P. roseri, H.-Scfi'.,
were taken on sallows.
CoLEOPTERA. — Although souie twenty-seven species were
ifOTfeS OK THE SYNONYMY OF NOCTUli) MOTHS. 263
obtained, none of them are worthy of particular attention, and I
simply enumerate the species taken. Among the Geodephaga,
Cicindela campestrisy L., was common, and, together with a single
specimen of Pterostichus cupi^eus, L., were the only two representa-
tives of this family. Among the Staphylinidse were Thiasophila
angulata^ Er. ; Homalota atramentaria, Gyll., and H. fungi, Gr. ;
Bolitobius atricapillus, F., B. trinotatus, Er., and B, pygmceus, F. ;
Mycetoporus lucidus, Er., M, lepidus, Gr. ; and Oxyporus rufus, L.:
all from fungus. Stenusflavipes, Steph., and S, similis, Hbst., were
plentiful by sweeping. A dead rabbit producing Choleva tristis,
Pz., and C. chrysomeloides, Pz., and also two specimens of
Hister cadaverinus, E. H. Coccinella hieroglyphica, L., was very
plentiful ; a single specimen of Geotrupes pyrenceiis, Charp,
representing the Scarabaeidae. Helodes livida, F., was common,
as also was Malthinus fasciatus, Fall., and M. punctatus, Fourc. ;
a single specimen of Tillus elongatus, L., was captured flying ;
several specimens of Notoxus monoceroSf L., were taken ; Sitones
lineatus, L., was common, as also Hypera polygoni, L. ; while
Bruchus cistiy F., absolutely swarmed ; and, lastly, Cryptocephalus
fidvus, Goeze, was obtained commonly by sweeping low herbage.
Very many other species might have been taken, but I was not
on Coleoptera bent. The three Orthopterons are as follows : —
Gomphocerous rufus, L., very common ; Tettix hipunctatus, L.,
and T, suhulatus^ L.
NOTES ON THE SYNONYMY OF NOCTUID MOTHS.
By Arthur G. Butler, F.L.S., F.Z.S., &c.
(Continued from p. 242.)
Lithophane lambda,
Noctua lambda, Fabricius, Mant. p. 174 (1787).
Lithophane thaxteri, Grote (see Check List, p. 33, n. 783).
Europe and United States. Coll. B. M.
L. thaxteri is typical L. lambda = riifescens, Men. The
species in Europe varies considerably, both in the definition of
the markings of the upper surface and the colouring of the
under surface. The variety L. soinniculosa = lapponica varies
below from deep reddish to reddish buff; whereas the variety
L. zinckenii is ochraceous, without a tinge of the red colouring.
L. contenta of Grote is extremely close to L. lapidea from
Europe ; but I am not satisfied that they are one and the same
species, although the individuals of L. lapidea show considerable
variation, both as regards pattern and depth of colour.
The Nolaphaninse appear to me to be a superflous group.
AdipsophaneSf which is a synonym of Catabena, Walk., and
S64 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Cramhodes, Guen., appear to me to be only slightly aberrant
Leucaniidae ; whereas Nolaphana is much nearer to Bryophila in
character, as already stated.
Catabena, Walk.
Catahena lineolata.
Catahena lineolata^ Walker, Lep. Het. Suppl. 2, p. 631 (186
Adipsophanes miscellus, Grote (see Check List, p. 33, n. 801).
United States. Coll. B. M.
The Xylininse and Cucullinae appear to me to be allied to
Xylophasia. Cucullia clausa of Walker, which was without any
register-label, and the locality of which was consequently unknown
to Walker, appears to me to be a dwarfed and worn specimen of
Eucalimia absinthii of Europe.
Call^nia, Hubn,
This is quite distinct from Cucullia, the form, length, and
style of coloration of the primaries being entirely different ; the
pattern and character of the larvae also differ considerably.
Callcenia lactucce,
Noctua lactucce, Schiffermiiller, Wien. Verz. p. 74, n. 7.
Cucullia intermedia, Speyer (see Grote's Check List, p. 33,
n. 796).
Europe and United States. Coll. B. M.
I can find absolutely no difference between specimens from
Europe and North America. At first I thought that the New
World insect had rather a longer costal margin, and conse-
quently a more oblique outer margin to the primaries; but
Grote's second specimen does not show this difference.
Xylina spoliata, Walk., Lep. Het. xi. p. 750, is typical Septis
mucens, Hiibn. ; and 'Xylophasia sectilis, Guen., is a dark variety
of the same.
HELIOTHID^.
Heliothis, Ochs,
Heliothis armigera.
Noctua armigera, Hiibn., Noct. pi. 79, fig. 370 (1805-24).
Heliothis pulverosa. Walker, Lep. Het. xi. p. 688, n. 17 (1857).
H, conferta, Walker, I. c, p. 690, n. 21 (1857).
Var. H. umbrosus, Grote, Proc. Ent. Soc. Phil. vol. i. p. 219
(1861-3).
Var. H. succinea, Moore, Proc. Zool. Soc. 1881, p. 443,
Europe, Asia, Africa, America, Australia. Coll. B. M.
This species shows considerable individual variation in size
and coloration. H. umhrosus also differs in pattern, the black
patches on the under surface being very feebly indicated and
narrower. H, succinea is exactly like H. umhrosus, excepting
i
nd
he j
NOTES ON THE SYNONYMY OF NOOTUID MOTHS. 265
that it is considerably smaller. We have a good many of both
forms ; and if H. umbrosus is not distinct, H. succinea must also
be a variety ; there is no character on the upper surface of the
wings to separate either of them. It is possible that the
H. rubrescens and H. separata of Walker may be varieties of
H. armigera. The former appears to be strictly confined to
Australia, but the latter has a wide distribution; there are
specimens in the museum from the Navigator's Islands, Queens-
land, Java, Formosa, Shanghai, Japan, and the Congo. The
pattern of both surfaces in each of these forms differs from that
of typical H, armigera; and, therefore, in the absence of actual
proof of their identity, it is better to permit them to stand as
distinct species.
Heliothis dipsacea,
Noctua dipsacea, Linneus, Syst. Nat. xii. p. 856.
Var. Heliothis adaucta, Butler, Ann. & Mag. Nat. Hist. ser. 5,
vol. i. p. 199 (1878); 111. Typ. Lep. Het. iii. p. 19;
pi. xlv. fig. 4 (1879).
Europe, Amur, Japan. Coll. B. M.
Very variable in size in a large series.
Heliothis scutidlgera.
Heliothis scutuligera, Guenee, Noct. ii. p. 180, n. 932.
H, errans, Walker, Cat. Lep. Het. iii. p. 769 (1865).
South Africa. Coll. B. M.
The species, wrongly identified by Walker with H. spinosce,
H. definienSy and H. punctifera, are nearly allied species, not
belonging to Heliothis.
As Grote suggested (Check List, p. 36, footnote), his
H. nuchalis is not distinct from the European H. scutosa. 1 am
not, however, prepared to say that H, phlogophagus is identical
with //. dipsacea; the latter always has a far less undulated
submarginal pale line on primaries, and a better defined dusky
nebula from reniform spot to inner margin ; it is usually, though
by no means invariably, smaller.
Heliochilus, Grote.
Heliochilus inflatus.
S" Anthoecia inflata, Wallengren, Wien. Ent. Monatschr. iv.
p. 172, n. 60 (1860).
? Perigea albidentina, Walker, Lep. Het. Suppl. 2, p. 680
(1865).
Honolulu {Wllgr.), Florida. Coll. B. M.
In all probability, H. paradoxeus, Grote, will prove to be a
pale form of this species ; at present it holds its place fairly
well, from the absence of intermediate grades to the dark type,
although the pattern is identical in the two forms.
S66 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Leocyma, Guen,
Nearly allied to Pipponay Harvey, of which genus it is
probably the East Indian representative.
Leocyma tibialis,
Bomhyx tibialis, Fabricius, Syst. Ent. p. 578, n. 76 (1775).
Leocyma diance, Guenee, Noct. ii. p. 213, n. 982 (1852).
Chasmina glabra, Walker, Lep. Het. Suppl. 2, p. 636 (1865).
India to Australia. Coll. B. M.
The genus Thiganusa, Walk., will take as its type Leocyma
apollinis, Guen., == T, euproctisoides. Walk., Lep. Het. Suppl. 3,
p. 979 (1865). Walker places the genus in the Ophiusidae ; but
although Guenee was wrong in confounding it with the other
species which he placed in Leocyma, it was a little nearer the
mark than where Walker placed it. The genus should be placed
near to Xanthodes = Acontia true.
Leocyma judicata,
Acontia judicata. Walker, Lep. Het. xv. p. 1760 (1858).
Chasmina linea, Hampson, 111. Typ. Lep. Het. viii. p.
pi. cxlv. fig. 3 (1891).
India (Nilgiris). Types in Coll. B. M.
(To be continued.)
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
CiDARiA RETICULATA VARIETY. — This seasoQ I have bred a fine large
specimen of the above. The centre of the fore wings black ; the elliptical
mark is only visible by a strong glass. I cannot describe it ; it looks like
an eclipse, with such an almost imaginary tracing of the mark which is so
conspicuous on the ordinary form. — J. B. Hodgkinson.
Satyrus ianira, var. — At Morthoe, North Devon, on August 10th,
I took a " bleached " male Satyrus ianira, having about three-quarters of
the right hind wing (upper and under surface) almost colourless. — G.
Renshaw; Sale Bridge House, Sale.
Variety of Lyc^na cortdon. — Whilst butterfly-hunting near East-
bourne on the 5th of September last, I captured a curious variety of the
female of Lycana corydon. Both the anterior and posterior wings possess
the usual discoidal spot and marginal band of eye-like spots on the under
surface ; the colour, however, of the anterior wings is whitish, like the normal
colour of the under side in the male, and only three black spots — the lower
ones of those composing the usual row of seven — are visible. The posterior
wings are of a brownish colour streaked with white, and the only other
marking, besides the discoidal spot and marginal band, is the white sub-
median blotch. A somewhat similar variety is recorded from Lulworth,
Dorsetshire, by Mr. Alfred T. Stiff (Entom. xxii. 160). -— H. D. Sykes ;
Tlie Cedars, Enfield, Oct. 11, 1891.
I
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 267
Note on Lyc^nid^. — At the sand-hills near Lytham, in Lancashire,
on September 12th of this year, I took a dwarf male LyccBna icarus ; also,
a few days afterwards, a male Lyccsna adonis in good condition. Is not
this rather northerly as a locality for the dwarf butterfly, and also for L.
adonis ? — G. Renshaw ; Sale Bridge House, Sale, near Manchester.
Effect of Ammonia on the Ova of Lepidoptera. — Some ova of
Pericallia syringaria, deposited July 18th, were accidentally placed in the
ammonia-jar, where they remained four hours. This treatment destroyed
the vitality of about half the number ; the others hatched out on Aug. 4th,
but all the larvae died in their second moult. On a previous occasion a
batch of the eggs of Hadena oleracea were deposited with some moths in
the lethal chamber, and at the end of one hour removed therefrom. The
moths were then dead, of course ; but the eggs were not destroyed, as they
produced larvae in due course; but, as these were turned adrift to forage
for themselves, the effect of the ammonia, if any, upon them is not known.
— Richard South ; 12, Abbey Gardens, St. John's Wood, N.W.
Effect of Cyanide of Potassium on the colour of Gonopteryx
rhamni. — I noticed in the • Proceedings of the Entomologic^U Society,*
May 1st, 1871 (quoted in Entom. for 1871, p. 323) a statement concerning
a variety of Gonopteryx rhamni, to the effect that *' Mr. Janson said he had
noticed that yellow insects killed by cyanide of potassium became red." —
R. M. Prideaux.
PuPiE WANTED FOR TEMPERATURE EXPERIMENTS. — I am greatly in
want of a number of pupae of British Lepidoptera for the purpose of
carrying out some experiments on the result of change of temperature upon
their emergence during an approaching voyage to the tropics, and shall be
much obliged if any of my old correspondents or others will kindly supply
me with some. My wish is to get as great a variety as possible, and the
commonest species will be acceptable. They should be sent to the address
below not later than the middle of November, and forwarded in common
boxes that will not require to be returned, as my time is limited. Their
receipt will be promptly acknowledged. — Gervase F. Mathew (Fleet Pay-
master); H.M.S. * Tyne,' Chatham.
Acronycta alni Larva near Manchester. — In case Sale, about six
miles from Manchester, has not been recorded for Acronycta alni, I may
mention that one August I took a larva from an alder tree in a friend's
garden. — G. Renshaw ; Sale Bridge House, Sale.
Larva of Acronycta alni at Clifton. — Whilst beating maple for
Ephyra omicronaria larvae, here in July last, down came a tiny larva of
Acronycta alni into the tray. It is so marvellously like a bird-dropping in
this stage that, unless previously known, it might be excusable to pass it
over as such. After feeding and growing well for some time, it finally
died, for no apparent reason, but I was able to preserve the skin by
inflation. — R. M. Prideaux ; 9, Vyvyan Terrace, Clifton, Bristol.
Pupation of Acronycta alni. — Mr. W. H. Livett, in referring to the
larva of Acronycta alni (Entom. 245), mentions it having turned to a pupa
in a slight web. Is this an occasional or a frequent custom? In 1889
I found two larvae in this district, one on the horse-chestnut, the other on a
beech tree. Finding, from Newman, that this larva also bored into stems for
pupation, I placed some stems of the chestnut, about the size of one's
finger, when they appeared ready for pupation. It was very interesting
968 THE ENTOMOLOGISt.
watching them excavate the stems from the ends; one, unfortunately,
being stung, died before it had finished ; but the other, having bored far
enough in, reversed itself, sealing up the entrance with a fine web and
particles of the pith it had thrown out, and emerged the following season a
beautiful specimen. — T. B. Jefferys ; Cirencester, Oct, 2, 1891.
PhIBALAPTERYX LAPIDATA, &C., IN STIRLINGSHIRE. On Sept. 13th
of last year I succeeded in getting five specimens of this rather local insect
on some marshy ground near Fintry, Stirlingshire. This year I was
unfortunately prevented from visiting the locality until the 19th, when
I went over the ground along with a friend. We found the moths fairly
plentiful, but nearly all in a more or less wasted condition. We will,
however, get a very fair series each from our captures. When at rest on
the rushes, P. lapidata bears a very striking resemblance to a large pug.
Amongst other things netted during the day were — Larentia ccesiata,
Chesias spartiata, Celcena haworthii (in great abundance), Hydrcecia nicti-
tans, CharcBas graminis, Tapinostola fulva, &c. During the past season
I have taken in the same district — Enmelesia ericetata, Carsia imbutata ,
Agrotis lucernea, Plusia bractea, P.festucm, &c. — E. G. Eggleton; Glas-
gow, Sept. 22, 1891.
Notes from Rotherham. — The season up to the middle of September
has been, I think, one of the worst ever experienced in this district.
Sugar has to a very large extent been a failure; several nights the sugared
trees produced nothing at all, others a few solitary Triphmna pronuba
came, and a few other common things ; two nights in late June were fairly
good, when Thyatira batis and T. derasa came freely. The weather during
the day seemed all you could wish, wind S.W. and a nice breeze promising
well ; but as soon as the sun went down the wind dropped, and a heavy dew
came on, making it unpleasant to get about, and insects do not fly much when
there is a heavy dew. Larvae have also been very scarce, compared with
some years ; very irregular as to size, and for the most part badly " stung."
Out of forty-five TriphcBna fimbria, only nineteen produced pupa, and other
things were almost as bad. The best find this year was Xanthia citrago ;
after working for years for this insect, some seasons getting one or two only,
I this year, quite by accident as it were, stumbled across the larva in almost
any quantity. — John A. Young ; 85, Fitzwilliam Road, Rotherham.
Sphinx convglvulc at Ripon. — On Sept. 25th I had brought to me a
fine specimen of 8. convolvuli, found at rest in a garden in the centre of
the town. As far as T am aware, this is only the fourth appearance of
the species in this neighbourhood. — C. Chapman ; Museum, Park Street,
Ripon.
Note on the Second Brood of Cidaria truncata. — At the end of
June I captured a female C. truncata [russata), and she deposited a small
batch of ova, which hatched July 20th. The larvae fed up rapidly on sallow,
and were all full-grown by the end of Au^^ust. The first imago emerged on
the ISth September ; sixteen others followed, the last emerging on the
6th October. — Wm. Newman; 21, Russell Street, Darlington.
Note on the Pairing of Amphipyra tragopogonis. — On Sunday
morning last (October 4th) a friend of mine found a pair of insects in cop.,
which were brought to me for identification, and found to be Amphipyra
tragopogonis ; they remained coupled until noon on Monday. Some time
I
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 369
during the afternoon of that day they separated, and the female deposited a
few ova. I placed the box on one side, intending to take out the insects
when a few more ova were laid. On Wednesday I looked at them, and was
very much surprised to find that they had coupled again. Since the second
coupling the female has laid about 150 to 200 eggs. Is it not unusual for
the same pair of insects to coplulate twice? — J. N. Young ; 85, Fitzwilliam
Road, Rotherham.
Larva of Odontoptera bidentata. — I should like to suggest that
the larva mentioned by Mr. Christy (Entom. 246) is probably that of
Odontoptera bidentata, as I have known larvae of this species vary much in
the direction of that which he describes. It is certainly a disappointment
to breed nothing but a typical 0. bidentata from such a striking creature. —
R. M. Prideaux.
Note on Hesperta thaumas. — Newman, in his ' Natural History of
British Butterflies,' speaking of Hesperia thaumas (linea), says: — "It . . .
has mysteriously disappeared from many places where it was formerly
common." A particularly striking instance of this has come under my
notice lately. I discovered H. thaumas in a field here in 1888 ; it was
then extremely abundant : it was equally common at the end of June and
the beginning of July in 1889, but for the last two years I have not turned
up a solitary specimen, although I have frequently visited the locality. I
have caught H. sylvanus, which I discovered there at the same time, every
year. This disappearance of H. thaumas is to me quite unaccountable :
I certainly have not exterminated it, as I did not take more than thirty or
forty specimens altogether. — Henry D. Sykes : The Cedars, Enfield,
Middlesex, Sept. 14, 1891.
Larva of Hadena pist. — ^I have had two larvae of Hadenapisi, which
were found feeding on the common bracken in South Wales ; they will also
feed on Aspidium filix-mas, and I have seen this larva also on dwarf
sallows, but cannot certify they feed thereon. — T. B. Jefferys.
Notes on some Lepidoptera in York Di^TBXGi.—Nudaria senex. —
This insect, like Phibalapteryx lignata, has not been so numerous with us
of late years (and doubtless from the same cause). The evenings on which
I have found it most abundant are those ushered in by a good shower of
rain, especially if there be a slight mist rising from the ground. It is
easily taken, as it flies slowly over the tops of the reeds, grasses, &c., or
ascending the grass-stems. It does not long remain in good condition,
and unfortunately, like many other species, flies most abundantly when
getting worn. After its flight, which lasts but a short time, it may be
taken not uncommonly at rest on the sedges. On a favourable evening
from 40 to 50 or 00 specimens may be taken before dark by one collector.
Orthosia smpecta at York, season 1891. — This local species (which was
first discovered at York by Mr. T. H. Allis in 1855) has been taken here
this season in considerable numbers, and has been unusually common, as
many as 1000 specimens having been taken on one night. In fact, I can
without hesitation affirm that, during the eleven years I have collected
Lepidoptera, I have never seen any species to equal it in numbers, as it
even exceeded such species as Xylophasia polyodon, Apamea oculea, Agrotis
exclamationis, A. segetum, Calymina trapezina, or Triphcsna pronuba^ which
in favourable seasons are about the commonest Noctuae at sugar. From
ENTOM. — NOV. 1891, ^A
S70 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
amongst a great number that T have had to select from, I have picked out
some very beautiful, and in many instances striking, varieties, of which
about fifty of the best now adorn my collection. These vary from light and
dark grey to various shades of brown, and to a very dark form, almost black.
To fully and accurately define the many different shades of red met with
in a large selected series of this species would tax the ability of a specialist in
colours ; a few examples are beautifully mottled. It would have been possible
for anyone to have taken a fair number each evening from off the trees which
had been sugared the previous night. I frequently counted three or four
on the trees when renewing the sugar ; some of these found their way into
the treacle-pot, and helped to thicken the mixture. It was a difficult
matter to box a single specimen at a patch, as two, three, or more would
drop in at the same time. As a rule, those specimens which dropped
into the net from off the patches, unless specialities (by which I mean
varieties), were set at liberty, as I found it best and quickest to select them
from off the trees. I am glad to state that, after sacrificing many female
specimens, I succeeded in obtaining fertile ova from two, viz., sixty from
one, and twenty from the other, and that next year I hope to see a full and
detailed description of the larva (which I understand has not, so far, been
described) in the pages of the * Entomologist.'
Plusia festuccB. — This handsome species occurs pretty freely at York,
and may be taken, in company with P. chrysitls, P. iota, and P. pulchrina,
flying over the flowers of the ragged robin, to which it seems especially
partial. I have found the chrysalis attached to the sedges and to the leaves
of the gale; it requires a smart, quick stroke with the net to catch P.
festuccB, as, if once missed, it does not often give its would-be captor another
chance. The females are darker, smaller, and usually quieter, when in the
net, than the males. The second brood does not occur with us at York.
It is not unusual for a collector to take from 20 to 25 specimens before dark.
Geometra papilionaria. — This remarkably fine species occurs with us
some seasons not uncommonly. It is generally taken in the imago state,
and flies some eight feet from the ground; it is not a difficult species to
net, and a very pleasant one to box. With regard to the question now on
the tapis as to its hour of flight : from my experience with this species, and
as the result of conversation with other entomologists who have taken it in
greater numbers than myself (and I have taken a good many), I unhesitatingly
affirm that the best time to catch G. papilionaria is about 11 p.m., or from
that to midnight, and then again just before dawn, at both of which times
it occurs more commonly than at dusk, although of course I have taken
odd specimens then, and indeed all through the night. When at rest upon
a birch-leaf or grass-stalk, it requires a practised eye to detect it. The
larvae, too, bear a wonderful resemblance to the stalk of the birch-leaves on
which they feed ; the young larvae seem to prefer the buds to the open
leaves, and thus kill the twig on which they feed.
Collix sparsata has never been known to occur here in anything like
the numbers that it appeared this season. It simply swarmed. I never
remember having seen any Georaetrae so common before ; the only species that
vie with it in number are Ypsipetes elutata, Melanippe suhtristata, Lareniia
didymata, Melanthia rubiginata, and Epione vespertaria: some of the
specimens taken were almost black. It would have been possible for a
collector to have taken 100 specimens, or even more, before dark. It
usually flies low in the rides of the wood in which it occurs. The flowers
of the buckthorn seem to be especially attractive to it. Its flight does not
i
NOTlfiS, CAl>TtJRES, ETC. 271
last long, and it is a species which soon becomes worn. The larvae are of
a pale greenish colour, and are found in August on Lysimachia vulgaris^
the handsome yellow flowers of which are very conspicuous in the locality
where C. sparsata occurs ; they pupate amongst dead leaves.
Phihalapteryx lignata. — This insect has been fairly common with us
this year, although in nothing like its former numbers of some five to six
years ago. The improved drainage of the ground on which it occurs seems
to have diminished its numbers considerably. As is doubtless well known,
it is a double-brooded species, the first brood appearing here about the 8th
or 10th of June, and it may be taken from that date till the end of the
month. The best night I had with P. lignata this season was on June ^Oth
last, when I took some fifty specimens, including one very dark example;
and, with the exception of two or three Cabera pusaria, it appeared to be
the only insect on the wing ; the night was cold and clear, with the wind
due east. The second brood, which are smaller and darker than the first,
appear about September 6th, and I have taken it from that date till the
end of the month ; it does not then occur so numerously as in June. It is
one of those species that is seldom met with in any numbers in first-class
condition. Take P. lignata when you may, there is sure to be a large
percentage of more or less worn specimens. — William Hewett ; 12,
Howard Street, York.
A Day among the " Buttons." — Many years ago I promised myself,
in the then future, an excursion to the New Forest in search of varieties o.^
Peronea cristana, but until the present season I have been unable to spare
time when they would be at their best in point of condition. Mr. Bond
used to say, the greater part of his long and varied series was the result of
one expedition, and visions of what I might also capture almost haunted
me when I was "hot " on Tortrices. It was then with much pleasure that
I lately received an invitation from Mr. Meek (who has taken up his
residence at Brockenhurst) to join him in hunting up the head-quirters of
the species in his locality. With most perfect weather in our favour, we
were able to secure a fine assortment of varied forms. The principal of
these were hrunneana, ustulana, spadiceana (with and without a vitta),
sericana, desfontainana, bentleyana, cristalana, striana, cristana, subvittana,
alboflammeana, chantana, fulvovittana, albovlttana, and several others new
to me, including one with the whole wing and tuft of a uniform blue-black.
Master Willy Meek worked hke a Trojan, and secured almost as many
specimens as his father. I was not so fortunate, nor was the fourth net of
our party. There is a charm about *' buttoning " that can only be appre-
ciated by the variety collector, and each specimen missed is regretted more
than would otherwise be the case, for it is of course impossible to tell what
variety the beating-stick may next disturb from the bushes ; but it is hard
work, as the stilfness of my arms testified next morning. Mr. Meek tells
me it has always been a day-dream of his, to retire from business to some
good centre for collecting, where he could not only enjoy his favourite
pursuit, but have a crust of bread and cheese to give an old friend or
passing brother collector. Certainly he treated me very much more hand-
somely, and upon my leaving presented me with all the specimens taken
during my stay ; these included not only the ** buttons," but about a score
of Sarothripa revayana and Leptogramma literana, and a variety of smaller
things, such as Corisciuin brongalardellum and G. citrinella. — Sydney
Webb ; Dover.
27S TflE teNT0MOLO(ilS±.
FoRTHCOMiNa Works on British Entomology. — Messrs. L. Reeve
& Co. announce that they are about to bring out a new work on * The
Lepidoptera of the British Islands,' by Charles G. Barrett. It is proposed
to publish two editions, one on large paper, with hand-coloured plates, the
other on small paper in volumes. The same publishers have also in hand
* The Hemiptera-Heteroptera of the British Islands,' by Edward Saunders.
This will be issued in eight parts, with coloured plates. — Ed.
Entomological Pins. — We have received the following letter from
Messrs. Kirby, Beard & Co. (Limited): — "We notice in the September
number of the ' Entomologist' you make a few remarks with regard to the
difficulty of procuring really good, strong, well-pointed, black, entomological
pins. We quite agree with all you say, and admit that, owing to the
fineness of the wire, it is very difficult to obtain really good points, and for
the same cause there is great liability of the pins becoming soft during the
process of enamelling. But we wish to state that we have at length suc-
ceeded in producing a pin which we think has all the qualities you suggest,
and which should answer all requirements ; it is made of steel, so cannot
bend, and does not produce verdigris, and, having a needle-point, will
penetrate any reasonable substance ; whilst, being enamelled black, it has
all the appearance of the ordinary brass one. So, far, we have only made
these pins in the larger or continental sizes, as the demand has not been
sufficient to enable us to produce the smaller sizes ; we think, however, it
is only owing to the fact of their not being sufficiently well known, and so
should be glad if you will kindly find space for this letter in your next issue."
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — October 1th, 1891. — Dr. David
Sharp, F.R.S., Vice-President, in the chair. The Chairman referred to
the death, on the 14th September last, of Mr. E. W. Janson, who had been
a Member of the Society since 1843, and who had formerly filled the offices
of Secretary and Librarian respectively. The E-ev. Dr. Walker exhibited
a long series of several species of Erebla, and of Argynnis pales, which he
had recently captured near Roldal, in Norway. Mr. W. L. Distant
exhibited specimens of Danais chrysippus, with its two varietal forms,
alcippus, Cram., and dorippus, Klug., all which he found together in the
Pretoria district of the Transvaal. Mr. Jenner Weir, Colonel Swinhoe,
and Mr. Distant took part in the discussion which ensued as to these
forms and their distribution. The Rev. W. F. Johnson sent for exhibition
specimens of Velia currens from stagnant water near Armagh ; also a
specimen of Nabis limbatus, killed whilst holding on to its prey, a very hard
species of Ichneumon. Mr. Saunders thought that, from the nature of the
Ichneumon, the only chance the Nabis had of reaching its internal juices
would be through the anal opening, as recorded by Mr. E. A. Butler in a
similar case, in the Ent. Mo. Mag. Oct. 1891. Mr. F. P. Pascoe exhibited
two British species of Diptera, unnamed. He said they had been submitted
to Mr. R. H. Meade, but were unknown to him, and are probably new to
the British list. Mr. R. Adkin exhibited two specimens of a supposed new
species of Tortrix (Tortrix donelana, Carpenter), bred from larvae found on
pine trees at Tuam. Mr. C. G. Barrett said he examined the specimens
i
SOCIETIES. 2t8
with great care, but he did not consider that they belonged to a new species.
He was unable to distinguish them from Tortrix viburnana. Mons. A.
Wailly exhibited preserved larvae, in various stages, of Oitheronia regalis,
which he had bred from ova received from Iowa, United States. He said
that the natives called this larva the Hickory Horned Devil, and that the
specimens exhibited were the first that had been bred in this country.
Mons. Wailly further exhibited three female specimens of Anihercea yama-
mai bred from cocoons received from Japan ; also a nest of cocoons of
Bomhyx radaina, received from the west coast of Madagascar. Prof. J. B.
Smith, of the United States, and Col. Swinhoe took part in a discussion on
the habits of the larvse of Citheronia regalis, and as to the period at which
they dropped their spines prior to pupating. Dr. Sharp exhibited several
specimens of a weevil, Ectopsisfer rug alls, the ends of the elytra of which
bore a close resemblance to the section of a twig cut with a sharp knife.
He said he had received the specimens from Mr. G. V. Hudson, of
Wellington, New Zealand, who stated that they were found resting in large
numbers on dead trunks and branches of Panax arhorea in the forests.
Mr. G. C. Champion stated that the species of Forjiculidm, captured by
Mr. J. J. Walker, R.N., in Tasmania, and exhibited by himself at the
meeting of the Society in April last, was, he believed, referable toAnisolabis
tasmanica, Bormans, described in the * Comptes Rendus ' of the Ent. Soc.
Belgique, 1880, p. Ixviii. The Rev. A. E. Eaton made some remarks on
the synonymy of the Psychodidce, and stated that since August, 1890, he
had identified all of the British species in Mr. Verrall's list, except Sycorax
silacea. Mr. Gervase F. Mathew, R.N., communicated a paper entitled
" The Effect of Change of CUmate upon theEmergence of certain species
of Lepidoptera." A discussion followed, in which Mr. Stainton, Mr. Barrett,
Dr. Sharp, and Mr. M'Lachlan took part. — H. Goss, Hon. Sec.
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
Sept. 24th, 1891, W. H. Tugwell, Esq., Ph.C, President, in the chair.
Mr. South referred to Mr. Weir's remarks, at the previous meeting, on
specimens of Arctia caia, L., with black antennae, and exhibited two speci-
mens from Mr. Leach's collection, — one English, the other from Japan,
both having blackish antennae. Mr. Tugwell also exhibited two examples
from his series. Mr. C. G. Barrett pointed out that in none of the speci-
mens did he consider the antennae could be described as black. Mr. D. J.
H. Carpenter exhibited very blue female forms of Lyccena icarus, Rott., from
Sussex. Mr. Barker, a specimen of Leucania albipuncta, H., taken at
Folkestone during August. Mr. Jenner Weir, a specimen of Bombyx mori,
L., bred from a cocoon found by him on a mulberry tree in his garden at
Beckenham, and stated that, although he had made every possible enquiry,
he could not learn that anyone in the neighbourhood had been rearing the
species. Mr. Tugwell and Mr. South both remarked on the wings of the
specimen being fully developed, Mr. South adding that in Japan there
were two forms of the species, a domestic one and a wild one, and it was
possible that some one might have been rearing this wild form. Mr.
Tugwell, specimens of Epinephile tithonus, L., with three distinct ocelli
on each of the superior wings. Mr. Tutt remarked that he had recently
recorded this form. Mr. Frohawk had noticed it at Chattenden, Mr.
Carrington in Essex, Mr. Hawes had received it from Devon and Norfolk,
Mr. Briggs had taken it at Wandsworth and Wimbledon. Mr. C. J. Barrett
said that although he had examined large numbers of the species lu
274 THE ENTOMOLOGIST*
Pembrokeshire, he had never found any specimens so strongly marked as
were those of Mr. Tugwell. Mr. R. Ad kin exhibited species bred from
larvae received from Forres, together with southern examples, for comparison,
and made remarks thereon ; he also exhibited a specimen of Cabera pusaria,
L., in which the first and central lines were very close together, a feature
regarded as indicating the form C. rotundaria, Haw.; and some observations
were made relative to this last exhibit, reference being made by Mr. C. G.
Barrett to the series bred by Mr. Atmore, in which he had got every inter-
mediate form between the two, one specimen being pusaria on one side and
rotundaria on the other. Mr. C. Fenn exhibited Calymnia diffinis, L.,
varieties of Agrotis exclamationis, L., Dasypolia templi, Thnb., a very small
dwarf form of Melanippe fluctuata, L., and a long bred series of Cidaria truri'
cata, Hiibn., with the three parent females, and remarked that all the ova were
laid within a few days of each other, but there was an interval of seven
weeks between the emergence of the first and last specimens, while a portion
of one brood was now preparing to hibernate. Some discussion took place
on the characteristic distinctions between this species and C.immanata, Haw.
Mr. J. R. Billups, a specimen of Deilephila capensis, one of three said to
have been captured at sea, 472 miles from land. Mr. C. A. Briggs, two
varieties of Melitcea aurinia, Rott. Mr. Carrington, the so-called Grouse
Fly {Ornithomyia avicularia, L.), and remarked that this winged parasite
was not confined to grouse, being found on partridges, woodpeckers, starhngs,
rooks, and many other birds. Mr. H. Moore, a series of both the red, and
blue-winged forms of (Edipoda fasciata, Fisch., from Trocadero, near Cadiz,
and remarked that the species was very conspicuous on the wing, but when
at rest was difficult to detect, owing to their resemblance to the soil. Mr.
Jenner Weir made some remarks upon this exhibit. Mr. Carrington made
some observations on a visit to Skegness. Mr. E. Step read a list of Fungi
noted at the Society's outing to Ashstead on the 19 th inst.
Oct. Sth. — The President in the chair. Mr. Walter Smith, of Ted-
dington, was elected a member. Mr. Tugwell exhibited Agrotis agathina,
Dup., and A. strigula, Thnb., southern and northern forms ; also Noctua
castanea, Esp., from Perthshire, and the var. neglecta, Hb., from the New
Forest, Hants. Mr. Tugwell, on behalf of Mr. Boden, exhibited a specimen
of Prodenia littoralis, Boisd., bred from a tomato ; the pupa-case was also
shown. Mr. South remarked that the species was fairly common in India,
Mr. Jager, Callimorpha hera, L., and var. lutescens, L., bred from ova;
also Agrotis ripce, Hb., bred from larvae taken on the Essex coast ; some of
the specimens were very light. Mr. West, a variety of Catocala 7iupta, L.,
taken at Streatham, having the inferior wings streaked with yellow. Mr.
H. J. Turner, ZygcBna meliloti, Esp., from the New Forest, taken this
season, and Xylophasia rno7ioglypha, Hufn., from the North. Mr. A.
Robinson, a long and varied series of Nonagria cannm, Och., taken by
himself and Mr. Bird in Norfolk ; Mr. Robinson remarked on some of the
specimens, which were very dark. Mr. C. G. Barrett said the specimens
were different from any he had seen from Norfolk. Mr. R. Adkin, Sesia
musciformis, View., from the Isle of Man and Cornwall, and remarked that
those from the former locality appeared to be more robust and more densely
clothed with scales than the Cornish specimens. Mr. Adkin also exhibited
a male and female specimen of a Tortrix, bred from larvae feeding among
the needles of a shoot of Scotch fir that he had received from Tuam,
Co. Galway, and which had been described and figured from specimens
reared in 1890 under the name of Tortrix donelana by Mr. G. H. Carpenter
SOCIETIES, S76
(Scien. Proc. R. Dublin Soc. vol. vii. p. 2), and read notes, in the course of
which he mentioned that the imago appeared to bear a strong resemblance
to T. viburnana, Fb. ; and the larvae also were very similar. Mr. C. G.
Barrett also exhibited specimens of this Tortrix, and of T. viburnana, and
remarked that in his opinion the so-called donelana were small specimens
of T. viburnana. Mr. Tutt said he considered the species to be Tortrix
steineriana, var. dohrniana, of which he had received a series from Herr
Hoffman. Mr. Short exhibited long and varied series of Noctua xantJio-
' grapha, Fb., from Hampstead and Folkestone, together with other species
from the last-named locality.
Oct. 2^nd. — The President in the chair. This was a special meeting
for the purpose of considering the amendments to the new Bye-Laws
proposed by the Council. Among the more important amendments was
one by Mr. Watson and Mr. Winkley to change the name of the Society to
the London Natural History Society, the reason being that, although
founded as a local Society, it could not now be said to be such, as out of
close upon 250 members not quite 100 could be described as South London
men. This was opposed, on the ground that the Society was well known
by its present name, and a change might not be desirable ; the amend-
ment was not carried. Mr. Turner, in introducing an amendment to add
to the objects of the Society " the compilation of a Fauna and Flora of the S.
Eastern Counties," said this work had long been undertaken by the Society,
a considerable amount of money expended, and a quantity of material got
together, and yet the Committee appointed in 1885 had let the matter drop.
The Treasurer said that recently considerable misrepresentation and some
erroneous statements had been made with reference to this matter, the true
facts being that three members of the Committee, who really brought the
matter forward in 1885, had given £11 for the preliminary expenses, for
the purpose of seeing whether it was possible to publish such a work ;
£10 10s. of this had been spent on the preparation and issuing of a circular,
map of the district, and directions for preparing local lists. The Secretary
said that after several hundreds of these documents had been issued, he had
received five lists, one relating to Mollusca, two to Ornithology, and two to
Lepidoptera; the Committee therefore had not seen their way to proceed with
the proposed work. The Council proposed some alterations as to the mode of
nominating and electing officers, and Mr. Turner proposed an amendment,
which was supported by Messrs. Tutt, Hodges, Fenn, and others, the drift
of their remarks being that if the Council's suggestions were adopted, the
Council would become a close body. Messrs. Adkin, Carrington, Hall, and
others spoke against the amendment, to tbe effect that the arguments brought
forward in support thereof were entirely misleading, as the Council's propo-
sitions were usual in all other Scientific Societies, and, if adopted, would
simply give the Council power to nominate officers for the ensuing year, and
so ensure sufficient nominations; if the Society's nominees were objected
to, members had the right to make other nominations, and all the officers
had to be elected, two ordinary members of the Council not being eligible
for re-election within twelve months. The amendment was not carried.
Some of the other changes are, that the President shall hold office for
one year only, and the annual subscription of future country members to be
5s. The adoption of the Bye-Laws in place of the old Rules was moved
by Mr. Barrett, and seconded by Mr. Hall ; and the meeting closed with
votes of thanks to Mr. Barrett for introducing the Bye-Laws to the Meeting,
and to Mr. Briggs for drafting them. — H. W. Barker, Hon. Sec.
276 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Lancashire and Cheshire Entomological Society. — October l^th,
1891.— The Rev. H. H. Higgins, Vice-President, in the chair. Mr. C. E.
Stott read a paper entitled "Notes on Celosna haworthii" in which he
described the haunts of this species, cautioning the would-be captor of the
necessity of very gently approaching the heather on which the insect rests,
otherwise it would take fright and drop to the roots, from which it is almost
impossible to extricate it. The author then gave a short history of its
earlier stages, and concluded by describing the different local varieties.
The paper was illustrated by specimens of the species. Mr. J. Collins read
" A few Remarks on Aplecta nebulosa" stating he had bred five melanic
forms from Delamere, for which he proposed the varietal name of robsoni,
in honour of the well-known entomologist, Mr. J. E. Robson, of Hartlepool.
Mr. Collins exhibited the five specimens, with others bred at the same time.
The Secretary read a communication from Mr. J. W. Tutt, who wrote that
the specimens of Tortrix donelana exhibited at the last meeting had, at the
meeting of the South Loudon Entomological Society, been stated to be T.
steineriana var. dohrniana, and that the name donelana would therefore fall
to the ground. But it was pointed out that donelana had already been
referred to steineriana, but incorrectlv so. Mr. Townsing showed a re-
markable gynaiidroraorphous specimen of Orgyia antiqua, the head of which
possessed the male structure, while the body was that of the female ; Mr.
Harker a variety of Vanessa io, the ground-colour of which was fulvous
brown, apparently owing to the thinness of the scales; Mr. Gregson a
very variable series of Dianthcecia conspersa, including the melanic form ;
Messrs. Townsing and Prince some dark forms of Abraxas grossulariata ;
and Mr. Pierce (the Secretary) Retinla rednana and their resinous nodules
from the fir trees. — P. N. Pierce, Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — Sept. ^Ist, 1891. — Mr. R. C.
Bradley in the chair. Mr. P. W. Abbott showed Tmniocampa opima and
T. gracilis, and Nyssia zonaria from Wallasey ; also Argynnis paphia var.
valesina from the New ForC'^t. Mr. G. W. Wynn showed Sesia cuUciformis
from Wyre Forest. Mr. W. Harrison showed a bred series of Selidosema
ericetaria from the New Forest. Mr. R. C. Bradley showed four specimens
of Pteropcecllia lamed from Sutton, which he said Mr. Verrallhad confirmed.
Mr. C. J. Wainwright showed Plusia orlchalcea and Arctophila musitorus
from N. Cornwall. Mr. W. Harrison showed a box of beautifully preserved
larvae. He had managed to retain the green colours in Saturnia carpini
and others by inflating them and allowing them to dry naturally in cool
air, which takes about twenty minutes only.
Oct. hth.—Uv. W. G. Blatch, President, in the chair. Mr. R. C. Bradley
showed a long series of Spilographa zoe from Moseley. This species is
usually found singly, but Mr. Bradley succeeded in taking it freely from
the under sides of leaves at Moseley. Mr. G. W. Wynn showed a box full
of large American Borabyces ; also Xylophasia hepatica, which he had bred
from pupae found underneath the bark of poplars at Gleeve Prior ; they
were in cocoons and situations which exactly resembled those of Acronycta
megacephala. Mr. W. Harrison showed Papilio machaon from Wickon.
Mr. W. G. Blatch showed the following beetles : — Homalota crassicornis,
from Bewdley ; Oxytelus fulvipes, Henoticus serratus (a series), Micropeplus
tesserula (a series), and Lampronia luzella, all from Knowle. — C. J. Wain-
wright, Hon. Sec.
1
ETitoTnologist.Dec.1891.
Plate 5.
♦ West.KewmaxL lith.
Argyrolepia Tn£uritiTna.Tia, Gvuen..
THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Vol. XXIV.] DECEMBER, 1891. [No. 848.
EARLY STAGES OF ARGYROLEPIA MARITIMANA, Guen.
By George Elisha, F.E.S.
Plate V.
The egg is, no doubt, laid in the flower-heads of the sea-
holly {Eryngium maritimum) , (fig. 1), and occasionally in the
strong flowering side-shoots, about the first week in July, for
I have observed traces of the operations of the larva towards the
end of the month in a slight discoloration, which gradually
extends as the larva works downwards in the stem, till the whole
of the immature flower-head becomes withered and brown.
The larva, in many cases, on arriving at the first joint, eats
its way out, and crawling down the stem bores a fresh hole under
the first joint above the surface of the sand, gradually working
its way in and down towards the soft fleshy root (fig. 5 a) ; others
mine from the flower-head through the whole length of the stem,
which is filled with frass as the larva proceeds. They are all
down in the roots by about the beginning of September, and
continue mining some considerable distance, in many cases to a
depth of six or eight inches below the surface of the sand.
About the first week in October they are getting full grown,
and this is about the best time to collect them, for if taken
earlier the difficulty of rearing them is so great that it is sheer
waste of time to take them, to say nothing of the useless
destruction of such a very local species.
The larva (fig. 2) is white, inclining to yellowish, rather trans-
parent looking, with brown head and black spiracles, emitting short
hairs, and is about three-quarters of an inch when full grown ; it
eats out the whole of the interior portion of the soft root, leaving
only a thin shell or skin, and remaining in the larva state till the
end of March, when they are found working their way up to the
top of the root, where they hollow out a sort of chamber ; and to-
wards the beginning of May change to the pupa state (figs. 6, 7).
ENTOM. — DEC. 1891. S B
278 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
The perfect insect (fig. 3) emerges about the second week in
June, leaving the pupa-case sticking out of the crown of the root
(fig. 4). They appear very sluggish, crawling to the top of the
stems and remaining in the same position for a day or two ; if
disturbed they seldom attempt to fly, but run about on the surface
of the sand, up another stem, and settle down quietly. The larvae
are very subject to ichneumons, of which considerably more are
bred than moths ; the name of this parasite, I am informed by Mr.
Bridgman, of Norwich, is Glypta ruhicunda, n. sp., a species of
Ichneumonidse new to science.
I have found the larvae on various parts of the Essex coast,
where the food-plant was growing, and have searched well along
the coast from Deal to Sandwich (its old locality), but the
Eryngium seems to have almost disappeared from that particular
spot, so that my search there has proved fruitless.
In collecting these larvae it is most important to get up the long
pipe-like roots (fig. 5), without injuring the mined portion, with
about two or three inches of sound root beyond the mine for the
larva to continue feeding in till it is full grown. The roots are
very brittle, about the size of an ordinary lead-pencil, some
slightly larger, of a light brown colour, and penetrating deep into
the sand, the mined portion becoming black and discoloured,
very soft, and soon injured, so that the sand must be carefully
scraped away from the roots affected till the end of the mined
portion is reached ; and as this necessitates digging down eight
or ten inches, it is rather wearisome work, often ending in
disappointment, for if the mined portion is wet and flabby the
larva will be found dead in the mine.
As there is considerable risk in opening the mined roots to
examine them, it is best to take all those that appear to contain
larvae and place them upright in sand, imitating nature as near
as possible. But they are difficult to breed ; at least such is my
experience, for I have never bred more than one or two insects
out of every dozen mined roots collected, caused, no doubt, by so
many of the roots dug up containing larvae killed or stung by
ichneumons ; and, again, by the very different conditions one is
obliged to adopt in rearing them away from their native habitat.
Shepherdess Walk, N.
INSECT PIGME NTS.
By T. D. a. Cockerell, F.Z.S.
In the final part of his valuable series of papers on Insect
Colours, Mr. Coste devotes two pages (Entom. 209-211) to
discussing and disproving a supposed hypothesis of mine that
the evolutional order of colours was yellow, white, red ; white
being developed from yellow, and red from white ! This has so
INSECT PIGMENTS. 379
astonished me, that I have looked at everything I ever wrote on
the subject* to see if anywhere there is a reference to the origin
of red from white, or indeed from any colour but yellow. As I
fail to find such reference, and do not remember ever having
entertained such an idea, I cannot but conclude that Mr. Coste
has attacked a theory which had no existence until it was set up
to be overthrown in Entom. p. 209 !
However, I did at one time suppose that white had arisen
from some yellow pigment, just as red had. At that time I was
not aware of the physical (non-pigmental) nature of at least the
vast majority of whites, and erred accordingly. But I indicated
the probable error of my first impressions, and pointed out the
difficulties besetting the question in Entom. 1889, p. 126, before
Mr. Coste began to write his papers.
So far as Mr. Coste' s main contentions go, I have indeed
"long since been convinced," for they agree very well with much
that I had myself imagined, and duly set forth, in 1887. But of
course I am far from denying the value of Mr. Coste's work.
Anybody may speculate, as I did, on the course of evolution, but
such speculations are chiefly useful if they lead to detailed
observation and experiment, whereby the real facts are ascer-
tained. Even the discussion of my imaginary theory is most
instructive, and Mr. Coste's summary of results is full of
suggestions for future investigations. In the future, our know-
ledge of the nature of insect pigments ought to grow rapidly.
Some of the varieties predicted by Mr. Coste, on pp. 207, 208,
are already on record, — how many I cannot now say. Choero-
campa porcellus has a form in which pink is replaced by yellow.
Anthocharis cardamines, male, with the orange only on the right
wing, is recorded in Entom., 1879, p. 181. A yellow var. of the
female Tortrix viridana is known : see Dr. Chapman, Ent. Eec,
1890, p. 177. Vanessa urtioBy pale yellow var., is recorded in
Ent. Eec, 1891, p. 10. Epinephele tithonus, pale or " bleached '*
forms, are recorded in Entom. xi. 229 ; xvi. 234 ; xix. 230. For
a red var. of Arctia villicay see Entom., 1889, p. 2.
Institute of Jamaioa ; Kingston, Jamaica, Sept. 20, 1891.
* It would be useless to repeat here the statements that I have already made
in print; but in case anyone should care to look them up, here is the list of
references : —
(1.) The relation of red to yellow. Proc. S. Lond. Ent. Soc. for 1887, p. 45, and
pp. 101-103 (detailed discussion) ; Entom., 1887, p. 151; Ent. News, 1890, p. 4.
(2.) Orange and yellow. Entom., 1888, p. 189.
(3.) White and yellow. Proc. S. Lond. Ent. Soc. for 1889, p. 139 ; Entom.,
1888, p. 113 ; Entom., 1889, p. 126.
(4.) Ked, yellow, and white. Proc. S. Lond. Ent. Soc. for 1888, p. 57 (see also
Ent. Eec, 1890, p. 57).
{^.) Pallid and albino forms. Proc. S. Lond. Ent. Soc. for 1887, p. 100 (attributed
to arrest in development) ; Entom., 1889, p. 4, and as to pallid females, p. 5.
280 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
A PRELIMINARY LIST OF THE INSECT-FAUNA OF
MIDDLESEX.
Compiled by T. D. A. Cockerell, F.Z.S., F.E.S.
(Continued from p. 160.)
Shortly before leaving England I received three lists of
Lepidoptera, containing many interesting records, as follows : —
(26.) H. Vaughan. A MS. list of Lepidoptera taken in
Middlesex north of London, within six miles of Charing Cross.
These insects were nearly all taken by Mr. Vaughan, Dr. H.
Guard Knaggs, or Mr. Henry Bartlett. Many of the localities
are now destroyed. This valuable list includes localities for
many rarities, and the following species additional to the
published lists : —
Pararge egeriaj L., Hornsey {Vaughan),
Nudaria senex, Hb., Hammersmith Marshes (Knaggs),
Drepana falcataria, L. (as P.falcula)^ Bishop's Wood, Hamp-
stead (Bartlett).
Notodonta dromedarius, L., Bishop's Wood (Bartlett),
Cymatophora or, Fb., Bishop's Wood (Vaughan),
Leucania ohsoleta, Hb., Hammersmith Marshes (Knaggs),
Neuria reticulata, Vill. (as saponarice). Bishop's Wood, one in
1865 (Vaughan),
Grammesia trigrammica, Hufn. (as trilinea), vars. bilineaf
Hb., and semifuscans, Bishop's Wood (Vaughan),
Agrotis exclamationis YSLLplaga, St., Bishop's Wood (Vaughan),
Aplecta occulta, L., field adjoining Maldon Crescent, one
specimen about 1860 (Knaggs), A, tincta, Brahm, Hampstead
(Knaggs),
Concerning Leucophasia sinapis Mr. Vaughan writes : " The
late Col. C. J. Cox informed me that when he was a boy he had
captured examples in Bishop's Wood."
(27.) H. Eowland-Brown. A MS. list of NoctuaB observed at
Harrow Weald, Middlesex. The following species are additional
to the published lists : —
Miana liter osa, Haw., quoted with a query.
Polia chi, L.
Trigonophora Jiammea, Esp.
Hadena adusta, Esp.
The total number of Noctuae in this Harrow- Weald list is 73.
(28.) J. M. Adye. A MS. list of Lepidoptera taken at
Ealing and Willesden. The two following are additions to the
lists given : —
Bomhyx quercus, L., near Ealing. This species was quoted
for Middlesex with a query on p. 68.
Dasypolia templi, Thnb., one at Ealing.
A Preliminary list of the insect*fauna of Middlesex. 281
Lepidoptera.
NoctuidcB subfam. Xylinince.
Xylocampa areola, Esp. {lithorizay Bork.), Mill Hill, at sugar,
also bred (South); Hampstead Heath, 1887 {Watts); Harelield,
once (Wall) ; Harrow- Weald (Rowland-Brown),
Calocampa vetusta, Hb., Mill Hill, at sugar (South), C. exoleta,
L., Mill Hill, at sugar (South) ; Isleworth (Meyers) ; Bishop's
Wood, Hampstead (H, Bartlett fide Vaughan) ; Harefield,
sparingly (Wall),
Xylina semihrunnea, Haw., Mill Hill, one at sugar (South) ;
Harefield, two (Wall) ; Harrow- Weald (Rowland-Brown) ; Ealing,
one (Adye), X, ornithopus, Eott., Brook Green, Hammersmith
(Tarbat),
Asteroscopus sphinx, Hufn., Harefield, a few taken most
years (Wall),
Cucullia umhratica, L., Hampstead Heath, Clutterhouse Lane,
Old Oak Common, on palings (Godwin) ; Chiswick (Sich) ; Hare-
field, 1885 (Wall). C. verbasci, L., Harefield, larvae common on
Verbascum in garden (Wall). C. chamomillce, Schiff., Chiswick,
once at rest on a paling (Sich) ; Kegent's Park (F, Bartlett fide
Vaughan),
Subf. Gonopterince,
Gonoptera Ubatrix, L., Mill Hill, at sugar, also bred (South) ;
Chiswick, larvae on willow and balsam (Sich) ; Bedford Park
(Fenn) ; Isleworth (Ckll.) ; Hampstead (Vaughan) ; Harefield,
generally common (Wall); Harrow- Weald (Rowland-Brown);
Hammersmith (Mera) ; Clapton (C, Carter fide Bacot) ; Blooms-
bury (British Museum),
Subf. PlusiincB,
Hahrostola tripartita, Hufn. (urticce, Hb.), larvae out of nettles,
Clutterhouse Lane, commonly (Godwin) ; Mill Hill (South) ;
Maldon Crescent (Knaggs fide Vaughan) ; Harefield, occasional
(Wall), H. triplasia, L., larvae out of nettles, Clutterhouse
Lane, rare (Godwin) ; Chiswick, common (Sich) ; Isleworth
(Fenn) ; Kentish Town, 1860-65 (Vaughan) ; Maldon Crescent
(Knaggs fide Vaughan) ; Highgate Woods (Shepherd) ; Hammer-
smith (Mera) ; Clapton (Bacot); Tottenham (Prout),
Plusia chrysitisy L., Clutterhouse Lane, Old Oak Common,
West Hampstead (Godwin) ; Mill Hill, netted at dusk amongst
nettles (South) ; Chiswick, at flowers of Ballota nigra (Sich) ;
Bedford Park (Fenn) ; Isleworth (Miss K. Fenn) ; South Hamp-
stead (Watts); Highgate (Vaughan) ; Harefield, frequent (Wall) ;
Finchley (Shepherd); Harrow- Weald (Rowland- Br own). P,iota,
L., Clutterhouse Lane, larva on nettle, rare (Godwin) ; Mill Hill,
netted at dusk amongst geraniums (South) ; Hampstead Heath
(Watts); Bishop's Wood (Vaughan); Harelield, once (Wall);
Harrow- Weald (Rowland-Brown), P. gamma , L., generally dis-
^S^ tHtJ ENTOMOtOGlS*.
tributed {Godwin) ; Mill Hill, netted at dusk amongst geraniums
{South) ; Chiswick, abundant {Sich) ; Bedford Park {Miss E.
Sharpe) ; Isleworth {Fenn) ; common {Watts) ; everywhere
{Vaughan) ; Harefield {Wall) ; Tufnell Park {Shepherd) ; Harrow-
Weald {Rowland- Brown) ; Hammersmith {Mera) ; Clapton {Bacot) ;
Dalston {Prout). P, pulchrina, Haw., Chiswick, once in a house
{Sich) ; Harefield, once {Wall) ; Harrow- Weald, common on
geraniums {Rowland-Brown). P.festucce, L,, Clapton {Bacot).
Subf. Heliothince.
Heliaca tenehrata, Scop, {arhuti, Fb.), in hay meadows in
many places {Godwin) ; Mill Hill, plentiful on the common,
several in the orchard {South); West Hampstead {Watts);
fields at Finchley side of Bishop's Wood {Vaughan) ; Harefield,
one, 17th May, 1890 {Wall) ; Highgate Woods {Shepherd) ; Old
Oak Common {Mera) ; plentiful at Willesden {Adye).
Heliothis peltigera, Schiff., see * Naturalist,' 1885, p. 347.
Poaphilidce.
Phytometra viridaria^ Clerck., " Isleworth " {Meyers, reported
to F. Fenn).
Euclidiid(B.
Euclidia mi, Clerck., Old Oak Common {Godwin) ; Mill Hill,
several on the common {South) ; Euislip and Pinner, 10th June,
1883 {Watts); Harefield, moderately common {Wall) ; Harrow-
Weald {Rowland-Brown) ; plentiful at Willesden {Adye). E.
glyphica, L., Pinner Woods, 3rd June, 1883 {Watts) ; Harefield,
common {Wall) ; Harrow- Weald {Rowland- Br own).
CatocalidcB.
Catocala nupta, L., Hampstead Heath, Kegent's Park, Hyde
Park, Maida Hill, &c. {Godwin) ; Mill Hill, at sugar {South) ;
Chiswick {Sich) ; Bedford Park {Miss E. Sharpe) ; Isleworth
{Meyers) ; Kentish Town, Highgate {Vaughan) ; Harefield, taken
freely, especially in 1887 {Wall) ; Harrow- Weald {Rowland-
Brown) ; Hammersmith {Mera) ; Ealing {Adye) ; Clapton
{Bacot) ; Bloomsbury {British Museum).
C.fraxini, L., Kegent's Park {Knaggs, Ent. Ann. 1871).
Boletohiidce.
Boletobia fuliginaria, L., Thames Street, London {Wellman,
Entom. 1879, p. 225).
HerminiidcB.
Rivula sericealisy Scop., Harefield, common {Wall).
Zanclognatha nemoraliSf Fb. {grisealis, Hb.), West Hamp-
stead, common, Clutterhouse Lane (Godwin) ; Bishop's Wood,
Highgate Wood {Vaughan) ; Harefield, not common {Wall).
I
Rearing ltivienitis sibylla and pararge egeria. 283
Z. tarsipennalts, Tr., Bishop's Wood, Highgate Wood (Vaughan) ;
Tottenham {Prout).
Pechypogon barhalis, Clerck, Bishop's Wood {Shepherd),
Hypenidce.
Hypena rostraliSf L., Bishop's Wood, Hampstead, West
Hampstead (Godwin) ; Isleworth (Ckll.) ; Bedford Park (Ckll.) ;
HighgaLte (Vaughan) ; Finchley (Shepherd). H.proboscidaliSflt.,
Bishop's Wood, Old Oak Common, Clutterhouse Lane, Kingsbury
(Godwin) ; Hampstead, Kentish Town (Vaughan) ; Harefield,
very common (Wall) ; Finchley (Shepherd).
Note. — On p. 121, the locality for Senta maritima is omitted ;
it is Hammersmith Marshes (Newman). On p. 158, the footnote
on P. ruhricosa should be erased, as Dr. Chapman has well
shown (Ent. Kec. 1891, April, p. 18) that this insect is not a
Taniocampa.
Institute of Jamaica ; Kingston, Jamaica, Oct. 3, 1891.
(To be continued.)
BEARING LIMENITIS SIBYLLA and PARARGE EGERIA.
By J. H. Fowler.
Of all our forest Rhopalocera, Limenitis sibylla is deservedly
considered one of the most interesting and beautiful in its meta-
morphoses. Perhaps a few hints to amateurs who desire to obtain
and breed it may be acceptable, especially as many who have taken
the imago have never seen the species in either of the other
stages ; yet it is conspicuous, and easily found in any stage.
The locality where I obtain L. sibylla commonly every season
is in the Linford enclosures, near Ringwood, which were planted
about forty-five to fifty years ago, trees of that age being very
suitable for the growth of the larval food-plant, the common
honeysuckle. You will observe the latter twining itself upon the
oaks, and sending graceful sprays to within a foot of the ground;
it is in such positions I recommend searching ; select plants of
scanty growth ; the thicker bushes are not so productive, and
searching is better than beating in many respects.
The ova are deposited upon the upper edges of the leaves, and
at times upon the leaf-stalk, during July ; the larvse hatch in
about sixteen days and feed for a very short time before hyber-
nating. I have never yet found a larva in winter quarters, but
imagine it hybernates upon the extreme ends of the twigs, as I
find in June it commences eating at the terminals and works
upwards, and, by observing the bare branches, can usually detect
its presence.
^84 THE E14T0M0L0G1ST.
The larvse when small are rather delicate, and not easily
reared ; the best time to collect them is from the 7th to the end
of June, especially as the month advances, when they can be
readily seen at a distance of several feet, and, by careful searching,
the pupa can often be found spun up underneath the leaves. I
have never observed the larvae upon plants growing upon the
ground, nor above eight or nine feet high.
The result of my last season's collecting has produced me
above fifty perfect specimens (one slate abn.). I may add that
great care must be taken to keep the pupse suspended, otherwise
cripples may be expected.
There is every prospect of L. Sibylla being abundant next
season, as I have seen the ova in profusion, some leaves having
three and four upon them ; and, as I did not breed a single para-
site, it would seem to be a species pretty free from the attacks of
such enemies, at all events in this locality.
I have refrained from describing the ova, &c., scientifically, as
the earlier stages of the species appear to be well known ; con-
fining myself to the general habits of L. Sibylla for the information
of those who may wish to study for themselves its life -history.
Since writing the above a thought struck me that by careful
searching I might possibly discover the larva hybernating ; so
with that intention I went to the Linford enclosures, and examined
honeysuckle plants, where I had previously seen some ova, the
result being that I found four larvae within half an hour, which
number was quite sufficient for my purpose.
The larva, which at this age is superficially very like that of
Argynnis selene, is about an eighth of an inch long, and exactly
the colour of the bark of the honeysuckle ; it has a pale stripe run-
ning along each side, and, excepting in the matter of colour, I do
not see the least difference from a full-grown larva, the spines, &c.,
corresponding.
The larva prepares a very secure winter retreat, which doubt-
less it constructs on the same leaf it was hatched upon. I was
right in surmising twig-ends as its position. Small as it is, it has
the power of spinning a very tough web, this being necessary, as
its existence for some eight months is almost in mid-air, and
exposed to all kinds of weather.
It hybernates upon the midrib of the upper surface of the leaf,
which is attached to the main twig by a very thick and tough
layer of silk, the leaf being neatly folded over from the centre, and
well lined for a short distance ; but the portion which is not thus
treated soon decays and falls off; so in reality the whole structure
is not more than half an inch long ; it is tent-shaped and partially
suspended, the end nearest the leaf-stalk is securely closed, whilst
the other has a very small opening, close to which is the head of
the larva, as it hybernates with its head towards the ground.
I
ftEAKTNG LIMENITIS SIBYLLA AND PARARQE EGERIA. 286
Upon several occasions I have looked for this larva hyber-
nating, the reason of my non-success being that I have always
searched large dead leaves that remain in such plenty about the
plants, and overlooked the small and inconspicuous, but, in this
connection, important portions of the plant.
Pararge egeria is one of the most abundant of the " browns '*
seen in the New Forest, and always to be met with in good or fair
condition from April to the end of September; it is triple-brooded,
and, like most species of the Satyridie, can be easily induced to
oviposit in confinement.
Procure females, and place two or three into a wide-mouth
bottle containing a few blades of coarse grass, cover over with
white muslin, and place the bottle in a window-sill facing the
south, and within a week plenty of ova will be the result : of
course, the more females kept the better, as it insures a greater
number of eggs ; when you have ova in plenty, remove them into
a small glass, and as the larvae emerge place them in bottles, and
feed every evening with fresh grass cut up into small strips. It is
surprising with what ease this species is brought to maturity.
The following notes I think will interest some entomologists,
as by rearing and observing P. egeria I have seen it as an imago
alive for twelve consecutive months, and, so far as my experience
goes, it is the only British butterfly that has been seen under
such circumstances ; none of the Pieridse act so, although it is
well known that some of its members emerge early in the year.
Undoubtedly egeria is a satisfactory species to rear.
In August, 1890, I secured a nice lot of females, also a few in
the middle of September, from which I obtained ova in abundance,
which finally produced perfect insects on the following dates,
viz,: — Oct. 24th to 31st, 4 males; Nov., 3 males and 4 females;
first females, after which time it is not worth while giving number
in sexes; Dec, 7; Jan. (1891), 4; Feb., 10 ; March, 16; three
pupae remaining, which I preserved ; at the end of April I saw
specimens in the Forest, and commonly in each succeeding month
to end of September, thus completing the year. The latest date I
have seen it in nature was Nov. 2nd, 1887, a perfectly fresh male.
Several of the pupae were brown, instead of the usual light
green. I bred a few striking examples : one male with all the
pale spots replaced with tawny, another almost unicolourous dark
brown, and several very fully developed females.
I am now breeding a number of P. egeria^ also P. megcera ;
the former is very late this season, as they have only just begun
to pupate (Nov. 6th), quite the reverse of last year. Of P. megcera
several are in pupae, and are mostly of the black form*; I think
this strange, as I bred above twenty last year, but they were all
green, and it is a curious fact that all emerged by the end of
♦ See Entom. 195.— Ed.
Ji86 tlife EiNTOMOtiOGlST.
October ; I expected a few to lie over until the spring. I cannot
see why the pupae should be black, as no difference in the larvae
was exhibited. I am feeding them up in a room which is heated
from 8 a.m. to about 11 p.m., and under exact conditions of those
I reared last season.
Eingwood, 7th Nov., 1891.
NOTES FEOM CHESHIRE AND NORTH WALES.
By J. Arkle.
Continuing my notes from the catkin season (Entom. 143 —
145), May can be briefly described this year as a cold month, in
which, with the exceptions of larvae of Odonestis Rotatoria and
Arctia caia, and an occasional sight of imagines of Spilosoma
menthastri, I saw little that was entomological out-of-doors. The
usual May storm occurred about the customary period, viz.^ on
the 16th and 17th, when the Welsh hills were white with a
general snowfall, and people in the streets might be heard
jocularly wishing each other a merry Christmas. June kept up
the character of a cold summer (see Entom. 126). Larvas of
S. menthastri, obtained at Aberdovey in the preceding July,
began to appear as perfect insects on the 13th. These included
the variety with soot-coloured tips to the upper wings, — all, be it
remembered, from the same batch of eggs.
On June 13th I went to Delamere Forest, in search of two
species of dragon-flies, and was successful. No. 1 : Head, eyes,
thorax, and body bronze-blue, segmental divisions of body sky-
blue — Agrion puella. No. 2 : Head, eyes, and body ruby-red ;
thorax, with dorsal surface, metallic dark green — Agrion minium.
In both species the colours are permanent, the bodies slender,
and about an inch and a quarter long. Each wing bears the
usual dark spot on the costal margin near the tip. This spot is
much darker (black) in the case of A. minium, I then went to
Oakmere, intending to hunt for another species on the west side
of the lake. In my wanderings and digressions I forgot to steer,
and so found myself on the east side. But what a lovely scene !
sylvan shades and grassy hillocks, on which the blue of the wild
hyacinth dominated the grassy-green stretches of heather— here
a long point of land reaching into the placid lake, and yellow
with a short, thick carpet of golden broom — sedges, bulrushes —
a wooded island far out in the centre — and pine trees circling
round the lake, sheltering many an uncouth bird, strange insect,
and lovely flower ! Up started a dragon-fly, and at last I secured
two specimens. Briefly described, the head, thorax, and body
are brown, the tint being deepened to very dark brown at the
bead and anal segments. The wings have a brown shade, and,
I
KOTES PROiJt CHESHIRE AND NORTH WAlES. 287
in addition to a very conspicuous dark brown costal spot near the
tip, there is, midway on the costal margin of each wing, another
still more pronounced dark brown blotch. The base of each
lower wing is further ornamented with a large triangular patch
of the same dark brown as the costal spots, but delicately
reticulated with pale grey. The body is stout, and an inch in
length. This fine dragon-fly is Lihellula quadrimaculata.
In the Forest I came across the usual common insects —
Ematurga atomaria, Bupalis piniaria, Melanthia ocellaia, Mela-
nippe sociata {suhtristata) , Cabera pusaria, C . exanthemata^ Panagra
petraria, Macaria liturata, Thera variata var. oheliscata^ and a
fine specimen of Hylophila prasinana, just emerged from the
chrysalis. What I specially wanted in Lepidoptera, however,
was Tephrosia biundularia var. delameriensis^ and I secured half
a dozen good specimens off the oak-trunks. The females obliged
me with several batches of eggs, some of which were sent off to
entomological friends, and I reared a considerable number of
larvae, which began to pupate on August 9th.
On June 20th a lot of Mamestra hrassicce I had bred up from the
egg in the summer of 1890 for observation began to show them-
selves. About a dozen moths appeared from the same hrood on
Sept. 11th, 1890, and in the two or three following days. The
rest lay over the winter, and appeared as perfect insects between
June 20th and July 17th. These I simply turned out of the
flower-pots as they emerged, thinking they would take themselves
off at the approach of nightfall ; but they laid their eggs first,
and the consequence was that the few green things I can grow
out-of-doors were attacked by a host of the caterpillars, mint and
French and African marigolds being especially selected. I also
bred from the egg a batch of Noctua augur, the caterpillars of
which hybernated through the winter, and appeared as imagines
by July 12th. The eggs of these insects, seen through a powerful
microscope, are a sight worth remembering, especially those of
M. brassicce, with their irregular, blotched, purple band, and
ribbed shell as of dull white china.
July was a cold wet month, so cold and wet that collecting
was almost impracticable.* A lot of Bombyx neustria began to
show themselves in the breeding-boxes on the 17th. The larvae
were kindly sent me by Mr. W. J. Kerr, who came across them
in considerable numbers at Barmouth in June. This is a new
insect to our district list. On or about this date I sacrificed my
small number of bred Agrotis ashworthii in obtaining ten eggs,
which turned out infertile. This experiment I am not likely to
repeat. July 19th : Dianthoecia capsincola (larvae taken at Aber-
dovey, July, 1890) began to appear. I only bred two specimens,
as I failed to find Silene inflata in this neighbourhood for the
* I tried sugaring for two or three nights, but as the result was nothing but
snails, slugs, and earwigs, I gave it up. — J. A.
288 THE ENTdkotOGtst.
caterpillars.* Curiously enough, on July 28tli of this year, I
discovered a liberal supply of the plant in the district known as
Sealand (land reclaimed from the tidal Dee), and within three
miles of Chester. This welcome acquaintance led to fresh
discoveries, and I obtained, I believe, no less than four different
species of larvae (nearly full-fed) from the capsules — Emmelesia
decolorata, Eupithecia vcnosata^ D. carpophaga, and D. cucuhali.
The most curious thing in this curious season has been the free
occurrence of really good larvae. Bomhyx ruhi, B. quercusy and
S,fuliginosa, in the larva-state, have been abundant in the Isle
of Anglesey, and, close to Chester, I more than once came across
caterpillars of Smerinthus ocellatus, Dicraiiura furcula, D. bifida,
and D. vinula — the latter frequently — while I never remember
seeing such numbers of S. populi.
On Aug. 8th, a dull, cold day, I went to Delamere Forest.
Lepidoptera were scarce, except C. populata, fresh from the
chrysalis, which rose from the ferns as I brushed through them ;
and the pretty "cowslip-yellow" Xanthosetia hamana. Oak-
beating was a failure, but from birch I got larvae of Acronycta
leporina, A. psi, and Tceniocampa stabilis. I bred a large number
of the last-named larvae from moths taken in the spring, as the
insects show considerable variation in the general colour of the
wings ; but the caterpillars exhibited a very close resemblance to
each other. I also took a strange, dull green caterpillar off
bilberry, with dark, smoky green V-shaped marks on each
segment. Growing out of a hedge in the village, I was surprised
to find a solitary plant of Silene inflata. Kain came on early in
the afternoon, and put a stop to further work.
On Aug. 9th, a male B. quercus, var. callunce, in which I
understand the interior dark brown of the lower wings ends in a
curved point on the anal angle, emerged from a larva brought to
me in June. Another caterpillar received at same time spun up
August 27th, and is now lying over the winter.
On Aug. 29th, a search for larvae on the sallows, &c., in
Caughall Lane— my chief hunting ground in the spring — proved
a failure. 1 was rewarded, however, with a nice series of
Ephippiphora populana {ephippana), a beautiful little Tortrix with
dark purplish upper wings ornamented with a conspicuous,
central, cream-coloured blotch.
In September I was much away from home ; but on the 5th
I again visited Delamere, and beat larvae of Lophopteryx camelina
(abundant this year), Drepana falcataria (falcula), Notodonta
dromedarius, Dasychira pudibunda, and Amphidasys betularia
from oaks and birch. My special object was to beat larvae of
Hadena adusta for a correspondent, off bog-myrtle, on Hatchmere
Moss ; and, in spite of the fire which apparently exterminated
many species here two years ago, I succeeded. Larvae of H,
* These larvae will eat seed-capsules of pinks and sweet-williams. — Ed.
NOTES FROM CHESHIRE AND NORTH WALES. 1889
rumicis and H, pisi fell freely into my umbrella as well, but no
Nemeophila russula ! Two years ago I beat the latter into the
umbrella by the half-dozen. The day was dull and threatening,
but a fine specimen of the dragon-fly, Libellula scotica^ fell into
the umbrella from the sweet gale (bog-myrtle). The following is
a description: — Expanse of wings, 2 in.; body, from thorax, 1 in.,
and slender. Head yellow; eyes brown. Thorax and body
yellowish ochreous brown, black underneath. Legs black. A
dark, almost black, triangular frontal mark on thorax ; sides of
thorax light yellow, with black boundaries and centres. Wings
colourless, except the base, which is suffused with yellowish
ochreous colour ; a black, rectangular costal mark near each tip ;
nervures delicately pencilled in black. The only lepidopterous
insects I could beat up on the Moss were C, testata, and a few
faded Cramhus margaritellus.
In early September and late August I found larvaB of Orgyia
antiqua a pest in the Grosvenor Park, Chester. Some of the
bushes of the holly-leaved barberry {Mahonia aquifolia, American
flora) had scores and hundreds of them, together with cocoons
and pupae. I bred a large number of the moths, and it was
amusing to see out-of-door males assembling in the daytime on
the breeding box when the females appeared.
On Sept. 7th, a fine but unusually pale larva of A. alni was
brought to me for identification by Mr. J. Lyon Denson, a Chester
fellow-naturalist. It had been taken off a brick wall, in the
suburbs, by a boy. In spite of diligent search, no more were to
be had. On Sept. 8th Mr. Denson and I worked the gas-lamps
with a ladder. We took several Eugonia alniaria (tiliaria), C.
truncata (russata), with yslys. perfuscata and immanatay Crocallis
elinguaria, a fine Geometra papilionaria, Noctua rubi, Neuronia
popularis, Triphcena ianihina, Hydroecia micacea, and other com-
mon moths. We had now a few days of hot weather, and the
butterflies, as if determined to share them, appeared in fair
numbers ; Pieris hrassicce, Epinephele tithonus (very late), with
small coppers and common blues. I saw nothing of Vanessa
urticcBy V. ioy or V. atalanta, although I found larvae of the first
two common enough on nettles by the river-side, in July.
On Oct. 3rd I went to Delamere Forest, chiefly to get rid of a
"cold," possibly influenza. Experience showed me that the
odour from the firs is most beneficial in such cases. Making
every allowance for "faith-healing," if there be such a thing, I
was better next day, and thoroughly well the day after. Beating
Scotch firs showed larvae of B. piniaria to be in force, while those
of L. camelina, full-fed, still lingered on birch. But the ferns
and undergrowth were rapidly turning yellow, showing up, in
startling contrast, the greens of the mosses and the sombre
shades of the Scotch firs. We had, generally speaking, a cold,
wet October, with high gales ; and I packed away my setting-
290 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
boards, thinking collecting was over for the year. The night of
Nov. 2nd, however, tempted me to try the gas-lamps again ; and,
to my surprise, I took four Miselia oxyacanthce, a moth I never
saw before in the district, although it is marked "common" on
the list ; five Himeria pennaria, two Diloha, cceruleocephalay one
Asteroscopus sphinx (cassinea), and one Calymnia pyralina, all in
capital condition. Cheimatobia hrumata, Hyhernia defoliaria^
Oporabia dilutata, and Anchocelis pistacina were also well repre-
sented. The nights of the 3rd, 6th, and 7th saw me at the
lamps again, of course with a ladder, when all the insects just
mentioned occurred freely, with the exceptions of M. oxyacanthce
and A. pistacina, which disappeared on the 7th. The weather
broke up again on the 8th, with storms of wind and rain ; and
to-night, as I write, it is difficult to believe I was moth-catching
only a few hours ago.
Chester, Nov. 9, 1891.
CUBE FOR THE RAVAGES OF THE LARViE OF NEMATUS
BIBESII AND ABRAXAS GB08SVLABIATA.
In the interesting lecture delivered this month by Mr. G. C.
Bignell, F.E.S., before the members of the Plymouth Institution,
on *' The Hessian Fly and other Insects injurious to Farm and
Garden Produce," he mentions those two pests, Nematus ribesii
and Abraxas grossulariata, which attack the currant and goose-
berry bushes. The larvae of the latter have been most abundant
this season, and many are the loud and deep complaints I have
heard from neighbours.
It may interest your readers to hear of an effectual remedy
which does not seem generally known, judging from my expe-
rience. I first saw it used in Lanarkshire, where large quantities
of small fruit are grown for jam -making, and to supply the
Glasgow markets : — Take as much hellebore as would cover a
penny, and mix it well in one gallon of water; syringe the
bushes. When the weather is dry, the particles of hellebore will
stick to the leaves, and the larvae are poisoned at once on eating
them. I have on several occasions entirely destroyed swarms of
larvae in twelve hours. If rain does not fall after this, the bushes
should be syringed well with clean water.
The pupae of the sawfly would no doubt be destroyed by the
method recommended by Miss Ormerod, but it would be heavy
labour when the grower has many acres of fruit trees. I there-
fore think it is desirable to exterminate as many in the larva-
state as possible. I have never heard of any inconvenience
caused by the use of hellebore in the manner I suggest. Abraxas
grossulariata larvae are most abundant in May, when the fruit is
J
NEMATUS RIBESII AND ABRAXAS GROSSULARIATA. 291
small, and gives ample time for rain before picking ; one heavy
shower will wash every particle of hellebore from the leaves and
fruit. If no rain, the syringing with clean water will prove
effectual ; at least that is my experience during the many years
that I have used it.
If, however, there is any objection to the use of hellebore
another remedy, perfectly harmless, is as follows : — Syringe the
bushes with clean water, and when wet dust them with fine sifted
coal-ash ; it is advisable to throw this with the hand up under the
foliage as much as possible, leaving a layer of an inch deep on the
ground under the bushes. This is a west-country remedy, and
is only effectual during dry weather.
John N. Still.
Broadleigh Down, near Tiverton, Oct. 26, 1891.
The use of hellebore in the way advocated by Major Still
being new to us, we referred the matter to Miss Eleanor Ormerod,
who has kindly written concerning it as follows : —
" I cannot at this minute recall any information being sent of
the use of hellebore in fluid form {i. e., as a syringing) as a means
of destroying gooseberry caterpillars, but so long ago as 1879
I had notes of it as being exceedingly effectual if applied as a dry
dusting. But also the effects on the eaters of the gooseberry fruit
might be, and in one case were reported to have been, so extremely
serious, in consequence of the fruit not being cleared of the
poison before it was made into a tart, that I have been most
careful as to bringing this remedy forward, I noticed it in the
first edition of my ' Manual,' but with cautions. Of course, when
applied in solution, such a much smaller amount is given that the
risk is greatly lessened ; still I do not like to have anything to do
with recommending poisonous applications where there is risk of
their remaining on either fruit or leafage to be used for con-
sumption of man or farm-stock. There is no difficulty in keeping
down gooseberry sawfly attack, if the surface soil is skimmed off
during winter to the depth at which the little cocoons lie, and this
infested soil is carried away and destroyed. This is a regular
working gooseberry-grower's remedy for the sawfly attack, and I
should say that it would be just as serviceable (with a little
adaptation) in getting rid of the caterpillars of the other goose-
berry pest, the "magpie moth." If the ground where they are
wintering is removed, and an eye given to the bushes to remove
such as may be hanging in their leaf-cradles, it makes a deal of
difference in amount of attack."
Eleanor A. Ormerod.
Torrington House, St. Albans.
292 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
NOTES ON THE SYNONYMY OF NOCTUID MOTHS.
By Arthur G. Butler, F.L.S., F.Z.S., &c.
(Continued from p. 266.)
Pyrrhia, Hiibn.
Pyrrhia umbra,
Noctua umbra, Hufnagel, Berl. M. iii. p. 294 (1767).
Pyrrhia exprimens, Grote (not Walker), see Check List, p. 36,
n. 97.
Europe, Dharmsala, United States. Coll. B. M.
Pyrrhia exprimens,
Heliothis exprimens, Walker, Lep. Hist. xi. p. 687, n. 13 (1857)
Pyrrhia angulata, Grote (see Check List, p. 36, n. 998)
United States. Coll. B. M.
Although it is just possible that the P. exprimens of Grote
may prove to be locally worthy of being called var. roseilimbata,
on account of the tint of the borders of the secondaries, the
P. exprimens of Walker cannot, unfortunately, be distinguished
from P, angulata,
ScHiNiA, Hubner,
There is no possibility of rejecting this genus, as, even
according to Grote himself, the three species associated by
Hiibner under Schinia are congeneric. I fail to see v^here the
absurdity of its adoption in preference to Lygranthcecia comes
in ; moreover, Grote tells us that the marginata of Haworth is
the type of his hygranthceciay in which case the latter genus will
be a synonym of Pyrrhia,
Schinia trifascia,
Schinia trifascia, Hiibner, Zutr. Exot. Schmett. figs. 33, 34.
Anthophila lineata. Walker, Lep. Het. xii. p. 830, n. 16
(1857).
United States. Coll. B. M.
Walker's description of the primaries is most eccentric. He
calls these wings whitish, with four aeneous bands ; this descrip-
tion reversed would be more correct, the bronze colouring
occupying the greater part of the surface.
I cannot comprehend the synonymy of *' Lygranthcecia''
separata as given in the Eevised Check List, and which stands
as follows : —
separata, Grt.
Var. acuiilinea, Grt.
Var. walsinghami, Ed.
Var. balba, Grt.
It appears to me just possible, though very improbable, that
the first two may be forms of one, and the last two of a second,
NOTES ON THE SYNONYMY OF NOCTUID MOTHS. 293
species; the markings of Schinia separata, however, differ
throughout from those of S. acutilinea. S. walsinghami, of which
we have twelve examples from Lord Walsingham's collection,
is a perfectly constant orange-tawny form, and stood alone in
that collection; all the specimens were obtained at the " Sheep
Eock." S. balba differs chiefly from the latter in its more
olivaceous colouring and the white external border of primaries.
No constant local form should be termed a variety.
Anarta, Ochs.
Anarta richardsoni.
Hadena richardsoniy Curtis, Append. Koss. Narr. 2nd Voy.
p. 72, pi. A, fig. 11.
Anarta septentrionis. Walker, Lep. Het. xi. p. 700, n. 10
(1857).
Lapland, Grinnell Land, Nova Zembla. Coll. B. M.
Under this species Walker placed specimens of a form with
obscure markings and smoky secondaries, which I believe to be
entirely distinct.
Anarta quieta,
Noctua quieta, Hiibner, Eur. Schmett. Noct. fig. 485.
^ Anarta constricta. Walker, Lep. Het. xi. p. 701 n. 11 (1857).
2 A. rigida, Walker, I.e., n. 12 (1857).
Lapland, Finmark, Arctic America. Coll. B. M.
A. kellogii is nearly allied to A. melanopa, an example of
which from California was in Grote's collection ; it, however,
appears to be distinct. A, nivaria is very close to A, impingens,
Melicleptria, Hiihn,
I cannot think that my friend Grote has improved this genus
in his Kevised Check List by uniting Adonisea with it, or by
turning M. prorupta and oregonica into Melaporphyria ; as to
M. oregonica or oregona being synonymous with the European
Heliothis ononis, it is quite out of the question. The resemblance
between the two species, when examined side by side with an
inch lens, is seen at once to be superficial ; the pattern does not
at all correspond, and the structure of the palpi differs consider-
ably. ''Melicleptria'' hoyi, Grote (Check List, p. 36, n. 960), is
''Anarta'' hrephoides, Walker (Lep. Het. xi. p. 702, n. 13) ; with
the latter. Walker associated a species intermediate in pattern
between M. prorupta and oregonica, and bearing a label with the
legend, " 513 or 412. Agarista simplicicornis," but with no indi-
cation of locality. It is labelled in the same handwriting as one
of the other five examples (= M. hoyi). The pectinated antennae
at once remove M. hoyi from Melicleptria to the neighbourhood
of Brephos.
ENTOM. DEC. 1891. 2 C
294 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Adisuba, Moore.
Adisura? morihunda,
Leucania morihunda, Guenee, Noct. i, p. 95, n. 150.
L, invaria, Walker, Lep. Het. ix. p. Ill, n. 78 (1856).
Sydney. Coll. B. M.
We have both type specimens of this species, so that
L. morihunda is clearly proved to be from Australia.
I think Heliothis lucilinea. Walk., is best placed in this
genus ; it can hardly be a true Heliothis,
CuRUBASA, Moore,
This genus, Adisura and Pradatta appear to me to be much
confused. Adisura is evidently an offshoot from Heliothis, and
has the same robust body, the general ground colour of pale
H, armigera, the dusky border to the secondaries often showing
a pale spot as in that genus. I would place under it Leucania
morihunda and the allied Pradatta artaxoides. In Curuhasa the
body is less robust, the palpi are more slender, the wings are
opaque and glossy, with rose-coloured costal and internal
borders. In Pradatta the palpi are considerably shorter than in
Adisura, the antennae of the males much thicker in the type
(though this difference does not hold with all the species), and
the subcostal branches of the secondaries are emitted from an
acute point, due to the strongly angulated discocellulars ; the
wings are almost as glossy as in Curuhasa, and are longitudinally
streaked with pale rose, after the manner of marking of a
Leucania. Of the named species in the Museum I refer to
Curuhasa, in addition to the type {C. heatrix), Leucania alaroides,
Pradatta himaculata, P. decorata, and Leucania aureola.
Curuhasa marginalis,
Anthophila marginalis. Walker, Lep. Het. xii. p. 830 (1857).
Adisura dulcis, Moore, P. Z. S. 1881, p. 368, pi. xxxvii. fig. 20.
Campbellpore. Coll. B. M.
In the type, which is faded, the cilia of the primaries are
entirely pink, as in Moore's description of his Adisura dulcis,
whereas in our Campbellpore specimen they are tipped with
white. This appears to me to be probably a sexual character,
but, even if not, I do not believe it to be of specific importance ;
and in any case Moore's C. dulcis is Walker's A. marginalis.
Heliodes, Guen.
It is impossible to guess by what method Dr. Staudinger has
decided, to his own satisfaction, to fix the types of genera. His
first action appears to be to ignore the author's typical species ;
his second action to substitute for it a species originally
admitted, with hesitation, by the author into his genus.
M. Guenee, when describing his genus Heliodes, indicates two
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 296
species, rupicola and arbutiy but says that he has never seen a
specimen of the former ; thus indicating the latter as his type.
In his Nat. Hist. Lep. Noct. ii. p. 197, he distinctly marks
H. arbuti as type of Heliodes, and omits rupicola from the genus.
Dr. Staudinger takes the latter as type of Heliodes, and thus
applies Guenee's generic name to a group for which it was not
intended, with a type unknown to the author of the genus.
Anything more opposed to practical common sense can hardly
be imagined.
LEUCANIIDiE.
BiTYLA, Walk,
I refer this genus to the group allied to Nonagria.
Bityla defigurata,
Xylina defigurata, Walker, Lep. Het. Suppl. 3, p. 756 (1865).
Bityla thoracica, Walker, L c, p. 869 (1865).
New Zealand. Coll. B. M.
(To be continued).
ENTOMOLOGICAL NOTES, CAPTURES, &c.
Re-union between the same Moths. — Mr. J. N. Young's note on this
subject {a?ite, 268) is of especial interest, following, as it does, so closely on
a parallel case mentioned by Mr. Eustace R. Bankes (E. M. M. n. s. ii.
274), in which the species affected was Ephestia kuhniella, and one exactly
similar that came under my own notice in 1889, in which a bred male and
female Spilosoma mendica, observed in cop. at 8 a.m. on May 25th, were
found in the evening of that day to have separated, and ova to have been
deposited, and on the following morning, at the same hour, they were again
found paired, more ova ultimately resulting. But the question that these
records suggest is whether a second act of pairing is frequent in wild
Lepidoptera, and, in fact, necessary for the due fertilisation of the ova con-
tained in the female ? It was a saying with many of our older collectors
that if you could take " a pair in cop." you were pretty sure of a " fresh
female," which would appear to imply that only freshly-emerged females
paired. But recent observation induces me to believe that this is by no
means so, and as an instance I may mention the following : — During a brief
stay at Eastbourne in August last I found Lyccena corydon very commonly,
and among them a great many pairs in cop. ; in some cases both male and
female, and in others one or the other, were, without doubt, quite freshly
emerged ; but in a large number it was only too evident that both had been
on the wing for a considerable time, and it is hardly to be supposed that
with both sexes flying so commonly either would become worn before finding
a mate. — R. Adkin ; Lewisham, November, 1891.
Abnormal emergence of Demas corylt. — On looking over my
breeding-cages yesterday, I was surprised to see in one of them a fine
freshly-emerged female of Vemas coryli. The larva from which it was reared
2c2
a96 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
was received, with others, from the New Forest in August last ; the batch
fed well together, and they commenced to spin up on Sept. 6th, completing
that operation by the 16th. Both larvae and pupae were kept out of doors.
This species is, I believe, somewhat erratic in its times of appearance, a
few larvae in a brood sometimes feeding up more rapidly than their fellows
in the spring, and producing imagines in August and September ; but what
can have induced this misguided creature to quit its pupa in this dull damp
weather in the middle of November is beyond my comprehension. — Robert
Adkin ; Lewisham, Nov. 16, 1891.
Stauropus fagi partially Double-brooded. — From ova of Stauropus
.fagi, placed in sleeves on oak and apple in June last, I have reared four
imagines, the first emergence being on Steptember 11th, the last on
October 28th. In none of its stages had fagi been subjected to artificial
heat. These facts have led to an outdoor search in its known haunts, with
the result that three were taken during the week ended Saturday last. —
J. Clarke ; Reading, November 9, 1891.
Variation of Zyqm^a filipendul^. — Referring to your article on
variation of Z.filipendulce, I would say that the var. which T have named
cerinus is not of very unfrequent occurrence here, and has been recorded
more than once, I think. In some years several will be met with, and then
it will not be seen for a long time. Another form also occurs here, in which
the brilliant crimson of the spots and hind wings is replaced by a dull
pinkish red. Of this form I have both bred and taken examples (Y. N. vii.
192), and in 1889 my friend Mr. Gardner bred four or five. I have two
examples of the form with only five spots on the upper side, but they both
have six on the under side. — John E. Robson ; Hartlepool, Oct. 7, 1891.
Psyche pulla. — In answer to Mr. Briggs (Entom. 243), I should say
that, as a rule, the larva of this species certainly does not hybernate full-
fed ; I have taken them in the spring, and had to feed them for over a
month. My dates for the emergence of the perfect insect (this year) were
June 22nd to July 22d, or thereabouts. — Louis B. Prout ; 12, Greenwood
Road, Dalston, N.E., Oct. 10, 1891.
Preserving Pup^ through the Winter. — As we have now reached
a period when the ripest time for pupae is just over, and are thinking of the
best means by which they may be preserved, I can recommend a plan
which I have myself tried for two years with very fair success, and,
although it has probably been used by other entomologists, I have not heard
of its being in general practice. My plan is this : get one of those improved
larva breeding-cages, and, having taken away the sliding bottom, insert a
piece of perforated zinc or wire gauze, lay the pupae on this on damp moss,
and fill the tins below with water ; these, I may say, should be refilled once
a month. In a cage such as this the pupae may be kept in an ordinary
living room, as the water by its evaporation will keep them from drying up,
or emerging before the proper time. — J. Lewis Bonhote ; Rev. W. I).
Bushell's, Harrow, Nov. 8, 1891.
Material wanted for Physiological Investigation. — I am very
greatly in want of a number of dead pupae and larvae for a series of physio-
logical investigations in which I am engaged, and shall be much indebted to
any readers of the * Entomologist ' who will be kind enough to forward me
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 297
such material. Since presumably every one who breeds Lepidoptera has to
reckon with a large percentage of mortality in his breeding-cages, and since
it is quite indififerent to me how common the species may be, it seemed that
by thus making known my wants I might obtain an abundant supply of
material for the work in hand. I will only add a request that any larva3 or
pupae sent may be named as closely as possible: that, e.g., if the species be
unknown, the genus may be given ; or, if even the genus be unknown, that
the family be stated : but, above all, an incorrect or doubtfully correct
naming should emphatically be avoided. — F. H. Perry Coste ; Analytical
Laboratory, 7, Fowkes Buildings, Great Tower Street, E.G., Nov. 16, 1891.
SoPHRONiA EMORTUALis. — I havo the specimen noted as sold at
Stevens's (Entom. xxiii. p. 246). It was in Harper's collection. Locality
said to be near Marlow, Bucks. — J. B. Hodgkinson ; Ashton-on-Kibble,
October 22, 1891.
Vanessa antiopa at Balham. — A friend informs me that on the 10th
inst. a specimen of Vanessa antiopa was seen by the Rev. Dr. Edghill at
Balham railway station, while he was waiting the arrival of a train. A
good view of the insect was obtained as it flew the entire length of the
station between "the platforms and only a few feet above the rails, and
passing close by him. I understand the Doctor is well acquainted with
F. antiopa, as he has both seen and taken several on the continent.
Guriously enough 1 saw one within 100 yards of the same spot in August,
1887, as recorded at the time. — F. W. Frohawk; September, 1891.
Note on Acherontia atropos. — On October 22nd I had a fine male
specimen of Acherontia atropos brought to me, which had been found in a
garden in Hastings Road, Maidstone. I had the pleasure of hearing the
peculiar cry emitted by this insect several times. Once while setting it I
heard the sound, but very faintly, when I moved the thorax, but as it was
not repeated I could not ascertain from whence it came. — H. Sandlin ;
28, Hastings Road, Maidstone, November 3, 1891.
Sphinx convolvuli in 1891 : —
Kent. — On Monday, the 7th September, while mothing at a bed of
sweet-scented tobacco-plant in my garden at Ramsgate, I captured two
specimens of Sphinx convolvuli. I saw a third, but was unable to capture
it, as I was engaged in bottling one. The two I caught proved to be a
male and a female ; the latter in good condition, but the male rather
worn. — T. D. Willson ; 22, Halford Road, Richmond, Surrey, Nov. 1891.
Lancashire. — On the 22nd of August I saw two Sphinx convolvuli, one
of which I caught. It was hovering over the flowers of Nicotiana affinis.
My brother has since seen several specimens, but failed to capture any. —
G. A. Booth ; Fern Hill, Grange-over-Sands, October 20, 1891.
Hants. — Sphinx convolvuli has been common here this season. I have
taken ten specimens. — J. H. Fowler ; Pontaer, Ringwood, Nov. 7, 1891.
Deilephila livornica near Norwich.— a very fine specimen of
Deilephila livornica has been brought to me for identification- The insect,
which is in very fair condition, was taken by a collector in the early
morning at rest near an electric-lamp, at Carrovv, adjoining this city,
early in September last. The specimen exceeds in expanse by a quarter of
an inch that figured in 'Newman's British Moths.' — R. Laddiman ;
25, Lower Hellesdon Road, Norwich, November 5, 1891.
298 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
Drepana harpagula (Platypteryx sicula) at Clifton. — As I
believe that Platypteryx sicula has not been recorded for several years
past, I am pleased to note that the insect is still to be found, though
rarely and with difi&culty, in its old haunts in Leigh Woods, near Bristol.
Mr. W. H. Grigg, the former captor of so many specimens, was good
enough to accompany me to the locality on 12th September in search of
the larvae, and our afternoon's work resulted in four, three of which fell to
Mr. Grigg's tray, but which he kindly presented to me. All of them
fed-up well, and have pupated. A day or two after our capture, Mr. W. K.
Mann obtained a larva from the same group of trees. — G. C. Griffiths ;
43, Caledonian Place, Clifton.
I am glad to be able to record taking a single larva of Platypteryx sicula
[Drepana harpagula] on September 14th in Leigh Woods, Clifton. This
species, although well worked for, has not been taken for four years. —
W. K. Mann ; Chfton, Bristol.
Heliothis armiger in the Hastings District. — In July last I
found a larva of this species on tomato. It changed to the pupa the same
month ; the moth emerged early in September, and was kindly determined
by the Rev. E. N. Bloomfield, of Guestling.— H. W. Ford-Lindsay ; The
Shrubbery, Clive Vale, Hastings, November 2, 1891.
CucuLLTA absinthii IN DEVONSHIRE. — In reply to Mr. Bartlett
(antef 245), I beg to say that from 1874 to 1878 I used to take the larvae
of this species in the greatest abundance at Slapton Lea, and I have met
with it elsewhere, both in South and North Devon, wherever its food-plant
occurred, but never in such profusion as at Slapton. — Gervase F. Mathew ;
Lee House, Dovercourt, November 9, 1891.
Acherontia atropos at Gosport. — Whilst collecting the other
evening in a brick-field near Gosport, a scholar of St. Matthew's Boys'
School, Gosport, captured a fine specimen of Acherontia atropos. — W. H.
Mackett; St. Matthew's School, Gosport, Oct. 12, 1891.
Larv^ of Phorodesma smaragdaria. — On Saturday, Sept. 12th,
hearing that Geometra [Phorodesma] smaragdaria larvae were to be found
commonly, I went down with a friend to the Essex salt-marshes, and,
though we had only a little over two hours to search, we succeeded in
finding 53. I know of some 260 specimens that have been taken there
this autumn. — R. E. James ; Chesterville, Hornsey Lane, N., Oct. 7, 1 891.
Larvae of Apamea ophiogramma in Nottingham. — In my garden I
took a number of larvae of Apamea ophiogramma in September (kindly
identified by Mr. South), feeding on ribbon-grass. They feed at night,
creeping in the daytime down the hollow stems of the grass, or hiding near
the ground. They buried in cocoa-fibre about October 14th, but had not
changed ten days after, so may be hybernatiug. I believe that this is the
first time the larva has been taken in the Midlands, but it may prove to be
common when hunted for at the right time, as I have found it in two other
gardens in the village. — Douglas H. Pearson; The College, Chilwell,
Nottingham.
Larv^ of Hadena pisi. — With reference to the food-plant of this
species [ante, pp. 245, 269), I do not think that it is very particular, but
will feed on a variety of shrubs and low plants. Some years ago, in the
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC. 299
north of Devon, I found them in great numbers, feeding perfectly exposed
upon foxglove, and I have seen them on hazel, bramble, broom, dock,
knot-grass, and other plants. With regard to bracken, although I have
frequently taken them upon it, stretched at full length enjoying a warm sun,
I never found that they had much partiality for it as a food-plant in con-
finement, and used to consider that they had merely crawled up from some
other plant. Last September I took several at Halifax, Nova Scotia,
feeding upon alder and birch. — Gervase F. Mathew ; Dovercourt,
Nov. 9, 1891.
Larv^ of Larentia didymata. — At Instow, North Devon, I used to
find the larvae of this species in a shady lane, feeding upon the flowers of
primrose ; when the flowers were over they attacked the tender leaves,
eating numerous holes in them. I never found them feeding upon anything
else, although there was plenty of sorrel growing in the same lane. —
Gervase F. Mathew. [See also p. 245.]
Pupation of Acronycta alni. — With reference to Mr. T. B. Jeffreys
note (Entom. 367), I may state it was my good fortune to take a larva of
Acronycta alni at the foot of an elm, near here, on August 22nd. It was
evidently full-fed, as it would not touch anything I placed in the cage for it
to feed upon ; and on the 30th, after appearing to sicken away, I was
gratified to find it had pupated, and that without spinning any web at all.
Probably it would have entered a stem for pupation had there been one
large enough in the cage ; but, being rather careless in this matter, I had
not provided the accomodation. A friend of mine, Mr. T. L. Howe, also
found a larva of alni in this district during the autumn, which acted and
pupated exactly similarly to mine. — G.A.Birkenhead; Downs View,
Penarth, near Cardiff", November 10, 1891.
Notes on Lepidoptera from various Localities. — I took a single
larva of Aplecta occulta this year on bog-myrtle in Inverness, and bred a
very fine black form. I have done nothing very exceptional this year, but
obtained a long series of Sesia spheglformis from pupae. Larvae of Notodonta
dromedarius 1 got not uncommonly on alder in Sligo, but they died off
terribly ; I also found there a male Hydrcecia nictitans in cop. with female
Noctua xanthographa, Agrotis saucia is appearing at sugar now rather
freely, and the usual common lot in plenty. Schcenobius mucronellus I took
on a pond here, which may be of interest, as Stain ton, I see, only gives
the Fens as a locality. — John E. Eastwood ; Enton Lodge, Witley, Surrey,
Oct. 13, 1891.
Lepidoptera at Gas Lamps. — Some new gas-lamps here have proved
very productive this season. In September Ennomos tiliaria were fairly
plentiful and in good condition, and Gortyna flavago very plentiful. I also
took Trichiura cratcegi (two), which were new to me, Scotosia duhltata,
Cidaria testata and C. miata, Miselia oxyacanthcB, Hydrcecia micacea, &c.
In October, Tapinostola fulva, Oporabia dilutata, G. flavago, &c. Diloba
ccBTuleocephala and Cheimatobia brumata are now swarming. — Douglas H.
Pearson ; The College, Chilwell, Nottingham, Nov. 6, 1891.
Lepidoptera in the New Forest, 1891. — Saturday, May 30th, found
me on my way to Brockenhurst, to join my cousin, Mr. Ogden, who had
gone down there on the previous evening. The prospect in London was
not promising, as the city was enveloped in a thick black fog the whole
800 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
morning. This, however, gradually disappeared as I got further on my
way, and, on arriving, I was pleased to hear that the weather had been all
that could be desired from an entomologist's point of view. This fine
weather continued throughout the whole of our stay, with the exception of
a heavy rainfall during the Thursday night, and a dull morning on the
following Saturday. The weather being in our favour, we were able to make
the most of our time, and were very fairly successful. The usual common
spring butterflies, Argynnis euphrosyne, Gonepteryx rhamni, Pyrarga egeria^
&c., were all very plentiful, with the exception of Euchlo'e cardamines, of
which very few specimens were seen. Argynnis selene had not yet turned
up, and Thecla ruhi only occurred very sparingly, only six specimens in all
being taken. Nemeobius luc'ina was exceedingly local, but plentiful where
found ; whilst Hesperia malvce and H. tages turned up everywhere. Beating
proved to be more successful than anything else, and by it we obtained,
besides many other commoner things, Ephyra punctaria, E. trilinearia,
Corycia taminata (local), Halias prasinana, Lithosia aureola, Platypteryx
falcula and P. lacertula (both from birch), P. hamula (from birch and oak),
and P. unguicula (from beech), all commonly ; whilst Ephyra pendularia,
Episteria heparata, and Arctla mendica occurred sparingly. Bomhyx ruhi
was plentiful, though local on the heaths, and Phytometra cBnea occurred
everywhere, in company with Fidoiiia atomarla, and an occasional Anarta
myrtilli, Boarmia cinctaria, Nemoria viridata, or Euchelia Jacob cecB. Male
Fidonia piniaria and Thera ohellscata were taken abundantly among the
pines by beating, or flying in the sun, and among them one Macaria literata.
At Rhinefield, on June 5th, although the rhododendrons were not in flower,
Macroglossa fuciformis was to be found fairly plentifully, and in good con-
dition, at blossoms of American honeysuckle, clumps of which grow here and
there in the enclosure. On the same day a Macroglossa, probably bombyli-
formis, was seen over a patch of red rattle, in a glade of Stubby Copse.
Captures at dusk were very few, but among them I might mention Numeria
pulveraria and Hypsipetes ruberata. Besides the insects above mentioned,
a nice fresh specimen of Epione advenaria was taken flying in the sun, and
two Lobophora hexapterata, one of them on a water-pipe on Brockenhurst
Station. Larva-beating resulted in Catocala promissa, Liparis monachal
Halias quercana, Boarmia roboraria, Cleora lichenaria, Himera pennaria,
Agriopis aprilina, and Hemithea thyiniaria. Searching with a lantern after
dark resulted in TriphcBna fimbria larvae, and in the daytime Argynnis
paphia. On Saturday, June 0th, we returned home about midday, having
had a most enjoyable visit, and very well satisfied with the results. —
Russell E. James ; Chesterville, Hornsey Lane, N., Oct. 7, 1891.
Seven Days' Larva-beating in the New Forest. — Implement, the
Bignell Beating Tray. Aug. 5th. — Larvae : from oak, Notodonta trepida
(1), A^. dodoncea (3), Stauropus fayi (1), Eurymene dolobraria (9), Amphi'
dasys t^tularia (9), Cidaria psitticata [1), Acronycta psi, Dasychira pudi-
hunda, Odontoptera bidentata, Orgyia antiqua, and other common larvae
in abundance ; from beech, Drepana unguicula (2). Imago : Calymnia
trapezina ((Z), out of oak. Aug. 6th. — Larvae : from oak, Tosniocampa
instabilis (2), Boarmia roboraria [1], Tephrosia crepuscularia ['2), S.fagi (1),
N. dodoncea (1), Eugonia erosaria (1), E. dolobraria, C. psitticata, A.
hetularia, common. Eugonia angularia, pupa spun up in oak-leaves (came
out Aug. 25th). Imago : C. trapezina. Aug. 7th. — Larvae : from oak,
iS. fagi (1), iV. dodoncea (3), Acronycta alni (1) ; from beech, Demas coryli
KOTES, CAtTUI^ES, ETC. 301
(6), D. unguicula (2); from birch, Acronycta leporina (1). Imagines:
Selenia illustraria {mAle and (em'd.le ^nst out). Aug. 10th. — Larvae: from
oak, xV. dodonma (4), Eugonia erosaria (1), Tephrosia biundularla (1); from
beech, D. unguicula (2), D. coryli (8); from birch, A. leporina (1), Drepana
falcula{'2); from pine, Bupalus piniaria (1). Imagines: Lithosia griseola
var. straniineola {2), Zonosoma punctaria {\). C. trapezina (4), from trees;
Melanthia albicillata (1), from nettles. Aug. 11th. — Larvae : from oak,
A. alni (1), S. fagi (1), E. erosaria (1). Aug. 12th. — Larvae: from oak,
A. alni (2), 8. fagi (2), Nola confusalis (2) ; from beech, D. unguicula (2) ;
from alder, A. alni (4) ; from birch, Notodonta dromedarius (8) ; from wild
apple, Bapta temerata (1), Smerintlius ocellatus (1). Aug. 13th. — Larva :
from beech, N. dromedarius (1). Imagines (over heath) : Selidosema
plumaria (4), Euholia palumbaria (6). N.B. E. dolobraria, C. psitticata,
A. betularia, E. angularia (larvae) have been abundant throughout. I make
no mention ot the Diurni captured, as they were not my object. I took some
seven Limenitis sibylla, stated by Newman to be uncommon in that locality ;
Argynnis paphia in numbers, and of the variety valesina I took two speci-
mens, and saw a third ; Gonopteryx rhamni, common ; of Vanessa io I only
took one specimen in beautiful condition, being too early for this brood. I
got two curious varieties oi Pieris napi, of which I hope to send figures
later on. I also took Hesperia thaumas {linea) sparingly, one specimen of
H. comma, and many others. On the heaths I took Anarta myrtilli in
plenty, and also Phytometra CBnea, one female (impregnated) Bombyx
quercus, and B. rubi larvae in abundance. — M. FitzGibbon ; Kilrock House,
Hovvth, Ireland.
Notes on the Past Season : Delamere Forest. — Notwithstanding
the very cold spring, and the miserable weather we have experienced in this
neighbourhood throughout the summer, and the consequent lateness of the
season generally, I have found Delamere Forest fairly productive in 1891,
especially for the autumnal species. A bad beginning was made with
Nyssia hispidaria in March, only two males and one female falling to three
pairs of eyes on two expeditions. I can thus quite endorse Mr. Arkle's
remarks, in the June number of the 'Entomologist' (pp. 143, 144), as to
the scarcity of the insect this year, and the difficulty of " timing " its
appearance. The same remark applies to Panolis {Trachea) piniperda ; it
was '* knocked out of time " by the inclement season. But the Delamere
piniperda are certainly rather erratic ; I have known one to have been taken
in June. Cymatophora duplaris put in an appearance, and Drepana
falcataria [falcula] was fairly common ; whilst Hepialus hectus abounded,
fluttering over the bracken in the early dusk. In June I also took two
Melanthia albicillata for the first time in the Forest. Aspilates strigillaria
seemed to be scarce and late, Anarta myrtilli plentiful, but most difficult to
net. July produced Aplecta nebulosa, Noctua /estiva, N. baia, black form
oi Xylophasia monoglyha {polyodon), besides many other common species.
August, I was away in Devonshire, but in September I returned to my
** happy hunting ground," and took Cloantha solidaginis, Noctua glareosa,
N, dahlii (these three, together with M. albicillata, have not, I think, been
recorded hitherto as occurring in the Forest), Triphmia fimbria, Melanthia
rubiginata, Xanthia fulvago (cerago), Charceas graminis, and numbers of
others. Since September my sugar has attracted, among others, Anchocelis
rufina (also unrecorded for the locality, I believe), A. macilenta, Agriopis
aprilina, Phlogophora meticulosa, and Himera pennaria. Cerastis vaccinii
has been very plentiful this year ; some nights it simply swarmed, fifteen
302 TttE Ei^TOMOtiOGlST.
to twenty being on one patch of sugar. I would like to record the abundance
of autumnal larvae in the Forest : Notodonta dromedarius, Lophopteryx
camelina, D. falcataria, Hylophila prasinana, Hadena pisi {yfh\ch. appeared
to feed indiscriminately on half a dozen different plants), Amp/iidasys betu-
laria, and various other kinds of " sticks," all in the utmost profusion.
Acronycta leporina was rather scarce, but I succeeded in obtaining five.
Comparing the past season with some previous ones, I do not consider that
the year 1891 has been such a failure as the meteorological reports would
have led one to expect. The abundance of larvae seems to indicate that the
weather has been less unfavourable for the hunted than for the hunter, and
presages well for next year. — Geo. 0. Day ; Old Bank, Sale.
Notes from Yarmouth. — The most noteworthy captures made by me
during this year are as follows : — Smerinthus tilm, a specimen, the first one
recorded from here, was taken in the Market Row, in July, where it was
most probably attracted by the light. Two specimens of PlusiafestuccB, one
of P. iota, a fine 0. samhucaria, and a Thecla quercus from Reedham,
and Procris statices from Hemsby. Referring to the last-named species,
Messrs. Paget, in their * Sketch of the Natural History of Yarmouth,' say
of it, *' common on the Caistor Marrams." As in the case of several other
insects, Procris [Ino] statices does not occur there now. I also netted two
Mamestra albicolon, one rather dark, at the sallows on Caistor Road. — J.
E. Knights; 41, St. George's Road, Nov. 9, 1891.
The Season in North Notts. — The results of my season's collecting
here are by no means representative of the district's entomological resources,
as, besides being absent during some of the best weeks of the summer, I
made no attempt at sugaring after two futile expeditions in June, and did
no collecting at all in Sherwood proper, confining my operations almost
entirely to Clumber Park. Still, though I only worked in this partial
manner, I met with several interesting species, the first of these being
Hepialus velleda, of which I took a beautiful female variety about the
middle of June. Next evening, while making my way to the locality where
I had caught this one, I noticed a hedgerow swarming with " swifts," and,
finding that they were of the right sort, remained on the spot, and took a
number in a very short time. On the following night a regular expedition
was organised, and velleda had an extremely bad quarter of an hour, during
which time three of us secured about forty specimens, besides turning away
many more. Some of the varieties were extremely beautiful, one especially,
in which the ground colour was nearly black, the silvery markings standing
out with fine effiect. We also got several of the unicolorous variety carnus,
and Hepialus lupulinus was in evidence, but not so abundantly as velleda,
while humuli and hectus only appeared occasionally. I found Diurni very
scarce indeed, an occasional Argynnis adippe being all that relieved the
monotony of "meadow browns," "cabbage whites," and "small tortoise-
shells." I believe I once saw Vanessa polychloros, but could not make sure
of it. Several species that have been taken here regularly for years, such
as Lyccsna cBgon, Argynnis selene, A. euphrosyne, Epinephele hyperanthus,
and Vanessa atalanta, did not appear at all, and I only saw one V. io.
Colias edusa, of which odd specimens turn up pretty regularly in one locality,
was also a failure, and the same may be said of Gonepteryx rhamni, which,
however, is always rare here. The failure of Diurni induced me to devote
the mornings to certain palings, and here again the unusual abundance of
Hepialidae was very apparent. In about half an hour I boxed thirty beautiful
NOTES, CAPTURES, ETC.
30^
specimens of Hepialus hectus off one fence, besides H.yelleda ad nauseam.
Of the latter species, I got one lovely specimen at rest on an oak, among
the roots of which the empty pupa-case was lying. Other moths found at
rest were Aplecta nebulosa, Euplexia lucipara, Agrotis porphyreay Ellopia
fasciaria (very small and dark), Plusia iota, Acronycta psi, Polia chi, one
Agrotis ravida, Xylophasia polyodon, Triphcena orbona, Melanippe ocellata,
and Charceas graminis. Mothing in the evening produced, in addition to
the above, Qonophora derasa, Noctua /estiva, Agrotis segetum, Mamestra
furva, Phlogophora meticulosa, Hadena dentina, Acronycta rumicis, Cosmia
trapezina. Mania typica, &c. Various species of Cidaria, including G.
fulvata, were common, while some Geometers, especially Boarmia rhom-
hoidaria, Rumia cratcegata, and Urapteryx samhucata, were a positive
nuisance. In June Bupalus piniaria was abundant in Clumber Park. It
was very variable, and I got some smoky forms of the female, very like
Scotch specimens in appearances. One female had the right wing pale
brown and devoid of markings, the ground colour of all the other wings
being the usual rusty orange. On the ground frequented by this species I
saw numbers of larvae of Euchelia jacobcBa feeding on ragwort, but no
imagines were taken this year, nor did I see Euthemonia russula or
Euclidia mi, both formerly common in the same locality. Epione apiciaria,
which I once took in plenty, did not appear, but Venilia maculata turned
up once, and Metrocampa. margaritaria was not uncommon. One Eurymene
dolobraria was taken and another seen, and Abraxas ulmata reappeared
after an absence of several years. Ten years ago this moth appeared here
in myriads (I have seen six on one blade of grass) ; but, like the " clouded
yellows " of 1877, it vanished as suddenly as it came, and until last July I
did not meet with it again, and then only very rarely. One Smerinthus
populi, a pair of Platypteryx falcula, a beautiful specimen of Euperia
fulvago on Sept. 11th, and one each of Odontopttera bidentata and Tephrosia
crepuscularia complete our list for 1891. — E. G. Aldeeson ; Worksop,
Notts.
A Lepidopterist's Notes from Chichester. — Taking it altogether,
this has been a wretched season here for Lepidoptera almost from the com-
mencement. I think I never remember such an absence of Rhopalocera,
even of the commonest species. The only capture of any consequence that
I know of was a male of Apatura iris by the Rev. H. Housman. The
specimen, in poor condition, was taken about a mile from the city, drinking
at a little puddle in the road, late in July. In June I found Phibalapteryx
tersata (common), Larentia [Anticlea] rubidata (one or two), and a few
Melanippe procellata. In July Uropteryx sambucata was to be met with freely,
with now and then Geometra [lodis) vernaria. On the 13th of this month
a larva of Cucullia chamomillm was brought me by the gardener, feeding on
chrysanthemums. As I saw it was likely to die, I helped it by converting
the larva into a preserved specimen for my cabinet. During August 1 took
a goodly number of Acidalia emarginata and Gilix spinula {glaucata) from
a hawthorn hedge. On 26th a specimen of Sphinx convolvuli was taken
on a gate in one of the side streets here. On two or three evenings swarms
of common Noctuse, such as Noctua xanthographa, Xylophasia monoglypka
(polyodon), and Mania maura, came to sugar, and amongst them Agrotis
puta, A. saucia (1), and Noctua plecta. During September Amphipyra
pyramidea, Catocala nupta, Agrotis suffusa, Noctua c-nigrum, Anchocelis
pistacina, Xanthia fulvago icerago), and one Xylina petrijicata, from a
sugared telegraph-pole, were amongst my captures. Visitors to light
304 tMe ENTOMOLOCJiSt.
included Eupithecia succenturiatat Cidaria miata, Trichiura crat(sgi{l), and
Diloba caruleocephala commonly. On Oct. 8th a male Sphinx convolvuli
was taken. It is somewhat small, but the very fresh condition seems to
suggest its having only recently emerged, a rather late date, if such be the
case. — Joseph Anderson, Jun. ; Chichester.
Macro-Leptdoptera collected from Norwich Gas-lamps. — For
some years past I have been in the habit of paying occasional visits, during
the months of April, August, and September, to about seventy gas-lamps
situated in the southern suburbs of the city of Norwich. They have yielded
no less than eighty-two species of Macro-Lepidoptera, besides innumerable
Tortrices and other Micros. Had I been able to work them systematically
all the year round, I believe the number of species would have been at least
doubled. I publish this necessarily imperfect list in the hope that it may
prove useful to other collectors : —
Bombyces, — Lithosia lurideola, Arctia caia, Porthesia similis, Leucoma
salicis (a single specimen), Trichiura cratsegi (a single specimen), Drepana
binaria, Cilix glaucata, Pterostoma palpina (two specimens), Lophopteryx
camelina, Notodonta dictaea, N. dictaeoides (a single specimen), N. drome-
darius (a single specimen).
Noctuas. — Bryophila perla, Acronycta aceris (in June), A. megacephala
(in June), Leucania lithargyria, L. impura, L. pallens, Nonagria arundinis
(a single specimen), Tapinostola fulva, Hydroecia nictitans, H. micacea,
Neuronia popularis, Charseas graminis, Mamestra brassicse, Agrotis
segetum, Noctua augur, N. xanthographa, Triphsena orbona, T. pronuba,
Amphipyra tragopogonis, TsBuiocampa gothica, T. incerta, Anchocelis litura,
Cerastis vaccinii, Xanthia citrago (a single specimen), Calymnia trapezina,
Dianthoecia cucubali (a single specimen), Polia flavicincta, Hadena pisi
(June), Plusia gamma, Catocala sponsa, Xylina ornithopus.
Geometers. — Uropteryx sambucata, Epione apiciaria (rare), Selenia
bilunaria, Crocallis elinguaria, Ennomos aluiaria, E. erosaria, Biston
hirtaria, Araphydasis strataria, Boarmia gemmaria, Ephyra punctaria,
Acidalia imitaria, A. aversata and var. remutata, Cabera pusaria, Halia
vauaria, Strenia clathraca. Abraxas grossulariata, Hybernia rupicapraria,
H. leucophsearia, H. marginaria, H. defoliaria, Anisopteryx sescularia,
Oporabia dilutata, Eupithecia oblongata, E. subfulvata, E. absynthiata,
Hypsipetes sordidata, Melanthia bicolorata, Melanippe fluctuata, Anticlea
berberata, Coremia ferrugata, C. unidentaria, Camptogramma bilineata,
Cidaria siderata, C. miata, C. truncata, C. prunata, C. testata, Eubolia
cervinata, Anaitis plagiata. — E. W. Carlier ; 36, London Street,
Edinburgh.
SiEEX gigas at Norwich. — In July last a fine specimen of Sirex gigas
was brought to rae, which was caught near this city. This insect is of
fiequent occurrence here. — E,. Laddiman ; 25, Lower Hellesdon Road,
Norwich, Nov. 5.
SOCIETIES.
Entomological Society of London. — Nov. A^th, 1891. — Dr. David
Sharp, M.A., F.R.S., Vice-President, in the chair. Major John Nathaniel
Still, of Seaton, Devon, and the Junior United Service Club, Charles
Street, St. James's, S.W., was elected a Fellow of the Society. Mr. W. F.
SOCIETIES. 805
Kirby exhibited a series of a very dark-coloured form of Apis reared by
Mr. John Hewett, of Sheffield, from bees imported from Tunis, which
he proposed to call ** Punic Bees." They were larger than the black Apis
unicolor, Latr., of Mauritius and Bourbon, and were almost entirely black,
except in the legs, which were of a more or less reddish colour. Mr. C. Gr.
Barrett exhibited five melanic specimens of Aplecta nebulosa, reared by Mr.
Collins, of Warrinorton, from larvae collected in Delamere Forest, Cheshire,
and described by him, in the * Proceedings of the Lancashire and Cheshire
Natural History Society,' as A. nebulosa, var. rohsoni, in honour of Mr. John
E. Robson, of Hartlepool. Mr. Barrett also exhibited a beautiful variety of
Argynnis aglaia, taken in Norfolk by Dr. F. D. Wheeler, and two specimens
(male and female) of Lycana argiades, taken in Auojust, 1885, on Bloxworth
Heath, Dorsetshire, by Mr. C. 0. Pickard-Cambridge and Mr. A. Pickard-
Cambridge respectively. Mr. H. St. John Donisthorpe exhibited a collection
of Coleoptera, comprising about thirty-six species, made in a London
granary in 1890 and 1891. The genera represented included Sphodrus,
Pristonychus, Calathus, Quedlus, Creophilus^ Omalium. Trogosita, Silvanus,
Lathridius, Dermestes, Anthremis, Corynetes, Ptinus, Niptus, Anobiuin,
Blaps, Tenebrio, Calandra, Bruchus, &c. Mr. A. B. Farn exhibited a series
of specimens of Eubolia lineolata, bred from eggs laid by a specimen taken
at Yarmouth. The series included several remarkable and beautiful
varieties, and the size of the specimens was much above the average.
The Rev. Dr. Walker exhibited specimens of Argynnis ino, A. pales, and
A.frigga, from Norway. Mr. B. A. Bower exhibited, for Mr. J. Gardner,
specimens of Nephopteryx splendidella, H.-S., Botys lupulinalis, Clk., and
Bryotopha obscurella, Hein., taken at Hartlepool last June and August.
Mr. R. Adkin exhibited two very dark specimens of Peronea cristana, from
the New Forest. Colonel C. Swinhoe exhibited, and remarked on, types of
genera and species of moths belonging to the Tineina, all of which had been
described by the late Francis Walker, and placed by him amongst the
Lithosidse. Mr. H. Goss exhibited specimens of Callimorpha hera, taken in
August last by Major-Gen. Garden in S. Devon, and observed that the species
appeared to be becoming commoner in this country, as Gen. Garden had
caught seventeen specimens in five days. Mr. Goss said that the object of
the exhibition was to ascertain the opinion of the meeting as to the manner
in which this species had been introduced into this country. A long
discussion on this subject and on the geographical distribution of the
species ensued, in which Mr. G. T. Baker, Mr. Stevens, Mr. Barrett,
Colonel Swinhoe, Mr. M'Lachlan, Mr. Verrall, Capt. Elwes, Mr. Fenn,
Mr. Jacoby, and others took part. Mr. C. J. Gahan contributed a paper
entitled, "On South American species of Diabrotica: an Appendix to
Part IL" Mr. M'Lachlan contributed a paper entitled, " Descriptions of
new species of holopthalmous Ascalaphidae." Mr. W. L. Distant commu-
nicated a paper entitled, " Descriptions of four new species of the genus
Fulgora.'" Mr. F. Enock read a paper entitled, "Additional notes and
observations on the life-history of Atypus piceusy Every detail in the life-
history of this spider was most elaborately illustrated by a large number of
photographs, made by Mr. Enock from his original drawings, and shown
by means of the oxy-hydrogen lantern. A discussion followed, in which
Mr. C. 0. Waterhouse, Dr. Sharp, Mr. G. C. Champion, the Rev. A. E.
Eaton, Mr. P. Crowley, and others took part. — H. Goss, Hon, Sec.
806 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
South London Entomological and Natural History Society. —
Nov. 12, 1891. Mr. W. H. Tugwell, President, in the chair. Mr. Cooper
exhibited a variety of Abraxas grossulariataf L., well banded, and without
any trace of yellow in the markings of the wings. Mr. Auld, a hornet's
nest from Ware, Hertford. Mr. West (Streatham), Polia chi, L., from the
Lake District, one specimen being extremely dark. Mr. Herbert Williams,
wine corks perforated by the larvae of some insect; one of these larvae was
also exhibited : Mr. Williams stated that they were doing a considerable
amount of damage to a city wine merchant's stock ; the corks of over two
hundred bottles of port (for which wine the species showed a decided
preference) having been attacked. Mr. C. G. Barrett said he thought the
larva was a half-grown specimen of (Ecophora pseudospretella, Sta. ; but it
was very active, and might be the equally common Endrosisfenestrella, Scop.
Mr. Adkin said he did not think either species confined their attention to
port-wine corks, nor did he think the larvae ever went through the cork into
the wine. Mr. Forrester showed Bombyx quercus, L., var. callunm, Palmer,
from Perth. Some remarks were made with reference to this exhibit, in
the course of which several instances were mentioned of full-fed larvae of
B. quercus having been taken in the autumn, at Folkestone and elsewhere.
Mr. E. Joy, Epinephele hyper anthes, L., the variety arete, and others
approaching it. Mr. C. G. Barrett, a variety of Argynnis aglaia, L., taken
in Norfolk ; two specimens of Lyc(Bna argiades, taken on Bloxworth Heath
in 1885 ; and specimens of Aplecta nebulosa, Hufn., reared by Mr. Collins,
of Warrington, from Delamere Forest, and named by him var. robsoni.
Mr. Tugwell exhibited some parasitic fungi, and remarked that it was one
of the Entomophthorae, a tribe of fungi parasitic on insects ; he noticed
this fungoid growth apparently growing from the soil in one of his breeding-
cages in which eighty larvae of Eucosmia certata, Hb., bred from ova, had
pupated ; the larvae were fed on Berberis vulgaris ; the fungi were half an
inch or more high; on examination he found that all of the fungi sprung
from the pupae of certata, the whole of which were dead ; some were enveloped
in the fungus, but others were apparently healthy, but traces of white thread-
like spots of the fungus were noticeable, and the pupae were dead and could
be snapped asunder Hke a damp rotten twig. Thinking that the germ of
the fungus might have been introduced into the larvae by the food-plant,
Mr. Tugwell stated that he had placed some pupae of Gortyna flavago in
some of the same soil, and all those that were not on the point of emerging
were killed by the fungus. Mr. Fenn said he had experienced the same
thing in two or three cages. Messrs. Adkin, Carrington, West and others
took part in the discussion which ensued. Mr. Adkin again exhibited the
specimens of the Tortrix which Mr. Carpenter had named donelana, and
remarked that he ha.d been stated, in a report of a previous meeting, to
have exhibited these specimens as Tortrix steineriana var. dohriana ; he
had, however, when exhibiting them, said he considered them to be Tortrix
viburnana; he had now a specimen of the variety dohriana from Dr.
Staudinger's collection. Mr. Tutt had brought his series of this variety
which he had received from Herr Hoffmann ; and Mr. C. G. Barrett had
brought specimens of T, steineriana and examples of T. viburnana and, its
varieties. Mr. Barrett said he had been in correspondence with Mr. Car-
penter on this subject, and was still of opinion that the specimens were
simply T. viburnana ; Mr. Carpenter had written to him, that although the
larvae fed on pine, one example had fed equally well on Vaccinium. Mr.
Tutt said that in this part of the genus there were some six or eight
SOCIETIES. 807
Species very closely allied, and it was difficult to separate these after study-
ing the variation among them, and he added that the figure published by
Mr. Carpenter was undoubtedly steineirana; he did not for a moment
suggest that Mr. Barrett was not right in caUing the Irish specimens vibur-
nana, but until more material was obtained he did not think it could be
assumed they were distinct from the Continental T, steineirana var.
dohriana. Mr. Barrett remarked that Mr. Carpenter's figure was from a
single specimen, and was extremely unlike the majority of the specimens
which had since been bred. Mr. Oldham exhibited, among other species,
a black var. of Cerastis spadicea, Hb., from his garden, near Epping
Forest, and a specimen of Apamea ophiogramma, Esp., taken in the
Forest. Mr. South remarked that the first-named species should be called
ligula, Esp., as it was not at all like Hiibner's figure of spadicea, — H. W.
Barker, Hon. Sec.
Lancashire and Cheshire Entomologtcal Society. — November QtJi,
1891. — The President in the chair. The Secretary read letters from
members of the South London Entomological Society, stating that Mr.
Tutt's report of the proceedings of that Society (read at the last meeting)
re Tortrix donelana was incorrect, and referred the members to their
Secretary's report in the magazines for what actually took place. Mr. Robert
Newstead, F.E.S., read a paper entitled, " General Notes on the Scale
Insects, Coccidae." The author gave a brief resume of the work done by
the earlier naturalists, and enumerated types of the principal genera (of
which he had drawn large coloured diagrams in illustration). In the course
of his remarks he described the distinctive characters, and exhibited
drawings of the following new species : — Lecanium assimilis, on Aster, at
Colwyn Bay ; L. minim,um, on Areca under glass, Cheshire ; Pulvinaria
persiccB, on peach, Cheshire ; Pseudococcus associalis, on Hibes, Yorks :
Ripersia tomlinii, on grass-roots in ants'-nests, Guernsey ; R. pulveraria,
under leaf-sheaths of Agrostis, Cheshire. Mr. Newstead exhibited speci-
mens of 172 species of Coccidae, including nearly all the known British
species. Mr. Gardner exhibited Coccus cacti and Carteria lacca, the latter
with their products. The Secretary, Aspidiotus personatus, Vinsonia
pulchella, and Lecanium olecB ; the latter were much broken by some lepi-
dopterous (?) larvae, which had formed silken tunnels under the scales.
The President exhibited melanic and other forms oiLiparis monacha. Mr.
Gregson, varieties of Dianthcecia conspersa and Abraxas grossulariata, bred
by him this year. Mr. Walker, water-colour drawings of Deilephila galii ;
and Mr. Stott, a Noctua, previously exhibited some time ago, which had
since been pronounced to be a variety of Epunda lichenea by Mr. Barrett.
— F. N. Pierce, Hon. Sec.
Birmingham Entomological Society. — Oct, 19th, 1891. — Mr. R. C.
Bradley in the chair. Rev. C. F. Thornewill showed a number of insects
taken on Cannock Chase this year, including a melanic variety of Cymato-
phora duplaris ; also a collection made in Bucks this year, including Cleora
lichenaria, Boarmia roborarla, Adventia flexula, Phorodesma bajularia, &c.
Mr. G. W. Wynn showed a beautiful series of Geometra papilionaria, bred
from Wyre Forest larvae. Mr. P. W. Abbott showed Setina irrorella,
Agrotis lucernea, and A. lunigera; long series from the Isle of Wight. Mr.
R. C. Bradley showed Acidia cognata from Sutton, and A. heraclei from
Moseley. Rev. C. F. Thornewill read notes on the recent discovery of
308 THE ENTOMOLOGIST.
n
Stilbia anomala on Cannock Chase in abundance. Until last year it was
not known to be a Midland insect, and then it was found by Messrs. Thorne-
will and Freer in such numbers on the Chase that the latter took 150
specimens, and this year it was equally common.
Nov. ind. — Mr. R. C. Bradley in the chair. — Mr. Bradley showed
Gonyglossum wiedemanni from Sutton. Mr. H. J. Sands showed Calli-
genia miniata from the New Forest. Mr. W. Harrison, a specimen of
Epione apiciaria, taken at Harborne so late as Oct. 3rd this year. Mr.
G. W. Wynn, ISfudaria mundana from Cleeve Prior. Mr. C. J. Wain-
wright, insects bought at the Rev. G. H. Raynor's sale, including fine
variable series of Hypsipetes elutata^ Cidaria russata^ &c., and specimens
of Eupithecia irriguata, E. «w6ciZiato, &c. — Colbran^^jL^Watn weight,
Hon. Sec.
———9
REVIEWS.
A Series of Thirty Coloured Diagrams of Insects Injurious to Farm Crops.
Drawn from Nature by Miss Georgiana E. Ormerod, in conjunction
with Miss Eleanor A. Ormerod, Consulting Entomologist of the
Royal Agricultural Society of England. London : W. & A. K. John-
son, 6, White Hart Street.
These diagrams, which are 30 in. by 22 iq. in size, are published in
sets of six, each set dealing with insect-pests belonging to various Orders.
For example : Set 1, * Common Insect xittacks," illustrates — 1. Ox Warble
Fly. 2. Horse Bot Fly. 3. Large White Butterfly. 4. Cockchafer.
5. Turnip Flea Beetle. 6. Onion Fly. The larva, pupa, imago, and
sometimes the ovum, are shown both of the natural size and also greatly
enlarged, and nicely printed in colours. A concise life-history of the insect
depicted and practical directions for its prevention or destruction, by Miss
Eleanor A. Ormerod, are printed at the foot of each sheet.
Not only will these diagrams be of considerable value to the agriculturist
by enabling him to recognise his enemies, and instructing him how to
destroy them, or to prevent attack, but, among other purposes for which
they are suitable, they will be found useful iu science class teaching.
Photography applied to the Microscope. By F. W. Mills. Small Svo,
pp. 62. London : Ilifife & Son. 1891.
To those wishing to become initiated into the mysteries of Photo-
Micrography, we can recommend this cheap little practical guide. The
opening chapter, which is written by Mr. T. Charters White, deals with
the preparation of Microscopical Objects, and the necessity of perfectly flat
mounting is insisted on. Chap. II. is devoted to a consideration of Micro-
scopical Apparatus, and from this we learn that any one possessing a micro-
scope with ordinary English objectives can add the necessary photographic
requirements for. general purposes at a cost of from £2 to £^. In Chap.
III. advice is given on the Choice of Photo-Micrographic Apparatus, whilst
in the remaining four chapters, the Dark Room and its Fittings, Exposure,
Development, and Printing are dealt with, and full instructions given under
each head. There is also a list of works on the subject.
WEST, NEWMAN & CO., PRINTEKS, HATTON GARDEN, LONDON, E.G.
UNDING SECT. HWy 4 1966
P The Entomologist
Biol
E
BiologictI'
& Medic*!
SoiftU
PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE
CARDS OR SLIPS FROM THIS POCKET
UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO LIBRARY
STORAGE
Live Music
Archive
Librivox
Free Audio
Metropolitan Museum
Cleveland
Museum of Art
Internet
Arcade
Console Living Room
Open Library
American
Libraries
TV News
Understanding
9/11